issue
55
Fall 2012
2012 SUMMIT AWARDS Also in this Issue: BBI Summit Recap Trailblazers:
Black Loyalist Heritage Society
“A dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia Business Community.”
Black 2 Business is the official periodical of The Black Business Initiative and is published quarterly - spring, summer, fall, and winter.
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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: 902-426-2224
2012 SUMMIT AWARDS
The Winners and the Nominees
Published by: The Black Business Initiative
1 Messages
Editor in Chief: Michael Wyse Design & Layout: Design North Production by: Mirabliss Media Productions
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7 YOUTH ON
THE MOVE J-Bru
Cover Photograph: Russell Wyse
9 TRAILBLAZERS
Elizabeth Cromwell & Beverly Cox
The Black Business Initiative Centennial Building Suite 1201,1660 Hollis Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 1V7 Phone: 902-426-2224 Fax: 902-426-8699 Toll Free: 1-888-664-9333 E-Mail: bbi@bbi.ns.ca Web Site: www.bbi.ca
from the Board & the CEO
11 Black Loyalist
Heritage Society
13 Tummy to Mummy
Maternity & Baby Shop
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15 People & Business on the Move
17 BBI 2012 Summit Summary
Mailed under Canada Post Publications Mail Sales Agreement no. 0040026687
C O NTENTS 12 Central/Metro Report Kerry C. Johnston
16 New BBI Staff
Kerry C. Johnston
24 Northern Report 1 Emma Otuki
30 New BBI Staff
Ed Matwawana
30 New BBI Staff Tulsa Beazer
30 Southern Report Greg Nazaire
34 Northern Report 2 Njabulo Nkala
23 BBI PARTNERSHIP
Global TV Maritimes
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25 Out & About with the BBI
26 MOU signing
- CAMSC / BBI
27 Ask the BBI
Entrepreneur’s Tool Kit
28 Business Is Jammin'
Summer Program 2012
29 The Law &
Your Business
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31 EL Jones, Summit Poet 33 Geek Speak 35 Community &
Business Events
The Black Business Initiative (BBI) is a province-wide business development initiative committed to fostering the growth of businesses owned by members of the Nova Scotia Black Community. The BBI places priority on educating Black business owners in the operation of their business - from marketing to budgeting to securing funding. The BBI is committed to growing the Black presence in a diverse range of business sectors including high-tech, manufacturing, tourism, and the cultural sector. In 1996, the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia set up the BBI to address the unique needs confronting the Black business community in Nova Scotia. For the first five years of its existence, BBI was funded under the COOPERATION Agreement for Economic Diversification, a joint agreement between the Federal and Provincial Governments. The BBI is currently funded by the federally administered Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Provincial Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism. BBI Vision A dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia business community. BBI Mission To positively influence the Nova Scotia business culture by promoting and assisting in the development of Nova Scotia 2 Black-owned businesses....
Board of Directors
Messages
Greg Browning, Chair
The Black Business Initiative capped off its sixteenth year with another terrific Summit. This inspiring event could not have happened without the teamwork and cooperation of a group of people including BBI staff, board members, volunteers and partners. The Summit featured internationally renowned speakers such as journalist Roland Martin, music promoter Farley Flex, and John Grant Jr., CEO of 100 Black Men of Atlanta Inc. The theme for this year’s Summit was The Race to Business Success - Climbing to New Heights and our central image was the ladder. I can’t think of a more fitting metaphor to describe the entrepreneurial journey. Many of our speakers shared how they have pushed themselves to new heights. Some, like Entrepreneur of the Year winner Paul Adams, found his path in photography. Others, like the Hector Jacques Award for Business Excellence Award winner Darla Johnston, found her path in laser hair removal. Darla, Paul and the other talented business owners featured at the summit rose to the top of their game by keeping their eyes on the prize, consistently moving upward, and focusing on one rung at a time.
Chief Executive Officer Mike Wyse, CEO
I am five months into the role and I am enjoying it immensely. I greatly appreciate all of the support, suggestions and advice that so many people have graciously offered. Collaboratively, we are much stronger. At this time, I am still focused on enhancing my understanding of how the Black Business Initiative can best support more business starts, business growth and business attraction. To this end, I am thrilled with the proactive discussions we are having with like-minded stakeholders. I believe we will see positive outputs through strategic, win-win partnerships. I am committed to exploring strategies where the BBI can support enhanced productivity, innovation and competitiveness. At this time, I think we can get some wins if we ask every Black-owned company to strive for 10 percent growth per year over the next three years. And to that end, I humbly offer the following ideas/suggestions on how to achieve this growth and what we can do to collectively support each firm to realize this.
At BBI, we aim to foster opportunities to help business owners aim high and develop the capacity to take that next step. Events like our business summits provide us with an opportunity to be inspired, learn, and share ideas. They motivate us to keep looking ahead. Through our programs that target youth and sector development, business skills training, financing, advice and developing markets, the BBI supports Black entrepreneurs to keep reaching for that next rung.
• • • • • • •
Black consumers buy from Black-owned businesses Each firm develop a focused sales and marketing strategy and plan for growth Each firm commit to building internal capacity to advance a growth plan Seek to really understand your customers’ needs, wants and desires Take time to understand where your sector is moving to ensure you remain relevant Strive to do things Better, Faster, Cheaper and to have a more Compelling story than your competition Seek out assistance if you don’t know how to take the next step
If you want to be in business and are currently in business, you need to constantly be reaching for the next rung in your ladder to success. The journey will take vision, commitment and lots of hard work. But know that you will have us, at the BBI, behind you every step of the way.
We don’t have all the answers, but road maps are under construction. I welcome your input because if we do this well, the outputs result in more competitive companies, sustainable jobs, and enhanced economic prosperity for Nova Scotia.
Thank you message from Rustum Southwell Just a final short note of thanks from me to everyone who offered kind words and support over the years. It is not goodbye, as I know our paths will cross again. - S.I. Rustum Southwell 1 ...
Cover Story
During this year’s Black Business Summit – Racing to Business Success, two awards were given out at the annual general meeting gala dinner and dance.
Paul Adams, Owner, Adams Photography Services Inc.
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Darla Johnston , Owner, SLIC Laser Hair Removal Clinic
Russell Wyse
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD The Entrepreneur of the Year Award is given annually by the Board of Directors of the Black Business Initiative to recognize demonstrated strong business acumen of a company or individual within the Nova Scotia Black business community. This award serves to reinforce the vision of the Black Business Initiative – “a dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia Business Community” – by recognizing the successes of entrepreneurs. Anyone can nominate a business or an individual owner based on the nomination criteria, which can be found on the BBI website. The deadline for nominations is usually early spring of each year. The 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year Award was given to
Paul Adams of Adams Photography Services Inc. Paul Adams decided in 1998 to follow his passion for photography by launching Adams Photography Services Inc. He says he strongly believes that photography is not just a record of images at a certain point in time but also an art form, pure and simple; therefore, the possibilities for creativity are endless. That mindset allowed him to go beyond what was expected by his clients and to gain the industry respect he has today. Paul’s business has been featured in this magazine several times and he is also one of its key photographers.
Adams Photography Services Inc.
(902) 478 0558 paul@adamsphotography.ca adamsphotography.ca
AWA R D S
Recognizing Business Excellence The other finalists for the award were:
Evolution Massage Therapy With a “financial boost” from the BBI to get his operation off the ground, Kelly Carrington has been operating his mobile message therapy business for four years. He will come to you to take care of your aches and pains. Beyond passing the one-year mark in business, he cites running a busy client-based operation and being a full-time father as his key accomplishments. Of being nominated for this award Carrington says, “I would like to thank everyone who supports Evolution Massage Therapy. I am a small company, and to get this kind of recognition makes me believe even more that it may not be the size of the company that matters, but how the company is run. Thank you, thank you, thank you.” Evolution Massage Therapy Mr. Kelly Carrington, Owner/Operator 902-449-5622 evolutionmassagetherapy@gmail.com evolutionmassage.ca
continued on page 5
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Paula’s Place Tailor Shop Paula’s Place Tailor Shop Ltd. is a one stop shop for customers offering full service dry cleaning, alternations, shoe repair, locksmith and clothing store. Located in Clayton Park, Paula and her husband Dennis Brown have been operating their shop for 26 years. Paula says their future goals are to open their own dry cleaning business instead of using another supplier. They are also looking at designing and making clothes for people as an addition to the business. Their management plan is that they treat people like family. “If I don’t like it, they won’t like it.” Paula indicated that she provides a service that she’d be happy with if she was on the other side. Paula’s Place Tailor Shop Ltd. Paula and Dennis Brown 902-443-5333 30 Farnham Gate Rd, Halifax
HECTOR JACQUES AWARD OF BUSINESS EXCELLENCE During a summit year, the BBI also presents the Hector Jacques Award of Business Excellence to recognize demonstrated excellence of a company or individual within the Nova Scotia Black business community. The award is named after the geotechnical engineer, entrepreneur and co-founder of Jacques Whitford, which is one of North America’s largest firms of environmental engineers, scientists and consultants, focused on solving environmental issues. Hector Jacques served as President and Chief Executive Officer from the firm’s inception through more than 30 years of growth until 2003, when he became the Chair of its Board of Directors. (In 2008, Jacques Whitford was sold to Stantec Consulting Ltd.) Along with his various awards and distinctions, Jacques has served on many regional, national and international boards. He was the first chair of the BBI’s board of directors and remains a strong supporter of the organization.
