On June 6, 2024, the Halton Equity Diversity and Inclusion Roundtable (HEDR) gathered passionate voices to tackle a critical issue: racism in Canadian workplaces. The panel, facilitated by Dora A. Mugambi, CEO of BALM, focused on “Breaking Down Racism at Work: A Perspective of Canadian Workplaces.” This event was a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against anti-Black racism and the necessity of fostering truly inclusive environments.

Despite Canada’s multicultural identity, Black individuals often face systemic discrimination and marginalization in workplaces. The panel highlighted the disconnect between the country’s celebrated diversity and the lived realities of Black professionals. Through scholarly research and personal stories, the speakers revealed how anti-Black racism subtly infiltrates hiring practices, organizational structures, and workplace dynamics.

Key Discussion Points

1. Unconscious Bias in Hiring and Promotion Recognizing and confronting unconscious biases is crucial. The panel stressed the importance of scrutinizing hiring and promotion processes to ensure fairness and equity.
2. Diversity and Inclusion Training Implementing tailored training programs to address anti-Black racism can create more aware and empathetic workplaces.
3. Support Networks and Mentorship Establishing networks and mentorship opportunities can empower Black professionals, providing them with the support needed to navigate and succeed in their careers.
4. Amplifying Black Voices Ensuring that Black perspectives are included in decision-making processes fosters a more inclusive corporate culture.
5. Policy Advocacy Advocating for policy changes that dismantle systemic barriers is essential for long-term equity.

The plenary session was a testament to the resilience and strength of Black professionals. Panelists shared their personal journeys of overcoming racism, making bold career shifts, authoring leadership guides, and creating policies and networks to support Black and racialized individuals. One particularly moving story came from a young artist who experienced Black-on-Black racism but chose to uplift his community by founding a collaborative for artists.

The authenticity of these stories captivated the audience, prompting deep reflection and dialogue. The common thread among the panelists was a forward-thinking approach—striving to leave a better legacy for the next generation and creating a caring, supportive community.

The audience was deeply moved by the panelists’ raw authenticity. Attendees praised the speakers for candidly sharing their stories and providing actionable insights. Many were eager to understand how the panelists overcame various barriers and made significant strides in their careers despite systemic challenges.

Key Takeaways for Attendees

1. Mind Shifts and Resilience Understanding the mental resilience required to navigate and overcome racial injustices is crucial. The panelists’ stories underscored the importance of a positive mindset and the willingness to fight for change.
2. Future-Oriented Approach Adopting a futuristic perspective—aiming to leave a better legacy for the next generation—was a recurring theme. Panelists emphasized the importance of paving the way for future Black professionals, helping them avoid the setbacks they faced.
3. Community Building Building a supportive community that cares is essential. The idea of interconnectedness and mutual support resonated strongly with the audience, aligning perfectly with BALM’s ethos of healing and community engagement.

The HEDR event aligns perfectly with BALM’s mission of fostering healing and interconnectedness. The theme of “United we stand, Divided we fall” deeply resonates with our organization’s core values. The powerful stories and practical insights shared during the event contribute significantly to the ongoing effort to dismantle racism and build a more equitable future.

BALM’s Commitment to Change

At BALM, we believe in the transformative power of community, advocacy, and action. The narratives shared at the HEDR event highlight the profound impact of collective effort in driving meaningful change. We are dedicated to supporting initiatives that break down barriers and foster inclusive environments where every voice is valued and respected.

Practical Steps Forward

1. Implementing Diversity and Inclusion Programs BALM advocates for comprehensive diversity and inclusion training programs specifically designed to address anti-Black racism. These programs should cater to the unique needs of different organizations and their employees.
2. Creating Support Networks Establishing mentorship and support networks for Black professionals is essential. These networks provide a platform for sharing experiences, gaining insights, and fostering career growth.
3. Policy Advocacy Advocating for policy changes that dismantle systemic barriers is crucial for long-term equity. BALM is committed to collaborating with organizations and policymakers to drive these changes.

Join us in our mission to break down barriers and build bridges. Stay connected with BALM for more updates and opportunities to get involved. Together, we can create workplaces where every individual is empowered to thrive.

We are commited to healing, empowerment, and building a better future for Black people and other equity-seeking communities. Every donation helps us to continue our valuable work and make a lasting difference.

Ready to make a change? Your support can help us to manifest a vision of a world free of anti-Black racism and filled with opportunities for all to succeed. Donate today and be part of our journey towards empowerment and healing.

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Photos courtesy of HEDR 2024 event photographers.

By sharing these stories and insights, we hope to inspire others to take action and contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable world. Let’s continue to Believe, Act, Live, and Manifest a brighter tomorrow.

