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On Wednesday February 15^th, the Innovation Hub hosted its very first Black Entrepreneurship Excellence networking event on the ground floor of �Ӱ�ԭ�� University’s new Nicol Building. Over fifty attendees converged in the Hub to learn more about the programs offered, and network with Black Student founders and community members. This was a unique opportunity for black students and founders to share information about their projects and connect with like-minded members of their local entrepreneurship ecosystem.

John Nelson, Acting Director at the Hub, believes events like these give budding entrepreneurs from underserved communities the support they need to spread their wings and navigate systemic barriers that can hinder their progress as entrepreneurs and business owners. The Hub serves all students on campus at �Ӱ�ԭ��, but is particularly committed to supporting entrepreneurs who need a bit of extra support to be successful.

“Tonight is about connecting leaders with students who are ready to start their own businesses, and for [these students] to meet as many new people as possible.”

highlighted two of �Ӱ�ԭ�� University’s Innovation Hub student founders, Cedric Osagie-Ogunbor and Nura Hashi. Cedric is a co-founder of where he helps design unique art pieces which represent African folklore, history, icons, and music. Born and raised in Nigeria, Cedric’s goal is to share the beautiful culture and unique stories of his homeland with other Canadian students. In doing so, he can support local artisans, donate to overseas charities, and enable local Canadians to shop gorgeous Nigerian artifacts through the AfroPunk platform.

Nura Hashi brought attention to the benefits of participating in the Hub’s programs (Nest, Changemaker, Hatch, Launch, and Breakthrough). The Innovation Hub provides both course-based and experiential learning programs for student entrepreneurs, connecting them to & encouraging the use of available resources to bring their ideas to fruition. Hashi emphasized the safe space and welcoming environment at the Hub, where industry experts often host talks covering niche topics such as IP protection, all the way to broad marketing and growth strategies.

“I don’t feel like a fish out of water here”, said Cedric, who acknowledged the benefits of the Hub’s empowering and inclusive environment. Students felt energized and inspired after attending the event, showing off their prototypes and discussing novel business ideas even after the event had wound down.

Staff and group leaders at the Hub are dedicated to inclusivity and diversity endeavours, not only to shine the light on underserved groups, but also to inspire others through the success stories of those surrounding them.

The Innovation Hub’s core goals are to provide and promote social innovation, entrepreneurship education, new venture creation, and experiential learning opportunities for students at �Ӱ�ԭ��. As a team, the Innovation Hub looks forward to hosting more events to drive diversity and inclusivity in the Greater Ottawa entrepreneurial ecosystem.