Plaza St-Hubert is a place of connection, discovery, and diversity. In October, for Montreal’s Latin American Heritage Month, we want to highlight entrepreneurs from this community who actively contribute to the richness of our commercial district.

Did you know that 31 businesses on the Plaza are run by owners from the Latin American community? Ranging from restaurants and neighborhood markets to retail shops and professional services, these businesses drive the Plaza’s vitality and help make it a place where diverse cultures, histories, and traditions come together.

The diverse range of businesses on the Plaza allows consumers to discover a multitude of products, flavors, and forms of expertise. Businesses run by Latin American entrepreneurs are a prime example of this. Yet, beyond the products and services they offer, these businesses also reflect the commitment of entrepreneurs who help bring our neighborhood to life. Through their presence, hard work, and vision, they help shape a commercial thoroughfare that is vibrant, welcoming, and representative of the neighborhood's diversity.

Entrepreneurship is also a way to keep one’s culture alive, pass on traditions, and share expertise. For many entrepreneurs from the Latin American community, their business represents far more than just a professional venture; it reflects their personal journeys, their aspirations, and their desire to carve out a space for their culture within their community.

On the Plaza, several businesses exemplify this drive to stand out and grow. One such example is Sabor Latino, which now operates three locations across Greater Montreal, as well as Latino Systèmes, whose owner, Juan David Farfan, proudly states that he represents his community through his business.

"We act as representatives of the Latin American community to demonstrate [...] how we work, and also how we can integrate into the Quebec ecosystem." – Juan-David Farfan, owner of Latino Systèmes

As for the Boutique Fiesta Idéal, it exemplifies the intergenerational transfer of a business. Founded by women, this family-run enterprise is now in its second generation. For Lenia Ramos, the shop’s co-owner, being an entrepreneur from the Latin American community comes with its share of challenges, but the effort is worth it: “…it is so rewarding, thanks to the recognition from our peers and customers.” Each in their own way, they reflect the neighborhood’s collective identity and the significant role the Latin American community plays in the commercial life of the Plaza.

Latin American Heritage Month in Montreal is an opportunity to highlight this contribution and take the time to discover the businesses around us. Whatever the reason for your visit, stopping by a shop is a way to support local entrepreneurs and celebrate the diversity that makes Plaza St-Hubert so strong.

This month, and throughout the year, let’s get to know the businesses that make the Plaza such a vibrant and diverse place!