The Periodical of the Black Business Initiative

SUMMIT SUMMARY

Also in this Issue • Cassandra Dorrington Coach takes the Chair • Howard Shearer Carter Talks Business Average Is • Preston Businesses Not Enough take awards Fall 2006 ◆ Number 34 “A dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia Business Community.” Black to Business 1 Fall 2006 In this Issue Message from the Board of Directors Cassandra Dorrington, Chair, Black Business Initiative Message from the Board 1 Message from the Chief Executive Officer 2 I will benefit from the work of those who have come before me, who Cover Story 3 Coach Carter- Average is Not Enough have worked to strengthen this orga- Paul Adams Paul nization, to see it flourish and thrive Coach Carter calls it 5 – Hector Jacques, Gordon Tynes, Vale & Associates 6 Barbara Manning, Mike Wyse, Human Resource Management Garnet Wright, and countless other & Consulting Inc. Board members and individuals Howard Shearer 7 from business and the community. President of Hitachi Canada What they have done for the BBI is Dean Anderson 8 Dean’s Consulting Services what we continue to work so hard to do for our clients, those entrepre- Mayann Francis 9 neurs who need that extra push and Installed as Lieutenant-Governor et me begin by recog- the tools to get to the next level. SUMMIT SUMMARY 13 nizing the hard work Annual General Meeting Dinner of my immediate pre- “Indeed, I am extremely and Dance Gala L decessor, Garnet Wright, as Business is Jammin’ – Youth Summit pleased to be the Boat Cruise Chair of the Black Business newest chair of the BBI Golf Tournament Initiative Board of Directors. BBI, an organization

Trailblazers 15 Although he had the pressing that has a record of 2006 Summit Award Winners obligation of managing his fiscal accountability Howard Shearer 17 own growing enterprise, he and does what it says Taking a Hard Look never failed in his volunteer it’s going to do.”

Will 2 Win - Will Nijoku 18 responsibilities to the Black Business Initiative (BBI). We For the last five years, I’ve had People & Businesses on the Move 19 thank him and look forward the opportunity to be part of that CULTURE BEAT 22 to his continued support on process, both from the board of George Elliott Clarke the executive in the role as directors point of view and person- BBI 2006 Training Schedule 23 ally in my own business, Vale and Past-Chair. Associates. So I know first hand how BBI Stats 23 vital this organization’s work is and New BBI Staff 23 Indeed, I am extremely pleased to how far and wide its reach can be. be the newest chair of the BBI, an Business is Jammin’ 24 organization that has a record of Now in our eleventh year of opera- Summer Youth Coordinators fiscal accountability and does what tion, my term in the role of chair Racism has no place at work 25 it says it’s going to do. I have been will no doubt shape the future direc- associated with a number of orga- tion of the organization. Over the nizations in the past and never Regional Reports past few years our Board has been have I seen the thrust for account- building the policies and structures Business is Jammin’ 8 ability as in the case of the BBI. to get us to the future. The planning Southern & Training 9 And it’s that kind of integrity and is now over and, as I begin my term, Northern 10 commitment that makes me proud. continued on page 10> Business Development 25 Black to Business is the official periodical of 1575 Brunswick Street, The Black Business Initiative and is published quarterly - Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2G1 spring, summer, fall, and winter. Its goal is to support the Phone: 902-426-2224 Fax: 902-426-6530 BBI as it fosters a dynamic and vibrant Black presence Toll Free: 1-800-668-1010 within the Nova Scotia Business Community. E-Mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.bbi.ns.ca

For Advertising Information, Rates, Submitting Published by: the Black Business Initiative Stories, Notices or Community Events, Editor in Chief: Rustum Southwell or for More Information, Design & Layout: Design North call: 902-426-2224 Production by: Mirabliss Media Productions Cover Photograph: contributed Mailed under Canada Post Publications Mail The Black Business Initiative Sales Agreement no. 1599402 Cover inset photograhs by Paul Adams Black to Business 2 Fall 2006 Message from the Board of Directors Message From The Chief Executive Officer Cassandra Dorrington, Chair, Black Business Initiative S. I. Rustum Southwell

election on June 13, and congratu- careers. As we march on with our lated Percy Paris on becoming the mandate, we do so with the comfort third elected Black member of the of knowing that no one of us is as

Peter Marsman Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia. strong as ALL of us. I remain proud of the professional staff we have Adams goes on to say, “The bar recruited over the years. has been raised higher than ever for Black achievement. And it’s We have forged effective relation- important to remember that Blacks ships and true partnerships with the themselves have done the raising. public and private sectors. Support It is clear that we of African descent from the business sector – as seen in will never again be as we were sponsorship of our events by major before.” Considering his history in corporations like Global TV, Aliant, s I compile this re- this province, it is not such a stretch O’Regans, GenieKnows, Progress, to believe him. and so many others – is one accom- port, I reflect on yet plishment. However, agencies like another summer at As I was out of the office on leave the Greater Halifax Partnership, A for several months, it was especially Nova Scotia Business Incorporated, the BBI. In June we celebrated gratifying to see that the staff works Blue Water Business Development, our tenth anniversary, and effectively as a team. What BBI is the Office of African Nova Scotian today is the sum total of the work of Affairs, and others provide the plat- although the weather did not many people over the past decade. form to make us better at what we completely cooperate with all There are the board members who do. have given freely of their time and of our plans, it was otherwise expertise to contribute to the Black Public policy drives corporate direc- a very successful summer. community and a dedicated, pro- tion and by extension private behav- fessional staff that has performed iour, so we are clearly pleased with above the expectations set for them. the continued support of both levels In fact, Wayne Adams captured the Everyone who has participated in of government. It is important that essence of the summer and the Fifth this initiative is responsible for its we remain entrepreneurial and not Summit in the July 4, 2006, edition successes. purely administrative and continue of his weekly column in the Daily to develop a progressive relationship News in a commentary entitled It is important to continue the mis- with governments. On the provincial “Mind-boggling progress.” Adams, sion by retaining and recruiting side we will continue to work closely the first Black member of the provin- good people to our board and staff. with Premier Rodney MacDonald cial legislature and a former cabinet Garnet Wright has completed his and Minister Richard Hurlburt in the minister, was also instrumental in tenure as the Chair and will now sit Office of Economic Development, the creation of the Black Business on the executive as Past-Chair and and federally, we look forward to Initiative Task-Force that designed Cassandra Dorrington begins her a strong relationship with Minister the Black Business Initiative business term at the head of the organiza- Peter Mackay and the Atlantic model in 1995. tion. As I offer a warm welcome to Canada Opportunities Agency. Cassandra and prepare to give her Speaking of his feeling of pride at all my support, I also thank Garnet Six years ago when we started the this year’s summit, Adams said, and commend him for a job well business summits, we did so with the “This has been a mountain-top continued on page 10> done on behalf of the Black business awareness that we represented small week in the Black experience, with community. companies in a small market. Our Mayann Francis, and now this!” position was that we have the entre- He later adds: “I applaud Prime We also congratulate Jill Provoe, preneurs, the people, concepts and Minister Stephen Harper on his who has taken up a new position products to also supply a national appointment of the stellar and noble with the Nova Scotia Community and worldwide market. Mayann Francis as the Queen’s College. We will miss her at the representative in Nova Scotia.” This training department, along with The best example of excellence we was not all, he also commended the Kyndra Taylor and Luke Jefferies had was Hector Jacques of Jacques five Black candidates who stood for who have also moved on to other continued on page 10> Luke Jefferies is a former BBI by: Luke Jefferies, regional business development as told to Chad Lucas manager who was assigned to host Coach Ken Carter dur- Photography: Paul Adams ing his time in Halifax as the keynote speaker for the Black Business Initiative summit. This is Luke’s personal insights of his time with the popular entrepre- neur and motivational speaker, whose story was told in the 2005 Paramount Pictures film Coach Carter, starring Samuel L. Jackson as the coach.

was anxious as I picked Coach Carter up at the air- Iport on Wednesday night; I was looking forward to meet- ing this individual whom I’d heard so much about. The fi rst thing that struck me about him is that he’s so humble – he addressed me as “sir.” I could tell right away that he was all about respect.

It was about 11 p.m. once we checked Coach Carter into his hotel room, but we spent the next few hours talking. He rec- ognized that I was passionate about the community here and he wanted to know more about it. I was impressed – he could have just come in and crashed that night, but he really wanted to give of himself and share knowledge.

