54Lights

Food for thought!!!! Have a listen to our food focused conversation with Chef Alex Askew. We asked Chef Alex to unpack the food system and explain how it's impacting communities. What we were looking for was a deeper understanding and appreciation of food justice. What we learned, over a stimulating session, was just how real and important these issues are and how they acutely impact people of col...

The latest episode of 54Lights podcast focuses on revival. Revival and rebirth within the entertainment industry with a specific lens on the theatre. Sitting down with acclaimed playwright Zodwa Nyoni, we dove into heady topics that ranged from how creatives have to approach the business side of their work to how the writing process evolves to how the industry is reshaping itself during the period...

This just in…Jefferson Darrell started his boutique agency, Breakfast Culture, with the goal of helping organizations effectively reach audiences. The idea quickly evolved to encompass the management of external communications (coined as Woke Marketing) and internal workplace culture. Jefferson joined 54Lights and shared his perspective on identity politics, social movements and, even, family dyna...

This just in….54Lights managed to catch up with media mogul Patricia (Bebia) Mawa. Patricia works alongside her husband, Moses Mawa, in steering an impressive media empire that includes; a 24hour television channel (called AfroGlobal TV), three magazines and several regional networks. While we were pleased that she shed light on her early start in media, our greatest learnings came from Patricia’s...

This just in…54Lights had a sweet conversation with Neale’s Sweet ‘n Nice ice cream co-founder Andrew McBarnett. The ice cream business is emerging into a formidable brand in the Canadian landscape. In fact, it’s fair to say they have fully arrived. They're doubling their presence in supermarkets across Canada – going from over 300 to over 600 locations. While its competitors are obvious, what's e...

This just in…in an extension of a previous episode of 54Lights, S2.EP8..Playbook Live (https://54lights.com/2020/06/playbook-live/), we sat down with investment advisor Gabriel Flores to talk about managing money in times of crisis. In these uncertain times, where people need to be more prudent about their expenses, we were compelled to talk to a professional whose day-to-day is helping people man...

54Lights welcomed outspoken VP Tiana Conley into our virtual studio for a session to unpack her career, outlook and circumstance. She shared her experiences as an often solitary, and senior ranking, African-American leader who’s compelled to embrace risk. And while that may leave her in a vulnerable position, it’s fundamentally important to the journey towards equality. Along with her leadership r...

This just in...54Lights host Kondwani Mwase sat down with the diverse and creative entrepreneur, Ricardo McRae in what is arguably one of our most important episodes to date. In a timely take that’s prescient for communities of colour, Ricardo unpacks important topics for us all. Ricardo is a black entrepreneur based in Toronto who has started several projects including BlackInCanada.com and Wedge...

Laugh, learn and let loose with one of Canada's funniest artists. More than a stand-up comic, Rodney Ramsey brings a lot to the stage. We sat down with him to talk about the future of comedy and how he's bringing innovation to the art form. Listen. Like. Share.

In our latest episode, 54Lights (@crowd54) sat down with activist, author and tireless superstar Andrea Gunraj to talk about gender equality. The COVID crisis is and has cast its shadow on underrepresented communities, Andrea eloquently educated us on how the coronavirus is amplifying underlying inequalities facing women of all backgrounds. And better still, she sheds light on how we can contribut...

Justine Apple has been running her business for years. As a professional photographer, she knows that her livelihood is inspired by photos but driven by relationships. She’s in the service industry and she knows and embraces it. 54Lights had a candid talk with Justine where she talked COVID19, DIY photography and the gaps business education for artists. A great listen for entrepreneurs, freelancer...

On the heels of Women’s Month, thirty or so days beyond Black History month and in the midst of self-isolation, 54Lights is launching our most recent talk with the indomitable Binta Bajaha.  Her measured and worldly perspective gives us all something to think about; from women's issues to reframing how we celebrate Black History month. Enjoy this latest conversation, including a quick chat on the...

