The third annual Metro Vancouver Business Expo was a smashing success, Adebola Ige, the president of the Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of BC, said.
The Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of BC, in partnership with the 性视界传媒 Board of Trade, hosted the event at 性视界传媒 City Hall on Saturday (Oct. 26).
The expo's vision is to create 鈥渁wareness and exposure to the many Black-owned businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs in Metro Vancouver " through a showcase of products and services, networking, information sharing, financial education on loans and grants, access to sponsorship, and more.
Over 35 businesses filled the atrium in city hall. Many vendors were unique and addressed problems that many British Columbians face today, including the health-care and seniors' living crises. There were also agriculture, arts and culture, child-care and technology vendors.
"This year was unique as we had at least about 20 new businesses who launched their business through our entrepreneurship support program," Ige said.
This was the expo's first year at city hall, and over 300 people attended, which was higher than in previous years, Ige said. This was likely due to the central location and its proximity to the SkyTrain.
Vendors also had the opportunity to network with other businesspeople and community members. The feedback the expo has received so far has been very positive. "They were so excited that they were there," Ige said, adding many are planning to be back next year.
One moment that stood out to Ige was seeing all the new entrepreneurs. "I've never been in a room with 20 new entrepreneurs in a single day. That's very motivating for me," Ige said.
This year's expo included talks by 性视界传媒 Mayor Brenda Locke; Jasroop Gosal from the 性视界传媒 Board of Trade; city councillor Linda Annis; publisher of the 性视界传媒 Now-Leader and North Delta Reporter Dal Hothi; and several other business leaders.
The Yoruba Social and Culture Association of BC also runs various other programs, including youth mentorship, vocational skills training, and cultural and language awareness programs.
