Watch Full Interview Here: https://youtu.be/PY8DsYH1Kv0
Starting and growing a business in Canada as a Black entrepreneur is not a straight road. I know firsthand how the hoops and hurdles can feel endless—applications that go nowhere, resources that are hard to reach, and a system that wasn’t built with us in mind.
That’s why hearing from Clement Esene, founder of the BIPOC Foundation, hit me so strongly. His story reminded me that the struggles we face aren’t just personal; they’re proof of the systemic gaps we’re up against. More importantly, they’re also opportunities to build something stronger for ourselves and for those coming behind us.
Here are the lessons I’m carrying forward:
Let your struggles shape your mission
Clement and his partner faced serious challenges when starting their first company, Daniola Corporation. Instead of accepting those barriers, they built the BIPOC Foundation so others wouldn’t have to go through the same obstacles. The takeaway for us: your setbacks aren’t wasted—they can become the blueprint for solutions that change the game for your community.Focus on capacity and financial inclusion
It’s not enough to get one-off help. What we need are systems that strengthen our capacity and make sure we’re included in real financial opportunities. That means finding and supporting organizations that are pushing for long-term empowerment and representation, not just quick fixes.Learn the difference between resources and funding
Too often, entrepreneurs expect every support organization to hand out money. Clement was clear: not every group funds directly. Some, like the BIPOC Foundation, connect you to the right knowledge, networks, and partners that eventually open doors to capital. The key is knowing what each organization offers—and maximizing it.Demand aftercare, not just programs
One program or workshop isn’t enough. What makes the difference is aftercare—ongoing advisory services that guide you to mentorship, funding, or the right partnerships. Don’t just sign up for programs; make sure you’re tapping into the long-term support systems that will walk with you past graduation.Celebrate progress, but keep building
Yes, we’ve seen new funding streams and historic investments in the last few years. But Clement reminds us—it’s just the tip of the iceberg. The real work is building solid foundations so our community has permanent access to resources, representation, and economic power.Put community first
At the end of the day, business success isn’t just about us as individuals. It’s about lifting as we climb. If our wins don’t translate into community progress, we’re missing the point. Like Dr. King said, we haven’t truly started living until we rise above individual concerns and act for humanity.
Takeaways you can use right now
Reframe your struggles as data points—clues to what the community needs you to build.
Invest your time in organizations focused on long-term empowerment, not short-term hype.
Get clear on whether a group offers resources, connections, or funding—and use them wisely.
Push for advisory and aftercare support that carries you beyond programs.
Commit to building not just for yourself, but for the collective future of Black entrepreneurs in Canada.
The future we’re working toward is bigger than any one of us. It’s about creating a Canada where Black entrepreneurs don’t have to fight twice as hard just to start. And that starts with how we choose to build today.
Watch Full Interview Here: https://youtu.be/PY8DsYH1Kv0
