May 6, 2025 | Mississauga, ON

On the evening of May 6, 2025, the Federation of Black Canadians (FBC) proudly hosted the Black Builders Networking Event in partnership with RBC, bringing together past Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) participants, community members, allies, and ecosystem partners for an inspiring evening of connection, celebration, and insight.

From the moment guests arrived, they were encouraged to participate in a Bingo Challenge, which turned networking into an interactive experience with raffle prizes ranging from premium Black Builders memberships to exclusive services by certified professionals.

Celebrating Black Entrepreneurial Growth

The evening began with opening remarks from Chris Thompson, Executive Director at FBC, and a welcome from The Regional Vice President at RBC. Their presence reinforced RBC’s continued commitment to empowering Black entrepreneurs and supporting inclusive economic growth.

A standout moment was the BEP Certificate Ceremony, recognizing participants from FBC’s 8-week Black Entrepreneurship Program. For many, it was the first time connecting in person after completing the digital program. Graduates like Rodresa Aryee, Nina Barango, Erica Effah, and others were celebrated for taking bold steps toward building sustainable businesses.

Stories That Stick: Youth Entrepreneurship Panel

Moderated by Toni Agbajeojo, FBC’s Business Development Specialist, the first panel brought together BEP alumni to reflect on their entrepreneurial journeys. 

Speakers included:

• Nina Barango (SoPlugged) – on building platforms that meet Black entrepreneurs where they are.
• Erica Effah (Tiwaa Agency) – on content as a tool for visibility and impact.
• Margarette Leandre (CharismaggieTV) – on finding voice and community in digital media.

They discussed the highs and lows of starting and sustaining a business, the power of showing up consistently, and how the BEP program created a launchpad for confidence and clarity.

Main Panel: Unpacking Capital, Mentorship & Growth

The second panel, moderated by Chris Thompson, featured voices from across the business funding landscape:

• Louise Spence (RBC) shared candid advice on building bank-ready businesses.
• Adelin Brunal (Futurpreneur) emphasized the dual importance of funding + mentorship.
• LaMar VanDusen (PFG Financial) broke down the anatomy of a strong business plan.

The conversation destigmatized financial tools like loans and credit, and offered attendees real-world frameworks for preparing and pitching with confidence. More than theory, the discussion reflected lived experience—and it showed.

What We’re Building

FBC used this event as a springboard to introduce updates to its growing Black Builders ecosystem:

• A Trusteeship Program to support grant applicants.
• 1:1 business office hours for premium members.
• Community-driven programming rooted in lived experience and real needs.

To those who attended, thank you. To those building, we see you. Let’s keep growing—together. Register for our Black Builders Network today!