Who We Are

About Us

The Durham Region Association of Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs is a community-driven not-for-profit founded in 2017.

Our MissionBoard of Directors
DRABPE community members collaborating together
Our Mission

Our Mission

We connect Durham’s Black community, professionals, and entrepreneurs with practical opportunities.

Founded in 2017, we work to strengthen the social and economic well-being of Durham Region’s Black community.

Our initiatives evolve with community needs, creating the resources and spaces people need to build businesses, careers, and lasting impact.

Our Impact

Support That Grows With The Community

DRABPE’s initiatives provide crucial support and resources for individuals and businesses as the community’s needs grow.

130Directory businesses supported
120+Youth founders impacted
3,100+Event participants welcomed
$163,000+Youth funding directed

75+ Black youth positively impacted through STEMM since the program began.

Business growthResources for supporting enterprises
NetworkingConnect with decision-makers
InnovationFostering fresh ideas
Community impactEmpowering local initiatives
Our Journey

From Vision To Community Hub

Key moments that have shaped DRABPE’s work since 2017.

  1. The beginning

    First board meeting held to discuss branding and vision for a community hub.

  2. Incorporation

    DRABPE incorporated and began building its presence through gatherings, a community newsletter, financial networking, and business education.

  3. Resilience

    Delivered branding and social media programming, received its first major SBCCI grant, and held a Trade Expo.

  4. Expansion

    Launched the Black Business Directory, entrepreneur website, BYAP STEMM program, and financial-literacy partnerships.

  5. Scaling

    Opened a new office, launched a marketing campaign, graduated Future Founders students, and hosted First Friday events.

  6. Today

    Leading Durham Region as a premier hub for Black professional excellence.

Our Board

Board of Directors

Meet the people guiding DRABPE’s mission and long-term community impact across Durham Region.

Susan Blake

Vice President

Tennille Spencer

Director

Vincent Amos

Treasurer

Phil Johnson

Director

Jamelia Allen

Director

Steven King

Director

Paul Gittens

Director

The People Behind Our Work

Internal Team

Meet the people who lead programs and support Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and young people across Durham Region.

Our Community

Partnership & Connection

We collaborate with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations to create more opportunities across Durham Region.

Local BusinessesCollaborative partnerships with Durham Region enterprises.
Educational InstitutionsWorking with schools and colleges to develop talent.
Community OrganizationsStrengthening the social fabric through joint initiatives.
Volunteer NetworkIndustry professionals and mentors supporting the STEMM program.
Our Funders

With thanks to our funders

  • Government of Canada
  • FedDev Ontario
  • Province of Ontario
  • FUNDFFBC
  • FONDSFPCN
Our Partners

Organizations we work with

  • Ontario Tech University
  • Durham Catholic District School Board
  • Durham Community Health Centre
  • The Lighthouse Retreat Inc.
  • DALEY
  • Cultural Expressions for CHANGE
  • Strategize Your Life Centre
  • Functional Mind and Body Inc.
  • LiveWell Pathway
Join Us

Be part of what we are building.

Attend an event, register your business, or partner with DRABPE to support Black professionals and entrepreneurs across Durham Region.

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