Business Voice Magazine (November/December 2024)

A DIVERSITY OF MEMBERSHIP IS A DIVERSITY OF VOICES.

If you own or operate a Halifax business, you belong at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. We represent the interests of our city’s entire business community—so it’s important that our membership reflect the same diversity. When you add your voice to ours, you help us advocate for all local businesses, and you benefit from training, information sessions, networking events and more. So become a member today!

Board of Directors — Officers

Ann Divine, Ashanti Leadership, Chair

Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals of Nova Scotia, Vice Chair

Chris Cowper-Smith, Mable Health and Cedar Point

Solutions, Past Chair

Caroline Wolfe Stewart, Nova Scotia College of Nursing

Donna Harding, Engel & Völkers

Kimberly Stephens, High Liner Foods

Directors

Dr. Denise Daley, Nasore Personalized Wellness

Ifeanyi Emesih, My East Coast Experience Media Group Inc.

Nancy Foran, ESG Partners

René Gallant, Independent Consultant

Martina Kelades, Life Out Loud - Mental Health Consulting

Wade Keller, Labatt Brewing

Jon Legatto, O’Regan’s Automotive Group

Captain (N) Annick Fortin, CD, Maritime Forces Atlantic

Melissa Mbeba, Delectable Desserts

Nadia Middleton, Middleton Group

Mahmoud Mirmehrabi, SolidStatePharma

Heath Moore, Grant Thornton

Mohammad Ali Raza, Cox & Palmer

Katherine Risley, KBRS & Meridia Recruitment Solutions

Paul Way, TD Private Wealth

Wyatt White, The Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq

Chamber Staff

Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO

Becky Davison, Vice President, Marketing

Kent Roberts, Vice President, Policy

Busola Adeniji, Director of Finance and Administration

Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager

Emily Bednarz, Communications Specialist

Business Voice is published 8 times a year for members of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and Metro Halifax’s business community. Views expressed in Business Voice are those of the contributors and individual members, and are not necessarily endorsed by, or are a policy of, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All images are contributed unless otherwise stated.

Please address editorial enquiries and changes to information to:

Halifax Chamber of Commerce

100-32 Akerley Boulevard

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B3B 1N1

Tel: 902-468-7111

Fax: 902-468-7333

info@halifaxchamber.com

www.halifaxchamber.com

Cover Image Credit: Communications Nova Scotia

Efficiency for all heading into the new year

How businesses can leverage AI and tech in today’s fast-paced environment

PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO HALIFAX CHAMBER

Time really does fly when you’re having fun—it’s already our last issue of Business Voice for 2024!

Our final issue of Business Voice every year typically features Agents of Change: a group of entrepreneurs, leaders, and community members breaking ground on exciting projects in a range of industries.

This year, AI is finding its way into every aspect of our lives, from responding to tricky emails to creating a stock image to suit your blog post. The new technology is adapting into almost every industry and at an exponential pace. In order for businesses to thrive in this new era of advances, we need to shift our mindset to find the positive role AI can have in your workplace.

In keeping with this issue’s theme of advancement, we are pleased to share news from the Nova Scotia government about the “Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act.” The act was put into place with the goal of adapting new workplace safety regulations to support employees. As our economy changes, it is important we ensure every employee feels our community is committed to worker safety, health, and well-being.

This issue also includes two Member

“In order for businesses to thrive in this new era of advances, we need to shift our mindset to find the positive role AI can have in your workplace.”

On November 13, the Halifax Chamber will host our annual Fall Dinner. This year’s event focuses on energy creation and storage. Join us at the Halifax Convention Centre to discover how collaboration can unlock resources, drive economic growth, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for the province.

Profiles to highlight the impact that Events East and P&H Milling Group have on our local economy. Finally, as we approach the holiday season, it is more important now than ever to support local. Every purchase made at a local store directly supports our neighbors and helps small businesses thrive during this crucial time of year. By choosing to shop small, we invest in the future of our community and ensure its continued growth and prosperity.

Check out our M2M Offers to take advantage of your membership this holiday season and support our Chamber community.

We look forward to seeing everyone in the New Year, and we wish you all a successful end to 2024! ■

president@halifaxchamber.com @prezhfxchamber

Celebrating Human Rights in Nova Scotia

Reflecting on Human Rights month in the workplace

ANN DIVINE FOUNDER & CEO ASHANTI LEADERSHIP PDS

Throughout my life, I have been deeply passionate and involved in human rights work, even before I formally recognized it as such. When I moved to Nova Scotia, my second job, and my first senior management role (in Canada), was with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission. As an independent organization, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission advocates for the removal of systemic discrimination, advances equity, respect and dignity and protects the human rights of all Nova Scotians.

It’s important to recognize the privilege we have living in a place where the Commission exists to protect our rights. There are specific protected characteristics that ensure no one is discriminated against based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or other factors. These are fundamental rights, and with them comes the responsibility to respect both employer and employee rights.

In addition to human rights laws, there is also employment equity legislation, which came into effect in 1983 to protect individuals with disabilities, visible minorities (listed in the Act), women, and Indigenous people. It’s important to recognize that discrimination can happen unintentionally, but it’s

our responsibility to become acquainted with the law and ensure these groups are treated fairly.

Looking to November and December

Both November and December hold significant days to recognize the history of our country as we look to a future of diversity and inclusion.

In November, we honour our fallen soldiers of all ages, which is a crucial recognition. “Lest we forget” carries deep significance, especially when we consider the state of the world today. Many of us have personal connections to those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom, whether they are family members or friends. Many of our members are elders, some of whom have served in various ways, making this tradition even more significant. As a nation and as a community, we are incredibly grateful for their service.

November is also a time when we should pay more attention to addressing men’s health, particularly around mental health, suicide, and testicular and prostate cancers. Movember is a global movement in the month of November, when men grow moustaches to raise awareness about men’s health. I’d encourage as many of our members to donate and support this initiative throughout the month.

December is Human Rights Month, and several significant events take place

during this time. December 1st is World AIDS Day, which raises awareness about the ongoing challenges related to HIV/ AIDS globally.

On December 3rd, we recognize the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, and it’s important to remember that one in five Canadians now identify as having a disability, either visible or invisible. Currently, Nova Scotians have the highest rate of Persons with Disabilities at 37.9 percent in the entire country.

December 6th marks the anniversary of the Montreal Massacre in 1989, where 14 women were killed and 13 others injured. This tragic event is remembered annually, and it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to address gender-based violence.

December 10th is Human Rights Day, which marks the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which proclaims the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human being —regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. These rights are the bedrock of our humanity.

They are meant to bring us together. As the UN’s Universal Declaration of Human rights states, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights,” and it is important to acknowledge that everyone has a voice . ■

Turn to page 24 to learn about the Halifax Chamber’s recent SURGE Luncheon, which highlighted procurement and diversity in the marketplace.

CHAMBER EVENTS

ANNUAL

EXPLORING

EXPLORING

Wednesday, November 13

5:00PM - 9:30PM

Tuesday, November 19

POWER LUNCH

How to Get Your Training Online

12:00PM – 1:30PM

Halifax Chamber of Commerce Boardroom

Thursday, November 28

WORKSHOP AI in the Workplace

9:00AM – 4:00PM

Cox & Palmer (1625 Grafton St. Halifax)

For a full list of Chamber events, visit: halifaxchamber.com/events

Tuesday, November 26

LUNCHEON

Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration with Hon. Jill Balser 11:30AM – 1:30PM

Casino Nova Scotia

Thursday, November 28

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Harding Medical 4:30PM – 6:30PM

163 Susie Lake Crescent, Halifax

Halifax Convention Centre

Wednesday, November 13

5:00PM - 9:30PM

Halifax Convention Centre

Wednesday, November 13

SIGNATURE EVENT

2024 Annual Fall Dinner Gala Energy Creation and Storage

5:00PM – 9:30PM

Halifax Convention Centre

Dalhousie’s expert faculty and Halifax-based business partners will deliver a TED Talk-style presentation on the innovative and revolutionary work being done here in Halifax to deliver clean energy locally, nationally, and globally.

The important move to electric and renewable energies will require double the energy usage in the coming years. To get there, we’ll need to explore emerging technologies, identify areas for collaboration and partnership, and accelerate and build the infrastructure for the transition. Is our grid ready?

THANK YOU TO OUR OCTOBER EVENT SPONSORS:

Friday, November 22

LUNCHEON

A Conversation with Canada’s Ambassador to the United States

11:30AM - 1:30PM

Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel

January 23, 2025

SAVE THE DATE HALIFAX BUSINESS AWARDS

4:30PM - 9:30PM

Halifax Convention Centre

Wednesday, December 4

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS IKEA Halifax 4:00PM – 6:00PM 645 Cutler Ave, Dartmouth February 25, 2025

SAVE THE DATE Economic Engine

Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel

NEW & NOTED

We welcome our new Chamber members

Are you a new Chamber member?

Get listed in New & Noted! Contact Murtaza Lookmanji at murtaza@ halifaxchamber.com or call (902) 4687111 to submit.

