I have been a small Black woman-owned business for close to three decades and I can tell you it is not easy. Although I have worked in various markets, I have always felt the sting of being judged because of my gender and the color of my skin whenever I was competing in the mainstream arena. I felt the need to under promise and always over deliver to just be considered.
However, my community has always embraced me and provided me with the guidance and support that I needed to grow and expand over the years to be successful, and I am grateful. The support I have been given has allowed me the opportunity to hire several employees and independent contractors and help them with their careers and businesses. It is such a good feeling helping to not only put food on people’s tables, but also helping them achieve their goals and the things they desire.
For over two decades, we have been celebrating Black businesses during August to recognize the impact and contributions of Black businesses in our communities. African Americans have made huge strides in the business world over the years, however, entrepreneurship and starting your own business can still be a challenge.
During the month of August, special emphasis is placed on identifying problems Black businesses still face such as financing, technology, and mentorship. There are different organizations and corporations doing their part to help close the divide for minorities to help them to not only survive, but also thrive. One such organization is the Black Business Association (BBA) under the leadership of Sarah Harris, president and CEO.
On Saturday, August 17, the BBA along with several community leaders and companies will hold the 2nd Annual Black Business Day Expo at L.A. Trade Tech College and it is free to the public. There will be over 60 business vendors with activities designed to celebrate and support Black-owned businesses. There will be music, speakers, a food court, and a beer and wine garden lounge among other things.
There will be an emphasis on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and making sure small businesses learn the information needed to grow and take their businesses to a higher level. There will also be promotional opportunities for businesses to market their businesses and share throughout the community long after the Expo is over.
The Black Business Association has been a leading advocate for the advancement of Black and small businesses in California for close to 50 years. They champion equal access to capital and contract opportunities, provide education, training, and mentoring resources, and facilitate networking, collaborations, and strategic partnerships.
The BBA has been championing Black Business Month since the former president, Earl “Skip” Cooper II aligned with former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley established it in 1987. The commitment to keeping Black businesses in the forefront is pivotal for the entire community.
Although the entire month of August is allotted as Black Business Month, August 17 will make a major impact on the advancement of small Black businesses throughout Southern California. The demand is high for this event and although it is free, it is highly recommended that attendees contact the Black Business Association to register.
America has been compared to a salad bowl as a metaphor used to describe the United States as a country that integrates different cultures while still allowing people to maintain their cultural identities. Now is the time for everyone to come together and sit at the table and share in the bountiful of God’s blessings and lift each other up.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
