Meet Our Speakers
Frank Baylis
Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Baylis Medical Technologies,
Sunday, February 1st 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Frank Baylis is a Canadian entrepreneur, engineer, and former Member of Parliament. He is the Executive Chairman of Baylis Medical and a leader in healthcare innovation, public service, and inclusive economic development. His unique career bridges public policy, private enterprise, and social equity. Frank is actively leading initiatives to modernize Canada’s healthcare system, champion innovation in AI and technology, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. By connecting government, business, and community, he delivers real-world solutions to some of Canada’s most pressing challenges—from healthcare access to economic transformation. Through public speaking, policy engagement, and strategic partnerships, Frank is building a platform for sustainable, inclusive progress that prepares Canadians for the future of work and the rapidly evolving global economy.
Mr. Toyin Kayo-Ajayi
Founder of Canadian Black Farmers Association
Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 1pm EST - Virtual
Mr. Toyin Kayo-Ajayi, originally from Nigeria, has emerged as a trailblazer in Canadian agriculture, with a rich entrepreneurial history spanning over two decades. His journey from Nigeria to becoming a distinguished business owner and agricultural professional (owning his farm) in British Columbia, Canada, is a testament to his dedication, commitment to work, and expertise. He farmed with his grandfather from 5 years old and learned traditional African farming practices. After settling in Canada, Mr. Kayo-Ajayi went into dairy farming, gaining a wealth of Knowledge about Canadian farming practices and the agricultural business industry in Canada. For over 15 years, he has been mentoring Black farmers to enter into the Canadian agriculture industry and mentoring his community in other business ventures within Canada. After 10 years of serving his community on the grassroots level, Mr. Kayo-Ajayi founded the Kara-Kata Afrobeat Society of Canada. It all started with music and food, hosting African cultural community events with his performance band, Kara-Kata Afrobeat Group. He now has 2 performance bands, composes his own music, and runs a community music program. Since 2019, Mr. Kayo-Ajayi has spearheaded a groundbreaking agricultural project, the Kara-Kata Africa Village Project, where he has successfully experimented growing African cultural vegetables and herbs in Canada. He is paving the way for Black farmers and Black food sovereignty in Canada. As part of this project, he has done extensive research on various farming practices and innovative technology that can benefit the Canadian and African agricultural industries through maximizing productivity, the growing seasons and natural/ organic growing processes.
Brandy Skinner
Co-Founder and Chair of Resettlement Society for Displaced Afro-Indigenous Nova Scotians
Brandy Skinner is an Afro-Indigenous descendant of Africville, Nova Scotia, and the granddaughter of Rita Brown and Joseph Skinner, a lineage that grounds her leadership in lived history, cultural continuity, and a deep commitment to justice, restoration, and intergenerational advancement. She is a visionary social-impact executive, project strategist, and nonprofit founder operating at the intersection of capital stewardship, community restoration, and systemic transformation. With more than a decade of experience leading complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives, Brandy is recognized for converting historically marginalized communities into investment-ready ecosystems that deliver measurable social and economic returns. Educated in Business Administration and Project Management at George Brown College, Brandy brings institutional discipline, financial oversight, and executional rigor to mission-driven work. She has designed and managed six- and seven-figure initiatives, aligning philanthropic capital, public funding, and private-sector partnerships to build durable infrastructure rather than temporary programs for communities long excluded from wealth creation.
Brandy is the Co-Founder and Chair of the Resettlement Society for Displaced Afro-Indigenous Nova Scotians, where she leads justice-oriented, culturally grounded initiatives focused on reparations, land reclamation, mental-health diversion, and economic reconciliation for Africville descendants now living in Ontario. Under her leadership, the organization advances scalable models rooted in governance, accountability, risk management, and long-term sustainability designed to attract partners seeking impact with integrity and longevity. She also serves as Co-Founder and Chair of the Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurial Society Hub (FLESH), leading economic mobility strategies centered on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and asset-building. Her work supports individuals and families in moving from precarity to stability, and from stability to ownership ensuring that investments generate intergenerational dividends. Brandy has received multiple honors, including the Ontario Remembrance Scholarship and the Unsung Hero Award. At her core, she is a steward of legacy building systems where capital meets conscience, and where investment honors history while securing the future. She collaborates with donors and partners who understand that the most enduring returns are created when investment is guided by history, accountability, and visionary leadership.
Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 2pm EST - Virtual
Monday, February 2nd 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Curtis Whiley
Founder & President of the Upper Hammonds Plains Community Land Trust
Curtis Whiley is a sixth-generation African Nova Scotian with deep roots in the historic community of Upper Hammonds Plains. With over 12 years of public service, Curtis has worked extensively on housing and land titles initiatives, including his time at the Nunavut Housing Corporation. Currently serving as the Director of the Land Titles Initiative, Curtis has played a critical role in resolving long-standing land ownership issues for African Nova Scotian communities. Curtis holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Improvement, along with a Master of Business Administration in Social Enterprise Leadership from the University of Fredericton, which has fueled his passion for social change and community- driven transformation. A serial social entrepreneur, Curtis is the founder and visionary behind the Upper Hammonds Plains Community Land Trust (UHPCLT). He represents UHPCLT on the steering committee for the African Nova Scotian Housing Needs Assessment and Strategy, which led to the incorporation of the Nova Scotia Black Community Housing Council. He also co-chairs the Advisory Committee for the establishment of the Black Community Housing Technical Resource Center.
Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Melisa Ellis
Founder and CEO of Nobellum
Melisa Ellis is a technology leader, community advocate, and the Founder & CEO of Nobellum—a female-led social and technology enterprise with an accelerator that has supported thousands of emerging businesses. A proud alumna of the University of Toronto Scarborough, Melisa partnered with her alma mater to establish an endowment fund aimed at launching 100 Black-owned STEM businesses by 2025. This bold initiative culminated in a portfolio that generated over $20 million in startup revenue and created 250 jobs, marking a significant milestone in advancing Black entrepreneurship in Canada. Melisa’s work has earned her several honors, including the BMO Black Tech Community Builder of the Year in 2023, University of Toronto Alumni Excellence Award, and the DMZ 2025 Women of the Year Award. Committed to building an inclusive innovation ecosystem, Melisa continues to empower the next wave of Black innovators—equipping them with the tools to scale their ventures, access capital, and drive socioeconomic progress.
ChristopherTrotman
Director of Communications at Relèven
Wednesday, Feb 4th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Christopher leads the development of our national partnerships and works to support communication with our communities. He has over a decade of experience in corporate communications leading the development and execution of strategies across a range of industries. Christopher is actively involved in support organizations in the Black non-profit ecosystem across Canada and is committed to creating healthier communities through his consulting work with community organizations. Christopher dirige le développement de nos partenariats nationaux et travaille à soutenir la communication avec nos communautés. Il a plus de dix ans d'expérience dans le domaine de la communication d'entreprise, où il a dirigé l'élaboration et l'exécution de stratégies dans un large éventail de secteurs. Christopher participe activement au soutien des organisations de l'écosystème à but non lucratif des Noirs à travers le Canada et s'engage à créer des communautés plus saines par le biais de son travail de consultant auprès des organisations communautaires.
Thursday, February 5th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Dagma Koyi
Founder and Executive Director of REST Centres
At 20, I moved from St. Lucia to Canada to begin university, but within a year a family breakdown left me homeless. I struggled to find work, had to leave school, and spent three years moving between cities, living out of my luggage while trying to rebuild my life. Through faith and reflection, I felt a clear calling to help homeless and at-risk youth avoid the hardships I faced. After returning to school and later working as an employment counsellor with homeless youth, I saw firsthand the deep and complex realities behind youth homelessness. In 2015, after completing a business incubator at Humber College, REST Centres was born. Today, the organization continues to grow, focused on restoring hope, dignity, and stability to young people—because no one chooses homelessness, and everyone deserves a chance to rise.
Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 1pm EST - Virtual
Bernard Akuoko
Founder of Brightside Scope and Comunity Change Maker
Ben is a passionate advocate for highlighting the intersectionality of race, culture, and disability through public speaking, consulting, and media appearances. As a proud Black man of Ghanaian descent living with the eye condition of Retinitis Pigmentosa, he draws on his personal experiences to amplify underrepresented voices. Ben holds a Social Service Worker diploma from Sheridan College, a Bachelor's of Social Work from Laurentian University, and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Waterloo.
