5th Annual Black Arts & Innovation Expo celebrates black excellence in technology, science, art, literature and live music

(Toronto, ON) – There is no better way to celebrate Black History Month than helping to build tomorrow’s leaders. Excelovate and First Book Canada have teamed up with leading corporations, innovators, artists and successful community members to host the 5th annual Black Arts & Innovation Expo on Thursday February 21st, 2019.  

This one-day event will be held at Toronto’s Arcadian Court, 401 Bay Street, Simpson Tower (8th Floor) from 11:00 am – 7:00 pm. Join us to celebrate Black History Month, by recognizing the unique and creative contributions of Black Canadians. Attendees will connect with leading tech companies for an onsite Tech Career Fair and be inspired by scholarship recipients, entrepreneurs, emerging artists and trailblazers. #BAIE2019 will emphasize opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM). “Canada is one of the fastest growing technology markets in North America. BAIE was launched to help people develop new skills and compete to win in the workplace of the future. I know first hand that embracing technology and innovation can transform lives and inspire meaningful change – we need more diversity at the table.” – Claudette McGowan, Founder BAIE

Program highlights include:

BAIE 2019 will feature artists who exhibit high levels of artistic integrity across disciplines, including special musical performances by rap legend Kardinal Offishall, violinist Andrew Forde, soul singer M.I. Blue, R&B singer Sage Harris, art by Josef Adamu (Sunday School), authors Djamila Ibrahim, Canisia Lubrin, Kayla Perrin, entrepreneurs/artists Jamal Burger (Jayscale), Femi Lawson, Dalton Higgins, Kiana “Rookz” Eastmond, Esie Mensah, African dancers Ijo Vudu, and music supplied by DJ Matthew Romeo.  

The ever popular Lion’s Lair competition (think Dragon’s Den, but with a twist) that selects one GTA entrepreneur to win $10,000 returns, while five $5000 financial scholarships will be given away to African-Canadian students with a post-secondary educational interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). At this year’s Expo youth will also be able to connect with leaders from top technology companies at the technology Career Fair.

BAIE2019 Other Highlights:

● Connect with industry-leading companies that are actively hiring diverse talent for STEAM roles

● Experience career-boosting onsite activations like complementary resume reviews and professional headshots

● Enjoy complimentary food tastings, a luxurious silent auction, flash raffles/draws and a one-of-a-kind futuristic Robotic Play Zone

● The first 100 people will receive a unique swag bag.

Tickets can be purchased for $25 at EventBrite here and visit Blackexpo.ca 

Black Arts and Innovation Expo (BAIE) was founded by Excelovate and is a proud supporter of First Book Canada. BAIE partnered with leading corporations, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, artists and innovators to promote diversity and inspire excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM). BAIE defines a new way of celebrating Black History Month with focused attention on tomorrow’s legends while recognizing valuable contributions to technology, music, literature, arts and entrepreneurship.