ALA Winter Recap: A Season of Connection, Community, and Global Impact
As we close the final month of the first quarter of 2026, it is remarkable to look back at everything that has already happened across the ALA community.
Over the past few months, our members, partners, and volunteers have continued building something special together. From meaningful community gatherings and knowledge-sharing sessions to international trade missions and youth mentorship initiatives, the past season reflects the strength of our network and the power of collective action.
What continues to stand out is how ALA brings people together, not only to exchange ideas, but to support one another in building businesses, careers, and community impact.
This winter edition highlights moments of connection, growth, and global engagement, while also offering a glimpse of the exciting initiatives still to come in 2026.
A Message from Leadership
Welcome to the last month of Q1 2026. How time flies when…time flies.
We barely got a chance to recover from 2025, and here we are.
A Changing World
In 2025 we saw significant changes that impacted our ecosystem. From capex reluctance impacting employability, to changing perceptions around diversity of thought, to the urgency of diversifying markets. Each of these changes presents challenges, and exposes opportunities.
A Steadfast Mission
Amongst the many changes, we embrace the opportunity to stay consistent.
In 2026 we are excited to continue developing leadership, entrepreneurship and trade. We continue to do this through impactful, creative and engaging programming that gives people insights, access and opportunities to accelerate the realization of their pursuits. We are excited to continue building the forums and frameworks to support each one of you. As you thrive, we thrive together.
— Perry Chuinkam
November — Connection
Doing Business in South Africa: Setting the Stage for the Back to the Roots Trade Mission / A Pre-Trade Mission Briefing
In November, ALA members had the opportunity to participate in an informative session focused on doing business in South Africa. The event featured Alex George, Senior Trade Commissioner at the High Commission of Canada in South Africa, alongside Nina Dube.
This session served as an important pre-trade mission briefing ahead of the Back to the Roots South Africa mission scheduled for January 2026. Participants gained valuable insights into the economic landscape and explored potential areas of collaboration between Canadian and South African markets.
The discussion provided a broad overview of the South African business environment, including key sectors of opportunity for Canadian companies, government programs supporting international trade and investment, and the financial tools available to businesses seeking to expand globally.
Members also learned about the various support mechanisms offered by Global Affairs Canada, the Trade Commissioner Service, and organizations such as Export Development Canada (EDC).
Beyond the economic overview, the session also offered practical advice on navigating the South African business landscape, including cultural considerations, safety guidelines, and relationship-building practices that are essential when conducting business internationally.
The event helped set the stage for meaningful engagement during the upcoming mission and gave participants the tools to approach the experience with both confidence and curiosity.
Strengthening Community Locally
Regional Chapters: BWC Game Night
While global engagement remains an important focus, ALA also continues to prioritize local connection and community building.
One example was the recent Black Wealth Club Game Night, which brought together members for an evening filled with laughter, friendly competition, and vibrant energy.
The room was full of excitement as participants engaged in games, conversations, and spontaneous moments of celebration. Teams brought enthusiasm and creativity, with many members showcasing unexpected talents, humor and team leadership skills throughout the games.
Beyond the entertainment, the evening reflected the deeper purpose of the Black Wealth Club: creating authentic relationships and strengthening the network of Black professionals within the community.
Events like these remind us that meaningful connections often grow in informal spaces. By creating opportunities for members to gather, laugh, celebrate, and relax together, ALA continues to nurture a supportive environment where relationships can flourish beyond professional introductions.
December — Community Impact
Technology that Cares: Women’s Health in a Digital World
In December, the Women’s Committee hosted a thoughtful and timely conversation titled Technology that Cares: Women’s Health in a Digital World.
The session brought together leaders working at the intersection of HealthTech, cybersecurity, and mental health to explore how technological innovation is transforming women’s wellbeing. Some of the panelists included: Lynn Doughane, Juno Technologies, Manuela Rigaud, Théodore, Zen dans ma tête, Marsha Bazile, IT Auditor.
Together, they explored how emerging technologies are reshaping the ways women manage their physical and mental health. Conversations touched on topics such as digital health platforms, the protection of personal health data, cybersecurity risks, and the ethical responsibilities that come with developing technology in the health sector.
A key theme throughout the discussion was the importance of embedding human-centered design and ethical thinking into technological innovation.
The hybrid session was co-led by Aïcha Gansonré and Maggy Richmond of the Black Wealth Club and hosted in partnership with V1 Studio in Montreal.