CHEEKY NEIGHBOUR

Drew Voegeli

Halifax, NS (902) 474-4152

hi@cheekyneighbour.com cheekyneighbour.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE - Restaurant

CTQ CONSULTANTS LTD

Byron Douglas

Halifax, NS (782) 444-0030

accounts@ctqconsultants.ca ctqconsultants.ca

BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICESLandscape Architecture

DIASPORA SERVUS

IMMIGRATION SERVICES INC

Duntan Odedeji

Halifax, NS (902) 580-5101

duntan@diasporaservus.ca diasporaservus.com

BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICESImmigration

EVANS REAL ESTATE TEAM

The Evans Real Estate Team works with Buyers, Sellers & Investors in residential real estate throughout HRM. We are driven by a profound belief in the power of personal connection. We understand that behind every real estate transaction lies a dream. With us, it’s not about properties; it’s about people.

Philip Evans

Halifax, NS (902) 449-6342

phil.evans@kw.com

REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTIONReal Estate Residential

EXQUISITE AUTOMOTIVE INC

Exquisite Automotive, located at 704 Windmill Road, Dartmouth, specializes in luxury auto detailing with over 20 years of experience. We offer premium services including ceramic coating, buffing, polishing, and steam cleaning. Top quality auto detailing is what we offer! Contact us at 902-989-2829 or follow @ mrmobiledetailer on Instagram.

Revello Smith

Dartmouth, NS (902) 989-2829

Exqdetail1@gmail.com

TRANSPORTATION - Automotive Cleaning/Detailing

HALIFAX LANCERS

Lancers makes horses and riding accessible to the people of Halifax. As Canada’s only urban non-profit riding school and equine therapy centre, our mission is to build better lives through horses. Lancers owns all of the Horses of Halifax who are integral to the athletic, cultural, and historic fabric of Halifax. Jennifer Read

Halifax, NS

office@halifaxlancers.com halifaxlancers.com

SPORTS & RECREATIONRecreation/Sports/Fitness | SPORTS & RECREATION - Sports Development | SPORTS & RECREATION - Stables

HAUSGARRD BOOKKEEPING AND TAX SERVICES

Adonica Brown Bedford, NS (902) 835-5244

info@hausgaardbookkeeping.com hausgaardbookkeeping.com

FINANCE & INSURANCE - Income Tax Service

INLYTEN LANDSCAPING

Muhammad Rafikov Halifax, NS (902) 999-7717

Allnewqj@gmail.com

Inlytenlandscaping.ca

Advertising, PR & MediaCORPORATE APPAREL

JANNA ALLEN HINES CONSULTING

Janna Hines

Dartmouth, NS (479) 200-5788

janna@jannaallenhines.com jannaallenhines.com

BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICESManagement Consulting

NORTHERN MEDICAL CONNECTIONS

Jenn Wadden

Dartmouth, NS (902) 932-9972

info@northernmed.ca northernmed.ca

HEALTH CARE - Health Care Services, General

P&H MILLING GROUP

P&H Milling Group, a division of Parrish and Heimbecker, has been operating since 1968 at the Port of Halifax. The mill supplies 85% of Atlantic Canada’s flour, producing 12 tonnes per hour. With a focus on sustainability and efficient logistics, it supports regional and international markets with high-quality flour products.

Robert Bradford Halifax, NS phmilling.com

AGRICULTURE, FISHING & FORESTRY - Agriculture

PLURAGON IT INC

Alex Ludwig Dartmouth, NS (902) 707-0987 info@pluragon.com pluragon.com

COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGYTechnology Management

REN’S PETS

Stevi Devries & Julia Murphy

Halifax and Dartmouth, NS (902) 982-3947 and (902) 982-3971 renspets.com

PETS & VETERINARIAN - Pet

Supplies/Services PETS & VETERINARIAN - Animal Care/ Veterinarian

SALTY POET

Julia Campbell

Charlottetown, PE (902) 213-1604 saltypoet.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE – Brewery

SUPERNATURAL BEAUTY BY JAY

Supernatural Beauty by JAY is a dynamic provider of ethnic hair care services, dedicated to celebrating individuality and empowering communities. We offer expert styling, personalized care, and innovative workshops designed to inspire confidence and self-expression. Whether through our specialized programs or everyday services, Supernatural Beauty By JAY is committed to making a lasting, positive impact on all clients.

Joy Emmanuel-Omoba Dartmouth, NS (902) 989-7042 joy.eomoba@gmail.com

PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES - Hair Services

WAVERLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL

John Baker Waverley, NS (902) 576-2068

careteam@waverleyanimalhospital. ca

waverleyanimalhospital.ca

PETS & VETERINARIAN - Animal Care/Veterinarian

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

How our members are growing Halifax

HALIFAX COMPANY FOCAL RESEARCH WINS EUROPEAN CASINO AWARD FOR THEIR BEST-IN-CLASS SAFER GAMBLING SYSTEM

Focal Research recently announced that they have won the ‘Best Player Protection Product or System’ for their ALeRT BETTOR Protection System at the 2024 European Casino Awards, helping hundreds of thousands of at-risk customers. The European Casino Awards are open to all operators, suppliers, and service providers in Europe or those that serve the European market and recognize the dedication, passion, and innovation of those who are nominated. The ceremony was held on February 6th at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London, England.

RMHC VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE

We’re excited to announce that we’re building a larger, more modern Ronald McDonald House, allowing us to serve 600 additional families each year! This expansion means no more waitlist nights, ensuring Maritime families have a place to stay near their ill or injured child when they need it most. As we prepare to open, we’re growing our volunteer team. House and Family Room volunteers create a warm, welcoming environment, greet guests, provide information, arrange activities, and more. Volunteers commit to a four-hour weekly shift for a minimum of eight months. If you’re 18 or older, apply online today!

COMMUNITY CONFERENCE 2024 IN VICTORIA

Susan Power, Founder & CEO of PowerUp Leadership has been invited as a guest speaker to speak at the Community Conference in Victoria, British Columbia on October 26 & 27. This conference highlights what community means and focuses on how we can build stronger communities in this age of technological disruption and geopolitical uncertainty. Susan is excited to present on Inspired Leadership, as the cohost of a podcast on this topic diving into how we can create more inspired leadership in our world and in our organizations.

NEW SMALL BUSINESS FINANCING PROGRAM

Looking for business financing? Explore options with the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP). With loans of up to $1.15 million, the CSBFP works with lenders to share the risk, making it easier for businesses with revenues under $10 million to access funds. Whether you need to purchase equipment or cover working capital, the CSBFP can turn your business dreams into reality. Simply discuss your requirements with a financial officer at any bank, credit union or caisse populaire. Empower your business today with help from the CSBFP. Learn more at www.canada.ca/csbfp.

SACKVILLE BUSINESS GALA & AWARDS

On October 9, 2024, the Sackville Business Association celebrated Small Business Month and the local business community at the Sackville Business Gala & Awards ceremony. The evening featured an inspiring keynote by Maritime legend Steve Murphy, along with the presentation of the 2024 Sackville Business Awards. With over 600 community votes, the awards recognized Roy’s Restaurant for Best Customer Service and Kaiser’s Sub & Sandwich Shoppes as Business of the Year. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, showcasing the strong spirit of collaboration and support in Sackville!

GREYWAVE ADDS NEW SENIOR CARE CONSULTANT

Wendy Wierstra, BA, BSW, RSW is a Registered Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in the field of Geriatrics. Wendy is a graduate of St. Mary’s university and the Dalhousie School of Social Work. She’s assisted hundreds of individuals and families navigate care options for their aging loved one. Wendy has extensive experience in long term care, dementia care, advance care planning and in the provision of caregiver support. For the last 20 years, Wendy has worked in the Continuing Care system bringing with her extensive knowledge of services and programs. We are happy to have her join our team of consultants at Greywave. Wendy can be reached at Wendy@greywave.ca.

SEA CHANGE’S RECENT CGLCC CERTIFICATION

Sea Change is proud to announce our recent certification with the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC). The CGLCC is a national organization that champions LGBTQ+ businesses and promotes diversity and inclusion across Canada. By achieving this certification, Sea Change joins a vibrant network of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and allies, reinforcing our commitment to fostering an inclusive business environment. This certification is important to our organization because it aligns with our values of equity and intersectionality. This will allow us to expand partnerships across the private, public, and impact-driven sectors, strengthening our role as a driver of positive change.

CHRIS JOHNSTON JOINS LEVERSHIP AS CEO

Levership welcomes Chris Johnston as its new Chief Executive Officer. With an impressive track record of driving business growth and a deep commitment to supporting small businesses, Johnston brings invaluable expertise and leadership to the organization. As Levership’s CEO, Johnston is eager to expand the organization’s services and reach, helping small businesses not only in Atlantic Canada but also on the Eastern Seaboard and Ontario. Levership is dedicated to helping small business owners balance every aspect of their business, from marketing to HR and leadership. Powered by Symplicity Designs, Levership provides strategic guidance and actionable plans to help businesses succeed.

