B2B Black to Business Magazine

Rustum Southwell’s induction into the NS Business Hall of Fame

Trailblazers from across the Atlantic provinces

Kinney Place: Community Hub Re-Imagined an incubator for Black businesses

Following an extensive national search for the new CEO of the Black Business Initiative, Matthew James Martel, the previous COO, has been selected to fill the role.

After years of impactful work within the organization as well as in the community, we believe Matthew will bring significant energy and passion into his new role.

His philosophy for the BBI as it nears its third decade of operation is to use a ‘people first’ approach in working to foster and grow minority-led enterprises. His ability to observe and understand the contributions of different facets of a company allows him to effectively work with individuals and teams to innovate organizational processes.

INTRODUCING Matthew James Martel

THE BLACK BUSINESS INITIATIVE’S NEW CEO

He holds a master’s degree in Technology, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation from Saint Mary’s University. As a serial entrepreneur himself, Martel has an extensive background in leadership, human resources, change management, and strategic planning.

“As we look to the future, our focus remains constant. We are dedicated to further enhancing economic prospects for the Black community and creating a thriving ecosystem for Black-owned businesses in Atlantic Canada and beyond.”

Under its new strategic plan, the BBI will prioritize initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, provide skills training, and facilitate access to capital for Black entrepreneurs. It will reinforce existing and seek out new partnerships and collaborations to expand our reach and ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs and services.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be leading the Black Business Initiative and I’m eager to work with the BBI team to continue our mission of promoting and supporting black-owned businesses,” Martel says. “I am confident that the organization will continue to make a real difference in the lives of black entrepreneurs and the communities in which we serve.”

Black to Business

is the official periodical of The Black Business Initiative.

Its goal is to support the BBI as it fosters a dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia business community. For advertising information, rates, submitting story ideas, notices or community events, and for more information, call: 902-426-8683

advertising@bbi.ns.ca

Publisher:

The Black Business Initiative

Editor in Chief: S.I. Rustum Southwell

Managing Editor: Carol Dobson

Sales Manager: Linda Gourlay

Senior Director Creative Design and Production: Shawn Dalton

Art Director: Mike Cugno

Graphic Designer: Barbara Raymont

The Black Business Initiative

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Phone: 902.426.8683

Fax: 902.426.8699

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E-mail: bbi@bbi.ns.ca

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Black to Business

75

Message from the Board of Directors

As the board chair of the Black Business Initiative, I am proud to report that over the past year, our organization has made significant strides in advancing economic development within the Black community. We have played an important role nationally serving as one of four Intermediaries to administer the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative, (SBCCI) Capacity Building Grant, supporting Black-led and Black-serving organizations across Canada to build their capacity. Through this initiative we have seen tremendous growth and success, which would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our staff and partners.

I am particularly proud of the progress we have made in expanding our presence beyond Nova Scotia. Our increased engagement in the other Atlantic provinces has enabled us to reach more Black entrepreneurs and support them in achieving their goals. This expansion has also helped us to build stronger partnerships with other organizations and businesses, which will benefit us all in the long run.

One of the highlights of the past year was our very own CEO, Rustum Southwell’s induction into the Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame, being recognized as one the most 100 influential Black Canadians and an Order of Nova Scotia recipient. Rustum’s dedication to advancing the economic status of Black people in Nova Scotia has been a driving force behind the success of the Black Business Initiative. This recognition is well-deserved and a testament to the impact that Rustum and the BBI have made on the business community in Nova Scotia.

I am also proud of the amazing staff behind all of the progress that the organization has made in the past 12 months. Their hard work, passion, and commitment have been instrumental in driving the BBI’s success. Their tireless efforts to support Black entrepreneurs and businesses have not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for their dedication.

Moving forward, we will continue to focus on expanding our reach and supporting Black entrepreneurs and businesses throughout the Atlantic provinces. We will work to create new partnerships and initiatives that will help us achieve our goals, and we will continue to advocate for policies that support the growth and success of Black businesses.

I am confident that with the dedication of our staff and the support of our partners, the Black Business Initiative will continue to grow and make a meaningful impact on the economic landscape of Nova Scotia and beyond.

Sincerely,

Joe Parris Board Chair, Black Business Initiative

En tant que président du conseil d’administration de l’Initiative des entreprises noires, je suis fier de rapporter que notre organisation a fait des progrès significatifs au cours de la dernière année dans la promotion du développement économique au sein de la communauté noire. Nous avons connu une croissance et un succès considérables, qui n’auraient pas été possibles sans le dévouement et le travail acharné de notre personnel et de nos partenaires.

Je suis particulièrement fier des progrès que nous avons réalisés dans l’expansion de notre présence au-delà de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Notre engagement accru dans les autres provinces de l’Atlantique nous a permis de toucher plus d’entrepreneurs noirs et de les soutenir dans la réalisation de leurs objectifs. Cette expansion nous a également aidés à construire des partenariats plus solides avec d’autres organisations et entreprises, ce qui nous profitera tous à long terme.

L’un des points forts de l’année dernière a été l’intronisation de Rustum Southwell au Temple de la renommée des affaires de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Le dévouement de Rustum à la promotion du statut économique des Noirs en NouvelleÉcosse a été une force motrice derrière le succès de l’Initiative des entreprises noires. Cette reconnaissance est bien méritée et témoigne de l’impact que Rustum et le BBI ont eu sur la communauté des affaires en Nouvelle-Écosse.

Je suis également fier de l’incroyable personnel qui se cache derrière tous les progrès que l’organisation a réalisés au cours des 12 derniers mois. Leur travail acharné, leur passion et leur engagement ont été essentiels pour assurer le succès du BBI. Leurs efforts inlassables pour soutenir les entrepreneurs et les entreprises noirs n’ont pas été ignorés, et nous sommes reconnaissants de leur dévouement.

À l’avenir, nous continuerons à nous concentrer sur l’expansion de notre portée et sur le soutien aux entrepreneurs et aux entreprises noirs dans l’ensemble des provinces de l’Atlantique. Nous travaillerons à créer de nouveaux partenariats et initiatives qui nous aideront à atteindre nos objectifs, et nous continuerons à plaider en faveur de politiques qui soutiennent la croissance et le succès des entreprises noires.

Je suis convaincu qu’avec le dévouement de notre personnel et le soutien de nos partenaires, l’Initiative des entreprises noires continuera à croître et à avoir un impact significatif sur le paysage économique de la NouvelleÉcosse et au-delà.

Joe Parris Président du conseil d’administration, Initiative des entreprises noires

Message from the Outgoing CEO

For more than two decades, Black to Business magazine has captured and highlighted the programs, events and individuals who have contributed to the success of BBI. Once again, it is my privilege to preface the issue you are about to read. We are in the midst of one of the busiest times in this organization’s history. Here, you have an opportunity to slow down and get acquainted or catch up with BBI and the Black business community.

In this issue, you will read about Black entrepreneurs who are directly impacting the economies of their respective provinces. The combined result of these individual efforts is a force of Black business power that is only continuing to gain momentum. Black entrepreneurs at every stage of life are launching thriving businesses in a very complex and challenging business landscape.

At just 13 years old, Taya Skeete is a multiple business award nominee. In this issue, you will read all about her innovative business and her experiences as a successful young entrepreneur. You will also read about Tim Holmes, founder of New Brunswick’s Unity T-A-C-K Group. Tim has turned personal tragedy into a business with an incredible commitment to community service. Over in Newfoundland & Labrador, musician King Sway is making waves in the industry. Here, he sheds light on the creative process and the power of speaking one’s truth.

In October, the AKOMA Family Centre opened the Kinney Place, a Black business and community hub in Nova Scotia. Our detailed coverage of that historic unveiling is also included in this issue.

While in the process of expanding the BBI’s scope, we have been able to bring back some of our signature events. 2022 saw the post-Covid return of the Business is Jammin’ charity golf tournament. The 12th iteration of this tournament was a resounding reminder of the community support for youth programs and services at BBI. Later this year, we will host our BBI Summit, our first since 2019. We look forward to the participation of our new clients and partners across the Atlantic Provinces in this exciting tribute to Black business excellence.

This year, the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) will host its first conference. The conference will focus on strengthening the Canadian capacity for Black-led, Blackfocused, and Black-serving organizations.

Respectfully,

S.I. Rustum Southwell BBI, Founding and Interim CEO

SO R T TH W U U SUM ELL

WHENEVER THERE IS ANYTHING THEY WANT ME TO DO, I’M WILLING TO HELP.