SLICLASER Inc.
Darla Johnston, Owner 3 Pinehill DriveLr. Sackville, NS 902-865-1516 slic@eastlink.ca sliconline.com Facebook: SLIC Laser Hair Removal Clinic 5 ...
This year’s recipient of the Hector Jacques Award of Business Excellence was
Darla Johnston of SLIC Laser Hair Removal Clinic. Darla Johnston and her team of five are celebrating 10 years in operation. In a decade, Johnston has gone from renting to owning commercial property and from providing one service to over a dozen, including: laser hair removal; facial rejuvenation with chemical peels; lactic peels; electrolysis; spa pedicures; laser teeth whitening; infrared sauna therapy; dermal infusion (silk peel); spa/steam shower/aromatherapy; and treatments for leg and facial veins, pigmented lesions, and sun-damaged skin.
Johnston says she is proud to be the first Black Nova Scotian to enter this field and own her business practicing laser hair removal. “I am setting a standard in this industry and holding true to it and, as far as I know, I am still the only Black in Canada (doing this) as well.” She has been recognized for her business acumen and entrepreneurial talents over the years and has listed those accomplishments on her website. Her involvement with the BBI has included being a client since 2000; a presenter and panelist at previous business summits; the subject of two Global/BBI television commercials in 2003 and 2011. She has been featured twice on the cover of this magazine and was the recipient of the BBI’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007. She says she is honoured to have received the Hector Jacques Award and looks forward to the next 10 years in business, possibly opening another location. In the fall, she says she will be adding the following new services: Botox injections for wrinkles of the forehead, glabellar lines, crows feet, bunny lines; Botox injections for excessive sweating of the armpit (Axilla); facial rejuvenation and cheek contouring and augmentation by fillers; lip augmentation, contouring and rejuvenation; and facial rejuvenation by mesotherapy injections. To her clients and supporters she says, “Thank you for watching my business grow and acknowledging and recognizing the success of SLIC LASER’. The other finalists in this category were:
Adams Photography Services Inc - Paul Adams (see story on page 4)
Stone Gallery With a team of eight people, Garnet Wright has been in the custom stone masonry supply, design and Installation business for a little over 10 years. His business continues to grow as it enters its second decade with expansion in red seal and journeyman masons and in developing relationships with new home developers, architects and designers. Wright says his key accomplishments to date are in developing his brand and a reputation for quality craftsmanship and first rate products. He hopes to expand into the home building market. His relationship with the BBI includes past award nominations and being a member of its board as vice-chair and chair. Stone Gallery Garnet Wright, Owner Halifax 902-479-7866 / 902-209-3777 BB garnet@stonegallery.ca stonegallery.ca
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by: Shauntay Grant
Jason Bruce was two years into an English degree at Halifax’s Mount
Saint Vincent University when he made a major career shift.
“I had the opportunity to tour with [Canadian rapper] Classified, going all across Canada,” says the 36-year-old Halifax native. “And that ended up being a 12-year thing.” Twelve years and hundreds of international shows later, the Halifax rapper known as J-Bru is ending what he says grew into a full-time gig with Classified. “We’re still friends,” says J-Bru, “but I don’t tour with him any more – that ended a couple months ago. I’m working on a new album, and he’s really busy, so I had to kind of make a decision – do I want to be a background performer, or solo artist.”
YOUTH ON THE MOVE
J-Bru says being a sideman in Classified’s band has impacted his solo ambitions. “I’ve put out five albums as a solo artist and I find with every one, it kind of took away the shine being his background performer. A lot of people peg us together – when they think of me, they think of him. So moving forward I decided that I want to be a solo artist and take it seriously – we kind of came to that conclusion together. We’ll still be friends, but he’s gonna do his thing and I’m gonna do mine.” Even still, the two artists aren’t completely severing musical ties. As with J-Bru’s 2010 solo album The Jason LP, his forthcoming release Stranger In My Hometown will be distributed by Classified’s Halflife Records label. “The basis of [the album] is that – just traveling with [Classified] so many years and going worldwide and seeing big crowds and stuff – when I go into a crowd as J-Bru, obviously the crowds aren’t as big. So it’s really been a humbling experience,” he said. Being on the road so much, J-Bru says he’s missed out on a lot of things back home. “I missed so many ANSMA [African Nova Scotian Music Association] awards, and the ECMA [East Coast Music Association] awards I missed,” he says. “I find that I’m still technically a stranger here, so to speak – there’s a lot of people who know who I am, but there’s a lot of people that don’t know who I am.” Still J-Bru remains calm and optimistic about the huge job of writing, recording, producing, performing, and promoting his next body of work. continued on page 12
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Andre Livingston Halifax Rainmen Halifax, Nova Scotia www.rainmenbasketball.ca
Jason Vaillancourt and Robert Loppie The Bin Doctor Ltd.
Darla Johnston SLIC LASER Inc. Sackville, Nova Scotia www.sliconline.com
(Consumer Recycling Products) Dartmouth, Nova Scotia www.bindoctor.com
Garnet Wright Stone Gallery Halifax, Nova Scotia www.stonegallery.ca
Putting a Name to the Faces of Business Success Barbara Miller Manning GenieKnows Inc.
Cynthia and Cassandra Dorrington Vale & Associates Inc.
(Online Advertising/IT) Halifax, Nova Scotia www.yellowee.com
(HR Strategic Consulting) Halifax, Nova Scotia www.valeassociates.ca
Glen Carvery Carvery’s Construction Ltd. Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Dr. Abdullah K. Kirumira BioMedica Diagnostics Inc. Windsor, Nova Scotia www.biomedicadiagnostics.com
Proudly brought to you by:
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Trailblazers
Black Loyalist Heritage Society
by: Charlene Davis
The Black Loyalist Heritage Society thrives today thanks to the devotion and commitment of its members. Elizabeth Cromwell and Beverly Cox are two members who have been key to the success of the society since its inception.
Elizabeth Cromwell “ We almost disappeared as a people,” says Elizabeth Cromwell of the descendants of the Black Loyalists. “We were not part of histor y.” Cromwell is president of the Black Loyalist Heritage Society (BLHS). She’s also one of its founding members. Back in the late 1980s Cromwell and the other founding members realized their children didn’t know about their history. They also realized that no current museum in Birchtown or Shelburne was sufficiently portraying the passage of the Black Loyalists, the struggles they encountered, and their accomplishments. After these eye openers, Cromwell and the other founders realized they needed to form a cultural organization. Cromwell said the people who were most interested in this ended up being people with Black Loyalist ancestry. She says the group decided, “Well, we might as well be who we are, who we represent, and we represent the descendants of the Black Loyalists.” Since those initial days, the BLHS has been part of Cromwell’s life in one form or another. During her current role as president, she says the organization has run into a series of roadblocks. “We always have to move back, regroup, and figure out how to go around, over, and many times in our earlier days, change our direction in order to get funding to keep our staff on.” Despite the struggle, Cromwell acknowledges that she has also seen and been part of a lot of success with the society. She sees the coming interpretive centre, along with it becoming part of the family of Nova Scotia museums, as part of that success. She also has great hopes for the future of the 9 ...
society, such as creating an exchange program for students and their families to learn about their history. She wants the BLHS to work in partnership with the education department and school boards to get the stories of the Black Loyalists taught in schools.
“Not as an extra subject but as part of the compulsory history subjects,” says Cromwell. “[The stories] need to be taught as part of the history of Nova Scotia and the history of Canada. It needs to be told in its truthful form.” Cromwell says that particular dream is her reason for staying involved with the BLHS all these years. In addition, Cromwell says, “I’m hoping and looking forward to us building a board of younger people that have even broader dreams … The Black Loyalists travelled around the world and created community wherever they went and that’s an important story.”
Beverly Cox
location is in impeccable shape, and ensures that visitors thoroughly enjoy their experience. Cox is also involved in fundraising for the interpretive centre and is the centre’s project manager. Of all of her roles, she loves the ones that let her interact with people the most. “I really enjoy meeting new people … So that’s my favourite part – giving our tour and partnering with other organizations to highlight our African Nova Scotian history.”
Cox mentions that although the story of the Black Loyalists can be extremely important for descendants, it can be equally important and meaningful for people of any ancestry. “I don’t think it has anything to do with the colour of a person’s skin. It’s our history. Canadians’ history.” She adds that it’s also a history that is relevant around the world. “The sooner we realize that and celebrate it as a connected history we’ve breached one hurdle,” says Cox.
In the 1980s Beverly Cox, Site Manager for the Black Loyalist Heritage Society was living in Shelburne and raising her first daughter. One day, some community members approached her about the importance of Birchtown and keeping their history alive. Thus began an over-20-year relationship with the BLHS.
Cox says leading the tours can be an amazing and humbling experience. She tells the story of an American woman whose ancestors were from Sierra Leone. This woman knew her family had returned to Sierra Leone from Birchtown in 1791. When the woman went to the BLHS museum and Cox showed her the document that held her great-great-great-grandfather’s name, she collapsed and began to cry, amazed that she’d finally found what she was looking for.
Cox’s biggest hope for the future of the BLHS is to see the interpretive centre built. She’s amazed at the progress so far. A little over a year ago the need to raise $1.2 million seemed an insurmountable barrier, but now it’s a reality. With the opening of the centre, Cox says the BLHS will be able to reach out to other communities and other countries. That means people all over the world will be able to come to the BLHS site and find their roots.
