CBCC BLACK EXPO 2023: RESILIENT BLACK WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Toronto – In a compelling panel discussion hosted by the Canadian Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC), three distinguished Black women leaders shared their personal journeys and strategies for advancing women’s empowerment in business and beyond. The event, aptly titled “Resilient Women”, brought together Dr. Helen Ofosu, consultant, author and former federal public servant; Trisha McCool, Director of Culture and Change Management at Rogers Communications; and Nene Atkinson, entrepreneur, realtor, mentor, and community advocate.

For Nene Atkinson, empowerment begins with visibility and authenticity. “As a Black woman, I always show up as a Black woman,” she stated, emphasizing that identity cannot be separated from leadership. Entering the real estate sector more than two decades ago, Atkinson recalled the challenges of navigating what many refer to as an “old boys’ club.”

To create space for other women, Atkinson relies heavily on mentorship and referrals. “I mentor both younger and older agents, sharing my wisdom so they avoid the mistakes I made,” she explained. “I also pass along referrals, just as established realtors once did for me.”

Atkinson underscored that self-advancement—whether in career, entrepreneurship, mental health, or education—is essential. “Black women are very special. We hold families and communities together. I remind women that they are valuable, deserving of a seat at the table, and never less than anyone else.”

Trisha McCool, with more than 23 years in corporate Canada, focused on translating empowerment into measurable progress.

“In boardrooms, there were times I felt like my mic was off—that no one was hearing me,” McCool reflected. She urged women to resist imposter syndrome and to “bet on yourself.”

On advancing Black women’s empowerment, McCool called for accountability. “It’s not enough to acknowledge problems; organizations need action plans with measurable outcomes. What gets measured gets managed. Progress must be tracked, and responsibility must be shared.”

She also stressed the importance of solidarity: “The sky is big enough for all of us to rise. Support each other, don’t belittle yourself at the table, and sit tall—you’ve earned your place.”

Dr. Helen Ofosu, author of How to Be Resilient in Your Career: Facing Up to Barriers at Work, addressed the toll of workplace inequities on Black women’s health.

“When we work in environments where we’re disrespected, overlooked, or face microaggressions, it impacts not only mental health but also physical health,” she explained. “We shouldn’t just tough it out—we should expect better.”

Ofosu noted a growing trend of Black women turning to entrepreneurship. “Many are leaving traditional workplaces to start side hustles or full businesses. Often, it’s more sustainable and even more lucrative.”

Reflecting on her own journey, she added: “I wish I had been more intentional about networking earlier. Relationships can be more valuable than skills. And I wish I’d started working for myself sooner—once you figure it out, there’s no turning back.”

In closing, Atkinson highlighted how womanhood itself shapes resilience and business acumen. She credits lessons from her mother, grandmother, and female mentors—as well as role models like Michelle Obama and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie—for shaping her approach.

“Women multitask, nurture, and budget with creativity and resilience,” she said. “That perspective has made me more successful in real estate and more compassionate with clients.”

The event concluded with acknowledgment of Dr. Jamila Aman, CBCC’s Executive Director, for her tireless leadership. The panel’s message was clear: Black women’s resilience is not only personal but systemic, rooted in mentorship, solidarity, and reimagining workplaces and industries to be more inclusive.