Keynote speaker Dr.Helen Ofosu with event organizer Sophia Jacob
Keynote speaker Dr.Helen Ofosu with event organizer Sophia Jacob

by MacAndrew Clarke

On Thursday morning, March 17, from 8am-10:30am, Sophia J Events hosted its bi-monthly breakfast networking event at Perkins restaurant off of St. Laurent Boulevard. In recognition of Women’s History Month, the event featured guest speaker Dr. Helen Ofosu to speak on topics such as entrepreneurship, branding, and outreach. Also, there was as a presentation about a long standing international women’s organization named Zonta.

As the event began, professionals from the profit and non-profit community were in attendance. From financial advisors to accountants, consultants and salespeople, women (and some men) from diverse professions were freely exchanging information as they discussed their respective business and career goals. Shortly before breakfast, guests were invited to listen to Dr. Ofosu deliver a presentation on steps to take before starting a business, the importance of branding, and opportunities for outreach within the community. With over 15 years of experience in HR and career consulting, Dr. Ofosu presented ideas and pointers that were important to today’s entrepreneurial environment given that the business landscape has changed whether it be through technology, communications, or marketing. Following Dr. Ofosu’s presentation was a speech from the Zonta Club of Ottawa past president, Suzie Smith. Zonta is an international women’s organization that has been active in the fight for women’s rights, justice, and equality for over 85 years. Zonta is reputed to be an active supporter of NGOs that champion their beliefs, and the UN is an example where they have been quoted as giving about 2 million dollars per year to the organization. Zonta also provides scholarships, hosts workshops on a variety of social issues, and organizes social events throughout their respective communities. More information regarding the Zonta Club of Ottawa can be found on their website. Additional information regarding Dr. Ofosu can also be found on her website.

These breakfast functions are organized through the Ottawa Opportunities Networking Breakfast & Events which is managed by Sophia Jacobs. Sophia Jacobs is the Founder & Community Organizer of Sophia J events and the Black Ottawa Business Network Social Group. “My goal is to bring people together from all industry sectors in order to create opportunities for professional and social advancement” said Ms. Jacobs. These events are scheduled every other month and invitations are open to everyone. The average cost of tickets and breakfast is $14. In addition to getting a good meal while meeting interesting people, this event has a “Pay It Forward” session where guests, who are selected through a draw, are granted an opportunity to promote their company/organization through a short business pitch. There are also door prizes, giveaways from sponsors, and another opportunity to network as the event comes to a close.

Overall, this networking breakfast was informative, helpful, and welcoming in that everyone was visibly comfortable to network and build connections. The next breakfast event is scheduled for May 12th and the theme is: Mentors & Leadership. Information regarding upcoming initiatives from the Ottawa Opportunities Networking Breakfast & Events can be found on their FaceBook page.

About the writer

MacAndrew Clarke
MacAndrew Clarke

MacAndrew Clarke holds a B.A. (Hons) in Political Science from Carleton University. Fluently bilingual in English and French, he has  several years diverse communications and marketing experience from within the public, private, and non-profit sector. MacAndrew Clarke has been a member of The Academy since December of 2015. He can be reached at:  [email protected].

 

MacAndrew Clarke