Cox has many roles as Site Manager. She runs the site, hires summer staff and interpretive guides, makes sure the
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Community Profile
by: Charlene Davis
Black Loyalist Heritage Society
Cromwell says before the group started doing their research there was very little information available about how the Black Loyalists came to the area after the American Revolution or why they chose to come. “And they chose,” says Cromwell. “This wasn’t something that they were thrown into. They chose to leave where they were in the United States to get away from the systems that were there and they chose not to go back.” As the group discovered more about the Loyalists, they realized the importance of those stories being told to a wider audience. Shari Shortliffe, Office Administrator at BLHS, says the group formally incorporated in 1990 as the Shelburne County Cultural Awareness Society. It didn’t take long before the society grew. It acquired property, historical buildings, and a monument that was erected by the National Museum Board of Canada in recognition of the Black Loyalists who came to Birchtown in 1783. With these advancements, membership also grew and in 1999 the society officially changed its name to the Black Loyalist Heritage Society.
left to right : Tony Ince, Everett Cromwell, Daniel Race
“The Black Loyalist Heritage Society is an historical heritage society and that is our mandate,” says President Elizabeth Cromwell.
The society
was born in the late 1980s when a small group of people, Cromwell included, took it upon themselves to start collecting as much information as they could about their heritage and to perform genealogical research. 11 ...
left to right: Honourable Percy Paris, Honourable Leonard Preyra, Warden Sherm Embree (Municipality of the District of Shelburne), Allan Shaw (BLHS Fund-raising Cabinet Co-Chair), Chris Huskilson (President & CEO of Emera)
A tragic arson fire in 2006 burned down the society’s administrative building, but it didn’t halt the society’s growth. “We never once shut down operation,” says Shortliffe. “We continued to work from home and then we set up office right away … the fire never affected the museum being open.” Still, says Shortliffe, “it was quite a devastating blow. We lost our library. We lost all of our older files that would have been stored in boxes.”
Thanks to the firefighters’ quick thinking, however, the files in metal cabinets and about 80 percent of the data on the computers were salvaged. In addition, “There was a lot of positive that came out of the fire,” says Shortliffe. Because of the news coverage the society gained more recognition and new donors. Shortliffe says they received support from their community and from all over the world. Partly thanks to that support, the society is now in the process of growing even more. On June 27 the BLHS held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new interpretive centre. Emera Inc.’s president and CEO Chris Huskilson announced a major cash donation for the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre. Emera is giving $500,000 toward the multimillion-dollar facility, which will be called the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, presented by Emera. Federal contributions include $1.7 million from the Canadian Heritage Department and $800,000 from ACOA. The province has provided $750,000, and the Municipality of the District of Shelburne has given $50,000. Fundraising efforts are still underway and more contributions would be gladly accepted, said Allan Shaw, the co-chairman of the
capital campaign. The facility will then become part of the Nova Scotia Museum group and when completed, the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, will be over 10,000 square feet with an exhibit hall, boardroom, gift shop, large kitchen, and administrative offices. “It’s going to be a multipurpose building and we want other organizations to be able to come in and use the space,” says Shortliffe. “There will be panels on the wall with touch screens so people can hear the story. There are plans of having a glass floor which will reveal artifacts that are currently housed at the Nova Scotia museum from archaeological digs that have happened in Birchtown. It’s going to be really different and very modern.” The interpretive centre will help to positively impact cultural tourism throughout Nova Scotia. Tracey Thomas, a policy analyst for African Nova Scotian Affairs, says the cultural tourism sector, specifically as it relates to African Nova Scotians is just emerging. “It’s going to be so huge. Especially once the Black Loyalists get their interpretive centre up. It’s going to open up a whole new market … It’s all going to thrive. I think we’re on the cusp of something really, really great.”
J-BRU... continued from page 7
“I’ve gone through the ringer,” he says. “I started late – I was in my twenties when I made my first CD – so I never went through that pressure of trying to make music that people will think is cool. I just do what I feel and, at the end of the day, if I like it, then I’ll put it out. And hope that my fans and other people will like it.” In keeping with the spirit of his previous solo albums, Stranger In My Home Town promises to touch on J-Bru’s personal life. “I’ve gone through struggles with depression over the years, probably
since my mid-teens, so [in the past I’ve recorded] a few songs about that. And [since the last album] my mom passed away, so on my new record there’s going to be a lot of stuff pertaining to that.” “I just try to keep it close to the hip,” he says. “I think that’s what people know me for. That’s what people feel.” Websites: http://jbrumusic.wordpress.com/ facebook.com/therealjbru
Regional Report Central/Metro Kerry C. Johnston During the past ten weeks, as the new Regional Business Development Manager for Central Region and Metro, I have had the privilege of meeting with many of BBI’s partners and clients who were interested in starting their own businesses. It was a pleasure to see the extent of the Black Business Initiative’s role in the community. After more than 25 years in the corporate world, I must say that every moment spent at the BBI is rewarding as I see how we directly impact people’s lives in our community. ADEPA CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT INC. I am happy to announce that ADEPA has launched their new website as part of BBI’s portable. Please take the time to view our website by logging onto www.bbi.ca and clicking on ADEPA Management. We are planning to engage our Black Construction Workers in construction management and skills development training in the first quarter of 2013. ADEPA specializes in residential and commercial projects including new home construction and renovations. I would like to congratulate Charles Adams for starting ‘Hindsight Infrared Service Inc’ and for becoming a certified Energy Star New Homes Energy Advisor. His company specializes in residential and commercial code compliant inspections, infrared inspections and energy audits. I am eager to develop further relationships with other partners and clients. Please feel free to contact me at (902) 426-6692 or email Johnston.kerry@bbi.ns.ca . I will be happy to assist you. 12 ...
by: Carol Dobson
Tummy to Mummy
Maternity & Baby Shop Francis and Simone Chia-Kangata
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Paul Adams
I
t’s a long way from international development work in Somalia to running a specialty
store in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia, but that’s the challenge Simone ChiaKangata and her husband Francis have taken on. They decided to move back to Nova Scotia when their last contract ended. When Simone was pregnant with their daughter Naomi, who was born last spring, she found there was a gap in the local marketplace for unique maternity fashions and for specialized nursing and baby accessories and decided to fill it. The products she carries are a mixture of unique, hard to find items and locally made items. To make things easier for grammas, aunties, and friends to buy the perfect gift, there’s even an online registration service on their Facebook page. “We decided in June [2011] to investigate the concept and opened at the end of November,” Simone says. They’ve divided the duties – Simone is the “front end person.” She looks after sourcing and buying the products they sell, the store’s layout, and sales. “I work on the information technology side,” Francis says. However, Simone admits that her husband probably does more than he admits in the store. They’re a good team. The reason for their decision to open this business, their daughter Naomi is already playing a big part in the
store. She’s a model for their products and is featured in a number of photos about the shop. “She’s showing me how to organize the merchandise so it can’t be pulled off the shelves by a toddler,” Simone says. “She’s a very social person so she gets to interact with the children who come into the store. She’s learning how to play with children who are younger than she is and how she can act with older children.” Running a business is clearly a lifestyle choice, and the ChiaKangata’s have structured the business operation to suit how their lives operate. The store is closed on Monday and opens a little later than most, at 10 a.m. “It allows us to catch up on sleep and do the things we need to do before the store opens,” Simone says.In fact, they heard about the Black Business Initiative when a BBI staff member, Shakara Russell came in to shop. That led to introductions and learning about the services the BBI offers entrepreneurs. The Chia-Kangatas have embraced the entrepreneurial lifestyle and Simone sees this store as the first of a number of endeavours that they will pursue. “We are where we want to be, visà-vis the business and the number of employees we have,” she says. “We’re thrilled to be living our longterm dream and we believe this is the first of many ventures to come.”
Tummy to Mummy Maternity & Baby Shop Simone and Francis Chia-Kangata 479 Main St., Mahone Bay (902) 624-0882 mahonebaybaby@gmail.com
Fun Facts Favourite Quote: Be the change you want to see in the world Last Book Read: The Birth House Most important person I have ever met or known: my husband and my daughter - tie A message to new business owner: Owning your own business is awesome, rewarding, crazy, and exhausting.
