The BEP French Cohort’s Pitch Competition on November 5th, 2024, was an unforgettable evening celebrating Black Francophone entrepreneurship. With over 80 attendees and a lineup of seven impressive pitches, this event for the Federation of Black Canadians’ French BEP cohort showcased the drive, creativity, and resilience of its participants. Program Manager Raquel Reid, led the event with the support of Bilingual Communications Assistant Gloria McMayoni, while Rizki Rachiq.

Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP)

The Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) is an initiative by the Federation of Black Canadians aimed at empowering Black entrepreneurs with the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to bring their business visions to life. Created to address the systemic barriers that Black entrepreneurs face, BEP offers not only business knowledge but also a supportive community. Through tailored guidance and a powerful network, BEP is designed to help Black entrepreneurs navigate their journeys with confidence and success. This year, the FBC successfully held a cohort  and competition in French for the first time, with hopes of serving a bilingual Canada!

The Pitches

The pitch competition was intense yet supportive, with each entrepreneur bringing a unique vision to the stage. Yann Saah set the stage with Grasper AI, a tech startup harnessing artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and provide data-driven insights across industries. His pitch highlighted AI’s potential to revolutionize business processes, setting a high standard for the night.

Next was Ebode Steve Lambert   who introduced Webinfiny, a platform designed to empower small businesses by enhancing their online presence and engagement. 

Patrick Aime Kankeu presented IRISTECH QUEBEC INC., a tech company dedicated to creating solutions that cater to regional needs. His focus on social responsibility and technological advancement made a strong impression on the judges. 

Known as Nadège, Abire Mayo  shared her journey with NADO MAYO ARTISTRY, a creative venture blending beauty with self esteem and mental health.

Manuela Simo’s  Touch Radiance focused on beauty and wellness products with an emphasis on natural ingredients and holistic care. Her heartfelt approach to self-care and empowerment resonated strongly with attendees interested in authentic wellness.

Rami Amina Kamagate , the culinary artist behind Traiteur aux Saveurs Uniques, presented her vision of blending African and international flavors to create unforgettable dining experiences. 

Closing the evening, Riquiel Keudem pitched WeSpare Finance Inc., a financial services company committed to providing accessible, ethical financial solutions for underserved communities. His compelling focus on financial empowerment earned him First Place.

Each pitch received valuable feedback from a distinguished panel of judges, each bringing specialized expertise. Benson Noisy, a leader in business mentorship, provided insights into the entrepreneurial landscape. Marketing expert Tenimba Camara offered guidance on brand potential and engagement, while Maimouna Niang, an advisor in career development, emphasized practical growth strategies. Bachir Cisse, a finance professional, contributed essential advice on sustainability and long-term success.

Our Winners

First Place (awarded $5000) : Riquiel Keudem – WeSpare Finance Inc.

Second Place  (awarded $5000) : Abire May – NADO MAYO ARTISTRY

Third Place (awarded $3000): Yann Saah – Grasper AI

Fourth Place (awarded $1000): Manuela Simo – Touch Radiance

Fifth Place (awarded $1000): Patrick Aime Kankeu – IRISTECH QUEBEC INC.

Audience Choice Award (awarded $2500): Ebode Steve Lambert – Webinfiny

The BEP French Pitch Competition was more than a contest; it was a testament to the talent, resilience, and potential within Canada’s Black Francophone community. The event underscored the power of unity, support, and vision to inspire lasting change, marking a pivotal moment for the Federation of Black Canadians,  the entrepreneurs and their community. 

To learn more about the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) and stay updated on future events, we invite you to visit our website, follow us on social media, and consider becoming a general member to enjoy exclusive perks and updates. Connect with us through the links below:

Website: Federation of Black Canadians

Social Media: Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn under @fbcfcn

Membership: Become a Member

Join us in empowering Black entrepreneurs across Canada!