Support “The First”
At a recent client appreciation and networking event, my husband Robert introduced himself as the owner of Ontario's only Black-owned insurance brokerage. It’s 2024 and there is only one 100% Black-owned insurance brokerage in Ontario. Whenever I hear stories about “the first” or “the only” Black, Indigenous or insert another equity-denied group, I’m amazed. Sometimes I think my sense of equity and representation in leadership positions, and in business ownership is far off the mark because it always surprises me to learn about how many people are still breaking barriers or “glass ceilings” for the first time. But then I’m reminded that what I’m seeing is illustrated in data and stats related to business ownership, access to capital, and leadership roles – they are still largely not held by individuals from equity-denied groups. For example, according to a 2024 report from the Diversity Institute, Black people account for only 3.8% of board members and 2.6% of senior managers. When it comes to business ownership, Export Development Canada reported that Black-owned businesses represent only 2.4% of all businesses in Canada. And so the disheartening reality sinks in.
Robert’s journey has not been easy. There have been promises made that weren't fulfilled and gentlemen's agreements that didn’t materialize. It was also hard for him to find a mentor and coach, so he was doing much of the learning on his own, and it seemed like every door (every barrier) was met with resistance and thus he had to push them open. A lot of sleepless nights, anxious energy, and positive energy has gone into forging the path. Despite these difficulties, he has persevered, aiming to grow and create more equitable opportunities for others to follow in his footsteps. When I consider how “his village” contributed to his journey I’m reminded that there are many ways to support anyone who is a "first" or "only". Keep an eye out for those around you that might be trying to advance their careers or start on a goal or path where they might be the first or only one of a few, and ask yourself how might I contribute and support them? You might consider:
Advocating on their behalf: leverage your influence and networks and make the case for why your industry should invest in and support Black, Indigenous, and other equity-denied groups
Reducing resource barriers: collaborate and create business partnerships, use your purchasing power, refer them, invite them to networking events to elevate their visibility
Mentoring, coaching or sponsoring individuals who are charting new paths: offer advice to help accelerate their learnings and progress
Being a supportive listener: be present to hear their stories and support them on their journey. Active listening is so valuable, as we are often distracted by various platforms and devices. Remember that being a pioneer can often feel isolating, so being a listening ear can offer significant encouragement to someone striving to achieve what many do not have the chance to pursue.
This is what it means to contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society. This is how we support "the only" and "the firsts." I’m very proud of what Robert has built to date and am excited to see the growth of his business, check out Bespoke Insurance Brokerage.
Chanel Grenaway & Associates Inc. is committed to helping leaders, staff teams and boards align with their anti-racism and inclusion goals through continuous learning and practice change. Do you need support to start or accelerate your equity practice and outcomes? Happy to hop on a call with you to see how I might help. Let’s chat.