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People & Business on the Move
Congratulations to Custio Clayton on his dignified performance at the Olympics in London. He was an excellent representative of the province of Nova Scotia and all Nova Scotians can be proud of his performance in the boxing ring. BioMedica Diagnostics Inc. of Windsor, headed by Dr. Abdullah Kirumira has tripled its manufacturing capability with an already-completed $2.5-million expansion. The space in a reconfigured community college building is being used to make a product to monitor cardiovascular disease called QuikCoag that is exported to 50 countries. Congratulations to the North Preston Senior Citizen’s Society which marked its 50th anniversary in late June. The anniversary celebration was held at the North Preston Community Centre on June 30. Garnet Wright, of the Stone Gallery, has been elected as one of the members of the board of directors of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce for 2012-3 From May 22-June 4 an exhibit of African-Nova Scotian quilts was featured at the Public Archives of Nova Scotia as part of Quilt Canada 2012 — Seams Like Home. The Vale Quiltmakers - 24 quiltmakers and lenders contributed to ‘The Secret Codes’, an exhibition of African Nova Scotian narrative and picture quilts. The exhibition was also featured on CBC TV, CBC Radio and in the Chronicle Herald. Deep sea divers, Steve Brown and his daughter Nicole were featured in a Father’s Day feature in the Chronicle Herald. Daughter Nicole says her father was a big influence on her life and has helped her with 15 ...
her life choices, including taking a scholarship at a Texas university. The rededication of the monument to the No. 2 Construction Battalion in Pictou was held on July 7. Craig Gibson has taken charge as the RCMP’s first Black commanding officer on Prince Edward Island. The Gibson’s Woods native has been posted in many communities across the country during his 31 years of policing. 21inc, in partnership with Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette, announced the next cohort of 21inc Leaders from New Brunswick, and, for the first time ever, 21inc Leaders from Nova Scotia. Two of the N.S. winners are Monica Njoku, the Alumni Officer at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, and Mufaro Chakabuda, the CEO, Maritime Centre for African Dance Inc. of Halifax. The Demetreous Beals Project was one of the winners of the Awesome Halifax programme in July. By 14, Demetreous Beals was raising money to improve a basketball court in his community. He passed away in 2007 due to a drowning accident but in partnership with the First Baptist Church, the HRM Police Community Constables, and the Demetreous Lane Tenants Association, the project participants learned about leadership and created the ‘What Leadership Means to Me’ mural in Demetreous’ honour at the basketball court that Beals cared for. The replica of Nova Scotia's historic Africville church, which was revealed in September 2011, is now complete. As the 29th Annual
Africville Summer Reunion was held in late July, many of the former residents celebrated the completion of the Africville Church and Museum. Inside the church is a museum, with exhibits portraying what life was like in Africville from the start of the community in the 1800s to the eviction of its residents in the 1960s. Halifax said goodbye to jazz icon Bucky Adams, the well-known saxophonist, who died on July 13 at the age of 75. A group of his friends performed an emotional Going Home celebration at St. Patrick’s RC Church in Halifax in July. Adams’ children were also a major part of the commemoration of their father’s life. There was a ship side concert billed as ‘A Tribute to the Arrival of the Tall Ship Amistad’ at Alderney Landing in Dartmouth during July’s Tall Ships Festival. The artists performing included the Umoja Cultural Diversity Drummers, Linda Carvery, Corey Adams, and The Sanctified Brothers. A large community garden has been cultivated on the site of the old Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children (NSHCC). It's part of a celebration of the 91st year of the NSHCC. Twenty free plots were assigned at the garden. The site was officially opened this summer with the planting of the Akoma Peach Tree and a celebration around the barbecue with NSHCC staff, volunteers and community officials. The Hope Blooms kids, from the North End Community Garden in Halifax, premiered their 2012 batch of salad dressings during the Tall Ships Festival in mid July.
A Taste of East Preston was held on June 9th at the East Preston Recreation Centre. The event included everything from “downhome Southern cooking to some of the most unique dishes you’ll ever find!” The event included games; face painting; prizes; and cake walk. At the 2012 REP Provincial Spelling Bee, Oluwatomisin Akinkunmi, of Chebucto Heights Elementary, placed first. Paul Esemu-Ezewum, of Duc d'Anville Elementary, placed second, and James Esemu-Ezewu, of Duc d'Anville Elementary, placed third. Each winner took home education awards of $500, $300 and $200 along with trophies, gift certificates and educational goods from local businesses. The contest drew 133 student competitors from across the province. More than 300 audience members watched Tomi Akinkunmi clinch the trophy with the word ‘salmonella’. Congratulations to Kieran Bhaskara and Malik Farhat on their winning entry for the 2012 Africentric Learning Institute and Heritage Awards. Malik and Kieran chose to create a video which depicted the contributions African Nova Scotians have made to our province and country. Their video, which was a news interview of Kirk Johnson, was chosen from more than 100 entries. Nelson Whynder Elementary School (NWES) was recently awarded an Indigo Love of Reading grant for $30,000 to purchase books for the school library. NWES is one of 20 schools across Canada that will receive the grant this year.
New BBI Staff Kerry C. Johnston Regional Business Development Manager – Central Region I am a native of the community of Cherry Brook. As Regional Business Development Manager for BBI Central Region, I bring to the table a diverse background in finance, administration, marketing and customer service. I have worked in the telecommunication industry for 22 years with Bell Aliant and the Canadian Coast Guard for three years in various roles. I have had the opportunity to sit on various boards and committees throughout the African Nova Scotian Community and the wider community including: • • • • • • • • • • •
Treasurer/Finance Chair – Preston Area Housing Board of Directors Treasurer – Cole Harbour Jets (Atom House Hockey) Trustee Chair, Planning/Finance Committees Member African United Baptist Association of Nova Scotia Treasurer & Planning Chair - Laymen’s Council of the African United Baptist Association of Nova Scotia (18 years) Fundraising Chair – Cherry Brook Boundary Action Reversal Committee Program Chair and Former President – Cherry Brook Men’s Brotherhood Past Treasurer – Cherry Brook United Baptist Church (21 years) Past Church Renovation Chair - Cherry Brook United Baptist Church Past Monitoring Committee Member – Halifax Regional School Board Past School Advisory Committee – Auburn Drive High School Past Treasurer/ Finance and Personnel Member - The Black United Front of N.S.
I am looking forward to serving the African Nova Scotian Community and helping the BBI reach new heights in my new role. 16 ...
Black Business Summit 2012 World Trade and Convention Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia June 21 -22, 2012
The Race to Business Success
Thursday, June 21, 2012
OPENING PLENARY Climbing to New Heights The panelists for the Opening Plenary were John Grant, CEO, 100 Black Men of Atlanta Inc, and Farley Flex, President and CEO, Plasma Management and Productions. The facilitator for this session was Cassandra Dorrington, President, Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC). John Grant spoke on the concept of the 20 Mile March – steady but sure. He began by recognizing the triumph of the people of the Prestons over adversity when they faced discrimination. He said business owners need to have a consistent plan and follow it, never overstretching – set annual goals and meet them. He also spoke about his great-grandfather Augustus Grant, a former slave who overcame a lot of adversity to become a successful businessman after buying his freedom. Grant gave participants principles to live by that included: - - - - - -
Never let anyone tell you what you cannot do, and even more, never be that person. Empirical creativity – imagine something, see it in your mind; take action – action with fact; set goals and execute your idea. Be around people who are smarter than you. Unleash your own individual creativity. It’s not personal – business is done successfully if it’s not personal. Foundation of success is through collaboration, business people ought to collaborate with others in order to succeed.
Farley Flex shared his work with a consortium planning to launch the Afro Global Television Network, Canada’s first Black television station. Flex believes that every great thing starts with an idea. The idea does not need to be a great one, it just needs to be executed, which is where a lot of people fail. He also believes the African culture is the most influential culture in the world. Flex’s plan for success includes:
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- - - - - -
Execution – Seeking out investment, teamwork and having a playbook to go by. Vision – His vision is to build a media school. Be bold, ask questions, be engaged, pay attention, be visible. We are influential people with a proud history and should not be burdened by it. Collaboration is multifaceted, businesses succeed more with it. Hip Hop artists in the US realized this. Set your sights global.
Workshop 1: Whole Brain Thinking: Creativity at Work
Jocelyn Dorrington
Facilitated by BBI board member Jocelyn Dorrington, the workshop explored how organizations can generate fresh solutions to problems and the ability to create new products, processes or services for a changing market. The dialogue hit on the concept of the importance of creating an environment that allows innovation and creativity to happen, not just the practice of hiring more creative people. The panelists included:
Mahogany Lucas
‘Whole Brain Thinking’ captured
Will Njoku, Inspirational Speaker, Will2Win, believes we should create an environment that allows for innovation and creativity to take place. He said Smartphones are changing the way businesses operate and as we seek momentum we must grow quicker, faster and stronger, embrace change and take risks in order to stay competitive. Even with technology, Njoku said we must not get tied to our smartphones. We must not manage people only as processes and systems, but create an environment that’s open to and invites innovation from employees. Mercy Mureithi, Manager of Economic Development, National Youth Development Agency, South Africa, proposed Nova Scotia businesses reach across its borders. Mercy indicated that with globalization the world is more connected, and as the developing world learns lessons from the developed world, in the same manner the developed world must learn from the developing world. Of interest was the African Leadership Academy, an organization that seeks to transform Africa by identifying, developing, and connecting the next generation of leaders. The organization brings together the most promising 16-to-19-yearold leaders from across Africa for an innovative two-year program designed to prepare each student for a lifetime of leadership on the continent.
Toronto African Canadian Legal Clinic delegates
Mike and Rustum share a joke
Mike Wyse, CEO, Black Business Initiative, challenged companies to be better, faster, work cheaper and with a better story. He said, “Some people make things happen; some watch things happen, while others wonder what has happened.” He said average isn’t good enough. Creativity and innovation comes from dialogue and for companies to be innovative, they must ask how can they serve you better. He suggested we look at our business plans, research best practices, and look at what your competitors are doing. If companies don’t do that, they’ll be left behind. Mike also suggested that if you have skill gaps in your business, hire people smarter than you so you can have the skills internally.
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KEYNOTE LUNCHEON Roland S. Martin, Nationally Award-Winning and Multifaceted Journalist Ron Kronstein of Global Maritimes introduced Roland S. Martin. Ron Kronstein
Martin’s topic was ‘It’s All On You’ and included the following tips: • If you want your business to be successful, it all depends on you - ask yourselves where you want to be in five or 10 years and focus on how to get to where you’d like to be. • Have strong work ethnics. • Key areas in your business life must be developed e.g. how you apply yourself, your attitude, your focus, and your motivation to move on to the next level.
