Second LEGUP Symposium: Elevating generational mindset and expanding financial wealth

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was an unforgettable day filled with motivational: speakers, inspirational presentations and influential discussions. It was an exciting, enriching and enjoyable day at the second LEGUP symposium on Friday, April 12^th, 2024. The over 200 attendants present at the Marriott Downtown of Toronto Eaton Centre were treated to: insightful financial advice, impactful personal stories of resilience and success, and deeply engaging and interactive discussions.

David Griffiths-President and Founder of Brothers Who Care deserves high praise, genuine commendation and real acknowledgement for putting together not just an event, but a movement toward: financial, psychological and economic transformation of the Black community. The support of the volunteers and ambassadors paid off in the level of success.

The importance of each letter in the acronym LEGUP is vital in the aim of the symposium:

• Learn money:

Foundational knowledge on currency and the role it plays in our society

• Earn money:

Aspects of a pay cheque, multiple income sources, basic budgeting tips

• Grow money:

Invest in real estate, pool funds and business, stocks, bonds and mutual funds

• Utilize money:

Understand how money works, along with spending and advanced money management tips

• Perceive money:

The psychology of money, stigma around debt and using it to build wealth

It was fitting that the theme chosen for the 2024 Symposium was “Hye Won Hye,” which translates to “That which does not burn.” The 2024 Symposium builds on the theme of 2023 Symposium, “He Who Does Not Know, Can Know.” The promo material states, “Wealth is about having the ability to do what you want, with whom you want, for as long as you want. It is all about HOW!”

The powerful Adinkra symbol was a fitting one. It represents toughness, imperishability, and endurance. This symbol serves as an inspiration to others to be tough in difficult times and endure hardships that may come.

The schedule of the symposium was divided into five chapters:

Chapter 1: Walk With Me: The Black Canadian Entrepreneurial Journey

The day started with the land acknowledgement (read by Michelle Linares) and opening remarks by David Griffiths and AL Ramsey of TD. Dr. Vibe moderated the ensuing discussion titled “Craving our Financial Future,” with Uncle Louis March. Uncle Louis is a well-known community advocate and activist and founder of the Zero Gun Violence Movement. Uncle Lois spoke about the importance of self-determination and self-reliance as expounded by Marcus Garvey’s United Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). He focused on the: significance of being the pilot of your own life, pursuing your goals and blowing up the box instead of thinking outside of it.

He states, “Understand that your wealth that you gained through education, learning, practice and failure are not only going to help you, but your family and community. People are going to tell you to think outside the box. Be careful when you use those things with me, because I will challenge you. Stop thinking outside the box. If you want to make a difference, blow up the box!  Are you ready for that? This is an opportunity to look at other possibilities and other opportunities.”

Chapter 2: Money Fitness Behind Wealth

This chapter focused on the importance of financial well-being which transcends having access to money but involves a healthy interaction with it. Participants learned about ways to creatively conceptualize money and practical strategies to improve their financial fitness. The speakers were: Alina Ali, Nuna Francisco and Ampai Thammachak.

The session on “A Healthy Relationship With Money” featured Latanya Housen, Regional Manager, Black Community Business Development of TD Bank Group and Jermaine Dacres, Financial Planner at TD Wealth. Their presentation on money management focused on three rules on budgeting: prioritizing your money, looking forward, adjusting and re-aligning. Having smart goals is key to creating a budget. Five steps were noted as important in this process and creative ways of improving your credit score.

There were three breakout session which are listed below:

• Lead your money

This session focuses on strategies and ideas to invest money in different   investments.

• Entrepreneurial mindset

This session focuses on the key components such as: Innovation techniques,       problem-solving strategies and fostering resilience.

• Craft your identify to define your destiny

This session emphasizes the importance of developing and marketing your           personal brand in the highly competitive job world.

Chapter 3: LEGUP Roadmap to Wealth

There were three breakout sessions:

• Overcoming adversity

Omar Wolf Allison shared stories of rising above setbacks through resilience and             faith.

• The LEGUP Den Showcase

This was led by Abdel Ali, a VP and business owner. He showed participants        some of the best strategies to pitch transformational business ideas by sharing        success stories.

• Building a power network

This session was led by Dionne England who focused on the importance of           visions, ambition, aspirations and ideas that can be utilized to build powerful    networks.

Chapter 4: The LEGUP Mental Health Hour

This session was moderated by Tychon Carter Newman (Motivator Speaker and Content Creator) and featured panelists: Anandie Talfie (Regional Retail Manager at Andrew Peller Limited. Inclusion Council Member. Advocate of Mental Wellness), Link Kabadyundi (Founder and Community Builder) and David Griffiths.

Chapter 5: The LEGUP Wealth Soiree:

The symposium wrapped up with a: motivational, inspirational and informational piece by Greg Birkitt. Burkitt is an educator and spoken word artist who left the audience spellbound by the way he connected financial wealth to psychological and emotional health. Jay Smooth (Toronto-based saxophonist and international performer) serenaded and entertained the crowd during dinner.

Al Ramsay, VP and Head 2SLGBTQ & Black Customer Segment at TD writes, “There is a strong connection between our financial security and overall health and with dedicated, empowered leadership and a focus on sustainable equity we will create an environment where individuals can collaborate and realize their full potential.”

The symposium also featured artist: metal sculptor Wayne Smile, multidisciplinary visual artist Chika OH, visual content producer Lance Freeman and fashion designer Narvern, and vendors: Afrika Designs, African Royalty, Ruqayya Ocid Perfumes and I AM Hair Zion Collection.

Nicolle Grant (TD Ready Commitment Ambassador) who volunteered at the symposium writes, “The many speakers and panelists did an incredible job of being authentic and sharing their:  wisdom, insight, and experience in managing health and wealth. Special shout out to Simone Jennifer Smith for leading the charge in helping to make the day a success.”