SO R T TH W U U SUM ELL ACCOLADES FOR THE BBI’S GUIDING

– RUSTUM SOUTHWELL

By Amber Fryday

LIGHT

Rustum Southwell headed into official retirement with another prestigious accolade. In November of 2022, Southwell was inducted into The Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the business community of Nova Scotia.

Southwell, who came to Nova Scotia from his native St. Kitts, is best known as the founding Chief Executive Officer of the Black Business Initiative (BBI) – what he considers to be his life’s work.

He’s led the BBI from its inception in 1996, and has taken it from a new organization to an integral part of the economic landscape of this province. He has worked tirelessly to positively influence Nova Scotia business culture by promoting and supporting the development of Black-owned businesses.

Photo by Adams Photography

As of 2017, the BBI has helped create more than 1,000 jobs, trained more than 1,000 people, and its top-performing companies have combined sales of more than $1 billion since 1996.

Southwell retired from BBI in 2012 after holding the position of Chief Executive Officer for 17 years but returned in 2016 as an interim CEO to help set the stage for more growth.

He has shepherded the creation and expansion of the hundreds of Black-owned and operated businesses here in Nova Scotia, across Canada, the United States, the Caribbean, and beyond.

In addition, he has served on many boards: the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, the Waterfront Development Corporation, and the United Way of Halifax; and is currently a member of the Board of Governors of Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), Black Loyalist Heritage Society, and the Community Consultative Committee of the Halifax Stanfield International Airport Authority (HSIAA).

He was also awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 and the Platinum Jubilee medal more recently.

Though he has been the recipient of such awards, he says he was shocked to find out he was going to be a part of the 29th class of laureates at the Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame.

SO R T TH W U U SUM ELL

OBVIOUSLY, IT IS AN HONOR, AND I AM FLATTERED.

– RUSTUM SOUTHWELL

ABOVE: Rustum Southwell accepting his Business Hall of Fame Award.

RIGHT: Some of the honours Rustum Southwell has garnered throughout the past quarter century.

“Obviously, it is an honor, and I am flattered. Given the chance to reflect on this, it’s been a full circle moment because, the year before when Viola Desmond became a laureate posthumously, I accepted the award on her behalf,” Southwell said.

Though he moved to Nova Scotia to study medical engineering, he says he doesn’t believe his deceased parents would be surprised that he has been as successful as he has been in the business world.

“As a child, I used to take fruits and vegetables to the market. My parents let me go there and sell them to people. I didn’t consider it business. It was something that came naturally to me.”

Not long after he came to Nova Scotia, he took a position managing the CARA Steak and Burger complex in Dartmouth and went on to become one of the first Black franchisees in Nova Scotia as the owneroperator of a Harvey’s restaurant in Halifax. “I took that franchise from about $150,000 a year up to a million dollars sales.”

Although as a child his dad always called him “mischievous,” he says he believes his parents would be proud of him and his accomplishments.

He says it is time to officially hang up his hat at the BBI and adds the search has concluded for a new CEO who, in his words, is younger and smarter.

He plans on taking advantage of his free time to do things that are important to him.

“I’ve got to relax a little bit more and stop being so high-strung and do some stuff with my wife and our two grown sons.” But his work with the BBI will never be far from his mind.

“I think I will always reflect on that and look at whether we’re the communities that we’ve helped. A lot of people on our staff have put in a lot of time assisting businesses. We’ve also been able see growth in senior management positions. I have a sense of pride and I will look back and enjoy that. But whenever there is anything they want me to do, I’m willing to help.”

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2022 Platinum Medal

Trailblazers: Leading from the heart

Micah Brown Sharing his Passion

By Carol Dobson | Photography

It’s been quite a journey for Micah Brown, from Staten Island to Tampa, to Germany, Ontario, and now to Dartmouth in pursuit of his passion, football. He’s landed here, thanks, in part to his Nova Scotian born wife (and a history with Saint Mary’s academically and athletically) where, for the past six years he’s been operating ‘BATLX, a football-specific training and athletic development centre that addresses the whole athlete.

He says the facility started in 2017 and time since has flown by.

Youth start at his facility beginning around the age of 10. Their training begins with the soft skills before they move on to throwing, tackling and the more physical aspects of the game.

The youth start working on basic life skills, such as personal responsibility, life skills, accountability, and discipline. As this age group is in the midst of life changing processes due to the maturing process – changing bodies, raging hormones, stress at home and school, he keeps an eye on his students, willing to lend a hand in navigating this stage of their life.

It’s the small things that count. For example, a youth cannot enter the facility for a session

unless they are wearing their official BATLX shirt. It may look like a small thing but it instills in the youth they have to have it ready (even the night before) and ensure that they have it with them during school and when they arrive at the centre. It also instills pride in the youth, they are part of a ‘team’.

It’s a very holistic process offering guidance, mentorship, and the core values of the team, he says. “Kids can carry a lot of pain and stress, so I help guide them and give them coping mechanisms.

“Every small detail is taken care of,” he says. “They learn that there are no shortcuts, no cheater codes, you just have to carry through.”

Not only is the emotional element of the youth’s lives dealt with, the psychology, techniques, strategies, and methodology of the game are covered.

The core curriculum includes mental development, tactics, game play, understanding the various positions, and the how and why of the tactics the game involves. Then comes training in physical development – strength, speed, and explosiveness.

His techniques have paid off with students being offered scholarships to prep schools and universities in Canada, the United States, and Europe. One of the highest accolades was when a student was offered a full athletic scholarship to the University of Michigan. Some students are also playing at the semi-pro and professional level. This is part of work he was doing even before BATLX which continues to this day.

If a student has been recruited by an American school, their training automatically pivots to the American style of the game, which is totally different than the one we Canadians are familiar with. That enables them to pivot directly into the American game when they cross the border.

He says the pandemic gave him a chance to sit back, look at where the company had been and where it would be going forward. He’s always been reflective about his career, and this was a golden opportunity to set the direction for it once things began to open again.

When it comes to the local football scene, he’s watching the to and fro of whether the CFL will come to Halifax/Moncton or not.

“It would be nice to see,” he says. “It will provide visibility for the sport, give us more access to professional athletes and coaches, and be a positive for health and development in the area. I think it’s something tangible we can reach for.”

He says he can see spinoffs for the whole economy as teams fill stadiums via ticket sales, people buy food and drink, go to restaurants and bars before and after, make plans to stay for an extended time pre and post, filling hotel beds, and other spinoffs. Recent events like the World Jr. Hockey and local teams like the Thunderbirds and Mooseheads already contribute to this so adding football would be one more positive addition to the local economy.

Getting back to a micro level, he’s looking towards a healthy future for his business, “l have some really lofty goals and objectives.”

Will be interesting to see what the next bend in his road brings.

Tamara Steele

By Carol Dobson | Photography contributed

My Art Work is My Heart Work

Tamara Steele, the executive director of the Black Cultural Society of Prince Edward Island, is looking forward to literally making great music together as the society enters into a partnership with the Black Business Initiative. Plans are to have Precious Familusi, the BBI’s Entrepreneurial Engagement Manager in Newfoundland and Labrador come to the Island to announce a new partnership during African History Month.

Music has been a part of Steele’s life and it is how she landed on Prince Edward Island from Nova Scotia.

“I was trying to figure out whether I was going to follow a classical or jazz track,” she says. “I was a brass musician – trombone and euphonium, and I was looking for a good brass professor.”

During a recruiting session, she met people from the University of Prince Edward Island’s music programme and based on her initial impression, and the quality of the music programme, she enrolled.

We had a meeting with the Premier after a demonstration about “Racially Focused Violence” at the Legislature. We worked with the government to establish a new anti-racism policy and a round table to continue discussions.

Like many before her, she started off on one degree track and graduated on another, graduating with a double major of music and English. What would come next?

“I’ve been on the Island for 23 years. I met a guy, married him, and stayed.” That’s only part of the story. She was typical of her generation – trying a myriad of jobs, some in the arts, others in customer service, housekeeping, and for a time, as a nanny in the United States. Back on the Island she took a job at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, in the coffee shop –everything from baking in the back room to manning the front counter and register. It was the perfect place to know everyone in the premier arts centre on the Island.

“One day, the executive assistant to the curator of the art gallery told me she was leaving and that I should try for her job,” she recalls. “I went up to the art gallery and said to the curator, I want to apply but am not sure if I’m qualified, so I don’t want to waste your time or mine.”

