Celebrating Black Excellence: The Black Business Fair and Expo in Kingston

In Kingston, the spirit of entrepreneurship and community thrived as black business owners and enthusiasts gathered for the Black Business Fair and Expo. This event, which took place in celebration of Black History Month, not only provided a platform for black entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products but also offered a space for networking and discussions.

Martha Williams, the proud owner of Pedal Works Cafe and Studios, took the initiative to organize the Black Business Fair and Expo less than a year after launching her own business. Her vision was to create a supportive environment that would bring together local black-owned businesses. Williams’ co-organizer, Tianna Edwards, expressed her admiration for the space that Williams had created to uplift and empower black entrepreneurs. Edwards highlighted the significance of providing support to black-owned businesses, especially in overcoming the challenges they face in terms of access to finance and marketing.

The decision to align the event with Black History Month was a deliberate one, as the organizers aimed to elevate the significance of the occasion and showcase the remarkable contributions of black entrepreneurs. The fair and expo featured a diverse range of products and services, from hair and skin care to Nigerian street food and art. It provided a platform for entrepreneurs to connect with potential customers and build valuable networks within the community.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of local black-owned businesses in Kingston. Edwards, who has been actively tracking the growth of licensed black-owned businesses, observed a rising trend of brick-and-mortar shops and a growing interest among entrepreneurs to establish their own physical spaces. This development reflects the resilience and determination of black entrepreneurs to carve their own path despite the obstacles they may encounter.

For both Williams and Edwards, the fair and expo were not merely a one-time affair. They expressed their commitment to continue supporting and celebrating black businesses throughout the year, emphasizing the need for sustained recognition and encouragement beyond the confines of Black History Month. Their dedication to fostering long-term support for black entrepreneurs underscores the importance of creating an inclusive and empowering environment for communal growth and prosperity.

The Black Business Fair and Expo in Kingston serves as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of the black community. It celebrates the diversity and innovation of black-owned businesses while providing a platform for connection and collaboration. As we honour Black History Month, let us also uphold the spirit of unity and solidarity by uplifting and supporting black businesses throughout the year.