At Vancouver Startup Week, we celebrate the bold Black entrepreneurs reshaping our city. This Black History Month, we spotlight Cicely Belle Blain—an anti-racism educator, author, and founder of Bakau Consulting—whose authentic journey fuels transformative change and paves the way for a more equitable future. Please note the responses below have been lightly edited for brevity.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your business.
“I’m Cicely Belle Blain (they/them), an anti-racism educator, author, and entrepreneur. I founded Bakau Consulting to help organizations integrate justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) into their workplace culture. My work is rooted in intersectionality, drawing on my experiences as a Black, queer, non-binary, neurodivergent person and my commitment to dismantling oppressive systems. Through Bakau, my team and I offer workshops, strategic planning, and training to drive meaningful change.”
What inspired you to start your entrepreneurial journey, and how did you overcome the early hurdles?
“My journey began from both passion and necessity. After graduating from UBC in 2016, I worked as a youth worker at QMUNITY, BC’s queer, trans, and Two-Spirit resource centre, where I facilitated 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion. My involvement in activism—especially with Vancouver’s Black Lives Matter movement—revealed the urgent need to challenge systemic racism in every space, from the streets to boardrooms. I saw an opportunity to make a tangible impact by bringing anti-racism education into professional environments.
Early on, I faced imposter syndrome, financial instability, and the challenges of running a business amid systemic barriers. I overcame these hurdles by building a strong support system, seeking mentorship, and reminding myself that my work was needed. Embracing my authentic self—without diluting my message for corporate comfort—set my business apart”
Which achievement in your startup journey stands out as a turning point, and what did it teach you?
“Securing my first major corporate client was a game-changer—it confirmed that my work was valued and that companies were ready to invest in meaningful change. It showed me that my voice, perspective, and expertise matter, even in spaces not traditionally built for people like me. Publishing my book, Burning Sugar, was another milestone. It allowed me to merge my consulting work with creative expression, proving that activism and storytelling go hand in hand”
How has your identity as a Black entrepreneur influenced your journey?
“Being a Black entrepreneur means constantly navigating systems not built for us. It involves facing microaggressions, skepticism, and underestimation. But it also means carrying the resilience, brilliance, and innovation of my ancestors. My identity is the foundation of my work—I refuse to compromise on my values, and I strive to ensure that other Black folks and marginalized communities don’t have to compromise theirs.”
What does Black History Month mean to you personally?
“Black History Month is a time to celebrate our history, resistance, and joy. It reminds us that Black history isn’t just in the past—it’s alive today through Black excellence, activism, and creativity that shape our present and future. It’s a moment to honor those who paved the way and to reaffirm my commitment to fighting for justice.”
How do you connect with or support the Black Canadian community through your work?
“I center Black voices and experiences in my consulting practice. I mentor emerging Black leaders and entrepreneurs, share knowledge, and create spaces for them to thrive. Through my writing and speaking, I amplify issues affecting Black Canadians—from systemic racism to the need for greater representation in leadership.”
What advice or lesson from your experience would you offer to fellow entrepreneurs facing their own challenges?
“Your work is valuable and your voice deserves to be heard. The entrepreneurial journey can be isolating, especially when you’re forging a new path. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, seek mentorship, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Above all, stay true to your mission—even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.”
What advice would you give to aspiring Black entrepreneurs?
“Start before you’re ready. Perfection is a myth, and waiting until everything is “just right” can hold you back. Build community, seek funding opportunities for Black entrepreneurs, and never let systemic barriers make you doubt your worth. Our ancestors built empires with far fewer resources—your dreams are possible. Also, prioritize your well-being. Black entrepreneurs often carry the weight of entire communities, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. Rest is part of resistance, and your success shouldn’t come at the cost of your health.”
At VSW, we’re grateful to amplify voices like Cicely’s that drive real change in Vancouver’s startup scene. To learn more about their work and grab a copy of Burning Sugar, connect with Cicely today. Join us in celebrating Black excellence and the innovative spirit reshaping our community.