Luncheon guests
• Build a strong economic base - you must become a prime contractor in order to make a lot of money and focus on increasing revenue flow daily. • More focus/discussion on growing businesses versus starting a business. • Think Big! • Maximumize your relationships - connect and network with like businesses/interests to build your business • ME Inc – you must stop thinking as an employee and start thinking as a business owner, by living a Me Inc life everyday your business will take on new roots.
Roland Martin with Hector Jacques
• You must have a ‘no fear’ attitude, let everyday be another opportunity to build a strong and vibrant business.
SUMMIT BOAT CRUISE 2012 It was all aboard and smooth sailing for the 2012 BBI Summit Boat Cruise around the Halifax Habour on Thursday evening. For the first time in many years the weather was on our side and we had a beautiful view on all sides of the harbour. Pair the view with great food, great entertainment, and great cruisers and you have a winning combination. Enjoying the boat cruise
Once again our lovely and quick-humoured host Charla Williams got us into a cruising mood and DJ RS Smooth helped us lay it all out on the dance floor for our dance competition on the upper deck. The crowd was also entertained by the tremendously talented spoken word poet El Jones who reminded us of our past and future journeys through words and emotion.
Dancin’ the night away
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Joining us on the cruise were plenary speakers John Grant, CEO of 100 Black Men of Atlanta and Farley Flex, President and CEO of Plasma Management and Productions and former Canadian Idol Judge.
Friday, June 22, 2012
KEYNOTE LUNCHEON Rustum Southwell vs. Ross Simmonds (RS vs. RS) The keynote luncheon RS vs. RS proved to be both inspiring and motivating. The delegates enjoyed the luncheon along with the banter between our outgoing CEO Rustum Southwell and young entrepreneur Ross Simmonds. Rustum looked at things in the traditional sense while Ross presented a more modern lens from which to look through. They discussed the secrets of success with emphasis on getting started and not quitting.
Workshop 2: Raising the Bar Black Business Initiative board member, Eleanor Beaton introduced the panelists participating in the session that covered “How an entrepreneur, by setting high standards, can continuously outpace his/her competitors”. Rustum Southwell, Mike Wyse and Ross Simmonds
Eleanor Beaton (BBI Board), introduces panel
The panel included: Carlo Simmons, Vice President of Operations and Controls at Simmons Paving Co. Ltd, the oldest Black construction company in Nova Scotia. The business is a family-owned company, founded by Carlo Simmons’ father, Wilfred. An avid proponent of the Total Quality Management (TQM) approach, Carlo strives to assure quality that meets or exceeds his customers’ expectations. He strongly believes that by setting the bar higher than his competitors, he attracts a sizeable clientele who are looking for quality and reliability instead of the cheaper product or service.
Panelists: Paul Adams, Carlo Simmons, and Mo Handahu
Mo Handahu, designer and founder of Clutch Culture started her business in her apartment three years ago. When she could not find something she liked to wear, she started making her own clothes. Her designs were expressions of her look - cool and colourful. Mo shared her first trip to Toronto Fashion Week and said that even though she felt a bit intimidated by all the glamour, she introduced herself to some of the most influential people in the industry. Mo’s advice was to be yourself, don’t be afraid to think outside the box, and push yourself to excel.
Summit participants
Paul Adams, the winner of the 2012 BBI’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award decided in 1998 to follow his passion for photography by launching Adams Photography Services Inc. He explained, “I knew from the start that I had to do high end photography.” Paul strongly believes that photography is not just a record of some images at a certain point in time but also an art form, pure and simple, therefore, the possibilities for creativity are endless. That mindset allowed him to go beyond what was expected by his clients and to gain the industry respect he has today. 20 ...
Workshop 3: Competitive Edge – Drivers of Success Paul Walter, CEO, Waterbury Newton facilitated the workshop. He began by introducing the panel and the topic by saying that in today’s business environment, businesses should strive to go from good to better to best and that businesses need to adapt, attain and retain a competitive advantage. Paul Walter
Deanne MacLeod, Albert Louis, and Andre Levingston
Summit attendees
Karen Hudson and Barb Hamilton-Hinch
Summit attendees taking notes
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The panelists for this workshop were: Andre Levingston, President and CEO, Halifax Rainmen, chronicled his life as a young man growing up in an impoverished neighbourhood of Detroit, in a community that had a lot of dreams. He said he participated in sports because it gave his life direction. Because he grew up lacking entrepreneurial role models in his life, he wants his Rainmen to serve as role models to Black youth. Levingston always wanted to work for himself. He remembers when he first landed in Halifax, arriving in a place he knew nothing about to run a business he knew nothing about. In basketball he has found his passion. His advice to business owners is: - Be passionate. - Never be too afraid of challenges or failing. - Surround yourself with good advisors. - Great relationships make successful businesses. - Understand the “way business is done” in the area where you operate your business, as business is conducted differently depending on where you are. Albert Louis, Director of Supplier Diversity, Business Development, Johnson Controls Automotive Experience Group, pointed out that in seeking drivers for success, business owners should ask themselves whether their product or service provides a solution for the customer, is it helping maintain a competitive advantage. His advice is: - Get to know your customers and potential customers. - Understand customer’s procurement strategies and evolve to match them. - Business owners should be visionaries of their organizations. - Seek the most effective and most efficient ways to operate your business. - Stop viewing your business as a minority business. - Pay attention to market signals. - Success requires you to understand the number one reason you are in business is to build wealth, make money, manufacture cash and grow equity. Deanne MacLeod, Partner, Stewart McKelvey shared that the entrepreneur should be able to define their own success, whether it’s growing equity, being able to have a particular lifestyle or a certain amount of wealth. Success is being able to meet or achieve your goals for your business. Her five drivers of success are: - Strong leadership – leaders must be able to build a business culture that embraces leadership with goals and a vision that they are able to communicate internally and externally
- - - -
Adaptability – businesses should be able to rapidly adapt to change. Creativity and innovation – think outside the box, have ideas without restrictions. Discipline – know your business inside out and have a disciplined approach. Confidence – set goals, have a strategy, dive in fully and do not be afraid to fail.
BIZ SHOW Hosted by Robert Upshaw Mike Wyse & Pixie (Rustum Southwell’s sister)
To wrap up the summit, the ever upbeat and effervescent Robert Upshaw did not let us down with his panel of guests and jokes, and of course questions about the boat cruise and the missing scallops. Robert had a variety of guests on his panel including incoming CEO, Mike Wyse; Rustum’s sister, Pixie; a youth delegate from Toronto, Segan; and the guest of honour, Rustum Southwell. Everyone was a good sport with Robert’s quick wit, wisdom and whimsy.
AGM GALA DINNER & DANCE Gala Dinner guests
Electric Slide
Always a favorite and well attended, this night was also bitter-sweet as it marked the exit of outgoing CEO, Rustum Southwell. To lighten the mood and in true BBI tradition there was a comedic video tribute to Rustum complete with an American-Idol theme to how we “found” the new CEO, Mike Wyse. The video was also filled with tender moments of reminiscence from colleagues, staff, board and community members, expressing their appreciation for Southwell’s 16 years of service and well wishes for his retirement. Rustum graced the stage and reciprocated the appreciation for the support of everyone and expressed that being CEO was not just a job but a passion for seeing success in the African Nova Scotian community. Last, but certainly not least, the Chair of the Board welcomed the new CEO of the Black Business Initiative. No stranger to the organization, Mike Wyse took to the stage and addressed the audience expressing how excited he was to lead the BBI in continuing its mandate. And with that everyone was ushered to the dance floor to enjoy the rest of the night with music provided by DJ RS Smooth.
AWARDS
Rustum, Darla Johnston and Paul Adams
During the Gala, the 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year Award was awarded to Paul Adams of Adams Photography. The other finalists for the award were Evolution Massage Therapy and Paula’s Place Tailor Shop. During a summit year, BBI also presents the Hector Jacques Award of Business Excellence and this year’s award recipient was Darla Johnston of SLIC Laser Hair Removal Clinic. The other finalists in this category were Stone Gallery and Adams Photography. (Read more about the nominees in this issue of Black to Business)
Jocelyn Dorrington receives appreciation gift
Every few years we also seem to have to say goodbye to board members who have completed their terms. An appreciation presentation was made to Jocelyn Dorrington for her nine years of service as a member of the Board of Directors. 22 ...
by: Carol Dobson
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Global Television Maritimes “Our community partnership with the Black Business Initiative is one of our longest and most important at Global Maritimes,” Andy Rice, Global’s manager of marketing and production, says. Global and the BBI have been working hand in hand for at least 10 years to tell the BBI’s story on television. Rice estimates that the broadcaster has produced between 35 and 40 one-minute spots profiling BBI clients – usually to the tune of four or five per year. He’s the master storyteller behind the scenes and some of the members of his crew have been there since the very beginning of the relationship. 23 ...
Peter Marsman
“It’s a good body of work and these are stories that might not be told otherwise.” He remembers the first presentation Global made to the BBI. It was in a boardroom at the World Trade and Convention Centre. What began as a meeting between strangers has developed into a strong bond of friendship. “I’d go to Rustum’s office for a business meeting,” he says. “We’d start off discussing serious business topics and the whole thing would evolve into a longer session of talking about all the problems of the world, with a lot of laughter in between.” He’s sure that the same thing will happen with Mike Wyse now at the helm. “It’s been fascinating watching the staff that has been involved at the BBI through the years,” says Rice. “I’ve seen people start off at the reception desk, who have moved up the ladder to positions of more responsibility.