MEET THE POWER HOUSE FUTURE OF FEMALE COACHING IN ATLANTIC CANADA

Amy Saundercook, Ashley Lushman and Amber Thorne are the face of children’s multisport coaching. If you have young children and are looking to give them the best possible start in life and in sport, Sportball’s methodology-based approach to multi-sport coaching leads the way. The all-female management team has been making a difference in the lives of children aged 16-months to 12-years-old since Sportball Atlantic began 11 years ago. They and the coaching team have worked with over 30,000 children during that time. Join the Sportball Team and register for a class today!

CARRIE CUSSONS RECEIVES FELLOW DESIGNATION

On Friday, October 4, Events East President & CEO Carrie Cussons received the Fellow designation from the Chartered Professional Accountants of Nova Scotia, the profession’s highest mark of distinction. This honorary designation is awarded to Chartered Professional Accountants whose career achievements and service to the community bring honour to the profession. Carrie was among ten outstanding CPAs celebrated at the 2024 Member Recognition Awards Dinner at the Lord Nelson Hotel in Halifax. The prestigious FCPA designation recognizes Carrie’s excellence in corporate governance, financial performance, and dedicated service to the community, demonstrated with the support of colleagues and peers throughout her career.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS ON THE COVER

First Impressions are so incredibly humbled and excited to share that we made the cover of Atlantic Day Spa & Cosmetic Service Magazine. This honor wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing patients and community. Thank you for bringing us to the attention of Canada’s leading health, wellness, and education magazine and for making this cover expose a reality.

BILL BLACK, LAUREATE 2024

Bill Black led a successful business career at Maritime Life, building a strong commitment to both customers and employees. Bill continues to demonstrate his dedication to community service, in pursuit of making a better, more compassionate Nova Scotia by serving on a variety of boards and founding the Black Family Foundation, whose goal is “to support organizations that improve the present and future quality of life for Nova Scotians.” JA Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Business Hall of Fame inducted Bill on October 8th in the Community Building category. Learn more by visiting nsbusinesshalloffame.ca.

The

world is shrinking

April Howe (CEO, Crayon Strategies)

I remember bumping into Aisha at the farmers’ market last spring. She had just moved from Kenya and was marveling at the varieties of apples we have. We got to talking, and she shared how she missed the tropical fruits of her homeland but was eager to try making apple pie for the first time. Her excitement was contagious, reminding me how wonderful it is to see our everyday world through fresh eyes.

The old saying goes: “The world is a big place.” Well, I beg to differ. In today’s hyper-connected era, this globe is shrinking by the nanosecond. As the world becomes more accessible, people are crossing borders and oceans to find new places to call home. Halifax is becoming a beacon for many seeking a fresh start. So, as our community grows more diverse, how can we ensure we’re not just a city people move to, but a place where they truly belong?

Let’s face it—moving to a new country is a big deal. Thrilling? Yes. Scary? Definitely! New faces, new streets, even new ways of saying hello: “How’s it goin’, b’y?” or “Wassup?” or “Hey!” Imagine trying to figure all that out while missing the familiar comforts of family and home.

So, how can we, the people of Halifax, move beyond just being nice to being genuinely welcoming to our new neighbors? I’m glad you asked:

· Start with a Smile: Never underestimate the power of a friendly greeting. A simple “hello” or warm smile can make someone feel noticed and appreciated.

Support Multicultural Events: Attend festivals and markets that celebrate different cultures. You’ll experience new foods, music, and traditions while showing support for our diverse communities.

· Volunteer Your Time: Organizations assisting newcomers always need volunteers. Whether it’s teaching

English, helping with job searches, or offering friendship, your time can make a significant difference.

· Educate Yourself: Learn about the cultures and backgrounds of your new neighbors. Understanding breeds empathy and breaks down stereotypes.

Shop at Immigrant-owned Businesses: Frequent shops and restaurants run by newcomers. Your patronage boosts the local economy and fosters a sense of belonging.

It’s in our collective best interest to ensure Halifax isn’t just a stop along the way for immigrants but a place they proudly call home. In a world that’s getting smaller, there’s no better time to make our community bigger.

Do you have a question about diversity, equity, accessibility or inclusion for April?

Submit your question to emily@halifaxchamber.com!

Introducing the YMCA's Youth Advisory Committee

Building a stronger community where everyone belongs, by igniting the voices of young leaders

Emily Easey

Nathan CromwellTesfazion

Deandrea Mcintosh

Eve Wedderburn

Joman Nassour

Berfin Bati

Matthew Workman

Samantha Gaetz

Vara Lakshmi

Ayesha Naqvi

Abby Beals

CELEBRATE YOUR CURVES HOSTS FIRST FASHION SHOW

Celebrate your Curves had its first fashion show at the UCOF 2024 Fall Festival, an unforgettable event celebrating inclusivity and body positivity. Our unique designs captivated the audience, earning us the Viewers’ Choice Award. This recognition reflects our commitment to empowering all individuals through fashion, celebrating body positivity and self-love in every stitch.

2024 TECH FORWARD AWARD FINALISTS

Digital Nova Scotia is proud to announce the finalists for the 2024 Tech Forward Awards! This year’s nominees represent the pinnacle of innovation and leadership within the tech industry, showcasing outstanding contributions that are shaping the sector’s future. Head to our blog to get to know these remarkable individuals and teams better, learn about their impactful work, and celebrate their achievements! The awards ceremony will be hosted on November 7th at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel.

SUPPORTING BLACK CANADIAN COMMUNITIES INITIATIVE SBCCI

BBI hosted over 365 Black community leaders from across the country for the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative - Supporting Black Futures conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Thank you to everyone who attended the conference. Our mission to sustain the SBCCI, a vital program promoting the social and economic development of Black communities, continues. Join us in advocating for its continuation by signing this petition today!

Nova Scotia introduces Stronger Workplaces Act to enhance worker protections

“Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act” aims to modernize worker protection laws

SUBMITTED ON BEHALF OF THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOUR, SKILLS AND IMMIGRATION

The Nova Scotia government has introduced the “Stronger Workplaces for Nova Scotia Act,” aimed at modernizing worker protection laws to enhance the health, safety, and job security of employees.

The legislation, unveiled on September 5, brings significant changes to the Workers’ Compensation Act, the Occupational Health and Safety Act, and the Labour Standards Code. One key feature is the introduction of a new return-to-work process, which aims to reduce the time injured workers are off by improving communication and accountability among workers, employers, and the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB).

Improved Return-to-Work Process

“The Workers’ Compensation Board review committee determined that long claims durations have the highest impact on the costs of the system, and the new return-to-work legislation will improve communication, accountability, and the timeliness of interactions among all parties involved,” said Scott Nauss, Senior Executive Director of safety for the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration. “Injured workers, employers, and the Workers’ Compensation

Board will now collaborate earlier in the process, from the moment a worker is injured until they can return to work safely.”

This approach will ensure that injured workers, employers, and the WCB have the necessary information to support a consistent, safe, and timely return to work, including making accommodations when needed. Nauss emphasized that penalties will apply to those not complying with the new requirements, reinforcing the importance of the process. By enabling a timely return to meaningful work, workers will avoid

extended financial and psychological impacts, while workplaces will benefit from safer, more productive environments and lower injury-related costs.

Expanded Workers’ Compensation System Reviews

In addition to the return-to-work reforms, the legislation mandates fiveyear reviews of the workers’ compensation system. These reviews could address system sustainability, the financial performance impacting both worker benefits and employer rates, and any necessary

Left: Scott Nauss, Senior Executive Director of Safety for the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration Right: Cynthia Yazbek, Senior Executive Director of Labour Services for the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

legislative or regulatory updates.

“The areas for review could include sustainability, financial performance, and the contributions of all organizations within the Workplace Safety Insurance System,” said Nauss. “Hearing from Nova Scotians regularly will help make the system more efficient and effective.”

Addressing Workplace Harassment

The amendments also include enhanced protections against workplace harassment, with a focus on psychological health. “These changes emphasize that a safe workplace is one free from both physical hazards and psychological harm,” said Nauss. Employers will be required to develop policies that prevent harassment, reinforcing that respectful, harassment-free workplaces are essential for long-term productivity and retention.

Labour Standards Code Adjustments

The Act introduces new protections under the Labour Standards Code, significantly expanding unpaid sick leave.

Starting January 1, 2025, employees will have access to five unpaid sick days for general illness in addition to the three days currently available for medical appointments and family illness. The legislation also creates a 27-week unpaid leave for employees dealing with serious illness or injury, aligning with federal Employment Insurance (EI) sickness benefits.

Cynthia Yazbek, Senior Executive Director of Labour Services for the Department of Labour, Skills, and Immigration, explained the importance of these changes: “The new leave provisions ensure that employees do not have to choose between their health and job security. The serious illness or injury leave aligns Nova Scotia with recent federal changes to EI benefits, and we’re proud to be the first province to adopt these measures.”

Benefits for Workers and Employers

Yazbek noted that the 27-week unpaid leave will provide job protection during the one-week EI waiting period

and the 26-week EI sickness benefit.

“This leave allows employees to focus on their recovery without worrying about their job security,” she said. Additionally, by allowing intermittent or continuous leave, the legislation provides flexibility for employees undergoing treatment or recovery from a serious illness or injury.

The broader benefits of the changes will mean healthier workplaces. “Supporting employees to stay home when they are sick can reduce the risk of spreading illness at work,” Yazbek added.

