“Building Wealth through Franchising.” Afro Caribbean Business Network hosts Legacy Symposium 2025

BY PAUL JUNOR

The fifth annual Afro Caribbean Business Network (ACBN) ‘s Legacy Symposium 2025 was an educational, inspirational and motivational event. It was held on Saturday, March 31^st, 2025, at the Mississauga campus of Sheridan College. It featured various speakers, presenters, entrepreneurs, business owners and community partners. The theme of the symposium was, “Building Wealth through Franchising.” It was truly a transformative day of learning, networking, and growth opportunities. It was promoted as a “Day to equip you with the tools to accelerate your business growth.” There were innovative products and services on display in a vendor marketplace by different vendors and entrepreneurs participating in a sales pitch contest.

It was six years ago that ACBN was founded by several co-founders. It is described as “More than just a business network, it’s an ecosystem built on collaboration, empowerment, and legacy-building, helping members develop strong connections for their entrepreneurial journey.

“Franchising is viable way to build wealth is focus of ACBN’s Symposium”

Prior to the symposium, it was advertised as providing real solutions for:

• Get access to lenders committed to equitable funding
• Marketing struggles: Learn how to break through consumer bias and expand your audience
• Scaling challenge: Discover how to create franchise-like system that build wealth
• Launch of networks: Connect with investors, mentors, and potential business partners

The promotional material notes, “This is not just another business conference; it’s a catalyst for real change in Black entrepreneurship.”

The symposium starts off with a firechat as a keynote with Brian Scudamore, founder of “800 Got Junk.” He advises that branding is important. It is vital to be consistent you’re your branding. Brian spoke about the importance of facing challenges and looking for opportunities. His optimistic views and positive outlook were refreshing, empowering and inspiring.

There was a Q & A interaction by Lin Ferguson and Carla Leon of the Just Like Family franchise. The focus of the discussion was on, “What does a thriving franchise look like in action, and its benefit? Franchising, entrepreneurship through franchising.” Details about it can be seen on the website: justlikefamilyfranchise.ca

Carla mentions how the franchise begun as a social enterprise. She states, “Who owns things matter for us? It is important to change the representation of

BIPOC folks in the entrepreneurial space. Ownership matters and has impact.” She spoke about the brand, “Just Like Family: Home Care” People first, people centred. Communication, Consistency and Quality of Care. Known thyself, Learn, Learn, Learn.” Carla spoke about the two options: buying an existing franchise, or starting an existing franchise. There are benefits to both but one must evaluate both options thoroughly.

There was the introduction of the Mkutano Platform by Patrick Cole, visionary and strategist. He states, “We are not prepared! We’re dedicated to Black Canada and the need to create a Black Renaissance in the 21^st century,”

• We must properly prepare for prolonged socio-economic turmoil
• Let’s organize and accelerate community development.
• We will achieve more if we work together.

There was a presentation by Melissa Cadogan from Hot Perspectives on “Building Strong Operating Systems essential for any business poised for growth and replication.”

Fatima Gould, speaker, coach and author presented a “Building Your Capacity Workshop.” She coaches small business with the Edge program at Sheridan College. She believes in the importance of hanging around Millionaire Minded people who can shift your mindset. Her presentation enabled the attendees to develop important skills, establish boundaries and cultivate sustainable habits that will foster success, growth and prosperity.

The keynote speech was delivered by Dr.George Fraser. He spoke on the topic, “Expanding Your Business System Across North America.” He presented practical strategies on how to turn business into a scalable and sustainable brand. He focusses on the importance of building relationships as the foundation to building business.