Ben participates in several coalitions focused on raising awareness around race and disability. Through his numerous public speaking engagements, lectures, and panel discussions, Ben advocates for the importance of intersectionality in race, culture, ethnicity, and disability.
In addition, he coordinates and hosts the podcast "The Lens: Living Diverse," which features stories and perspectives from diverse individuals and communities living with blindness or low vision. When Ben isn't working, he taps into his creative side—writing scripts, writing and composing Hip Hop, pop and R&B tracks, acting in commercials and on TV, refining his merengue and salsa skills, lifting weights, traveling the world, and performing stand-up comedy. He’s also achieved incredible feats that defy expectations, such as driving a go-kart at 80 km/h, skydiving, parasailing, zip-lining, and running a half marathon to name a few.
Ben firmly believes that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility should be integral to organizations, media platforms, and society at large. Through workshops, lectures, and media appearances, he continues to offer his lived experiences and expertise to foster these values in all spaces. Ben hopes to inspire persons to fulfill their potential and ensure their voices are heard.
Hakika V DuBose Wise
Founder of Black Box Franchising
Friday, February 6th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Hakika V. DuBose Wise, often known as Kika Wise, is the visionary Founder & CEO of Black Box Franchising, a firm that helps small businesses become scalable national franchise brands, making her a pioneer as one of the first Black women to create a national franchise system in the U.S.. She started with her own successful wellness brand, Kika Stretch Studios, proving her model and now empowers other entrepreneurs to build generational wealth through structured franchising, focusing on systems, growth, and legacy.
Saturday, February 7th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
David Betty
David Betty is the Broker of Record /owner of Sunbelle Realty Ltd, Real Estate Brokerage and provides service with distinction to clients within the Toronto Golden Horseshoe. David holds a Masters of Science (MSc) Degree in Economist and is a Certified Professional Accountant (CPA, CMA). Prior to becoming his own boss, David held a number of senior positions in the financial sector and has specialized knowledge in mortgage foreclosure and power of Sale. David is the current president of the Jamaican Canadian Association (JCA) and a past president of the Lions Circle African Canadian Men’s Association (The Lions Circle). In addition to the JCA and the Lions Circle, David serves on a number of other not-for-profit committees and boards, including his latest involvement with the Black Realtor® Association. It is David’s hope that the Black Realtor® Association will be that vehicle that propels our community into providing above standards service within the real estate industry as we foster greater real estate ownership within the Black Community.
Anthony
Henry
President of The Walnut Foundation
Sunday, February 8th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Anthony Henry currently serves as President of The Walnut Foundation, a Black men’s health interest and prostate cancer support organization. He previously served as an Advisor to the Board from 2012 to 2019 and as First Vice-President from October 2019 to June 2023.
Prostate cancer is deeply personal for Anthony—he is one of four family members diagnosed with the disease. This experience has fueled his passion and commitment to improving health outcomes for Black men. Like many of the men at The Walnut Foundation, he believes that the best way to make a difference is through presence and support—being there for others in the community before diagnosis, during treatment, and throughout survivorship. He also emphasizes that until research fully closes the gap in prostate cancer outcomes for Black men, we owe it to one another to provide guidance, education, and emotional support. Anthony initiated the annual “Walk The Path Walkathon” in 2015 which provides core funding for The Walnut Foundation.
Anthony is a strong advocate for open dialogue, believing that breaking the silence and secrecy surrounding prostate cancer is essential to saving lives. He is a trained Peer Navigator with the True North Peer Navigation Program at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto and has been volunteering with the Canadian Cancer Society since 2023, contributing to the Story Centre and to advocacy efforts calling for OHIP funding of the PSA test in Ontario. For over a decade, Anthony has also supported the Movember campaign, helping to raise funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s mental health.
Professionally, Anthony has built a successful career as a Financial Advisor with Manulife Wealth Inc., where he has served clients for more than 31 years.
