Full name: Roberto Abad
Hispanic Heritage: Cuban
Residence: SWFL-Cape Coral
Profession: Self-employed Jeweler
LTM: Tell us about what you do for a living and how you got into it.
I am a jeweler. At a very young age, I landed a job at Sears in the watch department. I became passionate about watch and jewelry repairs.
LTM: In your industry, what would you say separates you from your competition?
The biggest things that separate me is my passion, my expertise and consistency in the field. I am an owner-operator. I have established long lasting relationships with my customers.
LTM: Why do you feel you were nominated?
Because of my work in the SWFL community. I created a non-profit, Bridge for Hope of SWFL to provide meals and basic essentials to the less fortunate population in our community.
LTM: During Covid-19, tell us about your Biggest Challenge/obstacle and how you overcame it/or are overcoming it?
How to continue feeding and providing essentials to those that were without. The needs grew and we were out there feeding and providing resources to our community.
LTM:Tell us about your biggest achievement in business or personal life, and how you achieved it.
The biggest achievement is consistency with my family and in my business alike. My daughter is my pride and joy and I am most proud of having the title of papi.
LTM: What is next for you? What can people expect to see from you?
I will continue being involved in the SWFL community and giving back every opportunity that I have.
LTM: What does being a U.S. citizen mean to you?
The freedom and opportunity to work hard to pursue the dreams and the life that you deserve.
LTM: What is your opinion of the state of affairs in our nation? And what role do you see Hispanics/Latinos playing in the future of our nation?
I believe there is a great deal for improvement. With Hispanics being the fastest growing group in SWFL, they have the greatest opportunity to shape the future.
LTM: What is the best lesson that you have learned in leadership and how has it helped your career?
The best lesson that I have learned is that you must listen and understand in order to be understood.
LTM: What is YOUR comida Latina favorita?
My favorite food is steak with onions, white rice with black beans and tostones!
BIO:
Robert was born in Cuba and moved with his family to Miami-Dade, Florida, at the age of four. He has two siblings—an older sister and a younger brother. After graduating from Hialeah High School in 1993, Robert remained in Miami-Dade until 1999. In 1998, facing the most difficult period of his life, he lost his business and personal possessions, leaving him homeless for six months. However, Robert used this adversity as motivation to rebuild his life. In 1999, he made the bold decision to relocate to Lee County, Florida, where he soon opened a new business, Fast Fix Jewelry Repair, in Edison Mall, Fort Myers. Robert has successfully owned and operated this business ever since.
Driven by his passion for helping others, Robert founded Bridge for Hope of SWFL, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the homeless in Southwest Florida. This organization has provided over 12,000 meals to those in need and actively provides essential items and opportunities for a fresh start. Through Bridge for Hope, Robert has organized back-to-school drives, holiday events, and collaborated with local law enforcement agencies, the Lee County Sheriff's Office, and the Fort Myers Police Department to support the community. Robert’s dedication extends beyond his nonprofit work, as he is an active member of the Homeless Coalition of Lee County and serves on the Fort Myers Police Athletic Board. His leadership has included coordinating fundraising events such as car shows, golf tournaments, and dart competitions. Family plays a crucial role in Robert’s life, with his daughter, Samantha, being a central figure in the success of Bridge for Hope. His family remains actively involved in the mission of the organization, continuing to provide hope and support for those in need.
In September 2019, NBC2 aired the following cover story regarding Bridge for Hope of SWFL, Inc.:
Facebook-Bridge for Hope of Southwest Florida
Instagram-@BridgeforHopeofSWFL
786-367-1161; Bridgeforhopeofswfl@yahoo.com
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