Surrey City Hall to host Black Entrepreneurship and Research Symposium<\/p>\n
Published 5:00 pm Sunday, March 22, 2026<\/p>\n
A free symposium centred on Black entrepreneurship, research and economic inclusion is set to take place at Surrey City Hall on Wednesday, March 25.<\/p>\n
Hosted by Simon Fraser University\u2019s (SFU) RADIUS<\/a> in partnership with the Black Entrepreneurs and Businesses of Canada Society<\/a>, the Black Entrepreneurship and Research Symposium will run from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.<\/p>\n It is said to bring together entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, funders and community leaders.<\/p>\n Organizers say the symposium aims to build connections across sectors while supporting greater representation for Black entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n The afternoon is set to include a panel discussion featuring Black community leaders, along with capacity-building sessions for entrepreneurs, researchers and policy makers.<\/p>\n Featured speakers include:<\/p>\n \u2022 Dr. Olutoyin Oyelade, President and CEO of Casa Foundation<\/p>\n \u2022 Jackee Kasandy, CEO of Black Entrepreneurs and Businesses of Canada Society<\/p>\n \u2022 Brian Serembe, co-founder of BC Community Alliance<\/p>\n \u2022 Trish Mandewo, CEO of Synergy Consulting<\/p>\n \u2022 Djaka Blais, executive director of Hogan\u2019s Alley Society<\/p>\n \u2022 Nerissa Allen, president of the Black Business Association of BC<\/p>\n There will be opportunities for networking, collaboration, and getting support from the various community organizations that will be present. Black entrepreneurs will also be showcasing their businesses.<\/p>\n The event is free to attend with two hours of free underground parking at Surrey City Hall with onsite registration.<\/p>\n