Community marketplace highlights excellence and creativity in Markham

The Black-Owned Markham Market returns for its second marketplace event on February 28, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the Milliken Mill Branch of Markham Public Library.

Held during Black History Month, the event celebrates Black excellence in Markham and across York Region, offering residents an opportunity to support a diverse range of local Black entrepreneurs, authors, and business owners.

“This is a market, but it is also a lot more than that. It is a place where people come to celebrate successes black business owners are making, encouraging community support of local businesses, and setting examples so youth can be inspired by other black business owners. A space for black business owners to build connections and make relationships and creating an ecosystem,” says Jackie Lee, organizer and community librarian at Markham Public Library.

Visitors can explore a wide selection of offerings, including handmade goods, art, beauty products, fashion, food, and innovative services.

Afro-Canadian/Caribbean children’s author Shani Jones will be attending for the second time, showcasing her children’s book series that promotes inclusion and representation of Afro-Canadian culture.

Jones emphasized the value of community-based events for small businesses. “I believe it is extremely impactful as a small business to participate in events such as this. It allows me to expand my audience for my children’s books on a grassroots level. For me, it’s more about creating lasting relationships with my readers so I can be one of those classic authors they remember reading at their local library or their favourite book to read before going to bed.”

For more information, visit: https://markham.bibliocommons.com/events/692db63ce80c5030003980e8

*Story submitted by Christina Manserra.