Ultimately, these legislative changes reflect a stronger commitment to worker safety, health, and well-being. As Nauss pointed out, “The benefits to Nova Scotians from these amendments are far-reaching, ensuring better recovery outcomes for workers while creating safer and more supportive workplaces.”

For more information, visit: novascotia.ca

Artificial Intelligence and the human element in tech

Spotlighting local business leaders and changemakers for Agents of Change 2024 By Emily Bednarz

Every year, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce puts the spotlight on local business leaders and changemakers in our Agents of Change story. Agents of Change are typically connected by a theme that emerged over the year, and without a doubt, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)—in the workplace and beyond—dominated headlines and water cooler conversations this year.

Jennifer LaPlante is Chief Growth and Investment Officer for Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. At the Halifax Chamber’s annual Spring Dinner earlier this year, Laplante referenced a popular social media post about AI (see right). “I do a lot of different talks on AI, especially with women in tech, and this post is one of the most popular slides that people talk about,” said LaPlante. “It is a reminder that AI isn’t going to replace your job. A radiologist has 17 tasks, and one of those tasks can be replaced with Artificial Intelligence.”

Like LaPlante suggests, discussions around AI this year typically explored the ethical use of AI and the effects of AI on a people-driven workforce. So, our Agents of Change this year both highlight the positive power of AI as well as the importance of maintaining the human element in business and technology.

AI in the workplace

Robert Newcombe is the owner of AI-First Consulting Inc., which first opened in 2023. Newcombe recognized a gap in the market and began offering services to train businesses on how to use AI effectively in the workplace. “I believe AI can make people more productive, creative, and less overwhelmed,” says Newcombe. “Many of the people I work with are on the brink of burnout, but with the right mindset, systems, and tools, AI can help alleviate that.”

Newcombe explains that the real joy of working in AI is seeing the impact

it has on real people. “One of my most rewarding experiences was demonstrating ChatGPT to 150 women at the Women’s Institute National Conference in Truro,” he says. “They learned practical ways to save time, like writing emails, using voice commands, and creating images in seconds. Seeing their excitement as they realized how AI could simplify their daily tasks was incredibly rewarding.”

Aaron Short shares a similar motivation in his work with AI. Short is Co-Founder of b-line, which is headquartered in Halifax and leverages AI to make “smart” buildings. “We see AI as the key to unlocking efficiency, reducing operational burdens, and providing realtime insights that humans alone could never achieve,” says Short. “For example, our AI-driven HVAC systems can analyze environmental data, predict occupancy trends, and adjust building conditions to save energy without sacrificing comfort.”

Like Newcombe, Short is driven by seeing the impact AI can have in the

real world. “Buildings have always been static entities, but now, they’re becoming dynamic environments that respond to the needs of the people inside them,” says Short. “We had one client tell us that our AI saved them hours of manual work each day while making their guests feel more welcome and cared for. That’s the kind of impact that keeps me motivated— it’s the intersection of efficiency and empathy that excites me.”

Jennifer LaPlante is Chief Growth and Investment Officer for Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. She spoke on AI and ocean technology at the Halifax Chamber’s 2024 Spring Dinner.

The limitations of AI

Websavers is a webhosting company based in Halifax that first opened in 2004. Jordan Schelew (Founder and President) and Allen Pooley (Owner and COO) emphasize that while advancements in AI have made aspects of business more efficient, there’s still a long way to go. “When it comes to professional services, AI solutions frequently make mistakes at a rate higher than human error and are harder to spot and fix because it wasn’t humans that created them,” say Schelew and Pooley. “The human element is still very much needed either entirely from the beginning or, at the bare minimum, in the end of the process to verify AI results.”

Although Newcombe recognizes the powerful potential of AI, he agrees that the human element is still essential.

“AI should augment human work, not replace it,” he explains. “It can handle repetitive and tedious tasks, freeing up time for people to focus on what they love and do best. AI can’t replicate empathy, intuition, or human connection—qualities that are vital in business.”

Short echoes Newcombe. “The human element will always be essential,” he says. “AI can handle the numbers, the data, the processes—but people bring the creativity, empathy, and understanding that technology simply can’t replicate. AI allows us to automate the mundane and data-intensive tasks, freeing up human beings to focus on innovation, strategy, and the emotional intelligence required to build meaningful relationships with customers and teams.”

Michael Hebert is CEO of Turtle Island Technology Solutions, a new Indigenous-owned startup that provides

IT, professional, and consulting services located in Millbrook.

Turtle Island Technology Solutions just opened a year ago, but Hebert has been in the industry for many years and knows what a gamechanger AI has been. “I started utilizing technology over 40 years ago, writing some simple programs by the time I was nine-years-old,” says Hebert. “In 40 years, I’ve never seen more change in our industry than I have in the last year. AI has found its way into every pillar of our business and is the topic of almost every conversation.”

Hebert maintains a balanced view of AI in business, recognizing its potential while highlighting its gaps and blind spots. “I see AI as a helpful navigator to business,” he says. “AI has the power to map together thousands of ideas and find patterns and recognition in seconds. It should transform many areas of business and allow us to work faster, smarter, safer, and more efficiently. But AI is only as good as the data we provide it, and, much like humans, it has inherent bias. We still need to provide a human touch to the information we provide AI, but we must also work to ensure that information is as free of bias as possible.”

LaPlante echoes Hebert’s assertion. “Generative AI is an incredible tool, and we’re at the point where it can help us do so many things, but we have to stop and think about what the world is when we use AI,” says LaPlante. “We need to think about how we’re using AI and how we’re educating people about how AI works. We need to think critically, and we need to teach people to question what data was used to train these systems and whether someone can be marginalized with these systems.”

Robert Newcombe is the owner of AI-First Consulting Inc., which first opened in 2023. “Many of the people I work with are on the brink of burnout, but with the right mindset, systems, and tools, AI can help alleviate that,” he says.

Above: b-line’s Logan Grooms, left, Aaron Short and Ian Serfaty. “We see AI as the key to unlocking efficiency, reducing operational burdens, and providing real-time insights that humans alone could never achieve,” says Short.

Matt Spurway is the Executive Director of GEO Nova Scotia, a nonprofit organization founded in 2022 to coordinate a network of partners that work together to ensure people across the province have what they need to access the internet.

Spurway agrees that AI works best when people are at the heart of the process. “Finding the right balance of technology and humanity is important,” he says. “At GEO Nova Scotia, we use a lot of technology and automation to securely and efficiently process thousands of requests, but we always maintain that personal contact is critical to good service. AI is an emerging opportunity to improve productivity and service, and it can be harnessed successfully as long as we keep the experience of our partners and program participants central in our thoughts.”

The human element

GEO Nova Scotia first began as a volunteer community project, distributing 50 refurbished computers to those in need and connecting 40 households to the internet. In 2024, they now have 15 staff members who have together distributed over 4,000 devices, supplied internet or mobile connectivity to over 2,500 households, and trained over 250 people to help others with digital skills. Seeing individuals and communities connect is what drives Spurway in his work. “Huge motivation comes from hearing individual stories about the transformational impact digital inclusion has on people and families,” says Spurway. “Education, employment, housing, family reconnections, and

life-saving calls for help were all made possible by our efforts in digital inclusion. I’m also inspired by the commitment of the government and the business sector to work closely with over 100 community partners to deliver digital inclusion support to those who need it most.”

At Websavers, Schelew and Pooley maintain the human element in their work by focusing on rapid customer service and empowering their clients. “From the outset our goal was, and remains, to provide do-it-yourself web services,” say Schelew and Pooley. “We believe it is our responsibility to ensure our clients have the access and knowledge to self-manage every service and all data they have with us.”

Schelew and Pooley also assist and educate web designers of all skill levels who want to work with WordPress and other open-source platforms. “We’re outspoken about the dangers of using locked-in platforms and website builders where you don’t own your website and can’t move anywhere else,” say Schelew and Pooley. “There’s no regulation that can unlock websites built with those platforms, and so our best tool is educating and encouraging people to consider using open platforms for their websites.”

Supporting the local community is also important to Schelew and Pooley. “We’ve always chosen to invest in local arts and community projects and would love to help any other local businesses achieve their goals online,” they say. “In a global marketplace, it’s all too easy to lose sight of the importance of the community focus.”

Community support is also at the heart of Hebert’s work at Turtle Island

Technology Solutions. “I had the opportunity to use my business as a driver for a charity hockey game that raised over $50K for a sexual assault center,” says Hebert. “That will remain my most recent rewarding memory until we do it again next year.”

Hebert’s interest in supporting his community is rooted in his personal experience. “I started with nothing,” he says. “I didn’t come from a family with means, but my Dad always left the door open to help others. I’m genuinely motivated by the opportunity to use my success to drive change and inspire others.”

Matt Spurway (right) is the Executive Director of GEO Nova Scotia, a non-profit organization founded in 2022 to coordinate a network of partners that work together to ensure people across the province have what they need to access the internet.

Allen Pooley (above) is Owner and COO of WebSavers and Jordan Schelew (below) is Founder and President of WebSavers, a webhosting company based in Halifax.

