Last Saturday, the 42nd annual Harry Jerome Awards, hosted by the Black Business and Professional Association (BBPA), showcased an extraordinary celebration of leadership, innovation, and community spirit, marking it as one of the most memorable events in its storied history.
The gala, attended by luminaries from across Canada, honored outstanding achievements within the Black community, emphasizing the power of recognition and support in fostering excellence and empowerment among Black professionals and entrepreneurs.
Ross Cadastre, Chair of the BBPA Board of Directors, opened the event with an invigorating speech that set the tone for the evening. “Tonight, we come together to honor and celebrate the exceptional accomplishments of leaders within our community who inspire us to dream bigger and achieve more,” Cadastre stated, reaffirming the BBPA’s commitment to nurturing and advancing the Black business and professional landscape in Canada.
Throughout the evening, awardees took to the stage, sharing their journeys and the impact of their work. Jeffrey Fasegha, recipient of the Young Entrepreneur Award, highlighted in his acceptance speech, “As a Nigerian-born Canadian and a Rhodes Scholar, my entrepreneurial journey—from founding Fyyne to revolutionizing hair services through technology—has been about breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks for what we, as a community, can achieve.”
Camille Mitchell, honored with the Arts Award for her contributions to architecture and her advocacy for equality in the design sector, remarked, “It is a huge privilege to be recognized for working to improve the visibility of Black architects and interior designers across this country. This award not only honors my efforts but also the collective striving of our community to carve out spaces where we are visibly and powerfully represented.”
The event also served as a platform for addressing current challenges and future aspirations. Cadastre acknowledged the scrutiny the BBPA has faced, committing to transparency and corrective action. “The BBPA is addressing every aspect of the concerns raised and has taken tangible action. We are more committed than ever to our mission of empowering Black Canadians,” he affirmed.
In addition to celebrating current achievements, the BBPA highlighted its ongoing initiatives such as the Business Advisory Implementation Development Services (BAIDS) program and the RiseUp Women’s+ Pitch Competition, which have significantly contributed to the growth and support of Black entrepreneurs and professionals.
Yolanda McLean, recipient of the Community Award, spoke about her efforts in the labor movement and her dedication to promoting equity and justice: “As the first Black woman Secretary-Treasurer of CUPE Ontario, I have navigated through challenges with a firm belief in justice and equity. This award is not just a recognition of my efforts but a testament to the strength of collective action in overcoming barriers for racialized workers.”
Dr. Wendell Adjete stressed the importance of understanding the rich histories of the African Diaspora. Jade Rivera, recognized for her contributions to sports, emphasized her role as a mentor and advocate for diversity. Miguel Murray, representing Toronto FC and Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, discussed their commitment to combating racism and promoting inclusion in sports and the community. Heather Campbell, honored for her leadership in energy and sustainability, emphasized the importance of diversity in driving innovation in the energy sector. Jay Pitter highlighted the unrecognized contributions within the community and advocated for inclusivity and representation.
The ceremony was not just a night of awards but also a reaffirmation of community values. “Success multiplies when it’s celebrated as a community,” Cadastre reflected.
The attendees were left inspired by the stories of perseverance, dedication, and collective achievement. The Harry Jerome Awards once again proved to be a crucial event for acknowledging the strides made by Black Canadians and the ongoing journey towards equity and recognition.
With the successful wrap of its 42nd edition, the BBPA has set a high bar for the future, ensuring that the legacy of the awards continues to inspire and uplift new generations