She got the job and stayed there for three years.

Steele had kept her fingers in the music and cultural scene and got to know leaders in the field including musician Scott Parsons. She says he kept telling her about an idea he had but it took a few years to go from idea to fruition. This idea was the Black Cultural Society of P.E.I.

“In 2018, I was brought on to coordinate Black History Month.”

That was a springboard to becoming involved in the society, joining the board, and creating an organization that could assist with the needs of the growing Black population on the Island. She talks about using the experiences of members of the community, many of whom came to the

Island to study at the university and stayed after they finished. The things they talked about were grassroots – hair care, cuisine, jobs – along with more big picture items, like Black Life Matters.

Things started falling into place in 2020 but, along came Covid, which set things back. But even then, things were percolating.

“We had a meeting with the Premier after a demonstration about “Racially Focused Violence” at the Legislature,” she says. “We worked with the government to establish a new anti-racism policy and a round table to continue discussions. Also, we discussed office space, and in 2021, we were offered space on Great George Street, and we obtained non-profit status. I had been the president at that time and stepped down to become the executive director.”

She still continues her work in the arts scene, including curating an exhibit called “This Town is Small” featuring local Black artists at Summerside’s Eptek Centre.

There are several events planned during African History Month on the Island including panel discussions, a film festival, and gala. This year it’s in competition with the Canada Games but that’s not stopping the celebration.

“We’ve invited Precious to come over for a few days, to be present at the flag raising, attend some events, and hopefully come to the centre where people can meet him,” she says.

Whatever path her future takes, Steele says her guiding principle, which has served her well throughout her career, is to “Make My Art Work My Heart Work”.

By

Tim Holmes is an entrepreneur, a sixth generation Black New Brunswicker, and chief information officer in one of the largest law firms in Atlantic Canada. To Tim Holmes family is everything, as a grandfather to eight, father to four, and loving husband for more than 20 years, Family comes first.

After losing two of his four children to car accidents in 2021, Tim and his wife Julie made the decision to move back to Saint John, New Brunswick to bring their multigenerational family back together and give back to the community that helped raise them by starting their own business.

“When our kids passed away, we felt love from across Canada. We were just trying to figure out how to survive. A lot of people reached out and touched our hearts in many ways and helped us get through the most difficult time in our lives. I ended up getting a job opportunity with one of the largest law firms in Atlantic Canada as the Chief Information Officer, so my wife and I took it as an opportunity to move back home to Saint John, to bring our family back together, and to bring purpose back. We were born here, raised our kids here, and I’m at the stage in my life where I’ve learned a lot in my career so I’m looking to give back to the community “

Despite being one of the many New Brunswickers who moved away to seek better opportunities, Holmes believes the current generation doesn’t need to leave the province to enjoy great lives in New Brunswick. That is due to technology – infrastructure is here to help lift the youth up to heights the previous generation couldn’t dream of.

“People paved the way for me in my previous generation. I’ve had the opportunity to be at the top level of departments and work inside billiondollar organizations including government. So, I’m hoping to be able to help the youth, so they don’t have to leave Saint John like I had to. I can help them stay here and build from here. I’ve been all over and done that for other companies so why don’t I do it for my own home people?”

That’s why he and his wife are co-owners of their new company Unity T-A-C-K group. With Tim as the president and Julie as vice-president, Unity T-A-C-K group is a vehicle to bring love, family, and a sense of sharing to the hearts of all New Brunswickers starting with the Saint John region. This holding company will act as a parent company to several businesses under it.

“Well right now we have the head company called Unity T-A-C-K group, and the letters in TACK each stand for the names of my four children. Under that will be our operating companies and we are aiming to have each company have a charity they will donate to. We are opening a pet

store, a doggy day care called A Doggy Resort, a tattoo studio, and my IT consulting business. But it doesn’t really matter the business as far as the operating businesses go, if it’s the right message and purpose ,then it can form into the group of companies in Unity T-A-C-K group.”

A benefit of this unique business model means that Unity T-A-C-K Group can pay all its employees, in any of its companies, above minimum wage. The structure also provides greater job security for when customer demand changes at one company. When this happens, the employees can be easily transferred to another business in the Unity T-A-C-K group without disruption of pay, layoffs, or termination of employment.

“I want my employees to grow as much as they can. Maybe they have their own aspirations and with this model they can master job skills across multiple business types at entry and management levels. So, then if for whatever reason they choose to move on, they have that experience and extra skills to start their own business.”

Tim has some advice to entrepreneurs working hard on their dreams here in New Brunswick.

“You have to be persistent, be patient, and have a purpose and if you keep those three things you’ll stay on track. To me those are the key elements of an entrepreneur. Put yourself out there, start asking questions, being good to people and listening to what people have to say. There’s nothing better then speaking to someone who’s retired, grandfather or grandmother, life experience is key whether they ran a business or not. Those life experiences help translate into things you need as you become an entrepreneur including the ups and downs it brings. You are going to have them, and how you deal with them is what determines if you keep going, or if you say I can’t do this anymore, I’m done. So, if you want to have the best shot, reach out and let people know your available. You never know what doors will open, the more you put out in the universe the more that will come back. “

Powerful words from one of the legacy Black families in our province. Now home, united, and dedicated to building stronger families, businesses, and communities here in New Brunswick. Welcome home Tim, we’re lucky to have you.

Tim Holmes Photography contributed

Thandiwe McCarthy

King Sway SWAY-ing Newfoundland Music

By Sandra Hannebohm | Photography contributed

Zimbabwe-born Farai Gwasira is an award nominated rapper, singer, songwriter, TV personality, and producer based in Newfoundland, known as King Sway.

His emotionally vulnerable, genreblending music is inspired by Drake, Lil Wayne, POPCAAN, Big Sean, Tory Lanez, and local musicians in the Newfoundland scene.

... as someone who has been processing his emotions through music since he was 10 years old, and who studied psychology as a complement to his business degree, it’s a struggle he’s equipped to handle.

His 2020 debut album, Day Dreaming, brings the listener into a relatable and sensitive mind, in the midst of processing love and heartbreak, depression and addiction, eager to remind the listener – as backup vocalist Ife Alaba sings in the track, “Addiction” –you’re not alone.

“I kind of looked at [this album] as a way to better understand myself,” he says.

Being so open about mental health is a struggle in itself, but as someone who has been processing his emotions through music since he was 10 years old, and who studied psychology as a complement to his business degree, it’s a struggle he’s equipped to handle.

“I think that’s all down to a better understanding of myself,” he says. Being emotionally aware means, “I know what I’m feeling, I know why I’m feeling it.” But, “the translating-it-into-a-song part, that can be difficult.”

Following the success of his first album, growing media attention and with his second album on the way, Gwasira is now backed by funding. There are more people involved, the stakes are higher.

“I don’t think I’m big, as an artist, but I think that the growth that I’ve experienced as an artist has been a lot faster than I thought it would be. All of a sudden, I have all these people who have input in terms of what direction my career and my music should take. Suddenly have all these decisions to make and it’s not just me who’s funding this anymore.”

It’s a perfect recipe for writer’s block – or something like it. “It’s not that I can’t write, it’s that I’m struggling to write things that I think are good. I want to say these exact words, but it just doesn’t work with the rhythm, or melodically it just doesn’t work,” he says.

How does he separate the business from the creative process?

“It’s a difficult thing to do but it’s something that I’m trying to learn to step away from, and stay true to myself.”

Equally important to the process of writing music, is having fun. “When I do write about the heavy topics I see it as therapeutic, so it’s an enjoyable process for me… because if you don’t enjoy what you are making, you don’t really put that piece of yourself in it, and when someone else listens to it they don’t connect to it on that same level.”

King Sway’s next album will be released later this year on all major platforms. Listen to Day Dreaming on Apple Music, Spotify, Soundcloud and Youtube.

Entrepreneur Tool Kit

By Matthew Martel, BBI CEO

Set Smart Goals

Before you decide to move forward with a digital marketing strategy, you’re going to have to set smart goals. Be sure you understand what you actually want to accomplish. SMART goals stant for Specific Measurable Achievable Realistic Time-bound. Following this goal setting strategy can set you up for success.

Know your Audience

Knowing your audience is central to any marketing strategy. With so many tools and strategies in the market, it’s easy to lose sight of the fundamentals to every strategy. One of the most important aspects is understanding your audience – you have to know your audience, inside and out. If you don’t, how can you know what strategies or media to choose, how they like to consume information or even how to communicate once they become a customer?

