Page 19 - NSA GALA JOURNAL 2018

JHONNY UREÑA
MEMBER OF THE YEAR
Jhonny Ureña is a true “American Dream” success story. Since his childhood years, Jhonny has had that entrepreneurial spirit of creating a business opportunity and growing it to a level of sustained success.
Rooted in the beautiful countryside of the Dominican Republic, Jhonny Ureña received his first taste of owning a business when he invested in a portable candy and gum stand at the age of six. Using his father’s influence as a business owner, he employed a friend to sell his products with him. After some time of helping his father in the family business at his hometown La Placeta - San Jose de la Matas, his family migrated to the city of Santiago de los Caballeros for better opportunities.
At the young age of 18, Jhonny decided to make a move that would help pave the way to a better future. With the backing of an uncle, Jhonny sold his possessions, one of which was his car, in order to come up with the funds to partner up opening his first grocery store in Santiago, Dominican Republic. This was the true beginning to his entrepreneurial lifestyle.
Looking to further grow in life and seeking opportunities, Jhonny sold his successful business in Santiago and emigrated to Brooklyn NY, home to a growing Dominican community in the 1990’s. This is where he cemented himself in the retail world by acquiring his first Bodega and then acquiring a second one on Pitkin Avenue in Brooklyn, NY. Fearing the social climate of the late 90’s in NYC, he returned back to his beloved city of Santiago and ventured into check cashing businesses.
After a few years in Santiago, he decided to return to the United States, seeking more opportunities in the supermarket industry and with the conviction that this move could secure a better future for his family as well as furthering his children’s education.
Jhonny Ureña, now owns two supermarkets in Brooklyn, New York; a Bravo in Bedford Avenue and C-Town in Pitkin Avenue.
Jhonny has been married for over 28 years with his beloved wife Mary Carmen and is a father of three beautiful daughters; Oneirys, Joannie, and Joanna.
Jhonny expressed that every day is a positive new day. He thanks the Lord for his continued success and is grateful for the support he gets from his family, but most notably his wife, who has been with him for over two decades on this journey of risks, rewards, and opportunities.
Jhonny Ureña is a proud active member of the National Supermarket Association. He consistently advocates and participates in various NSA committees: toy drive, finance and the by-laws.
When Jhonny was informed of his recognition, he reflected on his work at the National Supermarket Association and how proud he is to have been eligible to receive the prestigious “NSA Member of the Year Award”, which he highly respects.
Clearly, the NSA core values are deeply rooted in our 2018 Member of the Year recipient, Mr. Jhonny Ureña. Congratulations Jhonny!