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Tia Upshaw is a dynamic facilitator and entrepreneur deeply committed to empowering marginalized communities through education and entrepreneurship. With a passion for fostering growth and breaking down barriers, Tia has played a significant role in various educational and business initiatives across Nova Scotia and beyond.

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Current Roles:

- Facilitator for Nova Scotia Workplace Education: Tia is actively involved in designing and delivering educational programs tailored to the needs of Nova Scotia's workforce. Her workshops equip participants with the skills and knowledge required to excel in today’s competitive job market.

- Facilitator for Entrepreneurship in the Making for Blacks and African Nova Scotians (ANS) at NSCC: At Nova Scotia Community College, Tia leads the "Entrepreneurship in the Making" program, which provides vital resources, mentorship, and training to budding Black and ANS entrepreneurs.

- Facilitator for BWIE's 16-Week Ignite Program (2020 to Present): Tia is the driving force behind the Ignite Program, a comprehensive initiative designed to ignite the entrepreneurial spirit within Black women. The program offers a blend of mentorship, skill-building, and business strategy to help participants turn their business ideas into reality.

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Past Contributions:

- Facilitator for Common Good Solutions' Black and ANS Entrepreneurship Program (2021): Tia played a pivotal role in the development and facilitation of this program, aimed at empowering Black and ANS entrepreneurs by providing them with the tools, resources, and networks needed to succeed.

- Business Branding Workshop for the Business & Tourism Program at Mount St. Vincent University (2023): Tia led a specialized workshop focusing on business branding, helping students understand the importance of a strong brand identity in the business and tourism industries.

Saint Mary's University Entrepreneurship Centre Workshops (2023-2024):

- Personal Branding: Tia conducted workshops that emphasize the importance of personal branding for entrepreneurs, guiding participants on how to create and maintain a compelling personal brand.

- Authenticity in Business: She also facilitated sessions on authenticity in business, encouraging entrepreneurs to stay true to their values while navigating the complexities of the business world.

- Leverage Capital & Business Plan Writing: Tia’s expertise in capital acquisition and business plan development was shared with participants to help them secure funding and create solid business plans.

Mount St Vincent University Business & Tourism Program- Workshops (2023-2024):

- Personal Branding: Tia conducted workshops that emphasize the importance of personal branding for entrepreneurs, guiding participants on how to create and maintain a compelling personal brand.

- Authenticity in Business: She also facilitated sessions on authenticity in business, encouraging entrepreneurs to stay true to their values while navigating the complexities of the business world.

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Pivotal Role in the AFIA Project:

Tia has taken on a crucial role in the AFIA project, an initiative that is spearheading the development of the AFIA DEI Certification. This nation-wide project, led by The Forum, is focused on addressing systemic barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, particularly in accessing capital. Tia's involvement is instrumental in encouraging Canadian funders to take proactive steps to facilitate access to business funding, with a special focus on empowering BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.

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Link Up Arts Hub in Halifax:

Beyond her educational and entrepreneurial endeavors, Tia is also a key contributor to the Link Up Arts Hub in Halifax. This vibrant community space is dedicated to fostering creativity and collaboration within the arts community. Tia curates programs and offers spaces that encourage meaningful collaborations, providing a nurturing environment for creativity to thrive.

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Tia Upshaw’s dedication to education, entrepreneurship, and community development continues to make a profound impact across Nova Scotia and beyond. Her work is not just about teaching but about transforming lives and creating opportunities for those who need them most.