The Big Move Toward Unity and Progress

This is the third of my series of 30 articles on LinkedIn for Black History Month 2024 to empower and inspire business owners and aspiring business owners. The Big Move Toward Unity and Progress.

Creating Your Own Path: Lessons for Black Business Owners in the UK

Madam C.J. Walker, a pioneering Black entrepreneur, once said, "I had to make my own living and my own opportunity. But I made it! Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them." But what does this mean, and how can it inspire Black business owners today?

Interestingly, this quote is about taking control of your future, your destiny, your life. Madam C.J. Walker didn’t wait for someone else to give her success; she went out and created it herself. This message is especially important for Black business owners in the UK, who often face extra challenges when trying to grow their businesses. I have written a book called Windrush Teaches Business Strategy for the Next Generation where I shared some helpful strategies you can implement now.

There may be fewer resources available or fewer chances to meet the right people, but like Madam Walker, you can still make things happen by being proactive and taking bold steps.

How to Apply This Today:

Instead of waiting for opportunities, like investors or big contracts, to land in your lap, create your own opportunities. One practical activity you can start today is networking with purpose. For example, I am one of the executives with the African Business Association Yorkshire, and we are constantly putting on events so people can network and find opportunities for themselves. Reach out to potential partners, mentors, and other business owners, even if they don’t reach out to you first. Attend local business events, webinars, or online meetups and make connections that can lead to growth. I imagine you already know this or heard it before. Question is are you putting these into practice. Well, listen again and take some action.

What can you do?

A good starting point is to create a list of five people or organizations that could help you expand your business. Write them an email, schedule a call, or set up a meeting. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and tell them what you offer. The more connections you make, the more doors will open! The money is in the connections.

Take control of your destiny. Don’t wait for someone to open the door for you—build your own door and walk through it. This week, challenge yourself to reach out to at least three new contacts and I’ll do the same. The future is in your hands!

#BlackExcellence #BlackBusinessUK #Entrepreneurship #CreateOpportunities #LevelUp #MadamCJWalker #SuccessIsYours #TakeActionNow #BuildYourFuture#Africanbusinessassociation.