Sometimes they’ve moved off to other positions and it’s been wonderful to see their personal growth.” Global’s work with the Summit is a natural progression of the partnership between the BBI and the broadcaster. “Our contribution to the Summit involves some communications advice and some marketing advice, as well as our help in promoting the event,” he says. “Tracey Thomas (event planner) and I will look at the material she has available, and we’ll provide our recommendations on how to use it on the air so we can promote the event as best we can.” He speaks about the level of trust that has developed over the past decade. The relationship between the BBI and Global is more than “the BBI printing the Global logo on promotional materials and Global putting something on air. It’s much deeper than that.” “Our relationship with the BBI is one of our longest community partnerships and I am looking forward to many more years of working with the BBI,” Rice says.
Regional Report Northern 1 Emma Otuki I have recently acquired the Cape Breton and Guysborough region from Njabulo Nkala. I am working on meeting clients and partners in the region. While there recently, I met a new client Whitney Green who will be operating Touch of Soul Fries, a food truck based on Victoria Road. She’s a remarkable young woman and is looking to take the business to the next level. If you’re in the area please check Touch of Soul Fries. A coupon for the business is included in this issue of the magazine. I also had the pleasure of meeting with Corey Katz a youth entrepreneur who has been featured in this magazine before. Corey was busy this summer with weddings but he also does commercial, advertising, music/musicians and corporate events. If you’re looking for someone to capture your memories in the Cape Breton area Corey Katz Photography comes very highly recommended. He also has a coupon featured in this issue of the magazine for your photographic needs. I am very excited to work in the Cape Breton/Guysborough region and look forward to meeting more clients there. If you a Cape Breton client looking to start a business or looking to expand your business please get in touch with me. Otuki.Emma@bbi.ns.ca
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BBI 2012 SUMMIT
Greg Browning presents Rustum with putter
DJ RS Smooth prepares for boat cruise
Vendor Fair participant Russell Wyse, Wyse Photos
Vendor Fair participant Jessica Bowden, Teens Now Talk
DIVAS on the GREEN July 11, 2012 Kuch Photography
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Adams Photography
Out with &theAbout BBI
June 21-22, 2012
Glynis Simms, Eleanor Beaton, Barbara MillerManning, Jessica Bowden, Cynthia Dorrington
Jessica Bowden, Bernadette Hamilton-Reid, Glynis Simms, Barbara Miller-Manning, Tulsa Beazer, Cynthia Dorrington, Cheyanne Gorman-Tolliver, Eleanor Beaton
Glynis Simms, Hot Air Balloon ride winner
Cheyanne Gorman-Tolliver & Jessica Bowden
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Greg Browning, BBI Chair, Mike Wyse, BBI CEO and Cassandra Dorrington, President, CAMSC, signing the MOU at the 2012 BBI Summit
CAMSC, the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council and the Black Business Initiative (BBI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) preceding the keynote address by Roland Martin. CAMSC is a private sector led, non-profit organization composed of major Canadian and global corporations. CAMSC’s mission is to deliver programs to facilitate purchasing opportunities between major corporations and suppliers owned and operated by minorities and aboriginal peoples. The MOU establishes that both parties agree to collaborate to link Black-owned companies with large corporations who have acknowledged an interest in enhancing their supplier diversity.
Michael Wyse expressed great pleasure in the newly established relationship. “We are very pleased to have this opportunity to collaborate with CAMSC to seek out mentorship, training and contract bidding opportunities for Black-owned firms.” This relationship will help local firms better appreciate what contract and expansion opportunities are available. It will also establish the process required to build needed capacities to participate in global supply chains.
If you are interested in exploring business opportunities through CAMSC, please contact Cassandra Dorrington at cdorrington@camsc.ca.
Cassandra Dorrington, President of CAMSC stated, “It is an opportune time for more Black-owned firms to reach beyond Nova Scotia’s borders and compete globally. If you are growing your company in this direction, we want to hear from you.” 26 ...
Ask the BBI
??????? ??????? Entrepreneur’s Tool Kit ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ?????? ??????? ??????? ?????? ??????? ??????? ?????? ??????? ?????? ?????? ?????? When starting or growing a business, every entrepreneur has one question in mind. Where do I get the money from? Whether it’s for financing working capital or for a long-term investment, identifying the cheapest source of funds for supporting your activity should be your number one priority. Unless you have an established business with considerable resources, it is always a challenge for entrepreneurs to get critical information about government loans and grants. The information in many cases is disseminated through informal channels. Governments (federal or provincial) as one of the primary stakeholders have several ways to help businesses to start or grow; among them financial help, whether it is grants or subsided loans.
by: Greg Nazaire RBDM - Southern
applicant’s credit performance. However, some minimum credit standards apply. Nova Scotia Business Inc. has no official limit, but a business manager will tell you their most common loan guarantees range between $250,000 and $1 Million. They charge the provincial borrowing rate (what costs to the province to borrow money) plus a client risk premium. We also have the Small Business Loan Guarantee Program from the Province of Nova Scotia in partnership with the Nova Scotia Co-operative Council and participating credit unions. The government guarantees 75 percent of the value of the loan up to $500,000.
Finally, we should mention the Aerospace and Defence Loan Program for defence contractors. It helps Nova Scotian businesses to be competitive in the aerospace and defence industry by financing costs such as support for advanced training and workforce development, to develop Canadian Small Business Finance new technologies and innovations and some sunk costs, Program (CSBFP) including feasibility studies, consulting, etc. It is repayable This program aims at easing the access to based on the progress of the execution of the project, credit for businesses that are perceived since most defence contractors deal with very long-term by financial institutions to be risky (e.g., contracts to be delivered little collateral, no credit history). These businesses usually have their application Subsidies either denied or approved with very Besides low rate and loan guarantee programs, an expensive terms. To address those issues, entrepreneur can also take advantage of some grants and the federal government through the CSBFP financial support as listed below: helps these businesses by guaranteeing the loan of up to $ 500,000 for capital • Nova Scotia Business Development Program: This investments. The business has to provide 10 subsidy covers 50 percent of the costs, up to $10,000, for qualified consultant services. percent of equity. Nova Scotia Loans and Guarantees At the provincial level, business support organizations such as Black Business Initiative or Nova Scotia Business Inc. have a loan guarantee program as well. However, there is more flexibility as to the type of assets to finance. From working capital to fixed assets, these two organizations offer their financing based on the social and economic impact of the business on the community.
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Service Export Program: This covers the costs of reaching clients or prospecting. These costs include: travel by potential clients, in-market meetings, translation costs.
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Payroll Rebate: The qualified business should have an economic impact on the community. The rebate ranges between 5 and 10 percent of a business’s gross payroll taxes.
• The Black Business Initiative offers a loan guarantee up to $25,000 and the interest is prime plus 1 percent regardless of the 27 ...
The Capital Investment Incentive: An export- driven business that plans an innovation-based capital expenditure that ranges from $25,000 to $1 million may qualify to receive a subsidy of 20 percent of the total investment cost. These investments include: high-tech machinery, green technology, software and hardware.
Summer Program 2012
F
OR more than 10 years Business is Jammin’ has offered summer programming for youth aged 8-12 in communities across Nova Scotia. Our activities are fun, educational, and always include a theme of entrepreneurship through a variety of activities such as workshops, presentations, and our most popular activity; Break into Business Camp. This year Business is Jammin’ provided six Summer Youth Coordinators the opportunity to work in their communities gaining
valuable work experience while also delivering programs in and around the communities of Sydney, Truro, Halifax, Dartmouth, Kentville, and Yarmouth.
“where innovative ideas meet potential for successful Black youth development.” This year we are extremely proud to say that from May to August 2012 more than 800 youth have participated in our Summer Program. An outcome like this does not happen without support and so we would like to thank our host partners, volunteers, funders, and sponsors.
Community Gardens
Halifax
BIJ 2012 Summer Youth Coordinators BIJ Truro Summer Camp l to r: Robyn Martelly-Cape Breton, Leah Jones-Halifax, Rene Boudreau-Truro, Marissa Walter-Kentville, Lysa McGrath-Dartmouth, Kayla Fells-Yarmouth
Dartmouth BIJ Kentville Summer Camp
BIJ Cape Breton Summer Camp
BIJ Halifax Summer Camp
Yarmouth BBI and BIJ would like to thank the RBC & NS Power for their support and contribution to the success of our Community Garden Program.
For more information on how to get involved with Business is Jammin’ contact: Mahogany Lucas, at 902-426-8688 or by email lucas.mahogany@bbi.ns.ca.
Visit our Facebook page. Also, if you have any suggestions or would like to launch your own community garden, contact Mahogany Lucas – 426-8688, for more details. 28 ...
The 8th Black Business Summit was definitely a pinnacle event for the Black Business Initiative. Among the highlights were the recognition of the successful transfer of the Chief Executive Officer responsibilities from Rustum Southwell to Michael Wyse and informative talks by all of the speakers and panel participants. Kudos to our local entrepreneurs, Andre Levingston, Mo Handahu, Paul Adams and Carlo Simmons for sharing their experiences and business tips with us.
