
Q&A with Karen Ali
Chief Operating Officer at JFK Millennium Partners
Karen Ali serves as the Chief Operating Officer of JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), overseeing operations and guest experience at JFK Terminal 7 (T7). With a focus on innovation and community engagement, Karen is committed to creating a welcoming environment for passengers, employees, and businesses. She plays a pivotal role in driving special events like the 2nd Annual Taste of Africa T7 Pop-Up Market, which celebrates local small businesses and strengthens the sense of community among T7 employees. CLICK FOR EVENT DETAILS
- How do you see events like this pop-up market fostering connections in the community?
Karen Ali: Events like the Taste of Africa Pop-Up Market at JFK Terminal 7 play a vital role in bringing people together. The market celebrates the diversity of African culture while offering an opportunity for Terminal 7 and other JFK employees, passengers, and local small businesses to connect. By highlighting unique products and authentic cuisines from vendors like Queen of Sheba, Daily Dose Juice Bar & Café, and Amarachi Catering, the market provides an opportunity to experience the stories and creativity behind these businesses. These shared experiences foster understanding and help strengthen our local community. - Why does JMP support events like this?
Karen Ali: At JMP, we are driven by the belief that community is at the heart of everything we do, and that celebrating the diversity that makes New York City and our surrounding Queens community so special is essential. Hosting events like the Taste of Africa T7 Pop-Up Market reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive, vibrant workplace at T7 and setting a powerful example for others to follow. This market isn’t just an event—it’s a heartfelt expression of gratitude to our T7 employees and airport community, offering them a chance to savor delicious African cuisine, discover unique retail items and handmade products like skincare, teas, and jewelry, and connect with their colleagues in a meaningful, joyful way. It’s also an opportunity to give back to our community, support local small businesses, and create unforgettable experiences for both our employees and passengers. - What challenges do small businesses face today, and how can community members help?
Karen Ali: Small businesses face significant challenges. Many of these businesses struggle with rising operational costs, limited access to capital, and intense competition from larger companies. The complexities of navigating regulations and maintaining consistent customer traffic can also pose significant hurdles.
To help address these challenges, community members can play a vital role. Supporting small businesses by choosing to shop locally, spreading the word by word-of-mouth, and attending events like pop-up markets or community gatherings helps create a steady stream of customers. The collective support of our community—by patronizing these businesses, encouraging others to do the same, and investing in their growth—helps foster a thriving ecosystem for small businesses and creates a stronger, more resilient local economy. At JMP, we are committed to creating opportunities for small businesses to thrive, and it’s this spirit of collaboration that truly makes a difference.
- How do you see the role of food in bringing people together and fostering community?
Karen Ali: I believe food, much like music, is a powerful connector to culture. When shared, it has the unique ability to bring people together, creating bonds that transcend differences. Whether it’s enjoying a meal with family, friends, or even strangers, food creates a sense of shared experience that encourages connection, understanding, and joy. It’s in these moments—where we gather around a table to savor a dish—that we are reminded of our shared humanity and the beauty of diverse cultures. Food has a way of fostering community by creating opportunities for people to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the present moment together.
5. What’s your favorite African dish, and why does it hold a special place for you?
Karen Ali: This is such a tough question because I have two favorite African dishes—bunny chow and fufu. Growing up in a Guyanese household, these dishes hold a special place for me because they remind me of the Caribbean dishes my family would make. Both bunny chow and fufu carry a sense of warmth and comfort, and every bite takes me back to those family moments spent around the table. The flavors bring a sense of connection to my roots and invoke cherished memories from my upbringing. They truly remind me of the power food has to create lasting bonds and evoke deep, personal feelings of home.
- How can we inspire others to support small businesses and cultural initiatives?
Karen Ali: It starts with creating accessible and enjoyable experiences, like this market, which highlight the value local small businesses bring to the community. By giving our T7 employees a firsthand opportunity to engage with these local businesses, we’re setting an example of how impactful individual support can be. Sharing stories, celebrating their success, and showing appreciation for their contributions inspires others to also make supporting local businesses a priority.
JFK Millennium Partners is proud to host the 2nd Annual Taste of Africa JFK T7 Pop-Up Market. This event is a celebration of culture, community, and appreciation for the hardworking team members who make Terminal 7 an exceptional place to work.