I found that out even more the next “Many know me as the of a day. A lot of speak- coach ers will fly in, do their thing and hurry out of basketball team in the movie, town, but Coach Carter wasn’t but in fact I am a life coach.” like that. As we went over his Black to Business 4 Fall 2006 SUMMIT SUMMARY schedule, the first thing he told while, Coach Carter handed me me was, “I don’t want to have his jacket and said, “Now we’re ‘free time.’ I want you to make going to play some ball with sure I get out and reach the com- these kids.” He didn’t stop until munity. I want to see and touch he’d had a chance to meet with as many people as I can in Nova them all one-on-one, signing Scotia.” autographs or offering pointers. He shared with them some of At the luncheon, he really the key messages from the film touched the crowd, especially the and his life such as the impor- He flew out late the next morn- young people in the audience. tance of education, goal setting, ing, but he wanted to use every His speech drew a standing ova- and respect. Not every speaker last bit of time he had so we tion, but Coach Carter wasn’t would take the time to go out headed to the Community done there. He went around the and get sweaty with a group of YMCA on Gottingen Street room, shaking hands and meet- kids. But that little bit of time where he met with another ing people one-on-one; in fact, he and encouragement he gives group of student. Again, he didn’t even take time to eat his could mean so much to them. played ball with them and dinner! He just managed to grab met with every single child he a few bites before we headed to From there we took a tour of the could. While dripping with the North Preston Community Black Cultural Centre, as Coach sweat, he took time to pose for Centre.

There were more than 75 stu- “If you get one percent better dents waiting for us at the gym there. After talking to them for a a day, within 100 days you’ll be 100 percent better.”

Carter was very interested in photos and sign autographs knowing more about the com- and then he went on to do munity. Dr. Henry Bishop pre- interviews with local TV and sented him with mementos of radio. the occasion. The Coach was As we said goodbye at the amazed at the rich culture and airport, I think he was sad to history of the Blacks in this leave. He’s a guy who lives life province. on the road all the time, but I think he really connected and Then it was back to the hotel for felt understood in Nova Scotia a brief hour’s rest before head- during his brief time here. He ing out for the BBI boat cruise and I have spoken several that night, where he again took times since then, and he has the time to meet with people the feeling that he’ll be back, one-on-one and talk with a lot especially to work with youth. I of small-business owners. It’s think he really believed in what amazing how full of energy he he saw here. I know I can’t put is – he just goes non-stop, con- into words just how he had an necting with people. impact on my life. Black to Business 5 Fall 2006 Coach Carter Bruce Erskine SUMMIT SUMMARY calls it Halifax Herald Limited

Mr. Carter, whose motto is “Average is them with stories about growing up en (Coach) Carter says not good enough,” directed much of with seven sisters - “I learned early the attributes that he his almost evangelical presentation to in life to get along with ladies” - said a large group of young black people he can’t tolerate whiners and choos- Kfamously cultivated who attended the summit. es to accentuate the positive. in his California high-school While he acknowledged that young people still face systemic discrimina- “There’s a lot of great that’s hap- basketball team apply in all tion today that can and often is used pening in this world and that’s what walks of life, including the as an excuse for failure, he said they I kind of concentrate on,” he said. can only succeed by coming to grips “There’s two types of peer pressure, business world. with, and surmounting, the world in I tell people. There’s negative peer which they live. pressure and positive peer pressure. I Paul Adams Paul

“Of course,” he said in an interview “My situation that happened in just reversed it and concentrated on in Halifax on Thursday, where he Richmond, Calif., was about real peo- the positive things with the boys, not was the keynote speaker at the fifth ple who had real problems and were all the negative things in our com- Black Business Initiative summit. searching for real solutions,” he said munity.” “People want to do business with before taking the stage. “What I want people they like. Period.” these kids to take from this presenta- He noted that his positive approach tion today is this - that kindness and worked at the tough inner-city Mr. Carter, a sports store owner origi- respect, and having accountability school where he coached. nally from Mississippi, made head- in your life, will never ever go out of “Statistically, it shows that you are lines in 1999 when he banned the style. Period.” 80 times more likely to go to jail talented high-school basketball team than you are to go to college in he was coaching in Richmond, Ca, Mr. Carter noted that most people Richmond, Calif., and you find that from the gym over concerns that his don’t care that a black person might across the country in inner cities players weren’t focusing enough on have to overcome more obstacles than that 50 per cent of the kids never their schoolwork. someone else on the road to success. will graduate,” he said.

The story was later turned into a “It’s written nowhere that life is sup- “But you know what, we’ve been popular movie starring Academy posed to be easy. You may have a real fortunate in our school with Award nominee Samuel L. Jackson different set of challenges, but who’s me coaching, that every kid I’ve - “Samuel Jackson is taller than I am, really listening?” he said. ever had in my program graduated, but I think I’m better-looking,” he every one of them has gone on to quipped - and Mr. Carter has become “Eighty per cent of the people don’t college,” he said, outlining his four- a popular motivational writer and care about your problems and the point prescription for life success. speaker. other 20 per cent are glad it’s you and “We have accountability in our lives, not them. So the only one you’re feel- we have integrity, we learn how to That talent was evident Thursday, as ing sorry for is yourself. You can’t have be a great follower before we can be he entered a ballroom at the World a pity party. Period. You need to do a great leader, - and guess what? We Trade and Convention Centre to things and move forward.” are part of a team.” thunderous rap music, trading high fives and tossing Coach Carter wrist- Mr. Carter, who had the audience eat- Reprinted by Permission bands to an adoring throng. ing out of his hand while regaling Copyright © 2006 The Halifax Herald Limited Black to Business 6 Fall 2006 Vale & Associates Human Resource Management and Consulting Inc. Shauntay Grant

“(After) being out Both sisters volunteer their time with there for a num- a number of community organiza- ber of years (and) tions. And with their busy work sched- understanding ule, little time is left for vacation. Peter Marsman what the corporate world was like, “Running your own business is both of us were tough work, and there’s a lot of time ready to make involved,” says Cassandra. “I manage changes in our my personal time around my clients lives,” says Cynthia. right now.”

The sisters devel- “I have to agree with that,” adds oped a viable busi- Cynthia. “That’s just part of doing ness plan, and Vale business. You don’t have the opportu- & Associates was nities to take blocks of time for vaca- born. tion. If we had something set aside Cassandra & Cynthia Dorrington, Vale & Associates (for) vacation and a client comes in “When the oppor- and they need that time, you give up hat’s it like working tunity came to work with Cynthia, it your vacation.” “ with family?” just seemed like an ideal relationship to be able to have someone whose Even still, the sisters agree that in the WMy question is met with warm skills complemented your skills,” end, it’s all worth it. laughter from sisters Cassandra and says Cassandra. “We also had the Cynthia Dorrington, co-founders of background of knowing each other’s “If someone had told me that (I Vale & Associates Human Resource style, quality and values. And when would) have this much fun in busi- Management and Consulting Inc. you walk into business with someone ness, I wouldn’t have stayed in the other than that, those are all learn- corporate world as long as I did,” says “I don’t have a problem because ings that – in addition to learning Cynthia. we’re not only sisters, we’re best about your business – you have for friends,” says Cynthia Dorrington, your first few years. But we have the Cassandra agrees. “If someone had VP Client Relations with Vale & advantage of having all that behind told me how great I’d feel in year Associates. us; we can simply just focus on the three, there would have been no hesi- business.” tation moving into it, and I would “It was a match made in heav- have done it a lot sooner. . . . You en,” adds Cassandra Dorrington, Since opening its doors three years have to be willing to sacrifice your President of Vale & Associates. ago, Vale & Associates has signifi- personal finances, your personal time, cantly broadened its client base. things along those lines... But unless Three years ago the Dorrington sis- you step into that, you will never be ters took a chance at running their “We’ve actually gone international able to garner as much satisfaction own business after two decades this year,” says Cynthia. “We have from your job as you would by being working in the high-tech / telecom- some contract work in the Caribbean, your own boss. It’s a fantastic experi- munications / consulting industry. as well as some work in Africa.” ence.”