Driving change and making space for community growth means incorporating inclusion into his business practices. “Each area of our business embodies our dedication to diversity, inclusion, and unmatched quality in every endeavour,” says Hebert. “Our mission—and part of my DNA—is to ensure our success drives the success of Indigenous representation in technology.”

What’s needed for tech growth in Halifax

Our Agents of Change all have ideas for how Halifax can become recognized as a leader in technology and innovation.

Newcombe says that when it comes to AI, we need to adopt a greater sense of urgency. “Ten years ago, the Ivany Report sparked the OneNS initiative and a ‘now or never’ mindset,” he says. “I believe we need a similar approach for AI in both Halifax and the province.”

We also need more collaboration. “We need to connect AI talent with businesses,” says Newcombe. “I’ve met many bright students, new graduates, and professionals who understand AI technically but don’t fully grasp the challenges and opportunities businesses face. At the same time, many leaders—at all levels—don’t yet understand AI or aren’t making time to explore its potential and risks. Bridging this gap through workshops, mentorships, hackathons, or collaborative projects could be the key to unlocking Halifax’s AI potential.”

LaPlante has seen the benefits of such collaboration in her work. “There

are different organizations here that have said ‘I want to do AI, but we don’t really know how,’” she says. “So, they partnered with an academic institution that has young talent that’s looking to try new things and learn and has new skills that an organization may not have.”

Given the level of investment and talent in the region, Schelew and Pooley believe that we need to focus on improving the business environment for entrepreneurs by reducing taxes. “When you’re starting small, you need the capability to live comfortably,” they say. “And yet, just when it starts to feel like you’re getting somewhere with your small business—even though you don’t even have a truly liveable income—you’re hit with taxes. Increasing the basic personal amount entrepreneurs can claim, especially if your business is your sole income, would help small businesses grow steadily and sustainably.”

Hebert agrees that improving the business conditions would go a long way to encourage innovation in the province. “Perhaps our most important priority should be around ensuring a healthy climate for innovators, which means attempting to baseline our incomes, taxes, and access to healthcare against other desired destinations,” he says.

Hebert also emphasizes the need to bolster our education and ocean technology sectors. LaPlante agrees. “Halifax is home to the largest concentration of ocean researchers,” says LaPlante. “Combined with Canada’s global leadership in AI, our city is uniquely positioned

to lead the world in ocean AI.”

Short echoes Schelew, Pooley, and Hebert. “Halifax is brimming with potential. We have a growing tech community, world-class universities, and a deep talent pool,” says Short. “But for Halifax to truly be recognized as a leader in technology and innovation, we need to create an environment where entrepreneurship thrives. This means more investment in AI research, more incubators for tech startups, and stronger partnerships between academia, government, and the private sector.”

It’s also essential to promote the innovations and opportunities we already have in our tech sector. “We need to tell Halifax’s story better,” says Short. “We’re doing incredible things here, but we need to shine a brighter spotlight on our successes. Halifax has all the right ingredients—we just need to amplify the message and create more opportunities for collaboration.”

Spurway agrees that there is much to celebrate when it comes to tech in Halifax. “Halifax is already on track to be a leader in technology and innovation,” he says. “Our role at GEO Nova Scotia is to help make sure the benefits and opportunities of that technology are available to everyone. Technology empowers individuals, families, and communities, and it fuels both social and economic growth. I’m grateful to live in a province where we recognize that technology is a cornerstone of our future.” ■

Michael Hebert is CEO of Turtle Island Technology Solutions, a new Indigenous-owned startup that provides IT, professional, and consulting services located in Millbrook. Hebert recently accepted an Indigenous Launchpad Certificate from Mohawk Medbuy.

Events East and half a billion dollars in impact

Halifax Convention Centre and Scotiabank Centre meet major milestones By Emily Bednarz

Events East has reached a new milestone. Since 2018, the Halifax Convention Centre and Scotiabank Centre have together surpassed $500 million dollars in economic impact for the city and province, attracting 3.2 million attendees across more than 1500 events. The Convention Centre is also on track to welcome 40,000 more attendees this fall.

First established through legislation in 2014, Events East Group manages and operates the Halifax Convention Centre and Scotiabank Centre. The group was created as part of a government partnership between the Province of Nova Scotia and Halifax Regional Municipality, with a focus on promoting economic development, tourism, and industry in Halifax and Nova Scotia.

In 2018, shortly after the Halifax Convention Centre first opened, the Events East team set out a five-year plan to boost Halifax as a national and international destination for hosting worldclass events. “The attraction of major national and international conferences and marquee sports and entertainment events—like the 2023 IIHF World Juniors and the 2024 JUNO Awards—has culminated in a new benchmark of generating half a billion dollars in economic impact, further underscoring how essential our infrastructure is for the city and province,” says Carrie Cussons, President and CEO of Events East.

Cussons adds that Oceans 2024 will be making big waves at the Convention Centre this fall. The global marine conference will be one of their largest international conventions of the year, set to welcome over 1500 delegates across four days in October.

Meeting their recent major milestones—generating $500 million in economic impact and welcoming 3.2 million attendees since 2018—is reflective of a larger shift for Events East. “We are seeing a new and emerging trend

of bookings expanding into year-round periods that traditionally would have fewer events,” says Cussons. “Summer and early fall have become more robust than ever before, exceeding targets at each venue, and there is no sign of the trend reversing.”

Events East is making a positive impact on the local economy on an everyday basis. “One of the things I’m most proud of is our Local Program at the Convention Centre,” says Cussons. “Our menu features over 100 local food and beverage suppliers, and our Local Pop-Up Markets showcase Taste of Nova Scotia and Craft Nova Scotia, so when people come here to visit, they get to experience more of Nova Scotia while they’re here.”

Cussons adds that reaching these recent milestones was a team effort. “We really could not have this level of impact without our partners, like the Halifax

Regional Municipality, the Nova Scotia Government, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, and the Business Improvement Districts throughout the city,” says Cussons.

Cussons appreciates the unique way we do business in Halifax. “The level of partnership and collaboration that happens in this city is unparalleled,” she says. “It’s a key reason why I believe we have found success alongside our city over the past years. We work well together here.”

Encouraging this level of partnership is the key to continued success for everyone, says Cussons. “If we don’t collaborate, we will not succeed as a city or a province,” she says. “It’s really important that we continue to spotlight everything there is to offer in Nova Scotia, together.”

Learn more about Events East at: eventseast.com

The Halifax Convention Centre and Scotiabank Centre have attracted major conferences and entertainment events in recent years, including the the 2024 JUNO Awards (top left and right), 2023 IIHF World Juniors (bottom left), and Oceans 2024 (bottom right).

Ingrained in Halifax

Lloyd Heimbecker reflects on the growth and impact of P&H Milling Group By

P&H Milling Group is the milling operation of Parrish and Heimbecker (P&H) Limited, a Canadian, family-owned agribusiness, with roots in the agriculture industry since 1909. “As the only flour mill east of Montreal, our Halifax Mill has been a vital hub since 1968,” says Lloyd Heimbecker, CEO of P&H Milling Group and Executive VP Parrish & Heimbecker, Limited. “Our prime location at the Port of Halifax allows us to efficiently serve not just the Atlantic provinces, but also the Eastern United States and various export markets including Iceland, Peru and Cuba.”

Over the years, P&H has grown— and so has its impact on Nova Scotia. “We’ve witnessed considerable growth and transformation, transitioning to 24/7 operations to meet growing customer demand for locally produced, high-quality products,” says Heimbecker. “Today, we supply approximately 85 per cent of the flour for all baked goods in Atlantic Canada and are poised to increase production by nearly 30 per cent.”

Operations and efficiency

According to Heimbecker, P&H Milling produces 12 tonnes of flour every hour—the equivalent of approximately 240,000 loaves of bread. This level of production meets the growing demand for high quality bulk flour, animal and fish feed, and grain-based products in Nova Scotia.

The mill’s efficiency rests on the expertise of their dedicated team. “Our Halifax Mill team consists of nearly 50 dedicated employees, many of whom have been with us for decades, including a senior miller with over 40 years of experience,” says Heimbecker. “Our team’s expertise and 24/7 operations enable us to consistently produce high-quality flour in a variety of flexible formats, including bags, totes and tankers which serve a diverse clientele from commercial bakeries to grocery stores, restaurants and large industrial bakeries.”

In addition to their dedicated team, P&H relies on their facilities and prime

Emily Bednarz

“We are deeply committed to the communities where we operate and proud to supply 85 per cent of Atlantic Canada’s flour.”

Lloyd Heimbecker, CEO P&H Milling Group & Executive VP Parrish & Heimbecker, Limited

location to maximize efficiency. “Our sixstory facility features advanced machinery designed to optimize every step of the milling process, ensuring that our products meet the highest standards,” says Heimbecker. “Logistically, we use our own fleet of trucks for local deliveries, while our export products are shipped via containers from the Port of Halifax—a strategic hub that allows us to serve both domestic and international markets.”

Sustainability

Sustainability is “ingrained” in operations (pun not intended) at P&H Milling, says Heimbecker. “All by-products from the milling process are repurposed and sold as feed for regional livestock and fish farms,” says Heimbecker.

