Durham College’s Oshawa campus came alive with vibrant displays of culture, creativity, and entrepreneurship as the BIPOC Small Business Showcase returned for its third year.
Organized by second-year event planning students, Hannah Gray and Mary Benedict Lotika, as part of their capstone project. The event provided a platform for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses and engage with the college community.
“This event is all about fostering a sense of community,” said Cynthia Moorcroft, faculty member in the Faculty of Hospitality and Horticulture.
“It brings people together, gets conversations started, and allows students and vendors to interact in a meaningful way.”
The showcase featured a variety of businesses, ranging from smoothie vendors to Indigenous artisans and even an on-site barber. Moorcroft highlighted that each year, the event continues to grow, with students learning from past experiences and making improvements.
“Every year, the event planning students build on what’s been done before, making it better and more impactful,” Moorcroft said.
Among the exhibitors was Ishkode, an Indigenous collective selling handcrafted wood-burned artwork, stickers and apparel.
Victoria Grant, an artist and representative from Ishkode, emphasized the importance of exposure for Indigenous art and craftsmanship.
“Events like this are crucial for Indigenous artists because they provide a space where we can share our culture and traditions,” Grant said.
“It’s not just about selling products, it’s about educating people and keeping our heritage alive.”
Grant also highlighted how events like these create valuable networking opportunities. “I’ve had the chance to collaborate with educators and students who want to learn more about Indigenous artistry,” she said “Being here allows us to connect with the community in a deeper way.”
Another participant, Mandeep Dhaliwal, a representative from Nurse Next Door, highlighted the significance of such events in raising awareness about essential services.
“Many people don’t know that home care services exist,” she explained. “Being here allows us to educate the community and let them know how we can make a difference in people’s lives.”
Nurse Next Door is a global brand providing home care services ranging from companionship to nursing and transportation assistance. Dhaliwal noted that their presence at community events like this helps reach those who might not otherwise seek out such services.
“We do this regularly, at least once or twice a month, at colleges, hospitals, and other community spaces,” she said.
The BIPOC Small Business Showcase is not just an opportunity for businesses to promote their work but also a platform for students to gain hands-on experience in event planning.
Moorcroft emphasized the capstone project is a crucial learning experience for students pursuing careers in the events industry. “They handle everything from vendor outreach to logistics and marketing. It’s a real-world experience that prepares them for their future careers,” she said.
For many vendors, this event serves as an invaluable networking opportunity. Grant shared how attending similar events has helped her grow her business.
“Last year, I designed T-shirts for an international student event at Durham College, and now I see people wearing my designs all around campus,” she said. “It’s amazing to see my work out in the community.”
The event also showcased a variety of cultural influences. Vendors offered products that reflected their unique backgrounds, from handcrafted paddles with intricate Indigenous designs to Korean-inspired artwork and accessories.
“There’s such a wide range of creativity here,” Moorcroft said. “It’s a great way for students to be exposed to different cultures and traditions.”
As the showcase continues to expand, organizers hope to attract even more vendors and further strengthen the bond between the college and local BIPOC entrepreneurs. The event stands as a testament to Durham College’s commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and student-driven initiatives.
With each passing year, the BIPOC Small Business Showcase grows in impact, ensuring that underrepresented voices in the business community have a space to be heard and celebrated.