Chairman of the Global Brands Group of Companies, Mario Sabga-Aboud, has described yesterday as “one of my worst days ever.”
Sabga-Aboud was responding to the public outcry on social media and the one-man protest staged in front one of his establishments in Maraval yesterday, about a statement he made on the CNN Anthony Bourdain show “Parts Unknown.”
Addressing his critics, Sabga-Aboud humbly apologised and admitted he used his words carelessly. He, however, praised his members of staff, whom he described as family and credited them for his accomplishments.
During Bourdain’s visit to T&T for the taping of the show, one of his dinner sessions was at Bayshore with Sabga-Aboud and several of his family members. The conversation started up with the Syrian-Lebanese community’s arrival in T&T and then went on to note the community was the smallest ethnic group in T&T with just under 5,000. This was where Sabga-Aboud interjected, saying “but the most powerful, well almost the most powerful.” He then said he was “very big in the food business” with 120 restaurants and referred to himself as the “Starbucks of the Caribbean.”
In a statement yesterday, Sabga-Aboud said he misrepresented himself and his values.
“I used careless words in referring to the standing of citizens of Middle Eastern descent in our society, and ended up misrepresenting myself and my values,” he said.
“I have never taken for granted the blessing to be a born and bred Trinbagonian. I am, and have always been humbled by the opportunities and support I have received in my over 30 years in business in T&T.”
He added that over the years he met with many people across the wider society, “who in one way or another have positively impacted and enriched my life.”
“This is testament to the amazing people of this country and as a Trinbagonian, I cherish that and I off er my deepest apologies to anyone whom I offended,” Sabga-Aboud added.
He also praised his staff.
“I always treat with appreciation, love and respect the members of my staff, many of whom are like my family because they have been with me for over 25 and 30 years, and are fundamentally the reason for my accomplishments.”
Sabga-Aboud admitted that it was a regrettable moment, where his excitement led him to misrepresent himself “as boastful” instead of proud. “Though I cannot retract my words, I hope that you all recognise my remorse and accept my sincere apology.”