Background

The Propel Business Project (Propel), offered through the Master of Management (MMgmt) and MBA programs at the Haskayne School of Business and designed for students with diverse backgrounds, offers incredible real-life experience and networking opportunities. BALM was enthusiastic about collaborating with the Propel Project team,  as their goals align well with ours, especially in our program  area focused on advancing education and research. We were therefore very pleased to engage with Propel’s Coordinator to collaborate on this project.

While students received no compensation from BALM, they received remuneration for their work through their school.

Key Players

BALM’s collaboration with Propel started on January 14, 2024, and lasted till March 24, 2024, after providing 2 students a total of 100 hours of engagement. BALM’s Project Sponsor was Oliver Aygun while Gillian Robertson from Propel was the Business Case Coordinator.

Project Managers

Yemi Oyekan and Syed Asif Ahmed, who are students pursuing the MBA Program at University of Calgary, were our project Managers.

The Project

Since 2022, BALM has proposed creating the first online network of Black non-profit organizations to support capacity building and access to services that would  grow community organizations serving Black and racialized communities across Canada.

Project 1: Environmental Scan

Yemi Oyekan performed a detailed environmental scan of 20 prominent non-profit organizations operating in the USA and Canada that are devoted to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), with an emphasis on eliminating discrimination based on race. The report offers comprehensive insights into each organization’s purpose, operations, funding models among other areas that will offer an invaluable foundation as BALM formulates grant applications for the upcoming launch of the network platform.

Project 2: Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Platform (Syed Asif Ahmed)

Syed’s report focused on BALM’s network platform’s go-to-market strategy: The document serves as a comprehensive blueprint, meticulously outlining the project’s purpose, objectives, and the step-by-step process involved in envisioning the build and subsequent deployment. The report encapsulates the project’s essence and lays out a clear roadmap. The business requirement document also ensures alignment and coherence throughout the project lifecycle.

Syed also developed a financial model which will serve as a strategic tool as it consolidates various aspects crucial for project viability and sustainability. By providing a holistic view of the project’s financial landscape, including different options for progression. The financial model empowers decision-makers with the insights needed to make informed choices on the project’s financial feasibility, identify and assess potential risks, and explore optimization strategies.

We are delighted by the quality of project outcome that both students delivered through their research, detailed reports and financial modeling. We look forward to continued collaboration with the Propel Business Project team at University of Calgary’s Haskayne Business School. – Dora M. – President BALM

As we reflect on the incredible strides of the past year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. BALM remains committed to nurturing the aspirations of Black and other racialized communities, with a renewed focus on education, family cohesion, and entrepreneurship in 2024.

Now, as we look ahead to the challenges and opportunities of 2024, we invite you to join us in our journey:

Foster Family Cohesion: Be part of initiatives that reinforce family bonds and cultural legacies. Attend our family workshops and events that rebuild our connections and shared heritage.

Advocate for Education: Your donations fund educational programs that transform lives. By supporting scholarships and learning initiatives, you’re opening doors to knowledge and opportunity. Invest in a brighter future.

Encourage Entrepreneurship: Empower Black entrepreneurs who are ready to make an impact in our community. Your support provides the resources for startup workshops, mentorship programs, and business development coaching for aspiring creators and young leaders.

Amplify Our Voice through sharing our vision with your circles. Your action is a catalyst for sustainable change. Join us in crafting a year of progress, unity, and economic empowerment for our community. 

Step forward with us. Every contribution, share, and participation counts.

• Collaborated with UW Black Association for Student Expression (UWBASE) for two insightful workshops on Money Management and Investments.
• Black Students Association’s (BSA) at St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Secondary School in Oakville, hosted the inaugural BALM Black Professional Panel Engaging more than 200 students already in 2023.
• Black history Month at Urban Squash Toronto (UST) – Navigating Racism

DYK: 

A 2018 survey of 18-25 year old, conducted by YFP indicated:

• Up to 98% of youth had aspirations to build wealth in the future
• Approx. 27% held any investments or savings of more than $7500
• 65% did not invest because they did not know how to
• Approx. 50% were concerned that they did not have enough money to invest

Upcoming Events & Activities for 2024

February 07, 2024 – HCDS & BSA hosting BALM’s Black Professional Panel and + 2 Career Workshops (Resume building & Professional online presence).

January – March 2024 – BALM was selected as one of the successful non-profit organizations under Haskayne Business School’s Propel Program to host students on an internship program. The students will focus on an innovation projects that will contribute to solving a business challenge under BALM’s Entrepreneurship Program.

Initiatives

Strengthening the focus on Men’s Contribution in BALM’S Family Cohesion/Community Engagement Program. Look out for our Father’s day event!

Click here for more information in all upcoming events, activities, and initiatives.