Jack Fernandes — Building Community, One Business at a Time
A graduate of Nazarene Christian Academy and alumnus of Holy Family Holy Name School, Jack is now the proud owner of Lolly’s Café and Harpoon Media, two thriving SouthCoast businesses rooted in community and creativity.
Jack’s path began with the support of New Bedford Star Kids Scholarship Program, which gave him access to smaller schools where teachers truly knew their students. He recalls that there were only six people in his graduating class at Nazarene Christian Academy — an environment that allowed his strengths to shine. “My teachers didn’t just teach subjects; they taught us life,” he said. Hands-on learning experiences, like managing sound systems at school and volunteering in the kitchen during church events, gave him both technical skills and creative confidence. Those lessons, paired with a life skills class taught by mentor Mr. AJ Fortes, helped him navigate the adult world with ease — from balancing a checkbook to changing a tire.
While academics provided a strong foundation, Jack says it was the relationships that made the biggest impact. “My best friend has been with me since first grade. My business partner as well as my long-time girlfriend have been part of my life since high school. Those friendships gave me confidence — they’ve been the backbone of everything I’ve built.” Inspired by his parents’ determination to build a business from the ground up during challenging times, Jack learned early on that perseverance and creativity could turn obstacles into opportunities.
“Build relationships. Find real friends who love and support you for who you are. Don’t worry too much about homework — these are the best years of your life. Be open to learning new things and trying new experiences. You never know what might spark your passion.”
That entrepreneurial spirit took shape through a series of ventures. Jack’s first was Boston Burrito, a nod to his parents’ original business, Boston Bagel. He later purchased Lolly’s Café, a beloved SouthCoast staple known for its nostalgic charm — where familiar faces gather over great food and Tom and Jerry cartoons play on the screens. While managing Lolly’s, Jack opened Black Jack Burritos and later founded Harpoon Media, a social media and digital advertising company that helps promote local businesses. Now, he’s sold Black Jack Burritos to focus on growing Lolly’s and Harpoon Media, both of which continue to thrive under his creative leadership.
Jack’s story is not just one of business success — it’s one of community. “When my parents started their business, our school families came out in full force to support us,” he recalled. “That taught me the importance of giving back.” Today, Jack and his business partner host community fundraisers at Lolly’s and use Harpoon Media to amplify other local businesses, many of which are owned by friends and mentors from his Nazarene Christian Academy community. “When you serve people, that service always comes back to you,”