P&H is also focused on reducing overall energy consumption. “By operating the mill 24/7, we are not only increasing production efficiency but reducing our overall power draw,” says Heimbecker.

The mill’s location also helps support their sustainability efforts. “Our strategic and central location at the Port of Halifax enables us to be logistically efficient, minimizing transportation

emissions, while allowing us to source Canadian-grown wheat, ensuring that our supply chain supports and sustains local agriculture,” says Heimbecker.

Supporting local and making an impact

The team at P&H Milling recognizes the impact they have in Halifax and beyond. “Our Halifax Mill plays an integral role in the region’s supply chain, directly and indirectly supporting jobs, regional economic growth, and the production of high-quality products destined for local and global markets,” says Heimbecker.

Being able to support local is key to the P&H Milling team. “We are deeply committed to the communities where we operate and proud to supply 85 per cent of Atlantic Canada’s flour,” says Heimbecker. “From bread, to cake, to pitas and pies, the products on store shelves can be traced back to flour milled locally in Halifax.”

Learn more about P&H Milling Group, visit: phmilling.com

Riley Smith Photography

Recycling housing and the surrogation snare

An overlooked strategy to provide single-detached houses for younger and newcomer families

NICK CUNNINGHAM SENIOR POLICY ANALYST HALIFAX CHAMBER

Canada has over 8 million single detached houses, representing well over half of the housing stock in Canada. Most of the homes are owned and occupied by older generations, three-quarters of whom have already retired as of 2024.

A new report from the Toronto Metropolitan University suggests that an overlooked strategy to provide single-detached houses for younger and newcomers families lies in ‘recycling’ and ‘repurposing’ the existing stock.

The key to this strategy is to redirect resources towards developing housing options for seniors that are desirable and affordable. Desirable options could help motivate seniors to downsize sooner, freeing up many thousands of detached houses sooner than when this cohort would be forced to leave their homes due to failing health.

According to the Nova Scotian Provincial Housing Needs Assessment Report, a lack of suitable, accessible housing for seniors was one of the issues heard most often in both urban and rural areas.

Based on that feedback, Nova Scotia’s Provincial Housing Strategy has placed a focus on the development and replacement of 3,500 long-term care rooms to support seniors with failing health, however, the Province has also been incentivizing healthy seniors to remain in their homes longer.

In 2021, Nova Scotia introduced the Seniors Care Grant, a $500 annual grant to low-income senior households that helped seniors remain in their homes. In 2023 the grant was increased to $750, and the number of recipients increased to 37,000. The Province is also seeking to make home repair programs for

Despite the recent focus from all levels of government to address the housing crisis in Nova Scotia, the number of single-family home starts has decreased by over 20% compared to 30 years ago, while the number of apartment unit starts has increased by over 200% over that same period. (Source: CMHC Starts and Completions Survey)

accessibility upgrades more effective to ensure that seniors can remain in their own homes for as long as possible.

While this strategy to keep seniors in their homes longer could help to alleviate the burden on our long-term care system, it also discourages those who may have considered downsizing from doing so. Further compounding that problem is Nova Scotia’s Capped Assessment Program. Although capping assessments helps protect existing property owners from sudden increases in property assessments, it further incentivizes seniors to remain in their homes longer as downsizing to a smaller home could actually increase the amounts of property taxes they are required to pay.

This creates a problem for young and newcomer families looking for appropriate housing to raise a family. A recent study found that 55% of Canadians 18-34 said the housing crisis has affected their decision to start a family. And while there are several factors as to why younger Canadians are opting out of starting families like the cost of living, childcare

options, and changing attitudes, the prospect of starting a family in an apartment can be challenging.

Surrogation is the term for when people become so focused on improving a metric that they lose sight of the nuanced complexity of the “real thing”. The process involves replacing the original long term goal with a simpler, quantifiable measure that was initially intended as a means to gauge progress. For the housing crisis, the surrogation snare has become ‘Units’. And what is the simplest way to build more units? Large scale apartment complexes.

This is all not to say that we shouldn’t be building apartments, or that we shouldn’t invest in home care services for seniors. However, if our current strategy is not trying to recycle existing single-family homes for young families, we need to ensure that we are at least building them. ■

Productivity key to economic growth and well-being

Before you flip the page, hear me out

IAN MUNRO CHIEF ECONOMIST HALIFAX PARTNERSHIP

Productivity can sound like abstract, technical mumbo-jumbo, but it is in fact critically important to the things that simply make our daily lives better… or worse.

Productivity is not about working harder or longer to produce more. It’s about people creating more value while they’re working, which improves the profitability of firms and provides the basis for wage growth.

At a March Halifax Partnership event, Bank of Canada Senior Deputy Governor Carolyn Rogers sounded the alarm on Canada’s woeful productivity performance and explained why it matters: “An economy with strong productivity can have faster growth, more jobs, and higher wages with less risk of inflation.”

Poor productivity record

Halifax’s real GDP per capita, a commonly used metric for our standard of living, declined by 2.6% from 2022 to 2023 as population growth outpaced GDP growth. Declines did occur in all the nine major Canadian cities the Partnership measures Halifax’s economic performance against, but Halifax’s figure also was among the lowest across benchmark cities.

Provincially, Nova Scotia perennially ranks near the bottom across a wide array of productivity measures.

We don’t fare much better nationally, either. Canada’s long-standing weak productivity performance has been prominent in recent headlines.

In an economy without growth in

GDP per capita, for any one individual to enjoy an improved standard of living, it must come at the expense of someone else’s reduction in living standard. This is just a matter of simple arithmetic. To create more wealth for everyone and broadly improve living standards, productivity must improve.

Ten years ago, when the Ivany Report identified our aging and declining population in Nova Scotia as an economic crisis, our province rallied to change course for a better future. We must now recognize poor productivity as a major challenge for us to collectively address.

Productivity boosters

Boosting productivity is a multifaceted endeavour. Here are three examples of ways to improve business performance and economic growth.

1. Build a skilled workforce

One important contributor to productivity is the skill level of the workforce, which to some extent is a function of their education and training.

In Halifax, one-quarter to two-fifths of grade six students did not meet expectations in language and math assessments done last year. There are similar —sometimes worse—results from recent assessments of students in other grades and other parts of the province. A longterm trend line from an international program of student assessment shows declining and below-average results for Nova Scotia in reading, math, and science. We need to better understand these poor results and determine how to turn them around.

Furthermore, existing workers can benefit from training and skills

development to become more efficient and productive over their careers.

2. Adopt better tools and technology

Another means to improve productivity is putting more and better tools and technology in workers’ hands.

Last year Nova Scotia’s capital expenditures per capita showed growth of 8.4%, but across provinces we were dead last in our per capita amount…and our 8.4% growth rate was only fifth-best out of ten.

Some good news comes from the 2024 results of Halifax Partnership’s Business Confidence Survey, carried out by Narrative Research. There is a significant increase in the share of surveyed Halifax businesses saying they plan to utilize cutting edge technology like AI, big data, 3D printing, and smart sensors.

3. Increase competition

Businesses facing strong competition are driven to become more productive through investment and innovation. To paraphrase JFK, ask not what government protections can do for your business, ask what your business can do for your customers.

From a seemingly dire situation in 2014, we all took action to stem the tide of looming population decline and achieved truly impressive results. There is no reason why we—all working together—cannot address and reverse our stagnant productivity performance to ensure rising standards of living and improved well-being into the future. ■

Empowering Nova Scotia’s businesses

Insights on procurement and diversity in the marketplace from the Chamber’s SURGE Supply Chain Luncheon

ALLIE VAHRAMIAN COMMUNICATION & EVENTS COORDINATOR HALIFAX CHAMBER

OnWednesday, September 18th, the Halifax Chamber of Commerce hosted a luncheon as part of our SURGE series on Diversifying your Supply Chain at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel. The event welcomed Cindy O’Driscoll, Regional Manager at Procurement Assistance Canada, and Majid Charania, Director of Compliance with the Competition Bureau of Canada for presentations on how Nova Scotian businesses can benefit from both organizations.

Cindy O’Driscoll highlighted how the Government of Canada is leveraging its procurement spending to diversify its supply chain. Attendees learned about what the government buys, how diverse businesses can navigate the procurement process, and the available support as they move through their bidding journey.

Cindy noted opportunities for buyers through government spending, “Many businesses tend to overlook the Government of Canada as a potential buyer, not realizing the substantial opportunities it offers. Last year alone, the federal government spent approximately $37 billion on a wide range of goods, services, and construction projects”, she explained. “There are numerous opportunities for smaller and diverse businesses, ranging from low-dollar value procurements to larger tenders and Procurement Assistance Canada is available to support these businesses in navigating the federal procurement process.”

Majid Charania addressed the importance of fostering a competitive and fair marketplace that supports diverse suppliers: “The Competition

Bureau is a federal agency that protects and promotes competition, so we have a public interest mandate to try to build awareness around competition law in Canada,” Majid highlighted. He also explained, “Events like the SURGE Luncheon are great ways to connect directly with the business community and achieve our goals.”

