Last Friday, amidst the rich history of the Kingston Museum, I had the privilege of attending an event hosted by the Kingston Business Network that celebrated the lives of prominent Black Kingston residents. There were many illuminating stories shared that day, but one figure stood out, casting a long shadow of inspiration – Caesar Picton.
Who Was Caesar Picton?
For those unaware, Caesar Picton was brought to England from Senegal as an enslaved boy in the mid-18th century. Despite the adversities of his early life, he went on to become a prominent coal merchant and one of Kingston’s most well-known Black residents. Against the backdrop of a time where opportunities for Black individuals were extremely limited, Picton’s journey from enslaved child to a successful entrepreneur is nothing short of extraordinary.
His life serves as a reminder of the sheer tenacity, ambition, and resilience required to break through societal barriers, particularly as a member of the BAME community. Caesar Picton is not just a historical figure; he’s a symbol of unyielding spirit and entrepreneurial prowess.
The Picton Business Circle: Our Homage to Resilience
Picton’s narrative resonates with so many of us in the BAME business community. It’s a testament to what the human spirit can achieve, regardless of the circumstances. He’s not just an inspiration for the Black community but an emblem of hope for every budding entrepreneur and business enthusiast out there.
That’s precisely why we’ve named our entrepreneurial and business programmes The Picton Business Circle.
This journey reminds us of the challenges, hardships, and battles BAME individuals often face in the world of business. Yet, it also stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to success, built on resilience and determination.
An Invitation to The Circle
To all the solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, and BAME business owners reading this: I urge you to perceive Caesar Picton’s life as more than just a story. See it as a blueprint of perseverance, of breaking barriers, and of crafting a legacy that resonates through the ages.
The Picton Business Circle is not merely a business programme; it’s a community. A community that recognizes your challenges, celebrates your achievements, and supports you through your setbacks. It’s more than a network; it’s a family.
Starting a business isn’t only about financial statements. It’s about making an impact, carving a niche, and standing tall in the face of adversity, much like Caesar Picton did.
So, let’s come together, inspire, and be inspired. Let’s create a legacy, let’s be the change-makers, the trailblazers.
Are you ready to etch your name into history? To be the next Caesar Picton of the contemporary business world? If yes, then remember, the Picton Business Circle awaits you.
Join The Picton Business Circle today!
P.S. Stay tuned for more posts on the event and insights into the lives of Dr. Neslyn Watson-Druée CBE, and Councillor Afy Afilaka. Their stories are equally inspiring and deserve to be told.