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Tech companies make bold moves on the diversity agenda at 5th Annual Black Arts & Innovation Expo -.@BAIExpo #BAIE2019


Tech companies make bold moves on the diversity agenda at 5th Annual Black Arts & Innovation Expo

In addition to the focus on Tech, attendees were entertained with music from Matthew Romeo, and Patricia Shirley.  Performances by African dance troupe Ijo Vudu, R&B singer and songwriter Sage Harris, Violinist Andrew Forde, soul singer M.I. Blue and international music sensation Kardinal Offishall energized guests throughout the night.

CP24’s Kayla Williams, served as emcee of #BAIE2019 keeping guest engaged and informed with her unique blend of charisma and intellect.

A highlight of BAIE was a riveting and thought provoking discussion on “Competing to Win”.  The candid and insightful panel discussion moderated by PR Strategist Dalton Higgins, was raw, real and touched on adversity, education and strategies to thrive as an entrepreneur in business. Panel members included photographer Jamal Burger, actor Femi Lawson, music executive Kiana “Rookz” Eastmond, choreographer Esie Mensah and CP24 reporter Brandon Gonez.

Ahmed Ismail, co-founder of Hxouse, delivered an impactful keynote on his journey to build XO’s incubator with Creative Director La Mar Taylor and R&B superstar The Weeknd.

Five exceptional students were awarded BAIE scholarships of $5,000. Congratulations to:

Hailey McCalla (Ryerson)

Shawn Hercules (McMaster)

Lolade Shipeolu (Ottawa)

Abdul Barra (Dalhousie)

Diyana Mohamad (Durham)

 A business grant of $10,000 was awarded to Ermias Nagatu of Wishplay.  Ermias was one of four entrepreneurs that pitched their business idea to a live audience. Wishplay was selected via a voting app as the 2019 Lions Lair Competition winner.

In recognition of their significant professional accomplishments and impact on the community. BAIE Founder and banking Executive Claudette McGowan presented the Trailblazer Awards to Dwayne Matthews of NeuroEdX, Kiana “Rookz” Eastmond, CEO of Sandbox Studios and

Deland Kamanga, Head of Global Fixed Income, Currencies & Commodities, BMO Capital Markets.

BAIE2019 raised $10,000 for local charities, which was donated to three organizations, Venture Kids, First Book Canada and Nu Step Athletic Association.

BAIE also featured a robotic play zone and hologram displays from Autonetics Universe and complimentary food curated by social media food influencer Ryan “Eat Famous” Hinkson.

BAIE thanks the industry leading companies, sponsors, performers, exhibitors, special guests and attendees for making the 5th Annual event a success.

Visit Blackexpo.ca 
Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter  #BAIE2019.
















































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