There’s a connection, a sort of calm familiarity that takes over when meeting Dulcelene “Dulce”
Barros, the Restaurant General Manager (RGM) at our Norwood, MA Taco Bell. She’s described as having a “Mona Lisa-type” smile and a twinkle in her eye. It’s hard to imagine now, but Dulce was a self-proclaimed introvert in her early years.
Dulce’s journey began far away from Desert De Oro Foods (DDO) in Cape Verde, an island state of West Africa! She moved to the United States with her mom in 2016 at the age of 16, and quickly set to work learning to speak English. At 17, Dulce joined Taco Bell in Brockton, MA, and quickly began working her way up the career ladder. She worked as a Team Member, Shift Lead and Assistant General Manager (AGM) before taking on the RGM role.
It Takes a Village
There was a time shortly after becoming an RGM when Dulce struggled adjusting to the new position. Ultimately, it was our very own Steve Perrone, Region Director of Region 9, who helped get her through. Together, they set goals, to which Dulce attributes her success today.
Dulce has grown as an RGM and is thankful for her team. “They help me a lot,” she says. And it goes both ways! When walking into the Norwood Taco Bell, it’s definitely apparent that everyone steps up when help is needed. The restaurant environment is positive and welcoming, which is important to Dulce. “My team makes me proud,” she shares.
Dulce credits a few role models for helping her become who she is today: Lasondra “Lo” taught her patience and to be a good listener; Admisa “Isa” showed her kindness; Sheila instilled consistency; and Dulce learned respect from her mother. This external guidance helped inform the hard-working, funny and independent woman before us today.
The Personal Side
Family and faith are an important part of Dulce’s daily life. Her family gathers often to laugh, play games and dance. And you can bet Cape Verde music is on the playlist! Time away from work also involves going to the gym, prayer, playing music and occasionally scrolling TikTok.
Dreams for the future include traveling to Paris (she’s been in love with the Eiffel Tower since she was a child) and possibly skydiving, which Dulce admits may be difficult because she’s afraid of heights! We’re willing to bet there’s no challenge too great for this go-getter.
Quietly compassionate, Dulce is known to be a good listener, and she appreciates the same traits in the people she admires most. It’s not surprising to see how the connection she has to her faith, family and team make her a successful leader. Dulce, you came a long way to get here, and we’re so glad you did!