Mark Beckles, MBA

Why is Black History Month still important? 

Black History Month celebrates the accomplishments of a community that achieved much in spite of great challenges. That can never be ignored.  While there are intervals unique to our particular journey, I take the larger view that BHM defines the capacity of the human spirit to prevail and overcome - not  unlike other ethno-cultural minorities and women,  to whom history dealt a similar hand.

How has philanthropy and volunteering inspired the black community?

Socio-economic needs within the black community are more acute than in other communities, though not as widespread as media would have society believe. The historic and cultural connection between faith and community causes a majority to respond positively when such needs are identified, so that faith, in large part, informs how the community expresses itself where giving is concerned. 

Do you have any memories of what black history meant to you as a kid?

I spent my formative years in Barbados, the best governed Black society on the

planet. For me, success and achievement were a normal part of life and therefore,

did not need annual reminders of the historical contributions of black people.  I was

surrounded by living history, and always understood history.

Has working in Toronto, one of the most diverse cities in the world, affected your professional work or personal outlook?

Toronto has prepared me for a career anywhere on the planet. The city provides a great education in internationalism, cultural expression and nuance, and for those who take the time to enjoy its richness beyond the workplace, you are a better, more rounded person for the experience. 

Who is you favorite and most inspirational figure in the black community – past or present?

Nelson Mandela. Having spent 27 years in jail and four years as president of South Africa, he could have retired to the quiet of his later years.  Instead, he turned his attention to nurturing South Africa’s most valuable assets: her children. 

What are the most important trends, currently shaping the future of fundraising?

As the sector becomes more corporate, there has to be great care around preserving the passion for the causes we serve. We can’t communicate a message that we are not passionate about. Secondly, the sector has to insulate itself against bad practices that continue to plague the corporate sector, whether they be issues around diversity, intolerance, fiscal prudence etc. The idea that the third sector can provide a “great living” is attracting a new kind of fundraiser.

How do you cultivate diversity in fundraising?

As in the corporate sector, talent and results are the keys. Talent stands out and results speak for themselves.

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Mark Beckles joined Junior Achievement Central Ontario as VP Resource Development, where he is responsible for an operating budget of $2.7M. Prior to JA, he served as CEO of the Mandela Children’s Fund (Canada). From 2002 to 2006, Mark grew the organization's direct revenue from less than $100,000 to over $1.3 million. 

Mark has served as a Governor of the Canadian Unity Council and is currently Vice-Chair of World Relief Canada. He also served as a director of the Ontario PC Fund. In 2003, Mark served as Co-chair of John Tory’s bid for the Mayoralty of Toronto. In 2007, he was a candidate for Ontario PC party.

Mark served on the advisory board of the inaugural GTA Public Leadership Summit (2005)and co-chaired the organizing committee for the opening ceremonies of the XVI International AIDS conference (2006). He was the keynote speaker for the 2008 Planet Africa awards and has been nominated for the Harry Jerome Award for Professional Excellence. Mark lecturers at Sheridan College. Mark holds an MBA in International Business from Bradford University in the UK.