The Law & Your Business
M&A as a means to Climbing to New Heights in the Race to Business Success
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Roland Martin offered us sage and bold advice in his inspiring key note address. He suggested that Black entrepreneurs (or those with such aspirations) must start thinking about “mergers and acquisitions” rather than starting a new business from scratch or toiling tirelessly to grow an existing business. As a corporate lawyer, these words resonated with me and I thought it would be useful to the readers of Black To Business to have a better understanding of what is meant by them. In past columns I discussed 10 things to consider before purchasing a business. The number one item on my list was: What do you want to buy? The answer to this question will help define whether the transaction you embark upon is characterized as a merger or an acquisition. The purchase of an operating business that you will take over as the new owner is an acquisition. This may be your first business or a means of growing an existing business. On the other hand, you must already be a business owner in order to be part of a merger, which by definition requires the joining of two or more existing companies. The objective of a merger is business expansion – it is not a start up. When considering a merger, it is important to assess several factors, including how to best grow your business. You can look at merging with one of your competitors to increase market share or, alternatively, you can 29 ...
reduce costs and/or add product lines by merging with a supplier within your industry. I do want to relay one important caution to those bold enough to pursue this route, mergers must be very carefully planned from beginning to closing the deal, to post-merger, in order to be successful. Achieving business growth through mergers and acquisitions may require a new way of thinking for some of you. Roland urged you to “think big” and use mergers and acquisitions in your climb to new heights of business success. In Roland’s words, “it’s all on you.” This does not mean you have to do it all by yourself. Once you have envisioned your goal, engage your mentors, professional advisors, the Black Business Initiative, and other key individuals to help chart the course to launch a business or take an operating business to the next level. Thinking small and inaction may be all that is keeping you from climbing to new heights of business success. Disclaimer: The information presented above is for informative purposes only. All information provided is of a general nature and is not intended as legal advice and does not address the circumstances of any particular person or business. Candace L. Thomas, Partner, Corporate Group, Stewart McKelvey, Barristers, Solicitors & Trademark Agents
New BBI Staff Ed Matwawana Managing Director, Training Ed Matwawana moved to Nova Scotia in 1983 from the Democratic Republic of Congo. After graduating from Acadia University in 1988, he focussed on people development and advocacy through Regional Residential Services Society (RRSS) and later the Black United Front of Nova Scotia (BUF) until the mid 1990s. From 1995, Ed served as the director of the African Nova Scotian Training Centre (ANSTC) before moving on to the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED) where he served as regional manager and oversaw the delivery and expansion of the Second Chance Program. After a short period with American Income Life Insurance Company, Ed joined the Black Business
Initiative as Managing Director of Training. As a consultant, Ed has provided expertise in youth work and entrepreneurship Education in Portugal, Bahamas, South Africa and Angola. He has served on boards of several organizations in Nova Scotia such as Music Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Talent Trust, African Nova Scotian Music Association, North End Health and Community Clinic, and is currently serving on the inaugural board for the BDB Africentric Learning Institute. In 2003, Ed received the National Humanitarian Griot Awards for his work with youth, community and the enhancement of African countries’ education and health systems. In 2009, he was featured on the CBC TV program “Living Halifax” as one of Halifax’s Heroes.
Tulsa Beazer Executive Assistant Tulsa Beazer graduated from Saint Mary’s University with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree, majoring in Accounting. She has over seven years of experience in the Banking Industry and was most recently a Client Portfolio Analyst for one of Canada’s top five banks. In early 2012, Tulsa
decided to become a part of the BBI team in order to gain exposure and share her knowledge and experiences with the African Nova Scotia Community. She is extremely excited to be embarking on a new career path and looks forward to a productive and successful future with the BBI.
Regional Report Southern Greg Nazaire The southern region was busier than usual this summer. During my last regional visit, I have come across several bustling businesses. From niche retail stores to restaurant businesses, one can easily see dedication, enthusiasm, and creativity in each. However, in some towns businesses are struggling and not hiring, which has affected Black youth looking for jobs. But, in any uncertain situation, an opportunity to do something bold can emerge. As I mentioned in my previous report, many retiring business owners are ‘the succession dilemma’. This presents a perfect occasion for young and dedicated individuals to be in business without having to go through, in most case, the hassles of starting a new one. We are getting ready to launch another series of workshops with Candian Business Development Corporation (CBDC)Yarmouth and a seminar on financial literacy and personal finance in Kentville in partnership with the Valley African Nova Scotian Development Association (VANSDA). We are hoping that attendees will find them helpful. Finaly, I would like to congratulate Simone and Francis Kangata, owners of the thriving Tummy to Mummy Maternity and Baby Shop in Mahonne Bay on 479 Main St., (902) 624-0882 / Email: mahonebaybaby@ gmail.com Should you require any further information or to book a regional visit please contact me at: (902)426-1625 or the toll free number 1(800)668-1010. 30 ...
The Race
to Business
Success
Summit
JONES has been the featured special guest at various events throughout the province in the past few years, sharing her powerful musing on everything from race to politics, to gender and societal issues, all in versatile prose. She’s been called an activist, teacher, and academic. Arriving in Halifax from Winnipeg less than a decade ago, Jones started performing in the open mic for Word Iz Bond SPEAK! Series and is now a member of the spoken word artists’ collective, where she goes by The Professor. Her platform is in clubs, classrooms and at community events, performing in Ottawa, Montreal and Vancouver, as well as Nova Scotia. She captained the Halifax Slam Team for its two national championships in Halifax in 2007 and Calgary in 2008. El Jones is pursuing a PhD in English at Dalhousie University and is teacher in the Foundation Year Program at King’s. This spoken word artist recently performed an original and powerful poem at the recent Black Business Summit that riveted the audience with its truth and power. 31 ...
It Can Be Done
in honour of Rustum Southwell
El Jones
Poverty is a disease that crushes our communities It steals our dignity from us We become dependent on assistance like insulin for diabetes But the chronic problems go untreated Poverty is the disease that kills our people at 50 and 60 It is the cheap microwave meals that plug our arteries when we can’t afford groceries The stress that stops our hearts from beating Poverty is the disease that puts guns in the hands of teens When the game is the only industry hiring Poverty is our young men becoming commodities in the prison system Poverty is our children going to school hungry
Paul Adams
It is the disease that fractures families Takes fathers from their responsibilities Makes mothers treat the children angry Poverty is 500 years of post traumatic slavery disorder pressing on us like a ton. But it can be undone. Our agency has been taken from us by government agencies Until the only work we think we can do is seeing the worker down at the agency And our creativity has been stifled by years of complacency Until we resign ourselves to not having the dreams we’ve been chasing See I know we succeed when we’re given the vacancy One opportunity to compete is all we’ve been waiting When we get in the race you’ ll see how far we can run It can be done. Money is like a healthy cell. When earned by us It multiplies throughout the community like blood running through the body keeping us alive Each dollar kept inside funds more enterprise while each father hired Is one family less likely to divide One mother less likely to come home too tired one self esteem that can climb and their dollars supply The businesses of others til the community revives It is money that inspires our people to rise But like cancer it can metastisize and disguise itself like a tumour in the center of our people causing our communities to die When supplied by trade in sex or drugs. Without employment options our children become thugs It is businesses that are our chemotherapy that burn out the gun It can be done.
One single mother given one loan of a few thousand dollars To start one business with a plan that is solid Will create one home with children more likely to attend college And then they’re going to contribute their knowledge And given access to computers and technology this equals Exponentially more Black people participating in the economy And one Black owned business in any one industry means More Black employees and more Black people seeing a role model Which means more Black people will follow. And then tomorrow They’ ll be more Black people owning property Which equals more Black people with money for the banks to borrow Which means more Black people that they have to acknowledge And more wealth means more power which means more Black people in politics Which means parliament addressing more Black topics Which means more Black issues that they have to resolve Which leads to more Black people rising up out of poverty Which means more Black people whose dreams can evolve Meaning millions of dollars when we started with one. It can be done. There is more innovation in one black thumb braiding Using more calculation to perfect than math is explaining Just like each basketball shot aiming is generating More instantaneous computation than is maintaining an aircrafts elevation Just like each rapper creating is using more improvisation And more combinations conveying more information Than most CEOs could produce in ten conversations
What I am saying is that our community already contains The skills and the talent for globalization Our expertise is all here for the taking with the right education And given the motivation the whole world would be stunned It can be done. Everything in this world moves in a cycle and our time has come One leader retires leaving a legacy behind him Where lives were provided for and others left wiser His bio should inspire us to reach for new heights It should be easy when we stand on the shoulders of giants When the work’s already begun It can be done. The next generation steps up and keeps feeding the fire Driven on by the reminders of what our elders aspired We shall overcome It can be done. If a man’s life is defined in his sacrifices Then he’s paid his sum. Who knows the prices so often kept silent The compromises and crisis he kept going in spite of All endured to ensure that our people survive And opened up new horizons for futures to be realized Made worth it by seeing the change in our lives And it all can be measured in how we’ve arrived. Here’s where we are. Now look where we’re from. It can be done.