Set a Budget

Now that your goals have been set, you can set your budget. Strategies to reach your goals can include email marketing, hiring new marketing staff, content writing, or holding grand openings. The budget’s goal is to allow the organization to meet the objectives by using the strategies while protecting the return on investment.

Like all budgets, these can be annually, quarterly, or the timeline that best meets your organization’s needs. They can also be created for a specific initiative or campaign. This can help make the return more clear and is often more useful when setting future marketing budgets. There are a number of factors to consider when making marketing communication and budget allocation decisions. Connect with the BBI if your business is looking for support in this area.

Set Strong Brand Guidelines

Brand guidelines standardize colour, and font usage, logo application, tone and voice, image styles, graphics usage, brand sentiment, and more.

While brand guidelines might seem unnecessary and restrictive at first, they can actually lead to a much stronger brand. When guidelines outline what you can and can’t do, your team can then create within a set framework, instead of getting stared from a blank slate.

Brand guidelines also define who your brand is and what your values are. They create a clear, cohesive, and seamless experience across every interaction with the organization. Delivering a uniform brand will help your organization stand out in the market.

It is also very important to formalize and document your brand guidelines. This process can protect your brand from being misunderstood and inconsistent. Once established, brand guidelines should be treated as an ever changing part of your organization. As your company grows and changes, your brand guidelines should adapt as well.

Content is Key

If you want to attract new audiences and deliver value to your existing one, the quality of content you produce is one of the most important elements of your marketing strategy. Quality content will help you interact with your audience and encourage them to take the next steps – whether that’s visiting your website, booking your services or buying your product. Content creation is a process and getting useful feedback is imperative. This will make you understand where you are going wrong and what you need to do differently. It is also important to be original and not to expect overnight results. Building quality content is a process with no finish line.

Repurpose Quality Content

Not only should quality content be a key part of your digital strategy, repurposing that content is extremely important. Creating content for one time use can be a waste of resources and your audience may not see the content initially. Content developed as a magazine article can be

repurposed as a blog post and a LinkedIn article. This strategy allows you to take your quality content and share it with different audiences who may access content in a different way than it was originally posted. This is another skill that is built over time and trains content creators to develop content that has a long life cycle and can be used in multiple ways.

Quality over Quantity

Many companies who decide to take on their own digital marketing often become overwhelmed quickly. They open multiple social media accounts, create a LinkedIn profile, a YouTube page, and then have trouble managing it all. It can be very difficult to manage multiple platforms effectively. While enthusiasm is great, it’s rarely effective without some strategy to support it. When creating content, think about the longer life cycle of the content and ensure you are not creating a certain number of posts per week simply because that is what you feel others are doing.

Use Multiple Channels

A strong digital marketing strategy is a web of many elements that must work harmoniously in order to generate the desired impact. Unfortunately, many organizations believe that one or two channels are all that’s necessary to focus on, in order to build brand awareness. However If you’re in B2B, you must be sure to also advertise B2C. If you’re neglecting email campaigns, then make sure to rectify the situation. The key here is reflecting on the results and making the required adjustments to be successful in your marketing strategy.

Advertise

Social media ads are a great way to get your name out there, and this method of distribution has been around for a long time. Facebook and Google Ads are two significant places to start, but don’t neglect Twitter, Youtube and in some cases LinkedIn. Depending on your business, it can pay to have a YouTube or Vimeo channel to showcase your work.This can help you be found by a broader audience. Be sure to remember to create dynamic, interesting content.

Consider Your User Experience

The User experience or UX, is how an individual feels when interacting with your platforms. These platforms include things like website and desktop software but can really be any example of an individual’s interaction with a device.

UX is very important because it aims to satisfy the user’s needs. Your efforts should aim to provide positive experiences that keep users loyal to your product or brand. The user experience is critically important to support all other areas of your marketing strategy. A well built strategy with a poor user experience equates to a poor return on investment.

Efficiency Nova Scotia Efficacité Nouvelle-Écosse

Efficiency Nova Scotia is Canada’s first energy efficiency utility. Working with more than 200 local partners, they’ve:

• helped 400,000 program participants complete energy efficiency projects

• saved Nova Scotians $180 million in annual energy savings

• avoided 1,000,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually

Their work is funded by supplying electricity efficiency and conservation activities to Nova Scotia Power. This helps them meet Nova Scotia’s electricity needs. The cost of these services is included in electricity rates. The HomeWarming service is one of the programs funded by the Province of Nova Scotia. It’s part of a long-term plan to upgrade all low-income homes in Nova Scotia over the next several years.

One great initiative that BIJ has partnered with is Green Schools:

Green Schools Nova Scotia is an exciting initiative supported by Efficiency Nova Scotia to enhance environmental sustainability at schools. This free program helps support students, teachers, and the larger school community as they learn to waste less and become more energy efficient.

Reducing energy consumption is the best way to mitigate climate change, and They are focused on energy! While they start from that foundation, They cover a spectrum of environmental concerns including energy, waste, water, transportation, and food. There are five pillars to the Green Schools NS program: Getting Started With Energy, Minimizing Waste, Using Water Responsibly, Living and Moving Green, and Supporting Local.

Engagement Officers work with students, teachers, and school communities across the province to strengthen sustainable behaviour that helps the Earth. The program supports community efforts to reduce energy waste and to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Through curriculum linked education, resources, presentations, and initiatives, Green Schools community members can discover more about the impact of consumption habits, and how to waste less. Using resources efficiently and considering our environmental footprint are necessary skills as the global community unites to address climate change. The foundational experience students gain from Green Schools NS cultivates sustainable choices and behaviours that stick around for good.

Last year Business is Jammin, and Efficiency Nova Scotia partnered to deliver multiple programs including Experiences in Sustainable careers.

Our flagship program, Experiences In, strives to introduce African Nova Scotian and racially visible youth to careers where they are underrepresented. The long-term goal of the program is to affect an increase in the participation of ANS in these fields, resulting in a more diverse sector.

We value our partnership with Efficiency Nova Scotia at Business is Jammin’ and look forward to the impact we will make together in 2023 and beyond!

Efficiency Nouvelle-Écosse est le premier service public d’efficacité énergétique au Canada. Travaillant avec plus de 200 partenaires locaux, ils ont :

• Aidé 400 000 participants au programme à réaliser des projets d’efficacité énergétique

• A permis aux Néo-Écossais d’économiser 180 millions de dollars en économies d’énergie annuelles

• 1 000 000 tonnes d’équivalent CO2 évitées chaque année

Leur travail est financé en fournissant des activités d’efficacité et de conservation de l’électricité à Énergie de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Cela les aide à répondre aux besoins en électricité de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Le coût de ces services est inclus dans les tarifs d’électricité. Le service Réchauffement de la maison est l’un des programmes financés par la province de la Nouvelle-Écosse.

Cela fait partie d’un plan à long terme visant à moderniser toutes les maisons à faible revenu de la Nouvelle-Écosse au cours des prochaines années.

Une grande initiative avec laquelle BIJ s’est associé est Green Schools: Green Schools Nova Scotia est une initiative passionnante soutenue par Efficiency Nouvelle-Écosse pour améliorer la durabilité environnementale dans les écoles. Ce programme gratuit aide les élèves, les enseignants et la communauté scolaire dans son ensemble à apprendre à moins gaspiller et à devenir plus économes en énergie.

Réduire la consommation d’énergie est le meilleur moyen d’atténuer le changement climatique, et ils se concentrent sur l’énergie ! Bien qu’ils partent de cette base, ils couvrent un éventail de préoccupations environnementales, notamment l’énergie, les déchets, l’eau, les transports et la nourriture. Le programme Green Schools NS repose sur cinq piliers : Débuter avec l’énergie, Minimiser les déchets, Utiliser l’eau de manière responsable, Vivre et bouger vert et Soutien local.

Les agents d’engagement travaillent avec les élèves, les enseignants et les communautés scolaires de toute la province pour renforcer les comportements durables qui aident la Terre.

Le programme soutient les efforts communautaires visant à réduire le gaspillage d’énergie et à réduire notre dépendance aux combustibles fossiles. Grâce à une éducation, des ressources, des présentations et des initiatives liées au curriculum, les membres de la communauté des écoles vertes peuvent en savoir plus sur l’impact des habitudes de consommation et sur la façon de moins gaspiller.

L’utilisation efficace des ressources et la prise en compte de notre empreinte environnementale sont des compétences nécessaires alors que la communauté mondiale s’unit pour lutter contre le changement climatique. L’expérience fondamentale que les élèves acquièrent de Green Schools NS cultive des choix et des comportements durables qui restent pour de bon.

