JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, one Cuban immigrant’s inspiring story stands out.
Ricky Ravelo escaped hardship as a teenager and turned challenges into opportunities by building his own roofing business.
Ricky’s roofing company, Arica Construction, was there when a tornado ripped the roof off a business on Beach Boulevard last summer.
“The tenant called, we came from there and flew over here,” Ricky recalled.
At the time, reporter John Asebes didn’t realize he was standing across from someone who embodies the American dream — a dream he chased after fleeing communist Cuba at age 14.
“My mom sacrificed everything to bring me here,” Ricky said. “I’m so blessed to be here and not what I come from.”
His family escaped Cuba during the 1980 Mariel boatlift, when President Jimmy Carter allowed 125,000 Cubans to come to the U.S. in six months.
“My mom was a teacher under the regime,” Ricky explained. “When I started to act like a rebel, expressing opinions and singing, they labeled me against the government.”
Ricky has three children. Today, he works alongside his son, Ricky Jr.
“I’m learning in a way through him,” his son said.
Ricky has done work all over Jacksonville.
“Hundreds. I mean, I did Shiloh Church,” he said.
Ricky wanted to share an important message about who he is and what this month means.
“If I can do this, anybody can do it. You just got to have the will. You live in the best country in the world. As long as you believe in God and Jesus as your personal savior, I think you’re gonna be all right no matter what you do in life,” said Ravelo.
To reach Ricky and his company, you can call 904-232-8475 or visit this website.