From Me, Too to Black Lives Matter, cultural changes worldwide prove that diversity and inclusion are critical for every organization. Roger Madison, Jr., shares his experiences as an African American in the tech industry – both as a trailblazer within IBM, and what he learned as a top sales executive in South Africa as he helped establish Big Blue’s presence there post-apartheid. What he learned then can further diversity and inclusion in our world today. Madison is now the CEO (and founder) of iZania, a company formed to connect Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and consumers online.
Roger E. P. Madison, Jr., is the Founder and CEO of iZania, LLC. He established iZania in 2003 after a successful career as a sales executive for IBM. iZania.com is an online community of Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and consumers, dedicated to economic and social empowerment. His goal is to help bridge the digital divide. His passion is helping to prepare young people for the business of life. He is actively engaged in the Columbus-area community as a board member, volunteer and mentor with Junior Achievement of Central Ohio, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio, and Boys and Girls Clubs of Columbus. Mr. Madison is a native of Farmville, Virginia. He received his B.S. in Business Administration from the George Washington University School of Business and Government Studies. He and his wife, Joyce, live in Gahanna, Ohio. They have two adult children and two grandchildren.