L’année dernière, Business is Jammin et Efficiency Nouvelle-Écosse se sont associés pour offrir plusieurs programmes, notamment Experiences in Sustainable careers.

Notre programme phare, Experiences In, s’efforce d’initier les jeunes Afro-NéoÉcossais et les jeunes des groupes raciaux visibles à des carrières où ils sont sous-représentés.

L’objectif à long terme du programme est d’augmenter la participation des SNA dans ces domaines, ce qui se traduira par un secteur plus diversifié.

Nous apprécions notre partenariat avec Efficiency Nouvelle-Écosse at Business is Jammin’ et attendons avec impatience l’impact que nous aurons ensemble en 2023 et au-delà !

Kinney Place R

Re-Imagined Former Orphanage

into a Community Hub

By Ulinwa Vivian Onyinye | Photography contributed

A building housing a former orphanage for coloured children that opened a century ago has now reopened after a three-year refurbishment.

The home was first opened in 1921 and was meant to provide a home for African Nova Scotian children, who were afforded little to no social services in the early 20th century.

It provided jobs for many individuals from African Nova Scotian communities.

The orphanage closed in 1979 when two new group home structures were developed.

Not long after the closure, former residents came forward to speak about the physical, sexual and psychological abuse they faced at the home. In 2013, a Restorative Inquiry Process was established in response.

The government of Nova Scotia recognized the history, experience, and legacy of the Home and issued a public apology.

The building sat in deteriorating shape until Akoma Holdings Inc. started the restoration in 2016.

The facility has now been refurbished and renamed Kinney Place after the first superintendent of the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children, James Alexander Ross Kinney.

In August 2022, Kinney Place was granted Municipal Heritage Status by the Halifax Regional Municipality. The assistant manager of the building, Cheyenne Jones, says the board at the time wanted to keep the building.

“They didn’t want to tear it down because there was always a vision for this building to become an intergenerational center and to have a safe space for the community to gather,” she said.

TOP: The refurbished Kinney Place, named after its first superintendent J.A.R. Kinney.

FROM LEFT:

MP Eastern Shore

Kent Smith, Councillor Trish Purdy, Akoma Board President Kathleen Mitchell, Assistant Property Manager Cheyenne Jones, Property Manager Veronica Marsman, Mayor Mike Savage and MP Darren Fisher.

MP Eastern Shore Kent Smith, Akoma VP Jason Jackson, Moderater AUBA Deacon David Provo. Inside Kinney Place.

We are happy that Kinney Place will be an incubator for Black businesses.

DANCERS: Studio 26 Dance School.

DRUMMERS:

Khalifa Jallo-Hamilton and his father Wayn Hamilton.

ARTWORK:

Property Manager

Veronica Marsman presenting Healing Art work painted by artist Sam’Gwam Paris.

Some of the rooms inside Kinney Place.

“It is wonderful that we finally are now in a place to open the doors to serve the Black community and everybody else.”

Kinney Place was welcomed by Nova Scotians, Jones said.

“It was wonderful. We had 200 people show up for the opening, we had a sold-out dinner, lots of dignitaries, lots of locals. Some people traveled to be here. It was so exciting to see people.”

“It is so beautiful to be a part of Black people being able to stay in their own communities and enjoy the amenities that many other communities have without having to leave their community,” she said.

Akoma Board President, Kathleen Mitchell, says Kinney Place recognizes the historic contribution the building has to the province and community.

“We are happy that Kinney Place will be an incubator for Black businesses.”

Kinney Place will also enhance services to the African Nova Scotian community and the general society, she said in a press release.

The building houses the new offices of the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Preston, Angela Simmonds, and the

They didn’t want to tear it down because there was always a vision for this building to become an intergenerational center and to have a safe space for the community to gather.

non-profit organization 902 Man Up. There is an opportunity for new businesses to lease space. On the first floor and with a new patio, is Opus Cafe & Catering, and upstairs is The Studio Lounge, a hair salon, and spa.

There are also two spaces for rent by community members who want to hold art classes, workshops, or meeting space.

There is also a community room for anyone who wants a place to chat over coffee, use the internet, or play a few games of cards and watch TV.

For entrepreneur Deb Vaillancourt, it was important to open her cafe in Kinney Place.

“Strong communities are critical as social connections afford a sense of belonging which in turn mitigates psychological impacts on one’s health. It is important for The Opus Cafe to play a part in this process as a community member and someone who has seen the need for social connectedness amongst all surrounding communities,” she said in a press release.

“We ultimately want to give people a supportive and safe space to help them cope with difficult challenges, band together to solve problems, and celebrate life’s lighter moments.”

Akoma is working to create a 98-bed-long-term care seniors home facility for the community and more affordable housing. Jones said.

“Just west of the property, we are building eight affordable homes for African Nova Scotians and we are hoping that those doors will be open in early March. That is extremely exciting to be able to offer them right here in Preston township.”

Akoma received some land to build more affordable housing and a new child care facility.

“We are hoping down the road to be able to have our own cemetery where we can bury our own people and we have vast plans for this land. There is a lot happening right now, it’s a busy place to be.”

Akoma is located in Westphal on approximately 320 acres of land in the Preston Township section of the community. The land was originally purchased by the provincial government in 1917 for the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children, with the land given to the African United Baptist Association (AUBA).

The AUBA would later transfer the land to the charitable organization, Akoma Holdings Inc.

Kinney Place is the first development project completed at Akoma. Earlier in 2022, a hydroponic farm was purchased, and African Nova Scotian youth have been trained to manage its operations, Jones said.

Partnerships are at the core of the work we do at the Black Business Initiative. In this issue of B2B, we are delighted to highlight a long standing partner of ours, located in communities throughout Atlantic Canada. CBDC’s assist in the creation of small businesses and in the expansion and modernization of existing businesses by providing financial and technical services to entrepreneurs.

CBDC is a not-for-profit community-based organization run by volunteers from the local business community who firmly believe in improving the economic viability of their communities. The CBDC has a board of passionate individuals who are sensitive to the needs of its community. The directors are volunteers from the business sector dedicated to helping make their community a better place in which to live and work. The strength of the CBDCs is in its volunteer boards. They have an intimate knowledge of the local markets, the business environment and the people in their communities.

The CBDC has many programs which focus on tourism, retiree employment, business consulting, youth and funding programs to name a few. CBDC and BBI have partnered on many initiatives in the past and last summer the BBI had the opportunity to be a platinum sponsor of the Jollof rice cookoff located in North Preston. Financial assistance is available in the form of loans, loan guarantees and equity financing to existing and aspiring entrepreneurs. Business counselling, help & advice is available to small businesses. They help businesses to succeed and therefore they give high priority to the advisory role of our mandate.

Typically CBDC services are targeted to entrepreneurs who require customized financing not typically available from traditional sources.

The BBI values this partnership and look forward to the impact our organizations will make together moving forward.

Les partenariats sont au cœur du travail que nous faisons à la Black Business Initiative. Dans ce numéro de B2B, nous sommes ravis de mettre en lumière l’un de nos partenaires de longue date, situé dans les collectivités du Canada atlantique.

Les CBDC aident à la création de petites entreprises ainsi qu’à l’expansion et à la modernisation d’entreprises existantes en fournissant des services financiers et techniques aux entrepreneurs.

La CBDC est un organisme communautaire sans but lucratif dirigé par des bénévoles du milieu des affaires local qui croient fermement à l’amélioration de la viabilité économique de leurs collectivités. La CBDC a un conseil d’administration composé de personnes passionnées et sensibles aux besoins de sa communauté. Les administrateurs sont des bénévoles du secteur des affaires qui se consacrent à faire de leur communauté un meilleur endroit où vivre et travailler. La force des CBDC réside dans ses conseils d’administration bénévoles. Ils ont une connaissance intime des marchés locaux, de l’environnement des affaires et des gens de leurs communautés.

La CBDC a de nombreux programmes axés sur le tourisme, l’emploi des retraités, les conseils aux entreprises, les jeunes et les programmes de financement, pour n’en nommer que quelques-uns. CBDC et BBI se sont associés à de nombreuses initiatives dans le passé et l’été dernier, BBI a eu l’occasion d’être un commanditaire platine de la cuisson du riz Jollof située à North Preston.

