Jonathan Pierre-Lafleur, of Rogers Burgers, named Haitian-American Young Entrepreneur of the Year

Jonathan Pierre-Lafleur, co-founder of the Rogers Burgers restaurant in the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, is one of two winners of the 2026 Haitian-American Young Entrepreneur of the Year award. The U.S. Haitian Chamber of Commerce presented him with the honor, along with Eva Bryant, at its gala on November 1 in Randolph, Massachusetts.

The restaurant, which he launched with his husband and business partner Josué "Josh" Pierre, has created more than 20 local jobs. According to his team, it generated over one million dollars in sales in its first year.

Haitian cuisine as a showcase

Beyond the restaurant, the couple ran a café at the Brooklyn Children's Museum for four months. Through Taste of Haiti NYC, Jonathan Pierre-Lafleur also organizes Haitian cooking workshops that introduce families to the country's dishes, traditions, and history.

Upon receiving his award, he spoke out against stereotypes targeting Haitians and reminded the audience that their culture should not be reduced to misinformation.

Ten winners

This year, the Chamber recognized ten young professionals across five categories, chosen from 25 finalists selected from more than 200 applications nationwide.