June 2024 was one for the books — and not just because the sun finally decided to show up in Birmingham 😅. It was the month I walked into a space that felt like home — full of brilliance, energy, and Black excellence at every turn. I’m talking about the Birmingham Black Business Show.
As someone who has built my entire career around supporting Black-owned businesses and championing underrepresented voices, this event meant more than just networking or clapping at panels. It was a full-circle moment. A powerful reminder of why I do what I do.
Not only did I attend — I had the privilege of delivering a workshop at the event. Standing in that space, speaking directly to other Black entrepreneurs, sharing knowledge, and pouring into my community? It was one of the proudest moments of my career. These are the rooms I used to dream of — now, I’m helping shape them.
And it doesn’t stop there. I’ve proudly sat on the Birmingham Black Business Show Advisory Board for two years now, helping to shape the vision, direction, and impact of the event behind the scenes. Being in those strategic conversations, championing inclusion, and making sure our local businesses are truly being seen — it’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly…Waiting to see if they invite me back next year 😅.
From the second I stepped into the venue, the energy was different. Black professionals, creatives, business owners, investors, students, and game-changers all in one room — building, celebrating, connecting. It wasn’t just a business event. It was a movement in motion.
Here’s what stood out the most:
- Representation: Seeing Black excellence front and centre — not hidden behind the scenes. Panellists, speakers, hosts, brands — it was US, doing the thing boldly.
- Resources: From funding advice to content creation tools, the access to knowledge was powerful. These are the tools we don’t always get handed freely — but here, they were being shared with love.
- Community: There were no “gatekeepers.” Just doors being opened, contacts being exchanged, and hugs happening between complete strangers. It was networking, but with soul.
Events like the Birmingham Black Business Show are a vital part of shifting the culture. They’re not just “nice to have” — they’re necessary. We deserve spaces that see us, serve us, and elevate us without apology.
To the organisers, my fellow board members, every speaker, and all the incredible attendees — thank you. You created something powerful.
And if you missed it this year? Make sure you’re in the room next time. Not just to attend — but to connect, to collaborate, and to continue building something greater.
This is what community-powered business looks like.
This is what we’re building — together.
Birmingham, we’re just getting started.