L’aide financière est disponible sous forme de prêts, de garanties de prêt et de financement par actions aux entrepreneurs existants et potentiels. Des conseils, une aide et des conseils aux entreprises sont disponibles pour les petites entreprises. Ils aident les entreprises à réussir et accordent donc une grande priorité au rôle de conseil de notre mandat.

En règle générale, les services des CBDC sont destinés aux entrepreneurs qui ont besoin d’un financement personnalisé qui n’est généralement pas disponible auprès de sources traditionnelles.

Le BBI apprécie ce partenariat et attend avec impatience l’impact que nos organisations auront ensemble à l’avenir.

OLAITAN OYEBOUOUHA 7TH LAUREL IMMIGRATION CONSULTING

She’s Not Resting on her Laurels

Olaitan Oyebououha, of 7th Laurel Immigration Consulting in Saint John, knows the value of solid research before starting any kind of business endeavour.

Prior to emigrating to Canada in 2014, she spent two years studying Masters of Business Administration degrees in the United States, Great Britain, and Canada. Academics were only part of the equation, finding a new home where her children could thrive and grow in a safe environment was also a major consideration.

“Canada ticked all the boxes,” she says. “The University of New Brunswick in Saint John gave me what I needed – they had the MBA in the subjects I needed, tuition was affordable, and it is a good city for raising children.”

She likes the fact that there is a small-town atmosphere in the Port City. The local bus driver has become a friend, asking about her three boys if they’re not with her. She likes the fact people look out for one another.

While she was studying at night at UNBSJ and raising the boys on her own, an idea started percolating. She knew firsthand the maze newcomers must go through, in order to emigrate to Canada under the various categories for students, entrepreneurs, family members and the other categories the government has created. She also heard stories of questionable practices which led to financial loss and other hardships and was determined to use her strong sense of personal ethics not to fall down that rabbit hole.

Step one was to obtain the professional credentials to become a regulated Canadian immigration consultant, once again studying into the night, when the boys were asleep.

“Last April, I registered myself as a professional,” she said. “I worked out a price strategy (which is available on her website) and launched my business. I want to make sure my clients pay for the services they specifically need, not extras. The Black Business Initiative assisted me in the beginning.”

Originally her focus was Africa, but chance encounters (also known as serendipity) linked her up with colleagues in India. When B2B called her for an interview, she was working with developers in India on an app – demonstrating how the world has shrunk for entrepreneurs.

One of her maxims is to not promise what she can’t achieve. She is looking at expanding her business holistically, not only assisting newcomers to navigate the Canadian immigration process but to provide other supports once they arrive. Her vision includes assisting people in learning about ‘the Canadian way of life’, how to connect with other members of the community (whether it is fellow ex-pats, business networks, and the community to overcome the loneliness associated with being a stranger in a strange land.

It may be something as simple as finding someone in the local community who speaks the same language and eats the same food – small things which go a long way to help with adjusting to a new country and assisting with improving the newcomer’s mental health. But she sees it as an opportunity for newcomers to share their stories, their culture, their food, and their language with Canadians to enhance the multicultural fabric of a nation that now is made up of 25 per cent immigrants.

By Carol Dobson Photography contributed

Certified Immigration Consultant

7th Laurel Immigration Consulting Saint John, NB

phone: (705) 715-3285

email: ask@7thlaurelimmigration.com

website: 7thlaurelimmigration.com

Olaitan Oyebououha, MBA. RCIC. IMCD. BSc. Mktg Dip.

By Amber Fryday Photography contributed

TIA UPSHAW BLK WOMEN IN EXCELLENCE Taking Halifax by Storm

Tia Upshaw is taking Halifax by storm. The serial entrepreneur has been building businesses left, right and center and in addition, she is teaching other women to do the same.

Upshaw is the founder and CEO of Blk Women in Excellence (BWIE), a not-for-profit specifically designed to help Black women start their own business.

But to fully understand her tenacity and spirit, you have to understand her story.

“I had to start my own business because I have a criminal record. I’ve been incarcerated with 32 convictions under my name, so I couldn’t get a traditional job that would pay well because I can’t get what people thought I would deserve as a criminal,” she says.

Fast forward to present day and the mother of three owns multiple companies and rental properties, and was a nominee for Business of the Year in 2022 and 2023 for Halifax Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. She was also a nominee for RBC Women of Influence in 2021 and 2022.

Upshaw says she never imagined she would be where she is today. The first business she started, a cleaning business, and currently employs 13 full-time employees, many who have similar pasts as Upshaw.

“A lot of my employees have criminal records. Of course, my premiums for my liability insurance are high. And I’m okay with that because they’re given the opportunity to make $22.50 an hour to feel their confidence rise.”

“They have children. At what point do we stop holding your criminal record against you? We have to stop this cycle.”

In addition to her solo success she also works her not-for-profit business, Blk Women In Excellence tirelessly.

The 16-week program helps women create a solid business plan while understanding their market niche. The ninth cohort of the program has recently graduated.

“I have worked with 73 Black women. They are Indigenous Nova Scotian women, Black women, and immigrant Black women. There are a large percentage from Nova Scotia. But I know we’ve had women in Vancouver, B.C., Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa and all over Canada now.”

Tia Upshaw, CEO and Founder

BLK Women in Excellence Canada

Halifax, NS

phone: (902) 402-9158

email: blkwomeninexcellence@gmail.com

website: bwiecanada.com

Between speaking engagements, being an activist and community-oriented person, Upshaw volunteers whenever she can, leaving you to wonder where she gets her energy.

“I’m inspired every day by seeing other Black women who are here winning. Every time one registers her business name, or that she’s doing a pop-up or that she’s won an award. That’s what keeps me inspired.”

SEVEN O NINE SUPPLY COMPANY

Comfortable, Casual, and Chic Clothing from The Rock

What happens when an economist decides to abandon formulae and numbers to design urban clothing in the farthest eastern city in Canada?

That’s the story of Sylvester Edmund. The native of Nairobi, Kenya, came to Newfoundland and Labrador 12 years ago to study economics at Memorial University.

“I had gone to New York for high school and returned to Kenya,” he says. “My folks wanted me to go somewhere to university where there was a family member. My brother was living in Newfoundland, so I came here.”

In retrospect, it was a good idea because his brother had eight years of experience living in the province so had laid the groundwork and created the support system his brother could take advantage of when he arrived.

“I always enjoyed fashion and playing with different styles,” Edmund said. “Even when I was going to school, I was interested in business – my dad is a businessman, so the apple hasn’t fallen far. I noticed there wasn’t anything here that stood out, in terms of fashion, so that’s why I started the brand.”

He wanted the name to be an instant connection to his adopted home so came up with Seven O Nine Supply Company, using the provincial area code to represent his brand.

His products are geared primarily to a younger audience, but the brand transcends anyone who wants to be comfortable in a sweatshirt, t-shirt, hoodie, flannel shirt or sweatpants – all with the unique Seven O Nine branding and a Newfoundland flag sewn into a seam for an added touch. The business officially opened in 2015, survived the pandemic, and he, and his creative team, are looking positively towards the next collection due in the fall of 2024. He’s already plotting the marketing campaign, hopefully using one of the most beautiful parts of Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park, as the background to showcase his creations. He says he falls more in love with it’s amazing beauty every time he goes there.

“Covid is definitely simmering down, it’s still there but we’ve been able to put things back together and stay on track.”

Also, the plans include bringing the manufacturing in house to create a completely ‘Made in Canada’ brand. Currently the garments are manufactured primarily in Canada with a small component sourced internationally.

He wants to expand the brand across the Maritimes, if not across the whole country. One part of the strategy is making items that appeal to the thousands of tourists who come to St. John’s in the summer months. It’s a strong strategy to spread his unique products far afield using the power of personal recommendations.

“There’s a lot that needs to go into producing and marketing the garments but I’m really excited. I love working on something that’s fun. I love working with my team because we have a mutual understanding of our goals and we share the same vision. It makes it easier to go to work each day.”

By Carol Dobson Photography contributed

Sylvester Edmund (top right)

By Ulinwa Vivian Onyinye

TAYA SKEETE TAYA TIES Halifax Youth Turns Hobby into Business

Taya Skeete started her tie-dye business when she was just 11-years old as an after-school activity when boredom intervened in 2020. During the pandemic, when everyone was stuck at home, Skeete started to make tie-dye outfits to keep herself busy.

“My after-school program gave us tie-dye kits. We had to do the tie dying with natural ingredients like turmeric, beets, and flowers,” she said.

She made various designs for her personal use. Her mom took photos and posted them online.

