Emerging from the Covid-19 Pandemic, 2022 found many small business owners grasping for help and employees of other firms discovering their entrepreneurial spirit as they were forced to plunge into survival mode. This unprecedented catastrophe revealed the susceptibility of Canadian SME owners, especially those of the Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) underrepresented communities. As it also illuminated the aspiring entrepreneurial strength revealing their resiliency, creativity, desire, and courage to take the risk to pivot and discover their untapped ideas and talents. These are the fundamental components required to evoke sustainable and generational wealth and for small business owners to empower their businesses in 2023. An empowered business and business owner promote growth which leads to success stories beyond the infinite. Entrepreneurs are leaders in the business community who impact the economy of this great Nation, Canada. Thus, it is imperative to remain intentional and focus on the vision and mission of the company, set pragmatic goals, and motivate and empower employees, clients, and, most of all, themselves to succeed. Knowledge is power. Thus, the willingness to engage in lifelong learning in this ever-changing business landscape of technology and trends keep the business and its owner relevant with an edge over the competition that foresees the demands of Clients ahead of 2023 and beyond. It is important to note that whilst the vision and mission of the business may be steadfast, the logistics to achieve the desired profitable outcome could waiver. Thus, an accurate evaluation of the business feasibility that identifies gaps, challenges and successes may prove fruitful to pivot through the revision of the existing business plan.
Securing a mentor(s) is the perfect opportunity to learn and ask questions. Mentors can be the second eye and voice of reason to help with the evaluation and feasibility of the business and its plan. Mentors come in various capacities, such as business associates, avid seasoned business owners, friends, family, and mental health professionals with subject matter expertise equipped to examine, analyze and measure the effectiveness of the business strategy for the current marketing, customer service delivery, subject matter knowledge, and financials. According to the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), research shows that “while Canadian business owners expect to go through continuous financial hardship, many are still confident in their ability to weather the upcoming storms.” Empowered Small Business Owners delivering Excellence from a Strong Foundation can weather the storm in 2023 as they recognize the economic, environmental, and social impact when business owners are diverse, inclusive, and socially responsible that effect positive change that addresses social injustice and equity in their daily business operation, administration and acquisition. May 2023 be the year of Empowerment, Growth and Profitability as Small Business Owners continue to nurture the roots of prosperity.
Michelle Meghie
President of the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce
Michelle Meghie, is an entrepreneur, an Event Planner and Wedding and Baptism Officiant licenced by the Province of Ontario.
A business opportunity idea which the universe revealed to her. She grew the business out of her passion for the love of weddings and people.
Michelle worked in the public sector full time for over 3 decades of which over ten of those years the business remained constant and profitable as a side hustle.
