By Lincoln DePradine

Less than two years after the official launch of the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC), turmoil in the organization has resulted in a shakeup with the departure of two senior members.

No longer with CBCC are Andria Barrett, who was serving as president, and Michael Forrest, founding-president of the organization that was formally launched in April 2019.

“Our mission, at the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce, is to be the hub of the Black business ecosystem,’’ Forrest told entrepreneurs at the launch. “We definitely want to

help you grow your business.’’

Among the issues that have surfaced, and have created division among CBCC members, are concerns over the chamber’s financial management and accountability.

The CBCC also has been seeking funding through the federal government’s newly created $221-million Black Entrepreneurship Program.