“People really liked them. They thought I got it from a store, but I made them.”

She started getting more compliments when she wore her clothing.

“They were like, ‘you should make me some tie-dye.’ It made me feel great.”

As the compliments grew, she knew she had to make it a business.

“I always wanted to have a business. I was going to start a tea business at first, but ever since people started asking me for tie-dye. I said tie-dye is going to be the business.”

Her first bulk order was for 20 T-shirts.

“I thought that was crazy. I was shocked when I got that order.”

She officially launched her business, Taya Ties, in September 2020 with good sales.

“I made over $1000 and I sold over 75 items. There was this long line. I never expected a line. It was crazy.”

The number of orders began to increase, and she was making more than 100 items per week with help from her mom.

Skeete has a website for her business where she sells her clothing, ranging from bags, shirts, caps, and lots more.

Now, proceeds from her business go into fighting food insecurity through her local food bank. She has always been passionate about giving back to her community.

“When I was younger, I would go around downtown giving people granola bars and water. When I started my business, I wanted to continue doing it. I like to help my community and it just makes me feel good to be able to help. People were surprised by my age and that I wanted to help out.”

Taya Skeete, business owner

Taya Ties

Halifax, NS

Shop: taya-ties.myshopify.com

Facebook: facebook.com/taya.ties

Instagram: instagram.com/taya.ties

She was recently nominated for Small Business of the Year in this year’s Halifax Business Awards. She successfully made it to the finals and is optimistic about winning.

Skeete says she loves what she does and doesn’t plan to stop.

“I have lots of fun with tie-dye and people always send me nice messages.”

She plans to expand her business to include more clothing items like jogging pants, dress shirts, and other items.

Photography contributed

SBCCI Report EEM Report

By Rodger Smith

In 2022, the Black Business Initiative added two new Entrepreneur Engagement Managers (EEM) to its staff, but not in Nova Scotia, through the Black Entrepreneur Program and as part of the BBIs strategic plan to expand its reach. The BBI is now operating in all four Atlantic Provinces. The EEMs welcomes Jocelyn Stevens, our New Brunswick EEM and Precious Familusi, who covers Newfoundland & PEI. These additional provinces offer all services offered by the BBI, except lending. There were kick-off events in each of those provinces in December and November 2022 respectively.

This past summer BBI was asked to provide vendors for the Canoe22 world championship canoe races at Lake Banook in Dartmouth. The BBI was able to provide six vendors, two of which were food truck vendors.

Congratulations to Tiffani Young, of Natural Butter Bar, who was the recipient of the BBI 2022 Entrepreneur of The Year Award at our Holiday Social held in late November.

In fall 2022, we implemented a new Intake process for those seeking financing or our grant programs (as mentioned in the fall issue of B2B). Under the current grant program (which is now closed), we received approximately 85 applications and, to date, have approved 44 of them for roughly $179,000 in grant funding.

Stay tuned in the spring as we might be offering again our Business Consulting Grant & Business Service Support Program where business owners can apply to have the services of an accountant or bookkeeper covered for up to six months. If interested, please reach out to one of our EEMs.

In conjunction with DevelopNS, the BBI was able to participate, for a second year, in the Evergreen Market held on the Halifax Waterfront between Nov 25th -Dec 18th. Scotia Kelp owner Darron Hill was able to participate for an eight-day period.

Our fall training sessions recently ended with 24 participants with appropriately eight persons per program. Our winter session started January 10, 2023, under the direction of Amber Grosse and Mamadou Wade.

Thanks to the Halifax Regional Municipality for its generosity in providing six window display units attached to the Metro Park on Granville St. The BBI is using three for displays and we reach out to vendors for them to display their products for a four-month period and we will be changing vendors throughout the year.

By Hawa Seck

The Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) held its first conference for SBCCI-targeted beneficiaries called Race•ing to Community Excellence Conference. The conference took place at the Halifax Convention Centre from March 15-17, 2023.

SBCCI beneficiaries from all across Canada gathered to engage in discussion and learn from each other’s experiences. BBI clients – including Natural Butter Bar, Scotia Kelp and DB Pearlz Design – took part in a very successful vendor market during the three-day conference.

The conference keynote speaker was author and motivational speaker Dr. Dennis Kimbro. During the conference, a special announcement was made. It was announced that additional investment from the federal government had been confirmed. BBI through SBCCI is working to reach and fund more than 100 more Black-led, Black not-for-profit organizations and support over 250 projects before March 31, 2023. The Black Business Initiative (BBI) is one of four intermediary organisations mandated to deliver the program. SBCCI applies the intermediary model to ensure that the funding is made available to targeted Black communities in a fair and transparent process. To date, BBI has awarded 261 Black-led organisations across Canada. In addition, BBI has provided Wrap Around Service Grants to 67 SBCCI organisations.

About SBCCI

The Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) is one of the interventions supported by the federal government in recognition of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent. This four-year, federally funded program was created through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) with a mandate to increase capacity and ensure sustainability of Black-led communities and their non-profit organizations that are dedicated to Black Canadian communities.

Mapfumo Chidzonga

By Carol Dobson

Mapfumo (Maps) Chidzonga decided to join the board of the Black Business Initiative’s Business is Jammin’ as a way to stretch himself both personally and professionally. By day, he works as a senior engagement strategist in the Office of Equity and Antiracisim Initiative for the Government of Nova Scotia and is a part time staff member at Dalhousie University.

“It was a way to do more for my community, working as a volunteer, in an environment that was different from my every day activities,” he said.

Part of his rationale for participating on this board is to encourage the participants to look at participating in the community as a way not only to build their entrepreneurial skills but also to develop networks, which can prove valuable as they progress down their future career paths.

“I firmly believe you can help yourself rise by helping others,” he says.

He’s been a member of the BIJ board for almost two years, joining it in June 2021, and feels strongly about the work BIJ is doing to introduce young Nova Scotians to the possibilities that exist in business, while also encouraging a sense of belonging to the business community and the community as a whole.

He says his day-to-day work includes searching for pathways and opportunities for members of minority communities to work towards creating a society that better serves members of the province’s population that have been underserved and under-represented in the past.

With the face of the province rapidly changing, he’s confident there are positive days ahead and, if he can instill this in the youth, through BIJ, there are opportunities being created to ensure more of the youth of the community can succeed in business (and in life) here in Nova Scotia.

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the Staff

When potential clients come in contact with Jocelyn Stevens, the Assistant to the Director of the Black Entrepreneurship Program in New Brunswick, her first question is ‘How can we help you’?

This is a conscious response to the ‘What do you want?’ question Stevens often encountered when she was running her own business. She often felt she wasn’t being taken seriously and discriminated against because of her skin colour. She certainly had the street cred as someone working in a not for profit where she assisted clients in grant writing, budgeting, policy and program development, and networking. When she found herself growing stale, she moved into entrepreneurship. Then, the next step in the journey was to the BBI.

“This is my opportunity,” she says. “I’ve experienced the entrepreneurial journey and wished there was support like the BBI for me. I understand the challenges of walking into

a place to ask for help, so I have turned this around. It’s not easy for clients to have the confidence to knock on a door and knowing what questions they have to ask.”

The need for having someone to do precisely this was underscored with the number of people who reached out to the BBI when it first opened in New Brunswick. In May, the Moncton office expanded with the hiring of Mouhamadou Samb. Stevens is based out of Saint John and serves clients throughout the province.

One thing she is finding is that many clients are newcomers to Canada. That means knowing the things they are faced with when they are coming to a new land and culture and trying to figure out the intricacies of opening a business in Canada and helping them over the hurdles.

“I call that just another tool in our toolbox,” she says.

The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy. We welcome applications from Aboriginal people, African Nova Scotians, other racially visible people, persons with disabilities, women, and other employment equity groups. Applicants are encouraged to self-identify.

Meet

Jocelyn Stevens, Assistant

Training Report

By Mamadou Wade

As the pandemic ends and a return to some kind of normalcy begins, it’s time to re-establish the training that has always been a crucial component of BBI. This includes establishing initiatives and webinars to provide Black and racially marginalized business owners and staff in our area with professional development opportunities. The fall 2022 Business Training Series had a duration of a 10-weeks long curriculum (40 hours of instructions). We wanted to present a variety of engaging topics for learning opportunities.

These sessions were smaller in size, as was the initial intention. We were able to provide training for 24 participants, with approximately eight per program.