Monday, February 9th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Dr. Adegboyega Ojo
Professor & Canadaian Research Chair (Governance & AI), School of Public Policy & Administration at Carleton University
Adegboyega Ojo is Full Professor at the School of Public Policy and Administration, Carleton University, Canada. Prof. Ojo is also Canada Research Chair in Governance and Artificial Intelligence. His research is primarily in the area of digital government. He studies how digital and data technologies can be used to support innovation in government institutions and address societal challenges. Prof. Ojo is keen on understanding the conditions and technical design requirements for the beneficial and ethical use of data-driven innovation, advanced analytics, and artificial intelligence-based solutions in different public service and policy contexts. Before joining Carleton University, he was a tenured faculty at Maynooth University and earlier a Senior Research Fellow & Head of the E-Government Unit at the Insight Centre for Data Analytics, University of Galway, Republic of Ireland. He also worked at the Centre for Electronic Governance, United Nations University in Macao SAR, China, where he supported governments in Africa, Asia, and Latin America in developing digital government strategies. Adegboyega is Associate Editor of the Government Information Quarterly Journal (Elsevier), Digital Government: Research and Practice journal (ACM) and also the Information Polity Journal (IOS Press). He holds a PhD in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) from the University of Lagos, Nigeria.
Dara Adekunle
Founder and Managing Partner of Farmties Capital Limited
Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Oluwadara Adekunle (Dara) is an entrepreneur and development professional with over 10 years of experience. She is the founder of Farmties Capital Limited, an innovative investment firm dedicated to empowering high-growth Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural sector by providing innovative capital, market access, and tailored financial solutions that enable these SMEs to expand, innovate, and thrive in global markets. Dara's journey into agriculture began with her establishment of a Moringa farm and her involvement in trading agricultural commodities. This initial venture ignited her passion for agriculture and deepened her understanding of the sector's challenges and opportunities. Her hands-on experience with farming and commodity trading provided her with valuable insights into the agricultural value chain, which she now leverages to empower other agribusinesses. Dara has worked with farmer organizations, SMEs, Corporates, development organizations and financial institutions to unlock markets, technology and finance for the agricultural value chain. Previously, she served as a Program Manager with Global Affairs Canada working on blended finance initiatives. She also worked as Deputy Chief of Party Feed The Future Nigeria Agribusiness Investment Activity where she played a key role in creating impactful partnerships and facilitating finance and investments for Agribusiness SMEs.
Wednesday, February 11th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Kema Joseph
Founder of St-Aude Advocacy
Our firm is proudly named after founder Kema Joseph’s paternal grandmother, Lucine St-Aude, a true pillar of strength in our family. As a determined Haitian woman, she ran her own business in Haiti and courageously restarted her life in Canada. Her resilience and independence are the very qualities we embody at St-Aude Advocacy and use to push our client goals across the finish line. Kema Joseph is a bilingual consultant specializing in strategic communications and government relations. With extensive experience in the tech, clean energy, and philanthropic sectors, Kema excels at building trusted connections between innovative organizations and key decision-makers. Kema has successfully led and executed government relations strategies for various organizations, including those in the charitable and philanthropy sectors. Her expertise is in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to community leaders. Prior to her work in public affairs Kema worked in the Mayor's Office of Toronto, where she provided strategic counsel to support large-scale initiatives and managed public events. She has been invited to share her insights on major broadcast news outlets, including Radio-Canada, CTV and CP24.
Shane Laptiste
Principal and co-founder of Studio of Contemporary Architecture (SOCA)
Thursday, February 12th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Born in Montreal, Quebec, Shane Laptiste is a licensed architect in Ontario and Alberta with over 15 years of experience. Having a strong desire to promote environmentally and socially sustainable spaces, he is very motivated to create resilient buildings that champion both a civic pride and responsibility. Shane holds BSc(Arch) and MArch degrees from McGill University, where he also serves as an architecture studio instructor. He has worked as a Project Architect on a wide variety of projects, with a focus on spaces where communities gather. In addition to his professional experience designing and managing projects, Shane has worked with non-profit organizations in the planning of community centres, affordable housing, and various community arts initiatives.