By creating a space specifically for women to engage in open dialogue around health and technology, the event encouraged participants to reflect on both the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany innovation and needed conversation in this space.
Giving Back: Holiday GiveBack Event
The ALA Philanthropy Committee also supported the Black Association of Côte-des-Neiges during their annual Holiday GiveBack event.
This gathering has become one of Montreal’s most heartwarming seasonal traditions, bringing together families, children, seniors, and local entrepreneurs for a day centered around generosity and community spirit.
The event created an opportunity for community members to connect, share resources, and spread warmth during the holiday season. From festive activities for children to opportunities for neighbors to support one another, the atmosphere reflected the power of collective care.
Participating in initiatives like this reinforces ALA’s commitment to community engagement and reminds us that impact is often built through small acts of generosity and presence.
January — Global Expansion
Back to the Roots Trade Mission — South Africa
In January, ALA members traveled to South Africa as part of the Back to the Roots Trade Mission, an initiative designed to strengthen economic connections between Canada and Africa.
The mission brought together entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders interested in exploring opportunities for trade, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
Throughout the visit, delegates participated in a series of meetings and institutional engagements, including discussions with the Canadian High Commissioner to South Africa, James Christoff, as well as several Canadian trade commissioners.
Participants also visited leading organizations and institutions such as MTN Group, Johannesburg Business School, Reach Digital Health, and UVU Africa. These visits offered first-hand exposure to South Africa’s dynamic business ecosystem and provided valuable insights into the country’s rapidly evolving technology and innovation sectors.
The program also included panel discussions and networking events hosted at Fasken’s Johannesburg office, where delegates connected with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals operating across the African continent.
One particularly memorable moment was a meeting with Albie Sachs, renowned anti-apartheid activist and survivor of an assassination attempt, whose reflections offered powerful historical and social context to the delegation’s visit.
The mission welcomed more than 100 participants, creating a vibrant environment for exchange, learning, and collaboration.
The program also included panel discussions and networking events hosted at Fasken’s Johannesburg office, where delegates connected with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals operating across the African continent.
One particularly memorable moment was a meeting with Albie Sachs, renowned anti-apartheid activist and survivor of an assassination attempt, whose reflections offered powerful historical and social context to the delegation’s visit.
The mission welcomed more than 100 participants, creating a vibrant environment for exchange, learning, and collaboration.
Harvin Hilaire, an ALA member and Back to the Roots participant reflected on his trip saying, “South Africa is definitely not what mainstream media often makes it out to be. From Johannesburg to Cape Town, I experienced a country that is beautiful, diverse, and full of life, with Johannesburg being the clear highlight for me because of its energy, visible business activity, and the level of Black wealth and affluence that I had never witnessed at that scale before. One of the most impactful moments was an architectural tour that walked us through the country’s evolution from the gold rush era to banking, mining, and now tech, showing how each economic shift shaped the city’s identity and infrastructure. The safari in Pilanesberg was transformational and grounding, even though I wish I had spent more time there. On a business and connection level, traveling with the Black Wealth Club allowed me to build meaningful international relationships and establish key contacts for future projects on the continent, making the trip a solid ten out of ten.”
— Harvin Hilaire
Health Is Wealth
Mental Health Equity and Systemic Influences on Black Communities in Canada
Another important conversation this season focused on mental health equity within Black communities in Canada.
ALA welcomed Dr. Salami, a leading Canadian nursing and public health scholar and the Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Black and Racialized Peoples’ Health.
Dr. Salami currently serves as a Professor at the Cumming School of Medicine, with cross-appointments in Nursing and the O’Brien Institute for Public Health.
Her research focuses on migrant health and the mental health of Black and racialized communities. Over the course of her career, she has led or contributed to more than 90 funded research projects totaling over $230 million and has published more than 150 peer-reviewed papers.
Among her many contributions, Dr. Salami founded initiatives that helped establish Western Canada’s first mental health clinic dedicated to Black Canadians. Her work has also influenced public policy, including presentations and consultations with the Prime Minister of Canada.
The session offered participants an opportunity to learn, reflect, and engage in meaningful conversations about systemic influences on health outcomes and the importance of advancing equitable healthcare solutions.
February — Capital Activation
Canada–Africa Business Dialogue at Fasken
In February, ALA partnered with Fasken to host a Canada–Africa business dialogue focused on trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration.
