The history of black entrepreneurs was discussed today at an event to celebrate Diversity Week. Harrow College welcomed award winning entrepreneur, business coach, author and speaker Julian Hall to give students an insightful look into the history and present day success of black business pioneers.
With the lecture theatre occupied with intrigued learners and staff, Julian kicked of his talk by going back to early Egyptian history where the first black entrepreneurs made their name. Students were surprised to learn that everyday items and activities such as toothpaste, cutting hair and bowling all originated from this era.
Learners were then taken on a journey through time which highlighted a number of successful black entrepreneurs with Julian pointing out "many of whom unfortunately did not get the recognition they deserved".
This included Lewis Latimer (1848-1928) who worked with the famous Thomas Edison to invent the first carbon filament for the light bulb; Garrett Morgan (1877-1963) who invented the gas mask which at the time saved 50 people from an underground fire and went on to save thousands more; Marc Hannah (1956-present) who invented the first 3D graphics technology used in film – something which has since revolutionised the film industry.
The talk then brought fascinated listeners forward to modern day entrepreneurs. Russell Simmons (founder of the Def Jam Hip Hop record label amongst an array of other successful business ventures) and 50 Cent, rapper and business man who famously sold his own brand of vitamin water to Coca Cola in a deal worth a reported 100 million dollars. Jay Z, Birdman and P Diddy were also discussed.
The presentation provided an eye opening perspective of black entrepreneurship over the years and provided a context for business entrepreneurs of the future. Julian's passing message encouraged the learners to set their sights higher, just as many of the entrepreneurs discussed in the presentation had done. He closed the talk by saying "let the past show you how far you've really come". An inspirational message delivered during an intriguing and often thought provoking presentation.
The event was part of a full week of activities organised by Harrow College to celebrate Diversity Week where issues such as black history, multiculturalism, background, ability and ethnicity will all be brought to the forefront and celebrated.