Amal Abshir, Director Videography and Creative

For me, Black History Month is a celebratory time where we remember the achievements of those before us; their trials and tribulations while striving for change and equality in the world. It is a time where we embrace our ancestors who fought for us to have a voice; to be heard. A time to celebrate the highlights and endless achievements of Black leaders and professionals. Not only is Black History Month a reflection of the past but is an opportunity to shed optimism and hope for future Black generations in making an impactful history of their own. Let us all work together as a community and demonstrate that the hard work achieved in the past was not for nothing and that change will happen if we continue to strive for it.

Charmaine Bryan, Director Social Media 

My wish this Black History Month is to see more Black businesses and organizations thrive! When I started my consulting business, I quickly learned how much support is needed to grow a small business. My goal is to connect my personal purchasing choices and choose to support more Black-owned businesses for my products and services. There are several practical ways for you to offer your support.

Support local Black businesses

• Evaluate your spending and purchase their products or services. Whether it’s a local take out place, accountant, dentist, veterinarian, or grocery delivery service, consider the impact supporting Black-owned businesses can have.
• Share your views about any Black businesses you support. Word of mouth reviews or shared interests just offers further reach in supporting these businesses while strengthening the community.
• Amplify messaging on social media channels- most businesses have an online presence. Follow their social pages, like, share and comment on their posts. All small, yet impactful this engagement can have in building visibility and growing their audience.

For not-for-profit organizations

• Make a donation. No matter how big or small, every donation adds up and helps business owners deliver their mission
• Become a partner or sponsor. Choosing a not-for-profit that aligns with your company makes corporate sponsorship a win-win for both parties
• Volunteer for a not-for-profit. If you are passionate about an organization and you could share your expertise, that can go a long way, especially if they are a volunteer run like CAUFP.

I challenge you, to grow your support of Black businesses and/ or not-for-profits during Black History Month, and beyond.

Nadège Koskamp, Director Financial Literacy

Organizations and individuals can celebrate Black History Month by showcasing the Black history in which they already know, as well as learning more about the rich history of early Black Canadians. Well past the Underground Railroad there lacks a tremendous amount of information about the experiences of Black people. There was a point in history where Black Canadians did not even own the deeds to their homes. One of the early cornerstones in creating intergenerational wealth was the succession planning of property. It’s from history we can learn. Take time to improve your financial literacy. Manage your money intentionally, work at increasing your income and teach your children your wisdom. Wealth equals freedom.