Nationwide — In the summer of 1986, Kelia R. Bazile stood at one of the biggest crossroads of her life. After graduating from high school, what began as a summer job at Taco Bell had become something more. Now enrolled at Louisiana State University and pursuing a future in law, she faced a decision few understood. She chose Taco Bell over law school.
To many of her family, friends, and classmates, it seemed like an unbelievable mistake. She was walking away from a respected profession for a career in fast food. What no one could see was that the decision wasn’t about choosing a restaurant over a courtroom. It was about discovering a purpose she never expected. Forty years later, that decision has become one of the most remarkable leadership journeys in the restaurant industry.
Today, Kelia Bazile serves as President of Carrabba’s Italian Grill, leading nearly 190 restaurants and thousands of team members across the United States. Her inspiring journey is the subject of her new book, I Want a Seat at the Table: From Team Member to President, where she shares the leadership lessons, personal sacrifices, moments of doubt, and unwavering faith that transformed a summer job into a lifelong calling.
“This book isn’t about how I became a president,” Bazile said. “It’s about how every season of life prepared me for responsibilities I couldn’t yet see. I want people to know that your starting point doesn’t determine your destination.”
More than a memoir, I Want a Seat at the Table challenges readers to rethink success, embrace unexpected opportunities, and understand that leadership is earned through character, service, and preparation-not titles.
Kelia Bazile’s story is proof that one decision-one that others may not understand-can change the trajectory of an entire life.
For more details and/or to purchase the book, visit KeliaBazile.com
For press inquiries, contact jerrielbazile1@yahoo.com