Prataya Chakraborty, TD Insurance representative and the event sponsor, spoke to the success of the event and the engaging words of Cindy and Majid: “Both speakers shared their unique experiences and showcased to the audience how they can incorporate their knowledge into their own business no matter the size of their organization.”

As the presenting partners of this luncheon, Prataya explained why they chose to support the event, stating “TD Insurance has always been an avid supporter of D&I initiatives, in fact it’s one of TD’s core pillars. When the opportunity to partner with the Chamber on this series came up, it was a no brainer.” He added, “In speaking with fellow chamber members, we connected about how important sessions like these are, and spoke about the impact they would have as we share our new knowledge with our respective organizations.”

Majid Charania additionally

commented on the engagement of all attendees at the event: “I found that there was a thirst for knowledge from the attendees about all manners of supports and resources for businesses. People were very receptive to ideas and engaged with the content from all the speakers.”

Cindy added in agreement that, “the attendees showed great interest in the topics presented on at the SURGE event. We had engaging discussions with businesses and various stakeholders, and talked about the opportunities for smaller businesses, as well as some of the challenges they encounter.”

As we continue our SURGE Series in the future, Prataya reflected on this past luncheon by saying, “A big highlight for us were the interactions we had post-SURGE luncheons. In speaking with fellow chamber members, we connected about how important sessions like these are and spoke about the impact they would have as we share our new knowledge with our respective organizations.”

For more resources on procurement and supply chains, check out:

competition-bureau.canada.ca canada.ca/en/services/business/ doing-business/how-to-sell.html

User experience and accessibility in the AI era

Navigating AI’s role in shaping inclusive and accessible digital experiences

FLORIS PEL FOUNDER, BUZZBRONCO

GHAZALEH AFRAHI BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & ACCESSIBILITY DIRECTOR, BUZZBRONCO

In 2024, most professionals will have used AI tools in one form or another. But what does the pervasive presence of these tools mean for user experience and accessibility? Let’s take a quick look at some of AI’s most prominent capabilities and its limitations, as well as how we can address these challenges and shortcomings.

Digital Accessibility

AI tools significantly enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities. They can describe images, personalize content, simplify complex language structures, support assistive technologies (such as speech recognition and screen readers), and even help detect some digital accessibility problems.

However, AI currently lacks deep semantic understanding, struggles with unfamiliar accents and names, and has inadequate contextual and nuanced interpretation. These issues can easily impact users’ autonomy and access to essential services, create accessibility barriers, and lead to misunderstandings and frustration.

Bias, fairness, and inclusion

Advanced AI algorithms can untangle information and detect biases in input data, facilitating fairness in decision-making. This helps reduce discrimination and creates more inclusive outcomes for diverse populations.

Still, AI-generated images often have trouble creating a fair representation of people with disabilities, predominantly depicting them only as individuals

in wheelchairs. When specifying other disabilities, results are often inadequate, distorted, or prompts are flagged as conflicting with policies. This may sound like a superficial issue, but it can cause real harm through the perpetuation of stereotypes and reinforcement of ableism within society.

Emotional intelligence and compassion

AI systems are becoming increasingly adept at recognizing and responding to our emotions. This helps users with limited social skills to read between the lines, interpret subtle social cues, understand figurative language and better navigate social interactions.

Great as that sounds, AI today lacks genuine emotional depth and empathy. A chatbot may have trouble recognizing a user’s emotional state, the nuances of their requests, or fail to offer an empathic solution in emotionally sensitive situations. This can alienate readers and even create a gap between businesses and their audiences. This gap can leave users feeling undervalued, misunderstood, or emotionally cut off, making it tough to create strong and lasting relationships.

Transparency and trust

We all know how fast AI tools are. They can search the web for data in a matter of seconds, helping users access information that was not obviously placed. A lack of transparency remains, however, in relation to privacy concerns, data fusing, and energy consumption. That’s in addition to the real impact of

these tools on the environment, concerns about their ethical human resource treatments, and misuse or use for unethical practices. This can erode trust and potentially leave users feeling exposed and vulnerable to exploitation.

Addressing challenges and shortcomings

Businesses need to make informed decisions and use AI responsibly and ethically. This includes involving users in the process and working with a wide range of users while remaining aware of the danger of stereotyping.

Businesses must make inclusion, clarity, transparency, and engagement a priority and test AI-based products or messaging for accessibility. It’s not just a matter of simplicity or correct use of language; above all, content and tools should be able to resonate with a wide range of users—regardless of their abilities or origin.

Looking Ahead

AI tools can play an important role in reaching diverse audiences, form customer loyalty, and drive growth. As businesses integrate AI tools into their operations, they help shape not just the current needs of users but the inclusive digital landscape of tomorrow. This comes with a serious responsibility for business leaders to harness these technologies thoughtfully. We believe the reward of that investment will be worth it: your digital presence will be state-ofthe-art, inclusive, and—most important of all—user-centered. ■

The role of recruitment in succession planning

Strengthening your succession plan with strategic recruitment

IAN SULLIVAN PARTNER - EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT & TALENT CONSULTING VENOR

Asa business owner, the thought of succession planning may naturally lead you to consult with your lawyer, accountant, or financial advisor. While these professionals are critical to the process, your recruitment team should be right there alongside them. Succession planning is more than just finding someone to fill your shoes; it’s about ensuring your business’s continued success and growth.

You might already have a list of potential successors in mind—family members or key employees who know the ins and outs of your company. However, succession planning is complex and requires a deep understanding of the intricacies and nuances of your business.

Identifying key leadership needs

Succession planning begins with clearly understanding your business’s current structure and future leadership needs. Identifying the skills and competencies required for your successor, whether it’s a new president, COO, or

“Succession planning is complex and requires a deep understanding of the intricacies and nuances of your business.”

another critical role, it’s important to ensure that the new leader not only has the qualifications but also aligns with your company’s culture and values.

Attracting top talent

Having internal candidates or family members in mind for leadership roles is great, but it’s also important to look outside your organization. External candidates can bring fresh ideas and new skills that your business might need. By understanding what top candidates are looking for and showcasing what makes your company unique, you can attract leaders who fit the role and are excited about your company’s future.

Crafting a succession strategy

Succession is more than just finding the right person; it’s about setting them up for success. This means developing a comprehensive transition strategy outlining the new leader’s roles and responsibilities. A well-structured plan also supports the onboarding process, ensuring a smooth transition. Mentorship programs should be established in which the outgoing owner shares valuable insights and knowledge, helping the new leader understand the business from the start.

Continuous support and evaluation

Setting up performance evaluation metrics can help monitor the new leader’s progress and identify areas for improvement. Ongoing consultation and support

will help address any issues that may arise during the transition. Leadership development shouldn’t stop at hiring; continuous training and development programs are key to ensuring the new executive remains effective and adaptable in their role.

Mitigating risks

Every transition has risks. A thorough risk assessment will identify potential challenges and obstacles in the succession process. Developing contingency plans to address unforeseen issues is key to ensuring your business remains resilient through the transition.

Strengthening your employer brand

Attracting top executives goes beyond posting a job; it’s about sharing your story. This involves showcasing your company’s strengths, values, and growth opportunities. Storytelling helps define and communicate your unique identity in a way that connects directly with candidates. By creating a compelling narrative, you not only draw in top talent but also keep them engaged with your company’s vision.

Succession planning is one of the most significant challenges a business owner will face. With the right recruitment team by your side, you can navigate this process with confidence, knowing that your business’s future success is in capable hands. ■

Embracing AI

Elevate your presentations and communications

TISHA PARKER KEMP FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL SHIFTED ACADEMY INC.

Curious about the future of presenting, especially in the context of AI?

AI could be the momentous resource you need to leverage as your newest apprentice.

Creating presentations or any form of communication can indeed be time-consuming. Fortunately, AI has revolutionized many aspects of our lives, including the presentation design process. However, its impact extends far beyond that. It can also help you enhance your public speaking and communication skills.

Transforming your content

Imagine transforming your speech into text automatically or converting copy into spoken words. AI-powered speech recognition and text-to-speech technology can provide accurate transcriptions or voiceovers for your videos. Instead of spending hours creating slides, AI can do that heavy lifting as well. Many integrated AI tools can automate the creation of professional-looking slides and scripts.

Thanks to advancements in AI, speech recognition and translation have improved. Speech-to-text applications transcribe your speech in real time, effortlessly capturing vital details and creating comprehensive notes, with bookmarks for action items or

unanswered questions for ease of follow up. Similarly, text-to-speech applications take your written content and transform it into high-quality audio.

Performance improvement

AI-powered apps can provide realtime feedback on your performance, identifying areas for improvement in a safe and confidential manner. They also offer detailed post-presentation reports, allowing you to review and reflect. With actionable insights, you can become a more confident and effective communicator.

They can monitor and help you adapt your presentation style on the fly, ensuring a clearly delivered message and optimized audience engagement.

Looking ahead

The possibilities that AI offers for presentations and communications are genuinely exciting. Virtual reality presentations and virtual coaches are revolutionizing the way we practice and refine our skills. However, it’s crucial to consider AI’s ethical, social, and cultural

implications. Fairness, inclusivity, and responsibility must be at the forefront as AI is harnessed.