Friday, February 13th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
BoluwatiwiOmidiji
Manager, Community Impact & ESG at Canadian Credit Union Association
Bolu Omidiji is an advocate for sustainability and social impact, currently serving as the Manager, Community Impact & ESG at the Canadian Credit Union Association (CCUA), currently on maternity leave. In this role, she contributes to CCUA's commitment to support credit unions in integrating ESG and social purpose into their operations and maximizing their positive impact on communities across Canada. With a background in law (LL.B) and business administration (MBA), Bolu brings a unique perspective to her work, bridging the gap between policy and practical implementation. She has a proven track record of working with diverse stakeholders, including government, financial institutions, and community organizations, to drive positive change. Bolu's expertise lies in developing and implementing strategies that promote community investment, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, and financial inclusion. She is adept at identifying opportunities to leverage the strengths of credit unions to address pressing social and environmental challenges. She strongly believes in the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing to drive collective action and create a more sustainable and equitable future. Bolu's commitment to social impact extends beyond her professional work. She is actively involved in various community initiatives and is passionate about empowering individuals and communities to thrive.
Floydeen Charles Fridal
Executive Director at Caribbean African Canadian Social Services
Saturday, February 14th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
With over 30 years of experience in the social service sector, I have developed strong executive leadership skills, such as strategic planning, financial management, stakeholder engagement, and program evaluation. As the Executive Director of Caribbean African Canadian Social Services (CAFCAN), I lead a team of dedicated professionals who provide culturally responsive programs and services to enhance the mental health and well-being of diverse Black children, youth, families, and communities. I am passionate about advancing CAFCAN's mission, vision, and values that are grounded in the principles of Ma'at and Nguzo Saba. I leverage evidence-based Africentric interventions and strategies to foster an African-centered culture within our organization and the broader community. I am committed to empowering, educating, and advocating for the mental health supports for our clients and their families. Through my work, I aim to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the people we serve and to position CAFCAN as a reputable thought and action leader in culturally grounded and socially just programs and services for diverse Black children, youth, families and communities
Sunday, February 15th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Rustum Southwell
Chancellor Dalhousie University: Founding CEO The Black Business Initiative
Entrepreneurial leader with several years of experience developing and executing innovative Business Development and community-based initiatives. Proven track record of designing and implementing effective, integrated programs that generate awareness about the role and importance of enhancing social and economic well being for communities across North America. Skilled at communicating complex information to diverse audiences while collaborating with boards and donors; leading strategic growth initiatives, managing budgets and staff, and managing relationships with private foundations, governments, civic organizations, non profits, city officials and philanthropic leaders. The name Rustum Southwell is synonymous with economic diversity, entrepreneurial development, and capacity building in marginalized communities. He is best known as the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Black Business Initiative-or BBI-an organization unique in Canada that addresses the specific needs of the Black business community. He has shepherded the creation and expansion of the hundreds of Black-owned and operated businesses here in Nova Scotia, and across Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Savior Joseph
CEO of Tribe Network
Monday, February 16th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
I am a business executive with proven expertise in aligning technical strategies and resources to organizational goals. I apply intuitive and analytical skills to develop and execute programs focused on a unified strategic vision. I am a competitive team builder with extensive experience in strategic plan development and implementation. I'm a proven coach and mentor with a focus on being of service and sharing my values. I'm an accomplished professional who is committed to quality, skilled at managing multiple people and projects, timelines and budget, in dynamic and fast-paced environments. I am here to make a difference.
Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Christie Nelson
Program Manager for Family Fuse
Christie Nelson, the dynamic Program Manager and Co-Founder of Family Fuse, brings a wealth of excitement and passion to her role. Her journey in community support began in journalism and evolved into the realms of documentary filmmaking, songwriting, and recording. Not only is she a creative force, but Christie is also a certified Life Coach, adding a unique dimension to her multifaceted skill set. Christie also serves as a school board trustee with the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) and is the President of the Windsor International Black Film Festival, showcasing her leadership and advocacy for inclusive education and cultural enrichment. She is the Chief Development Officer for Humanity Pathways Global, where she helps drive transformative initiatives across communities. With an impressive 25-year dedication to communications and raising awareness, Christie stands out as a stalwart supporter of nonprofits and community organizations. Her vibrant and innovative approach underscores her commitment to making a positive impact on the world. Christie Nelson is not just a professional; she is an exhilarating force driving meaningful change in every endeavor she undertakes.
