Stepping into Black Excellence: Celebrating Black Entrepreneurship at College of William and Mary

The recent event organized by the Black Student Organization and E.S.S.E.N.C.E. with the aim of uplifting and supporting Black entrepreneurship at the College of William and Mary was deemed a resounding success, as it brought together students and local vendors in celebration of Black History Month. The “Stepping into Black Excellence” Black Expo offered a variety of handmade items, including hair care products and jewelry, and provided complimentary popcorn and cotton candy to attendees. Event Coordinator Lauren Payne intentionally chose a high visibility location, The Slice, to host the event and welcome all members of the community.

The event garnered positive feedback from BSO President Breyonna Rock and Treasurer Ethan Miller, who emphasized the importance of creating inclusive spaces and fostering a sense of community. The emphasis on community building was demonstrated through the waiving of registration fees for vendors and the pre-event set-up provided by the organizers. This approach aimed to create a low-pressure environment for vendors to showcase their goods and engage with students, ultimately benefiting both parties.

The impact of events like the Black Expo on Black entrepreneurship was exemplified by Anaya Temple, who shared her experience of growing her small earrings business through participation in similar showcases. Additionally, Raven Pierce highlighted the significance of these events in empowering the Black community and providing a platform to showcase unique talents and skills.

Event Coordinator Lauren Payne also underscored the importance of shedding light on the numerous Black businesses in the Williamsburg area that often lack exposure to the general public. The Black Expo not only supports these businesses but also positively impacts its attendees, who can reflect on their purchases and the experience of the event.

Looking to the future, attendees expressed their support for the Black Expo and similar entrepreneurial events, demonstrating the positive impact of these initiatives. The event was commended for its role in facilitating creative expression, community bonding, student entrepreneurship, and cultural sharing and celebration.

In conclusion, the “Stepping into Black Excellence” Black Expo successfully achieved its goal of uplifting and increasing exposure to Black businesses, while also fostering a sense of community and celebrating Black entrepreneurship. Events like these play a crucial role in promoting diversity and supporting small businesses, and the positive feedback from attendees and vendors underscores the importance of continuing and expanding such initiatives in the future. For those interested in supporting Black entrepreneurship in the future, the Black Expo serves as a testament to the vitality and creativity of Black businesses.