54Lights

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 manage their relationship with money.

Gabriel is an advisor in RBC’s Wealth Management division(https://ca.rbcwealthmanagement.com/gabriel.flores/). He has a diverse skillset which includes, among many things, a background in the sciences. His measured, thoughtful and humane approach to his craft set him apart from other advisors in the marketplace. His focus is on education and information which helps his clients feel empowered. His hands-on approach has needed to adapt, given COVID19, but he’s adjusted admirably and continues to help people achieve their goals and cement their legacies.

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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 role in the corporate world, Tiana is a mother and an outspoken crusader for human rights. She is participating in a community leadership program, comprising of top black leaders around Chicago, to help tackle imbalances in power dynamics. She’s commited to advancing equality for black people so that all races can thrive and rise towards a state of true equality and progress.

Among the most quotable moments from our talk are these prescient lines;

“Truth-tellers take their lumps”

“I’m gonna speak my truth and I’m ok with you not being ok with that”

“Risks are more expensive for black people than for non-black people”

“Risks are worth it if they play out for the broader greater good”

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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 Wedge15. As a businessman, he's craftily managed the world between creativity and commerce. Among other things, he now works with people in the black community to help them better understand their relationship with money. Aside from fiscal management, he's known for giving sage advice to business owners and youth within the greater Toronto area.
Our conversation spans several avenues. Mentorship, money and legacy to name a few. While his candor was sometimes cutting, it offered a measured perspective on life and how navigating the ups and downs of ones’ journey needs to be approached with openness and a willingness to embrace fear.

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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.

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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 contribute to progress and making a change.

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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, freelancers and anyone interested in the business of photography.

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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 COVID19 crisis.

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 shared their perspective on the fight for gender equality and encourage me that we are, and can, move forward towards a better and more equal future.

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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.

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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, to 54Lights. Do so on Facebook, Instagram (@crowd54) or through our website.

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