Charles Buchannan
CEO at Technology Helps
Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at Noon EST
Charles Buchanan is the Founder and CEO of Technology Helps. He spent nearly three decades in corporate technology leadership, management consulting and entrepreneurship with senior roles at Suncor Energy, Deloitte, Oracle, MNP, and Royal LePage. He also has started and worked with numerous technology companies in many areas that span online games, fintech to environment protection. As the principal of a management consultancy, has provided expert advice and implemented large scale technology solutions for clients like Bell, Enerplus, TELUS, Government of Alberta, Canada Post. Charles is a passionate contributor to the community – he does not see it as volunteering and has served on non-profit boards for the past 20 years, including being Board Chair at Centre for Newcomers. He currently serves as a founding board member of Calgary Black Chambers; a member of the GAIN Team at United Way of Calgary and Area; grant committee at Calgary Foundation; entrepreneur mentor at Venture Mentors Service of Alberta (VMSA); board member of The Common Approach to Impact Measurement; finance board committee member at Momentum; founder and advisory board member of UpRising Academy helping talented at-risk youth in Jamaica in STEM and sports. He holds an MBA from the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University and a B.Sc. (Hons) in electrical and computer engineering. When recharging, Charles can be found on the golf course or hiking in the beautiful mountains near his home in Calgary.
Thursdy, February 19th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Roselyn Mavungu
Executive Director of the CPRLV
Roselyne Mavungu was appointed on March 30, 2020, as Executive Director of the CPRLV to administer the organization and bring to it her management expertise. Having held several positions and carried out important missions in Canada, Africa and the Middle East, Ms. Mavungu has more than 10 years of experience in managing community support organizations. Prior to her arrival in this position, she held many positions, such as General Manager of Compagnie F – Entrepreneurship for Women, President and CEO of the MicroEntreprendre Network, as well as Senior Advisor in Development and Management with the organization Oxfam-Québec. She has also been involved in the governance of various local organizations such as the Chantier de l’économie sociale, Cap Finance, the organization Territoires innovants en économie sociales et solidaire (TIESS) and Femmessor. She also sat on the Conseil des Montréalaises and was a member of the Government of Canada’s Steering Group on the co-creation of a Social Innovation and Social Finance Strategy. She holds degrees in law (Université Paris XII La Varenne), human sciences (Université Paris-La Sorbonne), conflict management and alternative justice (Université René Descartes).
Danny Anckle
CEO, Tropicana Community Services
Friday, February 20th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
With more than 25 years experience, I am results driven, strategic leader who has managed multi-million dollar budgets, developed programming, written policies and formed strategic partnerships that have informed and enhanced organizational effectiveness in Canada and the United Kingdom. I possess comprehensive knowledge of strategic planning, fundraising and financial management, human resources and volunteer management, and thrive best in an environment where diversity, equity and anti-oppression are fundamental values. I have been credited with the development, implementation and evaluation of numerous community programs, consultations, advisory committees and organizational capacity building initiatives. My efforts have consistently resulted in effective change management processes, fulfilling organizational mandates, addressing priorities and building strong teams.
Saturday, February 21st 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Nerissa Allen
Co-Founder of the Black Business Association of BC
Nerissa is the President and CEO of the Black Business Association of BC where she champions initiatives to support entrepreneurs and small businesses. After a twenty year career with the federal government, combined with her own experience as an entrepreneur, Nerissa brings a unique perspective on tackling challenges. Nerissa stays connected to her community as a director with the Barbados Cultural Association of British Columbia, allowing her to drive the community forward with a business focused lens, helping to build economic strength and sustainability. “My wish is that we don’t have to have separate programs in order to meet the needs and break the barriers of systemic racism that is plaguing policies and institutions.”In this week’s episode of the #StartupPodcast, sponsored by Mastercard and Scotiabank, we talk to Nerissa Allen about why spotlighting founders is important, and how the Black Business Association of BC supports Black entrepreneurs to help them scale.
Saturday, February 21st 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Clavia Alleyne
Co-Founder of the Black Business Association of BC
Clavia Alleyne is the Vice President of the Black Business Association of BC and a dedicated professional with over 15 years’ experience in the healthcare sector. His passion to help others, coupled with his commitment to support entrepreneurship in his community shaped this vision to co-find the BBABC. Their mission is to help build a strong economic foundation for their community one entrepreneur at a time. Clavia sees these challenging economic times as a call for “all hands on deck” and he believes that one of the keys to our success is the development of educational programs in schools which support and nurture this entrepreneurial business mindset in our youth.
