BBPA convention a resounding success

17 December 2010 No Comments

By Adrianna Lewis

The Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA) is paving the way for a new and vibrant breed of young entrepreneurs. In November, the BBPA held its first National Black Business and Professional Convention (NBBPC) at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre to promote youth entrepreneurship, diversity, economic empowerment, and to provide networking opportunities.

Sponsored in part by Sterling Dentistry and Canada’s five biggest banks, the historical event brought together some of the country’s finest leaders in a community-focused affair that encouraged business and economic excellence for Black students, business owners and professionals. Distinguished speakers included Peter Kent, Jack Layton, Margarett Best, Andrea Horwath, Jean Augustine and John Tory.

The event’s keynote address came from author, entrepreneur and motivational speaker Bruce George, who travelled all the way from New York City. About 300 people from Toronto, Montreal and surrounding areas, including parts of the US, attended the inaugural ribbon-cutting ceremony, with many returning the following day to attend workshops, exhibits and round-table discussions.

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BBPA president, Pauline Christian, was not only thrilled with the response, she was equally inspired by the convergence of Canada’s best in class, which she says is indicative of the rich wealth of resources and capacity for growth that exist within the Canadian mosaic.

“The goal of this convention was to stretch the organization’s mental and strategic capacity to become the birthplace of fresh ideas so we can meet the mandate set by our great pioneers and founders,” she says. “The support was absolutely incredible. And, from constructive evaluations, we are encouraged that we are meeting a specific need as it relates to shrinking the socioeconomic divide and poising our people for economic advancement.”

The BBPA continues to lead the pack with various initiatives and programs, including the BBPA National Scholarship Fund, next year’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Jan. 15 and the 29th annual Harry Jerome Awards on April 30.

To nominate someone for a HJ Award, call 416-504-4097 or e-mail [email protected].

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