Nationwide — Kelia Bazile, is making history as the first Black female president of Carrabba’s Italian Grill, which operates 190 restaurants in 28 states and internationally in Brazil and Mexico, is a respected leader with over four decades in the restaurant industry. She formerly made history as the first Black regional vice president of Taco Bell, which is owned by Yum! Brands, where she worked for nearly three decades.
She is now announcing the presale of her highly anticipated leadership book, I Want a Seat at the Table — a compelling and practical guide for individuals determined to grow, lead, and claim their space with confidence and purpose.
More than a leadership book, I Want a Seat at the Table is a real-world blueprint grounded in lived experience. Bazile shares her journey from a 17-year-old working at Taco Bell to becoming a President within Bloomin’ Brands, offering readers an unfiltered look at what it truly takes to rise—through discipline, faith, resilience, and execution.
“This book is not about waiting for permission,” said Bazile. “It’s about preparing yourself so thoroughly that when the opportunity comes, you don’t just sit at the table—you belong there.”
“Leadership is not about the seat you occupy,” Bazile adds. “It’s about the seats you help others reach.”
A Story Built from the Trenches
Unlike traditional leadership books rooted in theory, Bazile’s message is shaped by decades of hands-on experience—what she calls being “born and raised operational.” Through personal stories, leadership lessons, and practical frameworks, she provides readers with tools to:
• Build confidence through self-belief and preparation
• Overcome doubt with resilience and discipline
• Align actions with purpose and people-first leadership
• Continuously elevate standards and reach higher levels of impact
Bazile positions the book as more than a story—it is a platform designed to develop leaders at every level. Whether in hospitality, corporate leadership, or entrepreneurship, readers will walk away with a clear blueprint for growth, ownership, and impact.
The book is available for presale now, but will officially be released on May 31, 2026. Get your copy at KeliaBazile.com
About
Kelia Bazile is the President of Carrabba’s Italian Grill, part of Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. With over 40 years of experience in the restaurant industry—including nearly three decades with Taco Bell and Yum! Brands—she is known for her operational excellence, people-first leadership style, and commitment to developing others.
Born in Vacherie, Louisiana, Bazile’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, discipline, and faith. Today, she continues to inspire leaders across the country through her platform, teachings, and upcoming book.
For press inquiries, contact:
Jerriel Bazile
jerrielbazile1@yahoo.com
352-895-8221