Black History Month recognizes the legacy of Black Canadians and their significant contributions to our country. This February, I would like to recognize the extraordinary efforts of our Black, African, and Caribbean (BAC) employee resource group. Over the last few years, we have deepened community relations, helped bridge educational gaps, empowered employees to reach their highest potential through mentorship, and created a vibrant space to share in the rich and diverse cultures of those within our group.
For those unfamiliar with the BAC group, I am the Executive Sponsor and founded the group, alongside George Adu, in 2020, as a response to the tense racial climate that arose in the wake of George Floyd. What started as a space for those who identified as Black to come together in solidarity has since evolved into a dynamic community reaching into the intersectionality of Indigenous, African, Asian and Middle Eastern diasporas found in the rich and diverse culture of the Caribbean Islands. Our members are located across the country, primarily in Toronto, Calgary, and Montreal.
We have established a dedicated steering committee and a powerfully engaged membership, with Cheryl Jones, member of MBP Sterling Partners, integral to organizing inspiring cultural events and regular opportunities for connection, both virtually and in-person. However, although we have a tight-knit community, we fundamentally operate from the premise non solis nobis — not for ourselves alone.
Leading our mentorship program and tapping into her extensive network, Kerri-Ann Sylvestre, Head of Capital Markets, generated a forum to easily connect group members interested in expanding their careers with internal and external professionals who offer guidance, support, or sponsorship.
Knowing that financial literacy is a critical element to helping Black communities play a more powerful role in the economic mainstream, Sascha Isaacs, Portfolio Manager, head of the Private Family Office and Sports & Entertainment Group, and Andrew Kizito, Portfolio Manager, Branch Manager, head of the National Partnership Office, lent their financial acumen and volunteered at Frontlines, a youth centre in the Rexdale community of Toronto, teaching basic financial skills and answering questions.
These are but two examples from the BAC group’s community involvement. The Richardson Wealth community is a strong advocate and has historically supported, and continues to champion community endeavors, such as the Black Opportunity Fund. I am also proud of the firm’s more recent support of a significant work of art that will be displayed prominently at the entrance of the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), one of the largest art galleries in North America. Representation matters from the C-suite to the streets. The sculpture, a 9-foot bronze cast figure of a young Black woman, challenges viewers to re-consider conceptions of race and beauty, while cultivating a sense of understanding and re-imagining of the Black experience.
As we celebrate Black History Month and the historical contributions of Black Canadians, I am reminded that we do this work not for ourselves alone, but to empower the futures of Black communities in Canada and further an environment that enriches us all.
With thanks and appreciation,
Michael Williams
SVP, Chief Risk Officer
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