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Foursquare: Elevating Your Social Media Efforts into Mobile Ever since Foursquare launched in Halifax, I’ve loved it. In fact, the crush I had for Foursquare when it first launched was similar to my crush on Pinterest earlier this year. That said, sometimes I feel as if I’m alone with my Foursquare obsession as not as many people here use it, unlike residents in other parts of the country. And sadly, I have to blame the businesses. One of the things many businesses are looking for from social media is an easy way to track and monitor the return on investment (ROI). They often say the time required to start and continuously manage a blog is not worth it, because they can’t see the return. The same excuse is made about Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. When it comes to Foursquare, the excuse holds no validity what-so-ever. The application is used when, and only when, someone is physically at your business. That is, ROI at its finest.
with Ross Simmonds
If you’re unfamiliar with Foursquare, it’s a smart phone location-based app that allows you to “check in” to businesses and specific locations you’re currently visiting. From there, Foursquare shares your “check in” with your friends and rewards you with points, along with special merit badges. In a nutshell, this is a fun social app for your customers and a powerful business tool if you’re looking to improve the customer experience. That said, there are only a handful of businesses in Nova Scotia utilizing the power of this channel. It’s a huge missed opportunity and one that I’m here to explain. Here are two easy ways to get started Tip # 1: Create Offers for Your Business As soon as you sign up and claim your business on Foursquare, you will have the ability to offer special discounts when someone checks in at your location. The process for claiming a business on Foursquare costs nothing but a few minutes of your time. All you need to do is visit the Foursquare merchant page (foursquare.com) and sign up! And like that, you’re in! As a consumer, you will often search for nearby businesses that are offering deals to take advantage of the Foursquare Privilege. The Foursquare Privilege is the concept built on the “old school” approach to a customer loyalty program, where players are competing to become the “mayor” from gaining points when they check in at as many places as they can. As a business owner, this is great because for every check-in at your business, they are sharing it with a network of friends. The privilege comes from the fact that many businesses reward customers who “check-in” with discounts and perks. These perks and offers 33 ...
tend to be strategically developed to encourage repeat business, new visitors and large groups of people. To put it simply, this can act as a great loyalty and/or couponing platform. What type of offers can you provide your customers? Here is an example: • Friends Special – Many things are better with friends, and specials are no different. So why not offer a special for customers who check in together, like a free appetizer for the table or a 15 percent discount on accessories to facilitate loyalty and word of mouth?
Tip # 2: Encourage & Embrace Free Advertising Earlier this summer I decided I was going to start up my second year of golfing and see what I could do. When I arrived at the golf course the first thing I did was pull out my smart phone and check-in using Foursquare. Before I did that however, I took a picture of the green and only then did I upload it to Foursquare, Twitter and Facebook.
This form of always being connected isn’t limited to me. This is a shift in the way we communicate that’s happening across the board. For this reason, it makes sense for you to at least consider Foursquare. You see, by me sharing this “check in” not only on Foursquare but also on Facebook and Twitter more than 1,000 people saw it. That is, more than 1,000 people were informed that golf season was here and on top of all that, the name of the golf course was promoted. So there you have it. Most users will check in without thinking, but others may need to be asked or encouraged. The most effective way to encourage users to check in is through signage and by promoting check-in specials or deals. You may not realize it but you’d be surprised how easy it is to get a customer to do something that costs them nothing.
For more information check out Foursquare.com. If you’re interested in more social media tips and tricks check out my blog at: www.RossSimmonds.com.
Regional Report Northern 2 Njabulo Nkala Over the summer, BBI has continued to find ways to help Black-owned businesses succeed. This ranged from the jam-packed Race to Business Success Summit in June that provided potential business opportunities to strategic partnerships to mentorship and training opportunity. In July, along with BBI CEO Mike Wyse and staff from the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development, (CEED), I travelled to Antigonish and New Glasgow in the northern region to meet with various stakeholders and partners including Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC), Northern Opportunities for Business Limited (NOBL) staff, the dean of Saint Francis of Xavier University’s business school, employment counsellors and business development professionals. This trip not only provided us with an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, but identified other
resources and opportunities available by working together and leveraging our abilities and resources in the northern region. The Business is Jammin’ summer program has ended. Additional information on the camps can be found on our website and in this issue. Finally, I would like to congratulate Lyndon Hibbert, owner of Caribbean Twist restaurant on opening a new location at the Discovery Centre on Barrington Street in Halifax. Please pop in to get a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine while supporting and investing in a Black-owned business
Please contact me at (902) 426-4281 or email nkala.njabulo@bbi.ns.ca regarding events in your area or if you have questions about the BBI’s programs and services.
Ross Simmonds www.rosssimmonds.com Ross Simmonds is a graduate of Saint Mary’s University with a double major in Marketing and Human Resources/ Industrial Relations. The East Preston, Nova Scotia, native has his own digital marketing company, targeting small and medium-sized businesses. He’s also a member of the digital marketing team with the Halifax advertising agency, Colour.
For information on business opportunities with Encana’s Deep Panuke natural gas project in Nova Scotia’s offshore, visit the Deep Panuke pages on the Encana website at www.encana.com/deeppanuke/business
For information on career opportunities at Deep Panuke, visit the Careers section on Encana’s website or the Career Beacon website at www.careerbeacon.com
www.encana.com twitter.com/encanacorp
facebook.com/encana
youtube.com/encana
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Community & Business Events
September 28 -29
October 25
Holiday Inn and Conference Centre, Truro 8:30am - 4:30pm Info: 902-893-3265 / email: info@cehhospice.org
World Trade & Convention Centre For more information contact: Melissa Hawkes, Senior Event Manager melissa@halifaxchamber.com 902-481-1350
Sharing the Knowledge in Hospice Palliative Care
September 29
Nova Scotia Home for Coloured Children Idol Auditions
New Beginnings Church, 26 Cherry Brook Rd 10am – 4pm Successful candidates will be featured on the NSHCC Annual Broadcast for Funds (Dec. 9, 2012) Info: (902) 434-0674 x2 / jpugh@nshcc.ca Solo & Group Performers Welcome October 2
Atlantic Prosperity Summit
World Trade & Convention Centre / www.apcc.ca October 3-8
Maritime Fall Fair
All Ships Rise Conference
November 1
Halifax Chamber of Commerce - Annual Fall Dinner
Averting the Health Care Crisis: Are we Ready for Radical Change? For more information contact: Melissa Hawkes, Senior Event Manager melissa@halifaxchamber.com 902-481-1350 November 6
Watch Us Grow! 2012 Conference Centre for Women in Business
Exhibition Park, Halifax / www.maritimefallfair.com
Rosaria Student Centre, MSVU Campus Info: (902) 457-6449 / cwb@msvu.ca
October 6
November 16
Halifax Metro Centre Noon Tip-off (General Admission) Info: 1-888-493-3388 / AMLCares.com
World Trade and Convention Centre 10am - 4pm / www.cardiohealthshow.ca
Toronto Raptors Intra-Squad Game
October 10
Coady Celebrates’ Gala Dinner
World Trade and Convention Centre Keynote Speaker: The Right Hon. Michaelle Jean, UNESCO Special Envoy to Haiti 6pm Reception / 7pm Dinner Tickets: $150 per person ($75 tax receipt) / Table of 10: $1,500 ($750 tax receipt) Info: 902-867-5264 / coadyevents@stfx.ca www.coady.stfx.ca/coadycelebrates October 11
Halifax Chamber of Commerce - Business After Hours
Presented by Neptune Theatre Spatz Lounge, 1593 Argyle St., Halifax / 5 - 7pm October 21
Recognizing Learning, Skills and Competencies Westin Nova Scotian Hotel, Halifax Info: Alexia McGill (902)422-1886 / amcgill@agendamanagers.com
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Cardio Health Show November 24
HRM Christmas Tree Lighting Grand Parade, Downtown Halifax 6pm - 7pm / www.halifax.ca/events December 2012
Black Business Initiative Christmas Social
TBA
December 2012
Feed Nova Scotia’s Learning Kitchen
16 week program covering life skills, pre-employment and culinary training For more information contact: Robert Lundrigan 464-3031/ rlundrigan@feednovascotia.ca
To submit items for Community and Business events, please contact : Beverley Parker (902) 426-8683; Fax: 426-8699 or email bbi@ bbi.ns.ca
COUPONS Welcome to a new feature of Black 2 Business - The Coupon Page. Each issue we will include valuable discounts offered by a variety of businesses. If you are interested in including a coupon, please contact us at bbi@bbi.ns.ca SPEND SPEND
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Your choice of Jerk or Curried Chicken served w/ Rice & Peas & two cans of Pop
5467 Cornwallis Street, Halifax NS www.passagetothecaribbean.ca
Not valid with any other offers or coupons Expires December 31, 2012
Your one stop shop for all your wedding and event decor/linen rentals 902 719 8584 • www.beautifullinenrentals.ca • contact@beautifullinenrentals.ca
Present this coupon and receive 20% OFF your rental items
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Valid until Dec. 2012 • Not to be combined with any other promotions
Buy One Get One 1/2 Everything! Facebook.com/touchofsoulfries.
Buy one, get 2nd of equal or lesser value for 1/2 off the Touch of Soul Fries menu price. Please present coupon upon ordering. One coupon per person per visit. No cash value.
3 Pinehill Drive 902-865-1516 Lr. Sackville, NS slic@eastlink.ca "CELEBRATING 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS"
50% OFF ALL SERVICES At SLIC LASER Hair Removal Clinic Mention the Fall Issue of the B2B Magazine and receive 50% OFF ALL SERVICES At SLIC LASER Expiration: December 31, 2012
Book Your Home Carpet Cleaning &
425-5619 - 830-1113
Receive 15% off
Deodorization is always Free!
Mention this coupon when booking. Must provide coupon at door. Coupon valid until December 15, 2012
The BBI is not responsible for any incidental or consequential damages that may be incurred by users of these Coupons. The BBI offers no guarantee of the information contained on these coupons. Please direct any questions or concerns regarding these offers directly to the coupon vendor.
If undeliverable return to: The Black Business Initiative Centennial Building Suite 1201,1660 Hollis Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 1V7 Agreement No.
0040026687
numĂŠro de convention
0040026687