Network Black Chicago O


by Marwan Fateen


n Feb 18, 2008, Network Black Chicago was proud to present “Free Business 2


Business Seminar For All,” which I had the pleasure and opportunity to attend. This event was hosted by Jon- athan Stamps of Brown Eye Image Solutions. Its purpose was to bring black business men together in a very pleasant and quiet setting, and allow them the opportunity to network, form relationships, share ideas, get exposure, and most importantly, find opportunities that weren’t readily available to them. The event began with refreshments,


free of charge at 5pm. From 6pm – 7pm, was the networking session where we were able to mingle with the guests and share information and ideas. I took the opportunity to sell the Black magazines, and was even encouraged by the Host to bring as many as possible to the event. I met people from different areas of busi- ness who desired more support from the Black community. Lack of pro- motion and recognition is one of the main reasons why Black people don’t reach out to Black businesses. Most Blacks don’t think Black businesses exist to the extent they actually do. Network Black Chicago is helping to bring the Black community and Black Businesses together. One of the most interesting parts


of the seminar was the appearance of the guest speakers. They were very


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creative, lively, humorous, down to earth, and most of all, real. Even though they were educated and had very high positions in their field of expertise, they talked like they were part of the audience. The coordina- tor of the Black Expo spoke about his trials, tribulations and struggles, particularly with securing the right to name the Black Expo, and keep it out of corporate hands. He fought long legal battles to keep the name in Black hands and was successful doing so. He also gave the attendees a special discount for the upcoming Black Expo. He shared some of his views and past accomplishments with the audience. He’s a very standup and outspoken man and has a consistent history of defending his people. The Man over GoBlackbizz.com


talked about his company’s mission to locate all Black businesses in Chi- cago (and eventually in America) and host them on their website. This will make access easier for Black people to support their own and built eco- nomic foundations. He said there are over 4000 black-owned businesses in the state of Illinois. His company was only able to locate about 400. But they are doing what is necessary to promote the businesses in their list and locating the ones that aren’t. Alice Stewert, a business devel-


opment offiicer at Seaway National Bank, then spoke. She took the helm over Seaway about a year ago. In her


Network Black Chicago


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