Strengthened by this spirit of UBUNTU and cooperation, Clavia continues to forge ahead paving new paths and creating new opportunities for Black entrepreneurs across Canada.
Devon Jones
Executive Director of YAAACE
Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
I have been a national leader for over two decades in developing innovative social solutions to address issues of inequality for children and youth from marginalized communities. As a diligent practitioner, I have collaborated with all levels of government and led cross-sectorial partnerships in areas such as education, community safety, and employment. My background in social innovation has helped me to implement programs and services that address critical social issues, such as poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and social exclusion. I have also worked with community-based organizations, schools, and government agencies to create collaborations that leverage resources and expertise to better serve the needs of children and youth in underserved communities. I am also the Founding Director of Y.A.A.A.C.E An organization I developed in 2007.
Monday, February 23rd 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Dr. Shane Joseph
Chief Executive Officer at Roots Community Services
Shane is a transplanted immigrant from the Caribbean who now calls Canada home. He is a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over twenty (20) years of wisdom in the areas of masculinity, gender-based violence, trauma response programming, policy and program development, suicide intervention, and mental health. He provides individual, couples, and family therapy for the Black African Caribbean community disproportionately, which is heavily grounded in intersectional and decolonizing approaches. He has completed assignments for UN agencies, the World Bank, and SIDA throughout the Caribbean, North, South and Central America, Asia, Europe, and Africa. He is the Chief Executive Officer at Roots Community Services. He is the current Chair of the North American MenEngage (NAMEN) and a Director of the Global MenEngage International (entities working with men and boys to end violence) Shane has an Undergraduate Degree in Social Work, a Master’s in Social Work, and an MBA, and recently, he completed his Doctorate Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Education and Leadership.
YamillaFranco
Afro-indigenous social entrepreneur and financial professional
Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Born and raised in the Dominican Republic. I am a social entrepreneur focused on advancing financial inclusion and entrepreneurship for the BIPOC community. My experience spans diverse sectors; including Biotechnology, E-commerce and Financial Services such a Co-founding Nyoka Design Labs, a clean technology and circular economy-focused enterprise which has now raised over 600K in venture capital funding and became a recognized signee of the United Nations Global Compact; Co-founding AfroHub Market, an e-commerce and networking platform which focuses on supporting the local community of entrepreneurs of African Descent in British Columbia and has reached over 600 Black community members; Facilitating access to financial literacy and entrepreneurial training to 100s of entrepreneurs and community members via workshops and mentorship through our community of financial professionals, partnerships and financial literacy campaign.
Wednesday, February 25th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Derek Lett
Chair of the Board of the Canadian Black Policy Network
A former senior public servant who is results-focused, strategic-minded and values-based with a proven track record of inspiring and leading cohesive, collaborative teams to deliver complex, politically-sensitive public policy initiatives. Committed to applying creative approaches and proven change management techniques to lead change and improve organizational results. Specialties: Diversity and inclusion expertise; Strategic planning; government relations; governance; change management; and business process improvement.
Abdel Ali
Director of BLCK VC Canada
Thursday, February 26th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
As the founder of Kiwi Charge, I am passionate about creating sustainable and accessible solutions for electric vehicle (EV) charging. With my CFA Charter and MBA from Schulich School of Business, I have the financial and strategic skills to lead and grow a successful startup in a competitive and emerging market. In addition to being a founder, I am also a director at BLCK VC Canada, where I support and empower Black entrepreneurs and investors in the venture capital ecosystem. I am also a member of the Pitch Deck Advisory Council at Schulich Startups, where I mentor and advise aspiring student entrepreneurs on how to craft effective and compelling pitch decks. With over 8 years of work experience in various fields of finance and entrepreneurship, I am driven by the mission of creating positive social and environmental impact through innovation and inclusion.
Friday, February 27th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Jerisha Grant Hall
Founder and Executive Director of (NACCA)
With more than a decade of experience in community leadership, equity advocacy, and organizational development, Jerisha brings a strong foundation in executive leadership, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and systems change. Jerisha is the Founder and Executive Director of the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA), a charitable organization serving York Region, where she leads initiatives focused on dismantling anti-Black racism, advancing food sovereignty, strengthening mental health and wellness supports, and empowering Black youth and families.
