Empowering Voices: PCHS's First Black Career Day
by Dan Mullins
In a modest yet important gathering at Pierrefonds Community High School (PCHS), the inaugural Black Career Day took place in the school’s library during lunchtime, marking an important milestone for the Black Student Union (BSU). This intimate event, spearheaded by the BSU, was exclusively attended by junior students and aided by a few senior helpers, showcasing the school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and educational environment.
The panel featured four entrepreneurs from diverse sectors who shared information about their professional journeys, challenges, and triumphs. The day was not just about the stories told but about the space it created for students to see themselves in these narratives of resilience and achievement.
The four entrepreneurs were Devon Grenade, Alexis Maniatis, DJ Nelles, and Cassandra Gibson.
Devon Grenade, the owner of Grenville Barbershop in Pierrefonds, highlighted his 15-year journey in the grooming industry. With a business model centered on affordability, quality, and satisfaction, Grenade emphasized the unique experience his shop offers, deeply rooted in the pride of his Grenadian hometown, Grenville.
Alexis Maniatis, founder of Pressed and Pretty Cookies, shared her entrepreneurial venture into creating nut-free confections, filling a crucial gap in the market. Her business, based in Montreal, specializes in custom treats that cater to individuals with nut allergies, focusing on safety and inclusivity.
DJ Nelles, a versatile DJ from Montreal with a burgeoning career in music, discussed how her passion evolved into a profession. Catering to a wide array of events, DJ Nelles’ story underscored the joy and unity music can bring to people’s lives, regardless of their age or background.
Cassandra Gibson, with over two decades in the beauty industry, introduced the students to the world of professional hair care at Monet Beauté. Her focus on traditional and microlocs maintenance, along with natural and protective hairstyles, provided a tangible example of entrepreneurial success and community service.
Donna Blake, Peter Oland, and Wydline Othello, are the BSU teacher reps and as such were instrumental in making this first-ever event a resounding success.
As PCHS looks forward to building on the success of the Black Career Day, the hope is to not only to establish this as tradition but to expand it, offering students an even broader perspective on the opportunities available to them. The initiative, despite being at an early stage, represents a step towards empowering students and celebrating the rich diversity of professional pathways within their own community.
