v2025 Black History Month Launch Event

Description

Empowering Black Futures: Celebrating History, Inspiring Change

Join us on February 4 for a powerful and inspiring morning as we kick off Black History Month in collaboration with the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce and the London Black Heritage Council.

This event is a celebration of Black excellence, resilience, and innovation, honouring Black communities' rich history and contributions while paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

Musical Opening: Nikki Clarke will kick off the event by singing "Lift Every Voice". 

Keynote Speaker: Alexandra Kane

Panelists:

• Nicole Kaniki - PhD, Director, Senomi Solutions Inc.
• Nikki Clarke - Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce
• Rosina Ferede - Black Youth Connect 
• Charles Fordjour - National Sales Manager - Aftermarket - Carfax Canada
• Carl Cadogan - London Black Heritage Council 

About our Speakers

Alexandra Kane

Performing artist, music director, producer, equity transformation coach, and activist. Alex holds a B.MusA from Western University, a graduate certificate in Corporate Communications and Public Relations from Fanshawe, and a graduate certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University. Mom to 4-year-old Kenneth and 2-month-old Zahra and wife to Ryan, Alex has transitioned from small business owner to professional musician, with several fantastic projects on the go. As a community change maker, she leads Black Lives Matter London and works as a founding member of Black London Network. 

Carl Cadogan - London Black Heritage Council

Carl Cadogan has served on numerous boards, committees, and task forces, including the CBA, the Premier’s Council on the Voluntary Sector, and the Provincial Work Group on Gaming. Carl has worked in the Charitable sector for almost thirty years and is currently the Senior Regional Manager for the Kidney Foundation of Canada. He is also the Chair of the London Black History Coordinating Committee and is part of other national and local organizations. Carl is working on his collection of short stories he hopes to be published in 2024 or 2025.

Nicole Kaniki - Director - Senomi Solutions Inc.

Dr. Nicole Kaniki is the Director of Senomi Solutions Inc., an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Consulting company based in London, Ontario, where she supports institutions and organizations in developing and implementing EDI strategies. Dr. Kaniki has held several EDI leadership roles in post-secondary education in Canada, including the Director of EDI in Research and Innovation at the University of Toronto and as the former Special Advisor on Anti-racism to the President at Western University. Grounded in social justice, she advocates for the needs of equity-denied groups throughout her practices and amplifies marginalized and minoritized voices.

Nikki Clarke - National Business and Membership Manager - Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce

Nikki Clarke is the founder, producer, and host of the multiple award-winning talk show The Nikki Clarke Show on Afroglobal TV Network and on www.nikkiclarkenetwork.com. Nikki is the Immediate Past President of the Ontario Black History Society. Nikki has over 25 years of experience as a community activist. Nikki is an honouree of the 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women in 2022. In 2023, Nikki was nominated for RBC’s Women of Influence, Broadcast Media by the Black Business, Professionals and Entrepreneur Awards, Entrepreneur and Business by the Waterfront Awards, and Torchbearer’s Award by the Voice of Africa. Nikki is the National Business Manager for the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce.

Rosina Ferede - Social Media Manager and Session Facilitator - Black Youth Connect

Rosina Bethlehem Ferede is an artist who works in creation and collaboration in different capacities in and around the city. She is the social media manager and one of the lead facilitators at Black Youth Connect, a drop in program for Black youth in the city, where she has seen how community engagement and cultivating leadership has made a difference.

Charles Fordjour- National Sales Manager - Aftermarket - Carfax Canada

Charles Fordjour is a seasoned sales leader and coach with over 20 years of experience in helping individuals and teams reach their full potential. Currently serving as the National Sales Manager for the Aftermarket Department at Carfax Canada, Charles has built a successful career rooted in his passion for mentorship and empowerment.
 
Throughout his extensive career, Charles has demonstrated a commitment to excellence and a keen ability to inspire those around him. His leadership style is characterized by genuine care for others' development, enabling them to thrive in their roles and achieve their personal and professional goals.
 
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Charles actively volunteers with Accelerate Auto, an organization dedicated to advancing young Black professionals within the automotive industry. His involvement with this organization reflects his belief in the importance of representation and support for underrepresented communities. Charles is dedicated to creating pathways for the next generation of leaders and fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity.
  
As a panelist for this year’s Black History Month discussion, Charles will share his insights on the significance of mentorship, the role of leadership in driving change, and the importance of perseverance in pursuing one’s dreams. His experiences in the automotive industry, combined with his commitment to uplifting others, make him a compelling voice for empowerment and progress.
https://www.accelerateauto.ca/en/whoweare