This entrepreneur had dreams of being on TV. Now, she co-hosts a talk show

While nominations are open for 2024 Black Changemakers, CBC Quebec is catching up with laureates from the last three years. Submit your nomination for a 2024 Black Changemaker here.

Keithy Antoine is more active than ever in the arts and culture scene.  

“I seize every opportunity. I believe that in every situation there’s a gift,” she said. 

Antoine, one of CBC Quebec’s Black Changemakers in 2022, started Boutique Espace Urbaine nine years ago, a platform for Black businesses, particularly those run by single parents like herself, to thrive.

The success of that project inspired her to do more. “I dare to put ideas into action. I dare to ask for help. I dare to start things with nothing,” she said.

Antoine is now part of other initiatives like the Afro Urban Fest, Union Urbaine and WECAN.

“We really want to be able to push our craft as the Afro-Caribbean Canadian artists and change the narrative about Black artists,” Antoine said. 

As a Black entrepreneur and community leader, she has faced challenges head-on, which she says she faces with a blend of daring and realism. 

Antoine is now co-hosting the talk show, Pa t’mentir on Radio-Canada. This is in line with her long-term plan.

“I would love to be hosting a show and maybe have a 10-year career on TV. That’s something I love, I love, I love,” she said. 

Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs echoes her own journey: start with honest self-reflection, pursue passions relentlessly and embrace the journey one step at a time.

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Do you know a changemaker? Nominations are open for 2024 CBC Black Changemakers.

We invite you to nominate your colleagues, friends and family in Quebec — anyone who is making a difference. Self-nominations are welcome as well.

CBC Quebec is accepting nominations until March 8 at 11:59 p.m. ET. 

Fill out the form here.