Under Jerisha’s leadership, NACCA has grown into a recognized voice for equity-driven, community-informed change. The organization’s programs are grounded in lived experience and designed to be culturally responsive, adaptable, and accountable to the communities served. This work has contributed to NACCA’s recognition in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion, including receiving a Leadership in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award. Jerisha’s commitment to advocacy extends across municipal, regional, and institutional systems. She currently chairs the Town of Newmarket’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Advisory Committee and serves on the York Regional Police Services Board’s Anti-Racism and Building Community Trust Committee. She has also contributed to the York Region District School Board’s Dismantling Anti-Black Racism Steering Committee, supporting cross-sector efforts to address systemic barriers impacting Black communities.
Jerisha’s leadership and community impact have been recognized through several honours, including the Canada International Black Woman Excellence Award, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the Ted Rogers CEO Award for Humanitarianism, the Agent of Change Award from Pickering College, and recognition as one of Canada’s 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women. In addition to her executive role, Jerisha is a workshop facilitator and relationship-builder with experience leading collaborative initiatives such as the Youth School Success Initiative and the Black Mental Health & Addictions Community Conversations project. Through this work, she brings together service providers, funders, institutions, and families to co-create solutions that are culturally grounded, community-led, and sustainability-focused.
Jerisha holds a Master of Arts degree from York University, where she deepened her commitment to equity, education, and transformative leadership. Across all spaces—whether in governance, community engagement, or systems planning—she remains committed to building a more just, inclusive, and hopeful future for Black communities.
Maya Penn
Environmental activist, filmmaker, and animator
Saturday, February 28th 2026 at Noon EST - Virtual
Maya Penn is a 25 year old award-winning CEO, founder, environmental and climate solutionist, 3 time TED speaker, Forbes 30 Under 30, multidisciplinary artist, animator, and Simon & Schuster author. Starting in 2008 at just 8 years old when she founded her own eco-friendly clothing company Maya’s Ideas, and then launching her nonprofit in 2011 Maya has been working in sustainability for over 16 years. Maya received a commendation from President Barack Obama at 16 years old for outstanding achievement in environmental stewardship, and she was chosen by Oprah Winfrey as her youngest Supersoul 100 Entrepreneur. Maya is certified by Cambridge Business School in Circular Economies and Sustainable Strategies. She is a sought after sustainability and Gen Z consultant for Fortune 500 businesses and nonprofits. Maya is a worldwide speaker, change maker, and educator with talks that have been translated into over 100 languages, and books on social and sustainable entrepreneurship that have been used in curriculum in schools around the world.
Dr. Gervan
Fearon
President of George Brown College
Saturday, February 28th 2026 at 1pm EST - Virtual
Dr. Gervan Fearon is president of George Brown College. An accomplished economist, scholar and teacher, he brings his vision for the transformative impacts of education to leading one of Canada’s most culturally diverse, urban post-secondary institutions. Recognized for his ability to inspire and move teams toward positive and constructive change, Dr. Fearon collaborates across the college to support career-focused programs, advance applied research and innovation, and promote community development. Dr. Fearon has an esteemed record of progressive leadership positions in higher education. He served as the president and vice-chancellor at Brock University in Ontario and Brandon University in Manitoba (where he also served as provost and vice-president, academic). Prior to his presidential appointments, he was dean of the G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education at Toronto Metropolitan University, associate dean at York University’s Atkinson Faculty of Liberal and Professional Studies (where he also held a faculty position) and was a visiting scholar at the University of Washington. Dr. Fearon began his career as an economist and policy advisor in government. Improving social and economic mobility through education is one of Dr. Fearon’s areas of expertise, and he shares his insights around the world. He currently chairs the external reference group for the federal government’s Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative, which is advancing Canada’s commitment to the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, and is a board member with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Niagara Health and Ingenium – Canada’s museums of science and innovation. He also co-founded the Canada Caribbean Institute with Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West Indies. His work has been recognized with the Order of Ontario, Queen Elizabeth II Platinum and Diamond Jubilee Medals, and The Michaëlle Jean Foundation Influencer Award, among other honours. Dr. Fearon earned a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Western Ontario (now Western University) and received his master’s and bachelor of science degrees in Agricultural Economics from the University of Guelph. He holds a Chartered Professional Accountant designation (CPA, CGA) and an Institute of Corporate Directors designation (ICD.D).
