This past Saturday, Detroit came alive with energy and purpose as Wayne State University hosted the inaugural Michigan Blvck Migrant Convening. The event, organized by the African Bureau for Immigration and Social Affairs (ABISA), brought together leaders, community members, and advocates, all with a common goal: to reimagine economic opportunities for Black migrants in Michigan. As co-sponsors and participants, the Global African Business Association (GABA) was honored to contribute to this pivotal gathering that marked the beginning of an essential dialogue about economic inclusion and workforce integration for Michigan’s Black migrant communities.

GABA’s Leadership at the Convening

GABA’s presence was felt strongly throughout the event, with its leadership taking on active roles across various panels:

• Akindele Akinyemi, President of GABA, moderated the Re-powering Economic Opportunities and Workforce Integration panel. This session focused on identifying innovative ways to create sustainable jobs for migrants, emphasizing the importance of bridging skills gaps, expanding workforce training, and fostering entrepreneurial growth. Akinyemi highlighted the vital role that local businesses play in offering job opportunities to Black migrants, urging for collaborative efforts to remove barriers and provide equitable access to economic resources.
• O. Rerhi Onomake, Group CEO of GABA, was a panelist on the Addressing Housing Challenges and Living Conditions panel. This discussion shed light on the complex housing struggles faced by Black migrants, emphasizing the need for integrated housing policies that cater specifically to their needs. Onomake advocated for strategic collaborations between housing agencies and workforce programs to not only provide stable living conditions but also to connect residents with employment opportunities, thus creating a pathway out of economic vulnerability.
  
  
• Dr. Elizabeth Ajayi-Bridges, GABA Board Director, participated in the Meeting Educational Challenges & Strengthening Community Support panel. The conversation explored the educational barriers faced by migrant youth and adults, highlighting the crucial role of education in building a resilient workforce. Ajayi-Bridg emphasized the need for culturally relevant educational programs and community-driven support systems that can prepare migrants for meaningful employment and entrepreneurial ventures.
  
  
  

  The Urgency of Workforce Integration for Black Migrants

The Michigan Blvck Migrant Convening highlighted that workforce integration is not just about employment—it is about creating sustainable economic opportunities that uplift communities and provide long-term security. Black migrants often face unique challenges, from language barriers to limited access to financial resources, that hinder their ability to secure stable jobs. By partnering with ABISA and other key stakeholders, GABA aims to address these obstacles head-on.

GABA’s commitment to job creation for African and African-Caribbean entrepreneurs aligns with our broader vision of making Michigan a hub for economic empowerment. We believe that when migrants are equipped with the right tools and resources, they become powerful drivers of local economic growth. Our programs, ranging from capacity building for U.S. market entry to digital optimization for global trade, provide migrants with tangible pathways to success.

Looking Forward: Building a Stronger Workforce Together

The success of the inaugural Michigan Blvck Migrant Convening sets a promising tone for future collaborations with ABISA and other impact partners. It serves as a testament to what is possible when organizations come together with a shared goal of fostering economic inclusion. For GABA, we will continue to partner on initiatives that expand workforce opportunities, support entrepreneurs, and ultimately create a more inclusive and prosperous Michigan for all.

Through collaborative efforts like these, we are not just meeting immediate needs but building a sustainable economic ecosystem where Black migrants can thrive. We are honored to be a part of such an impactful event and look forward to working alongside ABISA and other partners to create real, lasting change.