Cassandra worked for 20 years “When we started off, we had these with organizations like Aliant Inc., calendars that had a lot of blank Vale & Associates xwave, and Deloitte Consulting, spe- spaces on them,” says Cassandra. Cassandra & cializing in accounting and human “So if anyone (called to request) a Cynthia Dorrington resources. While Cynthia’s back- meeting, we were available. Now ground in information technology, we’re to the point that there’s not [email protected] project management, training and that much white-space into the cur-  www.valeassociates.ca development saw her working 19 rent upcoming months. So when we’re booking with clients now, we’re years with Aliant Inc., xwave, and (902) 455-1114 Minacs Worldwide Inc. booking three months out.”  Black to Business 7 Fall 2006 Reflections of: Howard Shearer SUMMIT SUMMARY President of Hitachi Canada

Carol Dobson

ne of the fi rst things his last visit. He decided to accept they teach in “tour the BBI’s invitation to the Summit and advance” classes because of his friendship with O Adams Paul Nova Scotian Senator Donald is that anyone working as an advance staffer must be Oliver. During their chats, he told Gordon how much he enjoyed the prepared for anything. Some- landscape, the Halifax waterfront, times the guest a staff person and that he had fallen in love is assigned to host is a delight with the view from his hotel win- to work with. Other times, dow. Howard Shearer well, let’s just say there are no There was a little bit of downtime regrets when the plane door related event was a breakfast at for this busy executive between closes and off they fl y into the the Marriott Harbourfront Hotel the end of the speech and his sunset! on Friday morning. The Greater return trip to Toronto, where Halifax Partnership (GHP) had he would be heading straight assembled a group of business and to a weekend corporate retreat. government leaders with an inter- Gordon took him out to the Black est in IT and high tech to meet him. Cultural Centre for a tour conduct- Paul Adams Paul The guest list was a “who’s who” of ed by Dr. Henry Bishop. the community with representatives from the GHP, the Atlantic Canada “He was very easy to Opportunities Agency, Aliant, xwave, and Emera, on the list. From deal with. Everything all accounts, it was an extremely successful gathering. fell right into line and Senator Donald Oliver Mr. Shearer was happy Fortunately for Gordon Doe, his tour with everything.” and advance duties accompanying Paul Adams Paul Howard Shearer, the president of Hitachi Canada, was a pleasure. “His nephew serves in the RCMP and he found his picture on the ‘Wall of Honour’ at the BCCNS,” Doe says. “That gave him an Paul Adams Paul Hector Jacques, Cassandra immediate connection to the com- Dorrington and Eric Viscioso munity.’

“I picked him up around 11:30 to go Throughout their two days to the World Trade and Convention together, Gordon discovered that Centre,” Doe says. “He was very his charge was a very quiet, unas- hands-on when it came to his pre- suming man who preferred to Barbara Manning and Orrin Benn sentation. He fired it up himself go through his day simply and and made sure everything was ready methodically – checking off each “I hadn’t met him before but I had before he took his place at the high activity/priority on his to-do list as a picture of him,” Doe says. “So, I table. When it came time for his the day progressed. went to the airport and watched the speech, he spoke for about 45 min- faces coming down the escalator.” utes.” “He was very easy to deal with. Everything fell right into line and Shearer came to Halifax on Shearer had been in Nova Scotia Mr. Shearer was happy with every- Thursday, June 22. His first BBI- before but it had been a while since thing.” Black to Business 8 Fall 2006 Reflections of: Howard Shearer Dean Anderson President of Hitachi Canada Dean’s Consulting Services Shauntay Grant

Anderson. “(She) “I want to leave behind a legacy wanted to know of blessing other people with the if I could help information I’ve been blessed with,”

Peter Marsman her out. I told her, says Anderson. “People need to be ‘I’m on the bus, able to go and find the solutions but I’ll be there in for their computer issues.” five minutes.’ So I hoped off the bus, As a result, Anderson has flooded got in my vehicle his website with free technical at the Park & resources and Internet downloads, Ride, and came as well as a range of gospel-related right over.” The resources (links to daily Bible study, problem: a new gospel radio, etc.) Internet-user dis- appointed that “People need more technology,” Dean Anderson, Dean’s Consulting Services her new e-mail says Anderson. “They need to be address boasts spiritually fed as well. Which is ean Anderson is a peo- her full name. why I’ve been making information ple person. “My motto readily available.” has always been, ‘If I “I just smiled,” says Anderson. D “She’s an older lady – close to her “I am thankful that I am able to can help somebody ... my liv- eighties – and she just preferred to stay competitive by the fact that ing shall not be in vain”, says use her initials.” my business is not my livelilood,” the local entrepreneur. adds Anderson. “If God has blessed A quick fix for an accomplished me, why not use my hobby to bless Offering information technology (IT) computer solutions provider, other people?” and math tutoring consulting ser- though Anderson has successfully vices on a part-time basis has been tackled enough tough jobs that his Anderson’s prized pastime since reputation has grown even without 1982. His experience with database steady advertising. development and administration, web development, and a range of “I haven’t been promoting my busi- operating systems and applications ness – it’s been spread by word of has guided his work with a num- mouth, what others have been say- ber of organizations, including the ing about me.” Capital District Health Authority (where he spent eight years working And what are people saying? as a Senior Oracle Systems Analyst). “(Dean Anderson) is able to trouble- Today Anderson is a Senior Systems shoot/remedy problems effectively Analyst with Keane, an interna- & efficiently” – one of the many tional business and IT services accolades posted on Anderson’s firm. But Anderson is probably best website. known around town for his success- Dean K. Anderson, IT ful side venture. Since 2004, Dean’s “He is da man!” boasts a Lower Consultant Consulting Services has helped Sackville resident. many people solve a host of com- puter-related problems. And the boss “Your gift is priceless,” raves a client is always on call. from Champaign, Illinois. (902) 877-1077 cell “Once a lady called me up and said Anderson says “the gift” is his open www.deansconsulting.ca she was having some problems and honest manner of sharing with her computer,” remembers information with others. Black to Business 9 Fall 2006 REGIONAL Mayann Francis REPORT Installed as Lieutenant-Governor SOUTHERN & TRAINING REPORT “The lieutenant-governor brings a Julius wealth of personal and professional Kanyamunyu experience to her new duties,” said Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign I would like to congratulate Robert Affairs. “Ms. Francis has a tradition of leading by example. Her years of Ffrench and his partners who have public service and her promise to reach started a company called Hoops out to communities indicate that the Innovation based in Kentville, Nova lieutenant-governor has a busy and Courtesy Communications Nova Scotia productive time ahead.” Scotia. It is a sporting goods/ basketball equipment company At the installation ceremony, the lieu- that is launching the Shot Loc tenant-governor’s deep family ties were Shooting Aid & Shooting Program evident. In addition to using the Bible Lt.-Gov. Mayann Francis inspects given to her father, the late Archpriest as its initial product. The Shot Loc the Guard of Honour George A. Francis, the lieutenant-gov- is a preformed foam, finger spacer ernor asked that her brother-in-law, designed to put the wearer’s hand sing a Bible that be- Archbishop and Primate Vincent longed to her late father, Millard Waterman, of St. Philips in the most fundamentally sound Mayann Francis took the African Orthodox Church in Sydney, position to shoot a basketball. U offer the opening prayer at the cer- oath of office, today, Sept. 7, emony. as the lieutenant-governor of In the training department, we Nova Scotia. Her interest in young people and the continue to offer the popular Web arts was also clear. Several young Design course and a new workshop A former director and CEO of the Nova Nova Scotians performed at the cer- debuted this past quarter, Canada’s Scotia Human Rights Commission emony. Celeste Williams, from Halifax, and Ombudsman for the province, played the violin. Jonathan Munro, Paper Money. However, we have the Whitney Pier native is the second from Truro, Tiyaila Cain-Grant, from had to cancel a few courses namely: woman, and the first African Nova North Preston, performed vocal selec- Creating a Winning Business Plan tions. Scotian to become the Queen’s repre- and the Entrepreneurship 101 sentative in the province. Guests at the ceremony were also workshops that were to be offered “The lieutenant-governor has champi- treated to a performance by the in North Preston, East Preston, oned the rights of her fellow citizens Inspirational Singers, a multi-cultural Lucasville and in Halifax for lack throughout her career,” said Premier choir from Sydney. The choir has Rodney MacDonald. “I know she will been invited to sing at the Multi-cul- of attendance. We will continue apply her career and life’s experiences tural Festival in Dartmouth and had to offer courses and workshops toward the betterment of our province the opportunity to sing for Queen according to our listed schedule Elizabeth II during the ecumenical and all of its citizens.” and we hope to see more people service held in her honour on Her The lieutenant-governor said she looks Majesty’s last visit to Nova Scotia in registering for them. upon her new role as one of continued 1994. service to community, and of opportu- If you have any suggestions for nity. A DVD of the ceremony and a booklet on the Canadian Monarchy will be training courses to be delivered, I recognize its historical significance, sent to social studies classes in grades either in metro, in the regions, constitutional prerogative and public 7 -12. Teachers will be able to use it to or for information and to book a help students understand the rights importance which must never be com- regional visit, please contact me at promised either by partisan appear- and responsibilities of citizenship and ance or actions,” said the lieutenant- the origins, functions, and sources of (902) 426-8685, toll free governor. “My solemn pledge is to power, authority, and governance at 1-800-668-1010 or by email at always serve to the best of my abilities [email protected] and uphold the respect which the Source: Provincial government news office deserves.” release www.gov.ns.ca Black to Business 10 Fall 2006

