A Community Conversation: Toyota Material Handling’s Black History Month Lunch & Learn
When Toyota Material Handling employees gathered for Monday's Lunch and Learn, some came already familiar with Black History Month's origins. Others were encountering these stories for the first time. By the end of the afternoon, conversations had spilled past the presentation—people talking with one another, sharing what they'd learned, and asking what comes next.
Hosted in partnership with Black History Month Columbus (BHMC), the February 2nd event featured a presentation by BHMC founder Whittney Wood-Gaines, who guided attendees through both national and local Black history. While many people are vaguely aware of national heroes in African American history, the presentation aimed to connect those broader stories to local people in Columbus—neighbors, colleagues, and community members making an impact right here.
Lunch was catered by Stunna's, a Black-owned Columbus business founded by Michelle Mulimba. The menu—red beans and rice with sausage, collard greens, honey cornbread, salad, and drinks—drew enthusiastic responses, with several attendees trying the dishes for the first time.
Toyota Material Handling's involvement included financial contributions, providing space for learning, and showcasing the exhibit throughout the month. Danielle Nickerson, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at Toyota, coordinated the partnership months in advance. That kind of sustained, intentional community investment—not only during Black History Month but throughout the year—reflects what meaningful corporate partnership can look like, and we’re grateful to the Toyota team for their collaboration. The event left participants with a greater sense of community, possibility, and appreciation for the role each of us can play in our history.
About Black History Month Columbus: Black History Month Columbus is about celebrating Black culture, telling the true stories of Black history, and honoring the legacy and accomplishments of the Black community. Join us as we are creating a momentum for community healing through inspiring and educational experiences, and we warmly invite our neighbors from all walks of life to participate ♥