SHREVEPORT, La. — Existing and aspiring entrepreneurs gathered Saturday afternoon in the Bill Cockrell Park Community Center Gymnasium for a free event focused on business development and financial literacy. The event, “Let’s Talk About Business,” featured discussions on entrepreneurship, marketing, sales and financial strategies. Keynote speaker Dr. Donnetta Watson led the conversation. Attendee Pattie Jones, an aspiring entrepreneur, said she found the event both educational and encouraging. “From marketing, from sales to financial strategies,” Jones said. “I’ve really learned a lot and it was very impressive.” The event was hosted by The Black Mastermind Group partnered with the African American Parade Celebration Committee. Organizers said the goal is to create solutions and opportunities for entrepreneurs in the Shreveport area. “I think I’m seeing things in Shreveport that is really sparking me to be able to be part of the solution for our community of entrepreneurs,” Watson said.“Everything is possible to them that believe.” Founder of the African American Parade Celebration Committee, Barbara Norton, also emphasized the importance of continued support for local entrepreneurship. “I believe that this would be a plus for Shreveport and it’s already started today,” Norton said. “Today is our beginning and we are not going to allow it to die.” Organizers said this was the first “Let’s Talk About Business” event held in Shreveport, with plans for similar events in the future.
