1 minute read
Jonathan Sandiford
Aunique feature in Barbadian communities anywhere in the United States – a Barbadian business. Even rarer is children working in the family business.
One who has thankfully embraced this rather singular trait is Jonathan Sandiford, Co-Founder and Vice President of Coral Isle Trading Inc. an importer and distributor of authentic Caribbean products.
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He can be found in the Glenwood Road, Brooklyn business on a daily basis filling orders and helping customers with their favourite Bajan goodies like mauby, yes the Sweet and Dandy, Eclipse biscuits, Plus, Bajan seasoning and mints.
The business and his involvement in it is a great source of pride among Barbadians, who often remark on Jonathan’s patience and caring.
Born on 21 October in Brooklyn, New York to Barbadian parents Ingrid and Carlos Sandiford, Jonathan spent his childhood in Queens, New York with his parents and siblings Debbie and Jason Sandiford.
He got his head start at St. Clare’s Elementary School before moving on to St. Mary’s College Preparatory High School where he graduated. Jonathan continued his education at Hofstra University where he studied Business Administration, a set up for the role he has at Coral Isle Trading Inc.
A natural leader who radiates enthusiasm and warmth, Jonathan goes out of his way to ensure that those around him are well taken care of. These characteristics served him well when he entered the family distribution business. He works very close with his dad, enabling him to shadow and learn the daily workings of the business. Jonathan is enthusiastic about his Barbadian heritage, demonstrated by his annual visits to Barbados. He is also happy that his organization is involved in obtaining foreign earnings for the Barbados economy. Jonathan is a proud father, dedicated son, brother and uncle. He is an inspiration to those around him often setting an example and high standard for everyone to follow. With him in the business, Coral Isle is not only looking to increase its range of products but also building to ensure the business survives more than a generation.