Message from the Message from the Board of Directors Chief Executive Officer REGIONAL continued from page 1 continued from page 2 REPORT & NORTHERN TRAINING REPORT we are already in the early stages Whitford. In recognition of his Evan of implementation. As we move hard work with the BBI and Williams further into implementation, there in his honour, we created the may be an opportunity for your Hector Jacques Award of Business input – and in some instances your Excellence. And new this year, the The summer session began with active involvement – as we contin- Entrepreneur of the Year Award final preparations for the 2006 uously look to our businesses and was created to recognize Black- Summit. This summit was my first. the Black community for feedback owned small businesses. I was pleased with the profile and and/or assistance to ensure that we anticipation around the summit and continue to address the evolving In this issue we profile these win- with all the activities offered from the needs of Black businesses. ners. George Thomas of United boat cruise to the golf tournament. Dental became the third winner There were many workshops that We are fortunate to have a good of the Hector Jacques Award of would benefit BBI clients and the working relationship between the Business Excellence and Simmons general public. Those who attended Board of Directors and the staff Paving Ltd. became the first win- were pleased with the relevance and of the BBI, who are ably quali- ner of the Entrepreneur of the Year quality of the workshop facilitators. fied to deliver on our operational award, Gloria Simmons accepted Keynote speakers Coach Carter and strategies. In fact, as we celebrated the award on behalf of the com- Howard Shearer were empowering our tenth anniversary year dur- pany. and brought a positive message of ing our fifth business summit, it is success and belief in oneself. obvious that the combination of Finally, I must congratulate the the business community and the staff and all the planners for their I would like to commend the strong presence of our youth bode part in what could be the most U.N.I.A Hall in Glace Bay on having well for our future. The captivat- memorable business summit. The a successful official launch of their ing energy of Coach Ken Carter two keynote speakers inspired us. renovated interpretative centre. and detailed business delivery of Coach Ken Carter, who was so I attended the launch and was Howard Shearer, CEO of Hitachi energetic that we are surprised the impressed with the transformation. Canada highlighted an outstand- sprinklers did not come on for all What a difference a year makes! ing summit. More than 200 dele- the energy and heat in the room, The launch was well attended. The gates attended the conference with gave strong messages especially to community is really behind the hundreds of others attending the the youth. And Howard Shearer, cause. keynote sessions. president and CEO of Hitachi Canada challenged us to become Those looking to start or expand a Recently, Nova Scotia has made involved in all the business pos- business in the near future should history with the appointment of sibilities around us. We were very be planning now. Running a Nova Scotia’s first Lieutenant pleased that Senator Donald Oliver business takes hard work, research Governor of African Canadian not only helped us to get Mr. and planning to be a success. descent, Her Excellency Mayann Shearer to our summit but also Francis. With such an auspicious took the time to introduce him at I look forward to assisting in sign marking our eleventh year lunch. increasing community development of operations, I can say that I see opportunities and business nothing but a bright future ahead The BBI was particularly proud to development opportunities in the for the BBI and the Black business expose youth delegates to this life- African Nova Scotian community. community and I am honored and changing experience. We get all of For more information or to book a excited to be a part of it. our satisfaction in knowing that regional visit please contact me @ we were a bit of help. And it still (902) 426-6692 or 1-800-668-1010 makes us happy to see a business or by email @ williams.evan@bbi. grow. ns.ca.

Cassandra Dorrington, Chair Please be advised that during the winter months, my regional travel will be contingent upon weather and scheduled meetings S.I. Rustum Southwell, CEO GHPInvestorBBI_Sept_06_FLOP.ai 9/21/06 9:45:03 AM

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Black to Business 12 Fall 2006 SUMMIT The Black Business Summit 2006 was another success. SUMMARY Attendance was high and the caliber of speakers and presenters continue Angela Johnson, Ed to impress. As we say goodbye to Photography: Paul Adams Various BBI staff contributions summer, let’s take a look back.

Annual General Meeting Dinner and Dance Gala Kyndra Taylor C

M The must attend event of the summer, the Black Business Initiative’s Y AGM Gala, took place at the Marriott Halifax Habourfront Hotel on

CM Friday, June 23rd, 2006. Our Hostess for the evening was BBI Incoming

MY Chair, Cassandra Dorrington.

CY The celebrations began with the singing of O Canada and the Black CMY National Anthem by Kienya Smith, followed by grace, given by K Reverend Glenn Gray.

BBI incoming Chair, Cassandra Dorrington gave the opening remarks and invited Mr. John Knubley, VP, at Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency to bring greetings followed by BBI outgoing Chair, Garnet Wright who shared some remarks and finally, BBI’s CEO Rustum Southwell who presented the report on Operations.

Several video montages were shown throughout the evening- the 10 year history of the BBI, a tribute to Past Chair Mike Wyse and finally a video tribute to Hector Jacques; our first Chairman and the namesake for the BBI’s Business award “ The Hector Jacques Award of Business Excellence”.

This year the recipient of the 3rd Annual Hector Jacques Award was George Thomas, United Dental. Also this year, the BBI introduced the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. The purpose of this award is to recog- nize demonstrated business excellence of a small company or entrepre- neur within within the Nova Scotian Business Community. The inau- gural recipient for the Entrepreneur of the Year Award was Simmons Paving Company.

The rest of the evening was a relaxed atmosphere with sounds pro- vided by NuGruv. SUMMIT SUMMARY Business is Jammin’ – Youth Summit Melanie Clarke

The purpose for the Business is Jammin’ (BIJ) Youth Summit was to build on the success of the previous summits, which created forums for Nova Scotia’s Black Business owners, professionals and youth to learn, share and network. The objectives of the summit for the youth delegates were;

- To continue to raise interest among Black youth in business and entrepreneurship. - To empower and instill confidence in youth delegates - To create opportunities for youth to network with conference delegates, as well as youth delegates from across the province - To provide the youth with models of successful Black businesses, as well as potential role models and mentors - To have the youth participate in workshops covering such areas as marketing, management, customer satisfaction, growth strategies and communication - To increase leadership development skills and improve access to resources for Black youth.

Business is Jammin’ sponsored 15 Black youth from various communi- ties across the province to attend the event. The program is a province wide initiative therefore it was crucial to have representation from as many communities as possible. BIJ also invited and sponsored 11 youth from Lucasville and Hammonds Plains who were enrolled in a Youth Employability Skills Program.

The youth summit began with a presentation by Duane Gibson called “In the Zone”. Duane is a young entrepreneur, hip hop artist and “To empower and instill author who wrote an A+ thesis on hip-hop and graduated on the Dean’s list from York University. He is also a Guinness Book World confidence in youth Record holder for freestyle rap. The young artist impressed everyone with his skills, along with his delegates” strong message to find something you loved doing, work hard at it in order to achieve your goals.

The remainder of the day included workshops delivered by the Ed Matwawana from the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Education (CEED) and the rousing speech delivered by keynote speaker Coach Ken Carter.

“To increase leadership development skills and improve access to resources for Black youth” SUMMIT SUMMARY SUMMIT SUMMARY Photography: Paul Adams Boat Cruise Cheyanne Gorman-Tolliver

Always a popular networking event the Summit Boat Cruise is a time of relaxation and making connections while enjoying the spectacular views of Halifax Harbour. This year it was held Thursday June 22, 2006 on the Harbour Queen. The two hour cruise was filled with dancing, lots of laughs, and of course, networking. The entertainment was also a hit; music was once again provided by our most popular DJ, Ivan Skeete, and added this year was some comic relief provided by Taryn Della who brought back great memories by initiating cruisers in a game of “Name that Tune,” complete with prizes.

Upon boarding guests were truly surprised as there was an unannounced guest to greet them. Coach Ken Carter decided to come out to see the sights and enjoy the company of all aboard. The Coach was very down to earth, sitting and talking with fellow cruisers, taking pictures, signing autographs, and even showing off a few dance moves with BBI Board Members!

Approximately 101 people enjoyed the cruise and everyone is looking for- ward to the next one; wondering who will be the next mystery guest! “Coach Ken Carter decided to come out to see the BBI Golf Tournament sights and enjoy the company of all aboard.” Evan Williams

The “Black and White on Green” Golf Tournament concluded the Business Summit. The inclement weather did have a negative effect on many of the 47 registered participants attending the tournament but 29 Golfers participated in the event.

Only 3 teams were durable and tough enough to complete the soggy 18 holes. The team of Larry & Daniel Gibson, Brent Allison, Jerry Murphy won the tournament. The Most Honest team went to Joe Parris, Julius Kanyamunyu, Greg Boudreau and Evan Williams.

Prizes were awarded to Gracie Southwell for Best Female Swing; Longest Male Drive, Peter Mugridge; Youngest Golfer, Paul Hayes; Most Mature Golfer, Tom Boyd; Best Dressed Male, Robert Loppie; Best Dressed Female, Margo Hampden; Most Wet Golfer, Mike Hayes; Driest Golfer, Eric Viscioso; Best Female Short Game, Yvette Amirault and Male Closest to the Pin went to Jerry Murphy.