That said, leveraging AI can be a game-changer for business. It can save time and enhance your performance. While embracing AI to elevate your leadership presence, remember to strike a balance between the power of AI and the unique value that human presenters bring to the table.

If you’re ready to harness the power of AI for your presentations and communications, download our free Definitive Guide to AI Platforms – it’s tailored for busy leaders and inside you’ll find 60+ curated resources for planning, producing, and presenting.

Access our free guide at: shiftedacademy.ca/downloaddefinitive-AI-platform-guide

EDI moving from good intentions to systemic change

The ISO 30415 standard is revolutionizing how we approach EDI

LINDA ESPINOSA VALENCIA CO-FOUNDER AND EDI CONSULTANT VENTURA COLLECTIVE LTD.

The next chapter of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in organizations is being written. The distinction from performative initiatives to systemic change is what will separate successful and thriving organizations that attract top talent from those that are stuck in the status quo and still afraid to engage in systemic change.

But what is driving this transformation? There are two major factors. Firstly, the market is demanding that organizations, products and services reflect the vibrant and diverse society in which we live. Secondly, the practice of EDI is being professionalized through the introduction of international standards— one in particular, the ISO 30415 (more on this shortly). A simple Google search will show the shift in consumers’ behaviour and their demand for companies and products to actively work on social justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. So, let me talk to you a bit about the ISO and international standards.

Who is the ISO?

They describe themselves as follows: “The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) brings global experts together to agree on the best way of doing things — for anything from making a product to managing a process. The International Standards published by ISO serve to make lives easier, safer and better.”

In 2021, the ISO released the

“The Diversity and Inclusion ISO 30415 is revolutionizing how we approach EDI from ad hoc initiatives to a company-wide systemic change.”

first international standard related to EDI, Human resource management — Diversity and inclusion ISO 30415 (a name that just rolls off the tongue, I know!).

What differentiates this standard from other frameworks out there?

The ISO 30415 standard underwent a decade-long development process, guided by the principles of human rights at work by the International Labour Organization (ILO). It is relevant to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Reduced Inequality.

The standard was designed to be measurable and scalable to the needs of all types of organizations. It embeds equity, diversity and inclusion in every part of the organization, therefore decentralizing and democratizing EDI responsibilities.

The Diversity and Inclusion ISO 30415 is revolutionizing how we approach EDI from ad hoc initiatives to a company-wide systemic change. It helps organizations to not only do what is right by their employees, but also creates a system that manages risk and increases the bottom line.

Regardless of the size of your

organization, the ISO can support your organization in creating an inclusive work environment where employees feel they belong.

Ventura Collective is proud to have been the first EDI organization in Canada to bring this international standard for organizations. Our co-founders are also part of the Canadian arm of the ISO, the Standards Council of Canada. We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion as a systemic change and we have never been more hopeful about its future in organizations and its impact on society at large.

If you would like to learn more about the Diversity and Inclusion ISO 30415, visit: weareventura.com

Navigating the competitive Atlantic labour market

Workplace pensions are a cost-effective way to attract and retain talent

PAUL LAI FATT DIRECTOR OF PENSION SOLUTIONS - ATLANTIC CANADA CAAT PENSION PLAN

Across Canada, headlines are raising the alarm about the ongoing labour shortage and its potential economic fallout. While politicians are launching committees and economists are formulating theories, business leaders are left searching for answers.

The impact is being felt across the country, but it is particularly noticeable in the Atlantic region. A recent report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business reveals Nova Scotia businesses lost out on approximately $1 billion in potential sales and contracts in 2022 due to staffing shortfalls.

To address these human resource challenges, businesses are seeking innovative solutions beyond compensation, focusing on practical and cost-effective ways to enhance total rewards packages and position themselves as employers of choice.

Evolving employee needs

Today’s employees increasingly prioritize well-being, work-life balance, and a positive workplace culture when evaluating potential employers. In addition to career growth and meaningful work opportunities, they look for companies offering wholistic supports and benefits, such as enhanced wellness programs focused on mental health and financial well-being.

Recognizing that financial security is a critical aspect of well-being, leading employers in the region are beginning to see the connection between supporting employee retirement planning and attracting and retaining top talent.

According to a Manulife Canada Retirement study, eight out of 10 Canadians say a retirement plan is a critical company benefit and six out of 10 report they would be unlikely to work for a company that doesn’t provide a pension.

Improving outcomes for all stakeholders

Demonstrating commitment to employee financial security and overall wellbeing through a pension or retirement savings arrangement can be a key differentiator and even be a competitive advantage in the Atlantic labour market.

A Canadian Public Pensions Leadership Council (CPPLC) survey found retirement planning stress can significantly impact career decisions, especially among Canadians aged 35 to 44, with 28% reporting high stress and an increased willingness to change employers for a better pension.

Offering desirable pension benefits to employees can alleviate their concerns

about financial security, and provide a cost-effective way to boost productivity, increase engagement, reduce burnout, and lower turnover costs and impact.

Identifying the retirement needs of today’s workers

While any retirement savings option a business offers its employees is beneficial, not all are created equal. When assessing the right retirement arrangement for your workforce and your business, there are several important questions to consider:

• What are the costs/risks associated with the plan?

• What type of benefits will employees receive?

• Are employees getting the best return on their investment?

• Can you tailor the plan to meet the unique needs of the company and employees?

• What supports are available to help employers administer the plan?

The pension landscape in Nova Scotia is changing, and organizations here now have access to a variety of options once thought to be available only to large organizations or the public sector.

The reality now is there are cost-effective ways to offer a pension that give employees what they want and need. Doing so can drive better outcomes for both your business and people. ■

Meet Stethophone

Canadian AI-powered medical innovation officially available

SUBMITTED ON BEHALF OF SPARROW BIOACOUSTICS

In a groundbreaking development for Canadian healthcare technology, Stethophone, a revolutionary smartphone-based stethoscope app, has officially launched in Canada. The innovative medical device, born and developed in the heart of Atlantic Canada, is set to transform how healthcare professionals and patients address the unmet need for faster, more accessible screening for heart conditions.

Stethophone is the brainchild of Sparrow BioAcoustics, a Nova Scotian and Newfoundland company that has rapidly gained international recognition. The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in medical technology has propelled it past numerous scientific and regulatory hurdles. Sparrow also recently closed $13 million in seed financing.

Why is this big news for Canada?

Stethophone is a new kind of device designed for both consumer use and professional healthcare providers. The Canadian release introduces an advanced version featuring a new class of artificial intelligence that assesses the structural and rhythmic function of the heart. This AI introduction enhances the app’s ability to detect and analyze heart sounds, providing people with more accurate and detailed information about their cardiac health.

Stethophone transforms smartphones into powerful medical-grade stethoscopes without the need to attach or connect anything new. This accessibility allows for more frequent and convenient heart checks, potentially leading to earlier detection of cardiac issues and improved overall heart health management. Now anyone can perform auscultation and get medical grade information, whenever, or wherever symptoms or concerns arise.

The complex sound analysis performed by Stethophone has its own name

– Stethogram. It is a detailed dataset of the recorded sound of your heart that contains extremely detailed information. The app uses patented advanced bioacoustics technology that makes heart sounds clearer and more audible than leading medical stethoscopes. It captures tones, murmurs, and arrhythmias indicative of numerous progressive cardiac diseases. It also digitally processes the captured sounds into highly accurate Spectrograms and Oscillograms, allowing doctors to focus on areas of concern or unusual sounds. This unique, multifunctional report combines both reliable information and graphical representation. Now you can not only hear the heart sound but also see it with your own eyes!

Think global, act local

While proudly Canadian, Stethophone has already made significant strides on the global stage. The app is now recognized as a medical device and available in three countries, each playing a unique role in Sparrow’s growth and development:

1. Canada: The home base and newest market

• Stethophone’s headquarters and primary development center

• Most recent market entry, showcasing the company’s commitment to its home country

• Ready for widespread adoption in Canada’s universal healthcare system

• Leveraging Canadian medical expertise and research institutions

2. United States: An early adopter

• FDA-cleared, demonstrating compliance with rigorous US medical device standards

• Significant potential for integration into the US healthcare system, including private practices, hospitals, and remote care platforms

• Growing adoption to address healthcare access issues in rural and underserved areas

• Rapidly developing partnerships with major US health tech companies and medical institutions

3. Ukraine: expanding into Eastern Europe

• Homeland of the co-inventor, bringing a personal connection and deep understanding of local healthcare needs

• Strategic entry point for expansion into European markets

• Opportunity to address healthcare challenges in a country torn by war and undergoing significant reforms

• Already contributing to the modernization of Ukraine’s healthcare infrastructure

Stethophone’s presence in these three diverse markets demonstrates its versatility and global appeal. From its Canadian roots to early US adoption and expansion into Eastern Europe, the app is poised to revolutionize auscultation and improve healthcare accessibility worldwide.

As Stethophone continues to evolve and expand its reach, it stands as a shining example of how local innovation can impact both national and global healthcare. The future looks bright for this Canadian-born medical technology as it continues to bridge the gap between patients and health practitioners. ■