On International Women's Day, and hopefully everyday, we take time out to recognize, celebrate and shed light on the strong women in our lives who are leaders, mentors, friends and family. 54Lights recently sat down with several strong and impressive women to have a real conversation about the Glass Ceiling and the Glass Cliff. While there is still a long way to go, these insightful women all shar...

Just Imagine….sitting down with a lyrical activist who’s prose and prowess is moving! 54Lights sat down with the multi-talented and multi-faceted Rania El Mugammar (@rania.writes) to better understand her work and motivation. A woman with a comfort with conflict, Rania's artistry and activism is something we can all learn from. Listen. Like. Share.

Season II kicks off with a collective bang. Guests from 54’s past present and future episodes all introduce themselves to us in interestingly collaged show dedicated to people’s names…and the origins of the names. In this episode, you’ll get to shake hands with guests, fans and people who help make 54Lights what it is. As always, you’re invited to introduce yourself, and the origins of your name,...

Season II of 54Lights podcast is here. Enjoy interesting conversations with inspirational leaders, of all stripes, throughout the upcoming months. Enjoy under told stories (out of Africa). Listen. Like. Share.

In the final instalment of the President's Club, 54Lights sits down with former CAUFP Javon Findlator. The selfless entrepreneur and bright professional continues to give back to his community...both locally and abroad. When we spoke, we got a glimpse into his motivation, dedication and unwavering commitment. Listen. Like. Share.

54Lights had the pleasure of meeting a number of insightful business leaders at the BFUTR Tech Summit in Toronto. One of those amazing people was Cher Jones - a social media trainer based in this city. Her business and model couldn't be more relevant, in a time where professionals need to quite literally brand themselves. I spoke to Cher about her business, her approach and her exploits. Listen. L...

Dalmar Abuzeid is a Canadian actor who’s been blazing a trail for years. His resume is littered with impressive accomplishments…least of which are his breakthrough role on “Degrassi: The Next Generation” and his recent exploits in “Anne with an E”. While all his roles have been impressive undertakings, his portrayal on "Anne with an E" represented a watershed moment in the life of a storied Canadi...

Former Toronto city CIO Rob Meikle was one of the notable headliners for the #BFUTR Tech Summit that was the brainchild of his apprentice Lekan Olawoye and the leadership at #BPTN. We caught up and had a quick yet candid discussion on leadership and mentorship. His views on community success, and our collective responsibility to each other, were truly illuminating.

54Lights sat down with BPTN (Black Professionals in Technology Network) founder Lekan Olawoye to speak about diversity in tech, talent management and what drives him. With the BFUTR Tech Summit as our backdrop, Lekan spoke unapologetically about his life, vision and intentions. Listen. Like, Share.

54Lights Podcast sat down with the president of the Canadian Association of Urban Financial Professionals – CAUFP. The organization’s leader, Meryl Afrika, gave us some great insight into the mission, vision and impetus for the work that’s being done to support urban professionals in Toronto. And while the organization is local to Canada’s economic center, the work that’s being done is a model for...

Days before her premier video release, 54Lights sat down with talented singer/songwriter Kibra Tesfaye at the Eaton Centre in downtown Toronto. The young singer opened up about her upswinging career and the process she's embarking on to build her brand. Listen. Like. Share.

54Lights had the pleasure of broadcasting live at Toronto's Eaton Centre where we sat down with local street photographer Marc-Andre Misat. Professional by day and artist by night (sort of), Marc gave us insight to how, and why, a hobbyist street photographer creates mastery in the urban jungle. Listen. Like. Share.

54Lights recently joined two coaches from Sigma FC soccer academy. They spoke eloquently about their work and experience at an academy that's shaping the future of Canadian soccer. With that backdrop, we dove into the true impact of the game and gained insight into how these two approach their sport. Enjoy a fun interview about the world's beautiful game. Listen. Like. Share.