The hole in one automobile was provided by O’Regan’s and Investors Group. Hole sponsorship was purchased by Royal Sun Alliance. News 95.7 provided airtime to promote the tournament. Other prizes were also issued by Global, Bank of Montreal, BDC, Kwik Kopy, NSBI, Pauline’s Beauty Shop, Juice Eh, The Bin Doctor, Labatts, Waterbury Newton, AC Dispensing, Jacques Whitford, Genieknows.com, Oak Leaf Interiors, Casino SUMMIT SUMMARY Nova Scotia and Cambridge Suites. Black to Business 15 Fall 2006 SUMMIT SUMMARY Trailblazers

very year the Black Business Initiative board of directors grants the Hector HECTOR JACQUES Jacques award to a company or individual within the Nova Scotia Black Ecommunity that has demonstrated business excellence. AWARD WINNER The company or person must have been in business for a minimum of three George Thomas of years with at least 30 percent black ownership. This year, it should be no surprise to see George Thomas of United Dental picking up this award. United Dental “The most exciting thing about growing my business has been the changes.5 We have gone from being a $400,000 business to a $3- million business. The more changes you make, the more you learn

Paul Adams Paul because you have to keep up. To see all the changes that have taken place in dental technology have been amazing and exciting.”

George Thomas says he got into the business over 40 years ago through on the job training. “They didn’t have a training program in those days, I worked for one of the largest labs east of Montreal. I took training in Manhattan and then in 1972 I went on my own and opened a lab in Prince Edward Island as part of a partner- ship. I became the first Black residential dental technician in Nova Scotia, and the first black Lab owner in the province. We ran that lab for over 20 years.

“The way we grew is we bought small labs and hired people. We cross-train. We don’t have a lot of supervisors so people are responsible for the work they do. There is no assembly line. The person who starts the work will also finish the work. Our training is very different. We have a learning centre and put on cours- es for people as well.”

“We deal with quite a few of the high-end dentists. We do full end construc- tion, veneers and crowns. We get a lot of work from Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and as far away as New York and Bermuda.”

Thomas says he doesn’t worry about the money part of the business. His philoso- phy is quite simple. Treat people right, do a great job and be true to yourself and others. He says these are the things he thinks of first. He says communication is the key.

George Thomas and his partner Wayne Banfield are in their sixties. But instead of slowing down, the duo are looking at even bigger and better things. Thomas says they are currently in the process of trying to get college status for training. “Dentists and technicians should be trained on the same level since they are working in the same playing field. The demand is there and education is what we are pushing for. Where are we going? I have no idea but I want to take it as far as it can go.”

“Getting the Hector Jacques award is an amazing thing,” he says. “Just to get recognized by your own community, that is what makes it really special. We have kids coming up behind us and we have to make things better for them to move through.”

George Thomas is the seventh of 16 children born to East Preston natives John and Arlene Thomas. He is married with three grown children.

United Dental is located at 3020 Oxford Street in Halifax and at 49 Esplanade Street in Truro. Black to Business 16 Fall 2006 Trailblazers 2006 Summit Award Winners

he Entrepreneur of The Year Award is given annually to a Black-owned business or to an entrepreneur owning a small business. The Black ENTREPRENEUR OF TBusiness Initiative defi nes small business as a company that has been in successful operation for at least three years and generates less than $1- million in sales annually. The person or company must demonstrate business THE YEAR AWARD excellence within the Nova Scotia business community. Simmons Paving This year BBI is proud to present the award to Simmons Paving. Vice President Carlo Simmons is carrying on with a tradition of excellence that has been in the community for more than 30

years. Adams Paul

“The business was started by my father (Wilfred) and mother (Gloria) in 1974. I watched how he dealt with people, how he did the scheduling. My father was involved in the business right to the end [of his life]. I consulted him and he oversaw the business. He passed away two years ago.“

It is an understatement to say that Simmons Paving is a family owned and operated business. Brother Edward is the office man- ager. Brother Wilfred Junior is the job supervisor. Brother Winslow does maintenance and sister Barb acts as an advisor. There is an uncle, a nephew, three cousins and the first person you get to see or speak to Gloria Simmons and Family when contacting the company is his niece Michelle. Accepting Award

“One of the great things is that we have grown so that we can take on much larger jobs. Now the driveways we are doing are on average $7,000 and $8,000 and we are doing much more commercial work. One of the hardest things is not being able to compete for the larger jobs, because we have to buy materials from those same suppliers that are also bidding on those jobs. I remember bidding on a job five years ago and they really liked us. If we could have come in $10,000 to $15,000 cheaper we would have gotten it, but we couldn’t afford that. The competition is fierce. But good competition is great for everyone.”

But Simmons says there are other great things about his business. He loves the fact that he has flexible hours and that the business has been able to provide secure employment for family and community members. “It is great being able to see people realize their goals, getting nice homes and vehicles and being able to move on in life not having to worry about their next pay cheque.”

Carlo Simmons says winning this award is special because he is being recog- nized by the industry and most importantly by the people of his community. He says he is proud because he knows the expectations are high and feels this is quite an honour.

Carlo Simmons was born and raised in North Preston. He has been married to his wife Loretta for 15 years. Together they two lovely daughters, nine- year-old Kyla and five-year-old Karetta.

The business is currently situated at 17 Wilfred Joseph Drive, in North Preston named after his father. SUMMIT SUMMARY Blacklack toto Business 17 Fall 2006 Taking a hard Clare Melloy SUMMIT SUMMARY look Halifax Herald Limited

“But there are many Another time, those he worked wonderful examples with wanted to abandon a project

Paul Adams Paul in Canada of extraor- because they felt it didn’t fit in with dinary individuals the Hitachi’s vision. He believed who have risen to otherwise and risked his career by the top of the heap, going against the opinion of senior notwithstanding the managers and taking his belief to slings and arrows of the “highest level of the organiza- discrimination,” Mr. tion. “ Oliver said. Often it is easier to follow the pack, The three-day confer- but “if you truly believe what you ence that concluded are saying is true, then you must act Howard Shearer Friday was spear- . . . go against the grain,” he said headed by the Black usinesses in Nova Business Initiative Society, a prov- Mr. Shearer reminded his audience incewide program to develop busi- that every business has its politics Scotia and the rest ness and job opportunities among but that it is ultimately important Canada need to take black Nova Scotians. to focus on the work or the result B before playing that game, he said. a hard look at their senior Born in Jamaica, Mr. Shearer “You will succeed on the merit of executives and boards of moved to Canada in 1971 and what you are trying to achieve.” joined Hitachi as a semiconductor directors, Nova Scotia Sena- engineer in 1984. The Fortune 500 Years ago, Mr. Shearer said he was tor Donald Oliver told those company, known for its develop- often the only black person in the ment and manufacturing of elec- room when he went to business attending the Black Busi- tronics, information systems, power functions. ness Summit in Halifax on and industrial systems, and con- sumer products, has 700 employees He quickly learned the best way to Friday. in Canada and 320,000 employees meet people was to squeeze into a globally. table that was almost full, instead “Bay Street boardrooms remain of sitting at one that was empty. predominantly white and male,” he On Friday, Mr. Shearer urged those said. “Executives and board mem- in business to walk “outside the bers are chosen by a clique of white box” and always be true to their “Make sure you keep establishment insiders. values. your word. It is going “Regretfully, the Nova Scotia busi- “Make sure you keep your word. ness establishment is little different.” It is going to carry you through to carry you through tomorrow” Modern corporate governance prin- tomorrow,” he said. ciples for choosing competent senior “The point is . . . you must engage executives and board positions are At one point in his career, Mr. your customer,” Mr. Shearer said. virtually unknown in this country, Shearer said he walked into a meet- he said. “Even a casual glance at ing with executives and didn’t allow “You must engage your colleague. the weekly summary of corporate himself to gloss over some poor You must engage your friend. You appointments in the Globe and Mail results, even though he was certain must engage every stranger that confirms this salient point.” he would be fired as a result. you meet because there is some- thing to be learned. That is nature Mr. Oliver made the comments “At the end of the meeting I was of Canada. That is the nature of Friday while introducing conference promoted,” he said. “Too often in business.” keynote speaker Howard Shearer, business we like to give the good president and CEO of Hitachi story. We like to say what is opti- Reprinted by Permission Canada Ltd., who is black. mistic.” Copyright © 2006 The Halifax Herald Limited Black to Business 18 Fall 2006 Will 2 Win SUMMIT SUMMARY Will Njoku

national team and playing profes- for Personally Empowered People. sionally throughout Europe and Asia. Created by Bedford educator and entrepreneur Laurie H. Davis, PEP is