To be eligible for this round of training, participants must be a Black business owner based in Nova Scotia or a Black employee currently working in Nova Scotia. We were able to conduct these courses in cooperation with the Workplace Education Initiative of the Province of Nova Scotia (WEI).

In the end, we decided to hold three different training sessions with varied objectives. The three courses we chose were: Business Development Skills, Marketing in the New Digital Era, and Financial Fundamentals. We had pleasure of collaborating with Stephanie Folahan, Georges Hanna, and Marc Zirka, our respective certified instructors. The goal of these sessions was

to establish small, close-knit groups that would foster engagement. In the Financial Fundamentals program, participants were able to get a fundamental understanding of important accounting terms and bookkeeping fundamentals. Participants learned how to use financial tools, evaluate the pros and cons of different accounting software, comprehend budgets and cash flow estimates, understand the rules for government reporting, and comprehending tax compliance. Participants were equipped with a better understanding of their options when making financial decisions in the future.

The Business Skills Development course took a deep dive into various topics such as exploring the value of creating a safety culture at your workplace, SWOT and PEST analysis, industry competitive analysis, strategic positioning, market research, and market analysis, defining your products and services; finding the best pricing and marketing strategies, coming up with a two-year action plan, and using many other skills that are all essential to creating a distinctive company that can succeed in any market.

Last but not least, Marketing in the New Digital Era offered an overview of

marketing and leveraging one’s business online. The participants were able to develop strategies to close an online sale using cross-selling and up-selling techniques, identify their unique selling proposition, conduct market research (objectives and types of research), identify the components of a digital promotional campaign, determine a marketing budget and media plan, and examine various social media platforms, social media ad demonstrations, SEO and SEM, value propositions, customer relationship management, and more. Participants were left with a good number of educational exercises that will allow them to better practice digital marketing.

This course covered more than just internet advertising. It went into detail about creating successful campaigns using the marketing principles that were learned. Participants took part in a variety of learning activities that gave them practical knowledge of online marketing. Being able to conduct the training sessions entirely remotely offered flexibility as many participants tried to balance their daily obligations with their entrepreneurial endeavors. We were delighted the vast majority of participants were talented and received certificates for their dedication and time.

Currently we are preparing facilitation for another semester of training in the fall and winter of 2023-24.

THE 12TH ANNUAL BUSINESS IS JAMMIN’ (BIJ)

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT RETURNS IN A BIG WAY!

By Marine Gemeda

The 12th Annual Business is Jammin’ Charity Golf Tournament was held on October 7, 2022, after a hiatus since 2019. The event was a tremendous success, with a great turnout of golfers who enjoyed a day of golf and fun in favorable weather conditions on a beautifully maintained golf course. Despite the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, the tournament raised more than $10,000 for BIJ youth, which supports the Black Business Initiative’s charitable youth initiative across the Atlantic Provinces. The funds will help nurture the next generation of leaders by exposing young individuals, aged 8-30, to entrepreneurship, social enterprise, education, and personal development through experiential learning.

Special thanks go to the sponsors, Emera and Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA), whose support made the tournament possible. Additionally, the event was made successful by the organizations and individuals who sponsored holes including BMO Private Wealth, Labatt, Covers, and Stewart McKelvey. The generous contributions from in-kind donors such as Art Pays Me, Benjamin Bridge, DBDLI, HFX Wanderers, Holiday In Express & Suites, Garrison Brewery, Hope Blooms, McDonald, Mxse, Natural Butter Bar, NSCC, the Public Service Alliance of Canada, Scotiabank Centre, TruLOCAL, Volta, and White Point.

Congratulations to Team Labatt, which emerged as the winner of the 2022 Charity Golf Tournament!

The organizers extend their gratitude to all the golfers, sponsors, staff, and volunteers for their invaluable contributions to the tournament’s success. They eagerly anticipate seeing everyone at the 2023 BIJ Golf Tournament.

Far left: BBI staff at the registration and silent auction tables.

Left: There were prizes aplenty.

Below left: Tournament winners Team Labbatt pose with the trophy.

Below: Golfer Keisha Turner (left) poses with tournament vendor Tiffani Young-Itiveh, owner of Natural Butter Bar.

Halifax Regional Councillors

DEN Report

Diversity Employment Network Update

By Matthew Martel

The Black Business Initiative & Halifax's BlackOwned Business

The Diversity Employment Network (DEN) has had a productive year promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The organization has formed new partnerships with companies that share its values and collaborating with them to advance its mission.

A feasibility study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of strategies to increase diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. The study has provided valuable insights that are being used to design new programs and initiatives.

DEN organized a successful job fair, which provided opportunities for job seekers from diverse backgrounds to connect with companies that actively seek to hire diverse candidates.

DEN has plans to develop new programs to connect organizations with experienced professionals from underrepresented communities. The organization is also exploring new avenues to promote diversity, such as expanding its focus to include additional underrepresented groups.

Over all, DEN’s dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace is commendable. The new partnerships, feasibility study, job fair, and future plans demonstrate the organization’s commitment to its mission and highlight its importance in advocating for equity and inclusion in the workplace.

Councillor Waye Mason District 7

Councillor Patty Cuttel District 11

Councillor Tim Outhit District 16

Dalhousie University announces Rustum Southwell as Chancellor

POSTED BY COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING ON JUNE 28, 2023 IN NEWS

June 28, 2023 (HALIFAX, N.S.) – Dalhousie University is pleased to announce that Rustum Southwell will become the university’s ninth Chancellor.

One of Nova Scotia’s most prominent community and business leaders, Dr. Southwell is best known as the founding CEO of the Black Business Initiative (BBI). His work to shepherd the creation and expansion of hundreds of Black-owned businesses and to champion Black participation in economic development strategies has helped build a stronger, more diverse province and business community.

“Rustum has been a long-time advocate for the transformative power of education and a great friend and supporter of Dalhousie,” says acting President and Vice-Chancellor Frank Harvey. “He knows what it means to help build a supportive community that empowers possibility, and that allows everyone the opportunity to participate to their full potential. Dalhousie is honoured to have him as our next Chancellor.”

Originally from the Caribbean island of Saint Kitts, Dr. Southwell has long been involved with the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia and is past chair of the province’s African Heritage Month committee. He has served on the boards of several prominent community organizations including the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, United Way Halifax, Nova Scotia Community College and as the first chair of Hope Blooms Youth Ventures. Dalhousie was proud to recognize his achievements with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 2018.

“I am very honoured,” says Dr. Southwell of his appointment. “It is a chance for me to share some of my own wisdom, if you want to call it that, reflecting on community and speaking to the youth who are coming up, the next generation we’re mentoring. Dalhousie has an important mandate in education and community, and I am eager to play a part in moving that work forward.”

The Chancellor plays an important ceremonial and ambassadorial role in the life of the university. They oversee spring and fall convocation ceremonies, serve as a member of the Board of Governors, and advocate for the university across the province, region and country.

“Serving as Chancellor is an ideal appointment for someone of Dr. Southwell’s impressive character, someone who has spent their life and career helping lift people up so they can grow, thrive and succeed,” says Cheryl Fraser, chair, Dalhousie Board of Governors. “We are proud to welcome his generous spirit and inspiring leadership to the Chancellor’s role.”

The university also thanks the Honourable Scott Brison for his devoted service to Dalhousie as its eighth Chancellor, especially through a period of pandemic uncertainty. Earlier this year, Brison informed the university of his plans to conclude his term as Chancellor, as scheduled, and not seek an extension due to work and board commitments. His tenure showcased his willingness to make time for students and share his experiences, and the university looks forward to his continued friendship to the region, Dalhousie, and our future leaders.

Dr. Southwell’s appointment was approved by the Dalhousie Board of Governors at its June 27th meeting. His installation as Chancellor is expected to take place as part of Fall Convocation ceremonies this November and his term will be for three years. More details can be found in Dal News.

THE RESULTS ARE IN! Discover the Winners of the Diversity Atlantic Awards

Stay tuned for inspirational stories

In the upcoming February/March issue of Saltscapes, dive into articles featuring each winner. Learn about their journeys, achievements, and the positive impact they’re making in our community. Join us in celebrating the trailblazers who are shaping a more inclusive world.

Meet the TD Diversity Champions:

Our Atlantic Canadian awards program, DIVERSITY ATLANTIC AWARDS PRESENTED BY TD AND ADVOCATE , centres around mentorship, so your business can be a part of building diversity and inclusion with partners across Atlantic Canada. For more information on how to apply for the 2024 awards and prizes, visit diversityatlanticawards.ca