The event brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem stakeholders to explore insights from the Back to the Roots South Africa trade mission and gain a deeper understanding of the African business landscape, including key players, emerging opportunities, and areas for partnership.
Through a fireside chat and panel discussion, ALA members who participated in the trade mission, including Harvin Hilaire and Leila Touré, shared firsthand perspectives and experiences, offering practical insight into navigating opportunities and building relationships across the continent.
The evening concluded with networking, giving attendees the opportunity to connect and continue conversations beyond the panel.
Welcoming Cohort 6
January also marked the welcoming of Cohort 6, with events held in both Montreal and Toronto to introduce the newest participants to the ALA community.
These gatherings provided an opportunity for students and young professionals to connect with mentors, meet fellow participants, and begin their journey within the program.
Black Youth Excellence (BYE) Program
The Black Youth Excellence program continues to play a central role in ALA’s mission of supporting the next generation of leaders.
Currently in its fifth iteration, the program was originally launched in the 2021–2022 period and has since supported more than 100 students across Canada.
This year’s cohort includes 24 students representing approximately 10 universities, with fields of study ranging from law and finance to engineering, computer science, medicine, psychology, and actuarial science.
Participants have expressed strong interest in exploring career opportunities beyond their academic disciplines, developing networking and relationship-building skills, and finding mentors who can support their early career journeys.
There is also a growing curiosity among participants around entrepreneurship and non-traditional career pathways.
The program continues to be delivered through the collective efforts of ALA members, mentors, program leadership, and strategic corporate partners, including organizations such as La Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ), Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt, and Egon Zehnder.
Power of Community – The Next Era
In February, ALA joined ecosystem partners including, Black Founders Network, Black Opportunity Fund, and Black North Initiative to host Power of Community 2026: The Next Era in Toronto.
The event brought together founders, professionals, and investors for a day of conversations on advancing Black innovation, supporting emerging talent, and scaling businesses across Canada and beyond.
This year, the “Next Era” Town Hall created space for open dialogue, while interactive zones connected attendees directly to hiring opportunities, funding resources, and potential collaborators.
It was a strong reminder of what happens when the right people, ideas, and opportunities come together.
Member Spotlight
O’Nell Agossa
Book Release: Curiosity and I
What if Curiosity were a companion walking by your side?
In this philosophical and magical tale, the protagonist embarks on a three-day journey with their guide and dear friend, Curiosity. Though only an hour passes in the real world, both characters travel across unseen realms, discovering the transformative power revealed through the practice of curiosity — both inward and outward.
O’Nell Agossa is a pan-African, third-culture author whose heritage spans from francophone West Africa to Canada, with experiences stretching from Cotonou to Montreal, Dakar, Johannesburg, and beyond.
His debut novel, Curiosity and I: Let Curiosity Guide You, blends storytelling and philosophy to encourage readers to embrace curiosity as a guiding practice.
Curious enough?
The book is available on Amazon.
Oyíndàmọ́lá Aláká
Oyíndàmọ́lá Aláká is a nonprofit leader and cultural curator who grew up between Lagos and Winnipeg.
She serves as Director of Programs at Career Trek Inc., where she leads multi-regional teams, manages complex budgets, and builds partnerships across government, business, and community sectors.
As one of the organizers of ALA’s Back to the Roots Trade Mission to South Africa, she helped operationalize what Canada’s Africa Strategy looks like in practice.
Through curated panels, institutional engagements, and targeted B2B meetings, delegates gained first-hand insight into doing business in South Africa while building meaningful partnerships.
For Oyíndàmọ́lá, the most meaningful moment was seeing delegates immerse themselves in the culture with curiosity and openness — proof that lasting economic partnerships are built on both strategy and human connection.
Wellness & Community Reflection
Your Morning Routine Should Include Your People.
I have been thinking a lot about my morning routine.
Wake up. Breathe. Pick up phone. Scroll. Journal at some point.
It is not what I want it to be. In fact, it is far from the “millionaire morning” blueprint I studied when I was training for my first bodybuilding show in 2019.
Somewhere after stepping off that stage, I stepped into the very routine every successful, outspoken person warns against. My phone became the first thing I touch in the morning and the last thing I see at night.
It is the classic numb corporate rat behavior.