Paul Adams Paul But more than 10 years later, Will 2 a series of workshops, offered online Win is a reality. or in person, designed to help anyone from children to adults in personal Njoku, who graduated from Halifax growth and overcoming obstacles in West High School and Saint Mary’s their lives. University, said he always knew he wanted to help and motivate people “I have to bring the same once his playing days were over. intensity and determination What began as a casual thing – work- that I did in pro basketball ing with kids a few hours a week, running the occasional basketball to this business,” camp – has expanded into a full-time business that has seen Njoku speak to about 25,000 people in the past 18 “It has put me in a position now months. where I have a licenced program to help support people in the changes “I had positioned myself well in the they want to make,” Njoku says. community that people had interest Will Njoku and Halina St. James in me and wanted to hear me speak,” Njoku, who casts an imposing says Njoku. “I figured, I’m solving a shadow at six feet nine inches tall, problem here so there must be a busi- says many of his philosophies trans- ill Njoku’s entry into ness in there somewhere.” fer from the basketball court to the the world of entre- business world. He describes how preneurship is a clas- “I had positioned myself he recently “crashed” a Canadian W Association of Principals conference: sic case: he saw a product and well in the community he just showed up and started meet- thought he could fi nd a way to ing people, and before long a group make it better. that people had interest from Saskatoon had invited him out to speak at a conference. in me and wanted to In Njoku’s case, that product was a “Make sure you keep basketball camp. The lanky then- hear me speak,” “I have to bring the same inten- 17-year-old, a budding star on the sity and determination that I did . It is going hardwood, had been to dozens of in pro basketball to this business,” your word camps with friends to improve his says Njoku, who played in France, to you through ” skills. Njoku’s approach has shifted from Germany, Belgium, China, Turkey, carry tomorrow offering recreational programs for Portugal, Kosovo and Macedonia “We always talked about how we kids to serving as a motivational before retiring in 2004. “I’m taking could do a better job, or how we speaker for anyone from school class- risks and putting myself out there.” would do it if we were to run it our- es to business leaders. He was one selves,” says Njoku. “I said ‘Hey, we of the featured workshop leaders at He shares those ideas in his inspira- can call it Will 2 Win.’” the annual Black Business Initiative tional messages as well. Will 2 Win’s Summit in June. philosophy is built on the acronym That idea was put on hold for a S.A.F.E.: Set your feet, Aim high, and while – after all, Njoku had other “That was a lot of fun, and it was Follow through Everyday. things on his plate, like a storied nice to get a trip back to Halifax,” basketball career that included a says Njoku, who moved to Toronto in It works for making a jump shot and Canadian university Player of the January. it works in life, says Njoku. Year Award at Saint Mary’s in 1993, being drafted by the NBA’s Indiana He has started training as a coach in On the web: Check out Will’s Pacers, a stint on the Canadian a program called PEP, which stands business at www.will2win.ca Black to Business 19 Fall 2006 People & Businesses on the Move YaNRo

Her Honour Mayann Francis Summer Institute was held in La Amistad’s visit to Halifax assumed the office of mid July at the North Preston and Shelburne was full of spe- Lieutenant Governor of Nova Recreation Centre. During cial events, diversity training Scotia in early September. Her the Institute, the Nova Scotia programs (which included a appointment was announced Department of Education sail on the replica vessel), and by the Right Hon. Stephen made a major announce- opportunities to tour the ship. Harper in late June. ment about a new initiative at A static display on the ship Mount Saint Vincent University and its story is on display at Hector Jacques was singled which will be counted among the Maritime Museum of the out as this year’s Petroleum the first steps towards creat- Atlantic until September. Pioneer of 2006 by OTANS. ing an Africentric Learning This award is presented to Institute. The Menelik Hall Association someone who has ‘made an in Whitney Pier is conducting a outstanding contribution to The annual Africville study of African Nova Scotian the development of the Nova Reunion was held the week- men to determine their partici- Scotia petroleum industry. The end of July 28. This year’s pation rate in early screening award will be presented at the events included a dance at the programs for diseases such as Petroleum Pioneer Dinner being Blue Bistro (formerly the Old prostate cancer and diabe- held at Halifax’s World Trade & Tap/Derby), kid’s day, and the tes. The study is headed up Convention Centre. annual memorial church ser- by Clotilda Yakimchuk, with vice. The Freedom Schooner results being released in late Congratulations to Bradley La Amistad anchored off September. Daye who was named the Male Africville and played a major Athlete of the Year at St. Pat’s part in Sunday’s program- The “King of Wings”, Billy High. He excelled in football, ming. Johnson, was profiled in Wayne basketball, and track. Adams’ column in the “Daily Six Nova Scotians had an News” in late July. In the arti- Forty young people from incredible experience this sum- cle, Johnson tells his story of African Canadian and mer as they participated in the cooking wings first in Montreal Mi’kmaq communities attend- Sankofa Project – a component and later in the well-known ed a 10-day long camp at of the Freedom Schooner La trailer on the 107 highway. Dalhousie entitled “Connecting Amistad’s successful visit to Communities”. During the Halifax. Courtney Williams, The East Preston community camp, participants attended Julian Colley and Brandon rallied around Harold and film-making workshops, com- Tolliver of East Preston sailed Hazel Brooks on July 21. Last munity development sessions, with the ship from Halifax to year, the Brooks’ home was as well as sessions on dancing Connecticut, while three other destroyed by fire. Members of and drumming. teenagers, Shacawn Clayton, the community banded togeth- Ryan States and Jeremy er to build a new home for the The annual Africentric Tolliver, were on the voyage couple. Leadership and Management from Connecticut to Halifax. Black to Business 20 Fall 2006 People & Businesses on the Move continued...

On July 6, 30 students from The members of the Emmanuel Basketball player Shylanda St. Patrick’s-Alexandra and Baptist Church had a busy Saunders, of East Preston, has Caledonia Junior High Schools weekend on August 12-13. It been awarded a scholarship to participated in Imhotep’s was a weekend jam-packed the Kent Prep School, in Kent Legacy, a university and com- with special music by Micah Connecticut. A community munity partnership that ‘that Stampley, Gary Beals, the fundraiser was held on August promotes educational, social, Hallelujah Praise Choir, and 19 to raise funds to assist with and personal development of the LaPointes, special guest her living expenses. young African Nova Scotian speaker, Rev. Albert White learners by engaging them in from Baton Rouge, LA. The BBI held at “Lunch with math and science, after-school an Entrepreneur” program in activities’. CTV News was on A number of events and initia- Kentville on July 28 for youth hand to profile the program. tives are in the works to help aged nine-15. the Black Loyalists Society Leslie Carvery has opened a following the devastating fire There’s a new radio station café at her Shakin’ It’ Dance on March 31. A healing week- in Halifax – Z103.5 – and it’s Studio at 5523 Cornwallis end was held on September going to be specializing in rap, Street. The menu includes tea, 24-25. The Black Educators hip-hop, soul, rock, and R&B. coffee and sweet treats. Association has established “The Black Heritage Society Floyd Kane’s new soap opera Next summer, 10 Nova Relief Fund”. The Whirligig “North/South” which features Scotians will be travelling Book Shop in Shelburne is the antics of four Halifax fami- to Ghana as part of the hosting a “Sponsor a Book” lies – the Kilcoynes, Colleys, “Connecting to Africa” pro- program to help the society Toulanys, and Singhs – debuted gram. It will be a significant rebuild its library and the on CBC TV on July 4. time to be in that country as Nathaniel Dett Chorale pre- it celebrates 50 years of inde- sented a special fundraising Hammonds Plains hosted pendence from Great Britain. concert in Halifax on July its annual CanJam Festival Participants will find them- 10. Among the organizations over the July 1st weekend. It selves working on education offering financial aid is the NS included basketball, fireworks, a and community development Department of African Nova Canada Day parade, and enter- programs in that country. Scotian Affairs which gave tainment by Asia & Nu Gruv. a donation of $12,000 and The memory of two young paid for the printing of 5000 Afro-Musica has had a busy North Preston men, cousins of the Society’s brochures in summer with performances at Jontia Whynder, 20, and time for the 2006 tourist sea- the Multi Fest, the Stan Rogers Romaine Provo, 21, who were son. (Donations to the Black Folk Festival, Toronto’s Afrofest, killed in a tragic car accident, Loyalist Society may be made the Atlantic Jazz Festival, the has been preserved with the at any branch of Scotiabank.) Amistad Gala Receptionand the building of a memorial garden Halifax-Dartmouth Natal Day in their honour. Following the 2006 election, the festivities. Hon. Barry Barnet remains in The “Saved by Grace” choir, the post of Minister of African The great Bo Diddley was the headed up by Shauntay Nova Scotian Affairs. Percy guest of honour at the first Grant, was one of three choirs Paris, of the NDP, was elected Dutch Mason Blues Festival featured on Vision TV’s reality in the constituency of Waverley- held at Alderney Landing on season ‘Gospel Challenge’ this Fall River. the weekend of August 11-13. summer. continued on page 21> Black to Business 21 Fall 2006

People & Businesses years in a different part of the key characters was one of the on the Move continued... Maritimes, this year, the Halifax featured plays at this year’s Regional Municipality and the Ship’s Company Theatre in An African Dance Camp for Annapolis Valley. Youth from Parrsboro. Myrtle was played women (over the age of 21) those areas along with visiting by Julia Williams and Frank entitled “Dikita” which is a youth from the region, Ontario, MacKay played her ‘washed- shona (zimbwean language), and Massachusetts, hosted up’ writer husband, Jacob. for sweat was held August “Creative Kids Clubs” during 25-27 at Mount St. Vincent the week-long event. Halifax native and RCMP offi- University. The camp featured cer, Craig Smith was named African dances, including The 13th annual Tribute to the President of the Black Hockey Gambian, Zambian, Kenyan, Second Construction Battalion and Sports Hall Of Fame by Zimbabwean, South African, was held at the deCoste Centre the Society of North American Carribbean and Ugandan as in Pictou on July 8. During Hockey Historians and well as African poetry, art, and the ceremony, the Zion United Researchers (www.sonahhr. drama. Baptist Church of Truro was com)on August 29, 2006. presented with a special cer- SONAHHR held a conference at The Cumberland African tificate of honour recognizing the Dartmouth Sportsplex from Nova Scotia Society held its Truro’s veterans. August 25 - 27th. first annual “Homecoming Weekend” on the weekend “The Satchmo Suite” is head- Congratulations to Tracey of July 31. It featured social ing for a season of touring Crawley who has been styl- events, arts and genealogical which includes performances ing a vast clientele for over displays, a special church ser- in St. John’s, Newfoundland a decade at London Hair vice at the African Methodist & Labrador, and the Saidye Design on South Park Street in Episcopalian Church, and Bronfman Centre in Montreal. Halifax. The salon is also cel- entertainment. Jeremiah Sparks will step back ebrating a 30 year milestone. into the role of Armstrong while One of the events at this year’s Andrew Moodie will perform Atlantic Jazz Festival was “The the role of Hubert. Eastern Gospel Truth”, which was Front Theatre’s Hans Boggild, described as ‘A celebration of the who co-wrote the production, evolution of gospel music’. It was has left his job at Eastern Front held on July 16 and featured to travel with the production. The Sympathy of the Black the Saved By Grace Gospel BusinessIn Memoriam: Initiative is extended Choir, Oumou Soumare, Rev. Floyd Colley, of Truro, has suc- to the friends and families of: Wallace Smith, the St. Thomas cessfully entered a contest on Baptist Church Junior Choir, a gospel website. The prize – a - Rev. Wrenfred Bryant and Marko Simmonds. visit by Grammy-winning pas- (June 1, 2006) tor/singer Marvin Sapp to the On Sunday, July 16, the church of the winner’s choice. - Dwight Sparks Beechville Baptist Church held He found out in February that (July 9, 2006) a special Community Heritage he was successful and on July Days celebration featuring the 20, Sapp appeared at the St. - Elias (Lydie) States Rev. Clarence Armstrong and Thomas United Baptist Church (July 16, 2006) historical presentations. in North Preston. - George A. Skeir, More than 1300 teens and “The Mystery of Maddy Heisler”, Brother of youth leaders came together a story set in wartime Nova Rev. Dr. Donald Skeir, in July for Tiday Impact 2006. Scotia, with a young Black (September 11, 2006) This is an event held every two woman, Myrtle, as one of the Black to Business 22 Fall 2006 George Elliott Clarke Nova Scotia’s Poet, Playwright and Scholar

But it’s also a sign of growing inter- Chad Lucas

Julie Morin est in African-Canadian literature worldwide, says Clarke, who has He’ll delve into family history again spoken on the subject at universities for his second novel, tentatively and conferences from Barbados to titled “The Motorcyclist,” which Belgium. He said it’s the diversity of Clarke says is based on the life of the Black experience in Canada that his motorcycle-driving father in the makes its writings so unique to the 1950s. rest of the world. “It’s also my attempt to try to under- “When you talk about Black stand my father, what it must have Canadian writing, you have every- been like being one of very few Black thing under the sun. There isn’t just men on motorcycles,” he says. “I’ve one point of view,” says Clarke, a heard it was a pretty impressive Governor General’s Award winner thing when my dad and his friends for his 2001 collection Execution would roll into a Black community Poems. on their motorcycles.”

“It’s a medley of accents, but also a That project is still in the early stages rainbow of skin colours,” he says. but the opera about Trudeau is eorge Elliott Clarke “That’s what makes it unique in the nearly finished – several of the songs knows how to rack up world. That’s why I think people were previewed at Acadia University Gthe air miles. are gravitating toward it more and in June and Clarke recently read part more.” of the libretto in Toronto. He expects When we first spoke in late spring, the complete project to debut in the author-poet-professor was Clarke’s own writings exemplify that Toronto in May or June of 2007. winding up a whirlwind six weeks diversity. He is probably best known that had seen him touch down in as a poet, but his output is as var- While his subject range may vary Montreal, Ottawa, Moncton, Tahiti, ied as it is prolific. Since releasing and his influence around the world England, Poland, Halifax (twice) and George and Rue last year, Clarke has grows, Clarke says he always consid- St. John’s, with a couple of pit stops published two volumes of poetry; ers Nova Scotia special to him. at home in Toronto along the way. (1) Illuminated Verses and (2) Black. He also has in the works a collection “I continue as a writer and as an art- “The last month has been par- of academic essays, a book of narra- ist to be strongly influenced by my ticularly hectic,” confessed the ever- tive poems, a first draft of his second youth as well as by the community,” cheerful Clarke, a native of Three novel and an opera about famed he says. “(African Nova Scotians) Mile Plains who now lives in T.O., Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau. are great people because of the fact where he’s the E.J. Pratt Professor of they have maintained a distinctive Canadian Literature at the University The well-travelled Clarke might do culture without any support from of Toronto. much of his writing in hotel rooms, anybody. I think it’s something to be but he often finds his inspiration proud of.” The fact that Clarke’s in such close to home. Both Execution Poems demand at home and abroad is and George and Rue are based on Editors Note: partly a testament to his own grow- the lives of his cousins, George and It was announced on September 8, ing reputation. His first novel, Rufus Hamilton, who were hanged 2006 that George Elliott Clarke will for the murder of a taxicab driver in George and Rue (HarperCollins), has receive the Order of Nova Scotia. The earned critical acclaim – the Toronto Fredericton in 1949. recipients were selected by the Order of Star named it one of the best reads of 2005 – and will be published in “For me, writing that story was a Nova Scotia Advisory Council from 97 Turkey this fall, while a collection way to try to enter into the universe nominations received from across the called Burning Poems was released of the 1930s and the 1940s, what province. Recipients were recognized in Romania in September. Clarke growing up in the Maritimes meant at a ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 3, at was also recently awarded Romania’s for Black males, especially,” Clarke Province House in Nova Scotia Frontiers of Poetry award. says. Black to Business 23 Fall 2006

Black Business Initiative Business is 2006 Training Schedule for Metro Jammin’ REPORT Melanie Courses Date Time Clarke Bookkeeping Level 2 - Understanding your Business Oct 3, 10, 17, Finances 24 & 31 6-9pm

Simply Accounting – The Essentials of Nov 14, 21, 28 Business is Jammin’ (BIJ) strives to Computerized Bookkeeping & Dec 5 6-9pm encourage innovation and self- Course Fees: BBI Client - $20.00 Non-Client - $40.00 confidence in our youth and this year’s summer program was a Workshops Date Time huge success. With assistance from Service Canada, we hired four youth coordinators from communities Entrepreneurship 101 – Is Entrepreneurship Right Oct 18 in 6-7:30pm For You? East Preston around Nova Scotia. Along with the BIJ program that I ran at the Training Closing the Deal...The Art of Negotiations Nov 7 6-9pm Centre on Gottingen in Halifax; the four youth coordinators were also located in the Black Employment Intellectual Properties...Is your Business Protected Nov 8 6-9pm Resource Centres in Amherst, Kentville, Sydney, and Yarmouth.