In the heart of winter, it feels especially dangerous (albeit comforting). It is too easy to stay cocooned under my electric blanket, promising myself 5 more minutes. I bring my laptop to work cozily, only to look up and realize my once quiet morning, full of possibility, has quietly disappeared into a sun already setting.
Mornings matter. They set the tone. They are an opportunity to choose the kind of day you want to have and the headspace you want to be in. Whether you meditate, journal, breathe, or simply set an intention, it does not take much to set a great day in motion.
So I am trying to peel away. Less scrolling. More stillness. More movement.
Yes, that includes Pilates, which has been a game-changer for my seasonal dips. When I get to class, I’m surrounded by familiar faces even if we don’t share verbal exchanges.
Moving my body first thing, or honestly at any point in the day, shifts my mood in ways I did not even realize I needed. Add a good podcast or a loop of affirmations, and I feel unstoppable. I like feeling that way. I want a life designed for more of that energy.
As I rethink my routines and rituals, I also acknowledge that not all phone use is the enemy. Through phones, we can connect, and that is something I want woven into my day.
Around 60 % of young adults report experiencing loneliness. Chronic loneliness increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, and cognitive decline. Some studies suggest its health impact is comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
So, I wake up thinking about my community, my tribe.
How did Anna’s big meeting go?
Is Jubilee’s son’s teething easing up?
Rachel was shaken after hitting a deer on her way to work yesterday. Is she better?
Sometimes those thoughts come while I am journaling. But when I think of them, I reach out.
Sure, I could wait until I am done. But I know how quickly the day gets away from me.
Showing up does not have to be dramatic. It can be a walk. A shared meal. A voice note. A simple, “How are you, really?”
Wellness is Pilates, protein, and earlier bedtimes. It is also sending the “thinking of you” text. It is inviting someone to join you for a class. It is checking in even when they seem fine… Especially when they seem fine.
When you zoom out, the world feels heavy. Political decisions reshape lives overnight. Jobs feel uncertain. Communities feel divided. Many people are carrying stress we cannot see, affected by forces far bigger than themselves.
Life is happening to all of us.
We need each other right now; to be to our communities what we hope they will be to us. Supportive. Present.
Maybe revamping a morning routine is not just about productivity. Maybe it is about presence.
What if we gave the same weight to strengthening our relationships as we do to strengthening our bodies? Psychological and social health are just as critical as physical health.
This season, I am trying to build mornings that make me stronger and softer at the same time: strong enough to face my day, soft enough to notice who might need me in theirs.
Because the most important routine might not be the millionaire morning.
It might be the one where we wake up and remember our friends are trying to get through this season too. That way, we’re all a little more connected and leave each other a little better off.
—Joyce Chuinkam
Community Challenge
Move With the Community
This start of spring, we invite members to participate in a simple community challenge.
Choose two goals for the month:
• Walk or run 15km• Reach out and connect with a community member• Set one Q2 goal and find an accountability partner• Do a personal financial check-in
Share your progress with the community and tag ALA on social media.
Results will be shared in the next issue.
Community Appreciation
The Pilates Studio at Club Atwater generously offered volunteers the opportunity to experience a class as a token of appreciation after a busy summer season.
We are grateful for partners who support the wellbeing of our community.
Upcoming Opportunities
Angel Investment Program
Registration and applications opening soon.
Learn more: Angel Investment Program
Join the waitlist: Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (Repreneuriat)
Upcoming programming designed to support aspiring business owners and investors.
Stay tuned for updates!
Get Involved
Thank you to our members and volunteers who continue to power the ALA community.
If you’re looking to contribute, build, and grow alongside the community, we’d love to hear from you!
Volunteer Opportunities
• Communications• Sponsorships & Partnerships• Entrepreneurship & Financing programming
Interested in mentoring or volunteering? info@theala.ca
Community Poll
We want to hear from you!
What event would you like to see in the community?
Vote here →(Google Form link)
Results will be shared in the next issue.
Stay Connected
Sign up for our mailing list to stay informed about upcoming programming and opportunities.
What Are We Grooving To?
Spring hits different with the smooth, uplifting Amapiano vibes of Uvalo by Jazzworld. Whether you’re out on a crisp morning walk or easing into those slowly warming days, this amapiano track brings the perfect blend of calm and rhythm.
Closing Note
As we move deeper into 2026, one theme continues to guide us:
Community.
Community that builds leaders.
Community that creates opportunity.
Community that strengthens connections across borders and generations.