Entrepreneurship 101 – Is Entrepreneurship Right Nov 15 in LUHP 6-7:30pm For You? Through their hard work and dedication, the Summer Entrepreneurship 101 – Is Entrepreneurship Right Dec 13 in Coordinators delivered 7 business For You? Halifax 12-1pm camps in Halifax, Dartmouth, Whitney Pier, Yarmouth, Glace Workshop Fees: $5.00 Bay, Shelburne and Amherst. They Registration is open to everyone. also facilitated 10 entrepreneurial To register for any session, please call 426-8683 workshops and presentations in Note: Courses, times and dates are subject to change. communities across the province. In total, we were able to foster the New BBI Staff entrepreneurial spirit in over 200 Melanie Clarke Black youth across the province. Junior Training Associate This year no youth run businesses started, nonetheless the BIJ camps were more successful than ever Melanie was born with a several young entrepreneurs in Antigonish, NS Paul Adams Paul bringing in up to $100 for their and grew up in excellent efforts! C h a r l o t t e t o w n , PEI. She is a recent graduate from Although summer is over, if you Dalhousie University have an interest or hobby, such with a double major as making Christmas bracelets or in Political Science and History. Melanie shovelling snow, that you would like has gained work experience with both to turn into a seasonal business, we the Nova Scotia Provincial Government can help you “be your own boss.” as well as the Federal Department of If you have any questions or would Veterans Affairs. She has worked and like to learn more, please call the continues to work with young people Training Centre at 426-8683 or toll as a soccer coach and leader. She is free...” and “...can also reach us especially looking forward to working through e-mail at [email protected]. with the youth in our Nova Scotia communities. Black to Business 24 Fall 2006 Summer Youth Coordinators Melanie Clarke

his summer was another fast paced, exciting and in particular put on a basketball successful one for the Business is Jammin’ (BIJ) tournament and made a profit Tprogram and the youth coordinators. We had four of over $100. Her workshops enthusiastic and great coordinators with Kelsey Jones in were very popular and had high Amherst, Jennifer Parent in Kentville, Robin Lee Seale in attendance. The workshops were Sydney and Jason Smith in Yarmouth. All four did fan- held at the UNIA Hall and the New Waterford Family Resource Centre. tastic jobs and were a pleasure to work with. Jason Smith Kelsey Jones the Kentville area and gave two did another delivered presentations and one workshop in great job one business the short time she had remaining. during his camp in the second Amherst area Robin Lee consecutive with six youth Seale ran two summer as in attendance. camps. The a BIJ youth She was also first one had coordinator able to give two seven children in Yarmouth. He found the new workshops and two presentations. attend and ran camp, “Business for a Day” easier Her presentations were extremely from July 17th to deliver and much more fun for successful; the first one was held until July 21st the participants. Jason also put at the Cumberland African Nova at the United together two camps for youth in Scotian Association (C.A.N.S.A) Negro Improvement Association his area. The first was a five-day office with 10 to 15 people in (UNIA) hall in Glace Bay. This session in early June held in the attendance and the other at the was the first time a BIJ camp was Yarmouth Black Employment Rotary Club with 50 people in held in the area and Robin found Resource Centre with eight attendance. Due to the fact that the it very successful and rewarding. youth in attendance. His second Black Business Initiative (BBI) Her second camp was held during camp was held in Shelburne the and BIJ did not have an immense the first week of August at the following week at the Nova Scotia presence in Amherst before, Kelsey Black Employment Partnership Community College (NSCC) and did a fantastic job of achieving Committee (BEPC) office in five youth attended. Jason added her goal to further awareness and Whitney Pier. The youth at this visits to local Black heritage and initiate a strong presence in the camp had all been through BIJ cultural museums to his camps and community for years to come. programs before and were very was delighted at the enthusiastic successful and innovative with and positive response from the Jennifer Parent their business ideas. One group camp participants. joined the youth coordinators All four youth coordinators enjoyed their experiences this four weeks summer delivering camps, workshops and presentations. They after they were hired. Even all agreed wholeheartedly that their favourite part of the summer though she had was working with the youth and seeing the progress they made less time, she during the BIJ activities. was still able to deliver a strong BIJ program in Black to Business 25 Fall 2006

Racism has no place at work BUSINESS Federal minister visits to promote federal strategy DEVELOPMENT Lindsey Keilty The Daily News (Halifax) REPORT Halifax - Garnet Wright hasn’t quality of life, so that people can Gordon Doe experienced direct racism in the feel safe and healthy in their work- I am sure everyone who attended our 5th workplace, but he says discrimina- place,” Blackburn says. Business Summit found it very enriching. It tion presents itself in many indirect was wonderful to listen to stories of business forms. “This means things like no sexual best practices and success from our local harassment at work, no psychologi- entrepreneurs. “It’s essentially about the message of cal harassment at work.” BBI launched the Summit with a press racism; it’s not necessarily specific,” conference featuring our four previous Wright says. The Racism-Free Workplace Strategy chairs and the then current chair Garnet is a component of A Canada for All: Wright. Additionally, in partnership with the “A lot of the time, it’s about getting Canada’s Action Plan to Combat Greater Halifax Partnership, we held a leaders your foot in the door at jobs, or situ- Racism. breakfast to welcome and introduce Hitachi CEO Howard Shearer to the Halifax and Nova ations where there is one token indi- Scotia business community. This meeting vidual who ends up taking discrimi- also served to initiate discussions on possible nation as the only visible minority.” Racism stats partnering opportunities between Hitachi and our local business community. As the former chairman of the Black Statistics behind the creation of the Racism-Free Workplace Over the summer months we continued Business Initiative, Wright had the working on our construction survey project. opportunity to meet with federal Strategy: Currently, the draft final report is being Minister of Labour Jean- Pierre prepared. The recommendations that follow Blackburn yesterday at the BBI - More than 1.4 million Canadians will map the second phase of the project. office in Halifax for the promo- reported being subject to racial I encourage all construction workers and business owners who have not participated tion of the Racism-Free Workplace discrimination (Statistics Canada’s Survey on Ethnic Diversity,2003). in the survey to visit the website http:// Strategy. www.bbisurvey.com/construction and fill it out. Your investment of six minutes holds - The workplace is the most “This may seem like a small office the potential to positively impact the vital common location where racism industry. space, but really big work goes on is experienced. in here,” says the institute’s CEO BBI is currently collaborating in full Rustum Southwell. “Halifax may - Race-based complaints represent partnership with the Halifax Regional be the last stop on the minister’s 36 per cent of all complaints filed Development Authority to provide support week-long national tour to launch under Canada’s Human Rights Act to advance a number of projects that have been identified within the Prestons, Lucasville the Racism-Free Workplace Strategy, (Canadian Human Rights Commission Report). and Hammonds Plains communities within but we believe it’s one of the most the Halifax Regional Municipality. We are important.” - One in six of Canadians adults pleased that Carolann Wright-Parks is leading BBI’s mandates include fostering (17 per cent or approximately this project. business opportunities and educa- 4,000,000) report that they have tion for members of the African- personally been the victims of The Black Business Investment Fund held its third Annual General Meeting at 39 Gurholt racism (Ipsos-Reid survey, March 21, 2005). Nova Scotian community, as well as Drive, Burnside Industrial Part on Friday, July promoting employment equity. 7, 2005. This location is the head office of “When you look at the staggering - With declining birth rates and an the Bin Doctor, the first company the Fund figures of racial discrimination in aging population, Canada will invested in. Shareholders had the chance to the workplace, it is reinforcing to depend on immigration for tour the facility prior to the meeting. continued economic growth. know that government is putting I had opportunity over the past months strong attention to the education of - In 2004-05, immigration in Canada to participate in a number of presentation employment equity and account- forums. I spoke about diversity in the accounted for more than 65 per ability,” Wright says. workplace at the Aerospace and Defense cent of the total population Conference, about the BBI model to a growth. Chinese government delegation hosted by Blackburn says the government is www.gov.gc.ca the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency targeting the statistics and aims to and about the Black Business Investment improve the numbers. Fund to others.

“I believe it is time, not only to have Finally but not the least, I encourage those of Reprinted by Permission you who require equity capital to grow your more minority groups within the Copyright © 2006 The Daily News (Halifax). business and investors who want to be part workplace, but also to have a better All rights reserved. of the Fund to call me at 426-6985. “Services for Entrepreneurs” «Services aux entrepreneurs»

The Canada/Nova Scotia Business Vous pouvez obtenir des renseigne- Service Centre provides FREE busi- ments GRATUITE en faisant appel au ness information to existing and Centre de services aux entreprises aspiring entrepreneurs. Canada-Nouvelle Écosse.

• Starting a business • Démarrage une entreprise • Financing • Financement • Taxes • Impôt et taxes • Research and Statistics • Recheree et statistiques? • Importing or Exporting • L’importation or l’exportation • And more ! • Et d’autre ! WWW.CBSC.ORG/NS 1-800-668-1010 Bin Doctor C.A. Wilkins Construction Ltd “Your investment in our business helped us open our new “As an electrical contractor, my greatest need is cash fl ow in recycling storefront and create composting solutions for offi ces order to profi tably execute projects. The BBCIFL was willing to and businesses. We’re now expanding into the Toronto market. invest in me. My business is now beginning to fl ourish.” Thank you, for helping us grow.” www.cawilkins.com www.bindoctor.com

Thank you for investing in us. Caution to Investor – This advertisement is not to be construed as an exempt offering to the public in Nova Scotia unless a simplifi ed offering document For information on how the Fund works and relating thereto has been fi led with and its use has not been objected to by the to become an investor, call Nova Scotia Securities Commission. The offering is made by the simplifi ed offering document only and copies thereof may be obtained from such sales Gordon Doe at (902) 426-6985 agents and promoters as may lawfully offer these securities in Nova Scotia.

If undeliverable return to: The Black Business Initiative 1575 Brunswick Street,

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