The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present this year’s Halifax Business Awards finalists. Presented by RBC, longtime supporters of the business community, the annual awards gala is hosted at the beautiful Halifax Convention Centre and showcases Halifax’s best and brightest business leaders and entrepreneurs. This issue is dedicated to the hardworking and innovative people behind these remarkable business ventures. We hope you enjoy getting to know them, and we hope their vibrancy shines through these pages. To learn more about the Halifax Business Awards, please visit: halifaxchamber.com/awards
Finalists Not Pictured Above: Jay Hiltz (Soberish Mocktail Shoppe), Motunrayo Ige (IYALODE African Wholesale Market), Micah Brown (Smart Coach Inc.), Carson Way (Carson Exports), Rashmi Prakash (Aruna Revolution), and Lillian (Missy) Searl (Period Equity Alliance Society)
Images by Basha Koncepts Media
Did you know…?
The Halifax Business Awards finalists are chosen every year by an independent Judging Committee. Nominees can self-nominate or be nominated by someone in the community. Self-nominations are strongly encouraged. Nominees receive an email notification of their nomination and are prompted to fill out their submission. The completed submissions (made up of six questions) are then reviewed by the Judging Committee. Comprised of five local business and community leaders, the Committee reviews all nominee submissions (usually over 100!). They then assign each submission a score—all the judges’ scores are added up and averaged. The Committee reviews the top five (who are deemed finalists) and approve a winner in each category.
Thank you to our 2026 Awards Judging Committee!
- Matthew Martel, Black Business Initiative (BBI)
- Andrew de Freitas, TMSI
- Margaret Chapman, Narrative Research
- Lindsay Cross, Shannex
- Houston Barnaby, Balsam: Indigenous Reconciliation Education & Advisory
New Business of the Year
Presented by BoyneClarke LLP
AI-First Consulting
What was the “a-ha” moment that launched your business? Using ChatGPT for the first time in November 2022 was a major “a-ha” moment for me. While it was far from perfect, I could see how this technology would revolutionize the way businesses approached work and how important it would become. The final “a-ha” moment came when I asked myself, “In 10 years, will I regret starting my own business—or not taking the leap?”
Where do you see your organization in ten years? I see us still helping Atlantic Canadian organizations get the most from AI tools. Today, we help organizations determine their AI strategy, roadmap, policies, tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) and integrate technology across their operations. In ten years, we’ll likely be helping them stand up and work collaboratively with AI agents (digital colleagues).
Celebrate Your Curves
What was the “a-ha” moment that launched your business? My “a-ha” moment came during my first fashion show, when Celebrate Your Curves Fashion won the People’s Choice Award at the UCOF event. Seeing the crowd’s reaction and feeling their connection to our message of inclusivity, I realized this was bigger than me—it was a movement. That moment showed me the impact of representation and the power of creating fashion that celebrates every body. It was the beginning of something far greater than I could have imagined—a mission to redefine fashion through representation, sustainability, and heart.
Tell us one thing people may not know about your business. One thing people may not know about Celebrate Your Curves Fashion is our sustainability initiative, ReShape—a program dedicated to upcycling and recycling textile waste. Each year, the fashion industry generates millions of tonnes of waste, and through ReShape, we are taking tangible steps to change that. We host workshops on sustainable fashion and create spaces where people can learn the art of upcycling. We are also building a sewing hub that connects creativity with purpose. ReShape proves that sustainability and style can coexist, and that every piece made with intention can make a difference.
Halifax Tides FC
What was the “a-ha” moment that launched your business? In November of 2023, when I discovered that Canada did not have a domestic women’s soccer league—even though our Canadian Women’s national soccer team is consistently ranked in the top ten countries in the world. They have won multiple gold medals, yet they need to travel internationally to grow their career. In building a brand new Canadian league, I knew there needed to be a team in Atlantic Canada so that we could feel like we had a part to play in this impactful plan.
What is one way Halifax has helped you succeed? The community of Halifax is the backbone of why we have been able to create and support this business. The fans and supporters of the Tides are the best in the entire country. (I’m not just saying that—it’s something known across the entire league). The belief in what we are doing, the attendance at our games, and the unconditional support is unparalleled. Halifax has showed up and supported us when we most needed them.
Jennifer Barnable (Sole Proprietor)
What was the “a-ha” moment that launched your business? When one in three Nova Scotians live with disability, the community impact is undeniable. There is no inclusion without disability inclusion, yet disability is often left out of the DEI equation. I noticed the gap, the need for anti-ableism education, and the growing interest in better allyship from concerned organizations and businesses. As a Disabled professional and business professional becoming more involved in advocacy and education, the timing was right to serve my community with authentic, Disabled-led advocacy and advising.
What has been your biggest lesson learned as a new business? In business, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected, be ready to pivot, and navigate change with resilience. As a Disabled sole proprietor, I face systemic barriers, the stresses of entrepreneurship, the uncertainty of these economic times, and the added complexity of managing my health and accommodating my disabilities. Being strategic, innovative, and ready to adapt plans can make unexpected change less disruptive. Changing focus and momentum, shifting the workflow, creating an accessible environment, and giving myself grace are also crucial.
Soberish Mocktail Shoppe
Tell us one thing people may not know about your business. Most people don’t realize we made history by opening Atlantic Canada’s first alcohol-free bar. It’s a unique gathering place where everyone can enjoy craft cocktails, socialize, and celebrate—without alcohol. Our goal was to reinvent nightlife and create a welcoming space for those seeking new experiences. By blending fun, flavour, and inclusivity, we’ve built a destination that truly stands out.
What has been your biggest lesson learned as a new business? The biggest lesson learned as a new business is that no two days are the same. The non-alcoholic hospitality industry is dynamic, shaped by shifting consumer preferences and market trends. Flexibility and adaptability are essential to navigate daily challenges, whether it’s responding to evolving customer expectations, managing product availability, or innovating offerings. Embracing this variability keeps the business resilient and fosters ongoing creativity, helping maintain relevance and build strong community connections in a rapidly growing market.
Small Business of the Year
Presented by the Nova Scotia Government Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration
Happily Hitched Halifax
What would you say is your organization’s proudest achievement? Our proudest achievement has been creating a space where every couple feels genuinely celebrated for who they are. In just over two years, we’ve seen how much joy and connection can come from keeping weddings simple, inclusive, and true to each love story. Hosting couples from near and far, and watching them relax, laugh, and feel completely themselves…that’s what fills us with pride.
How do you balance big ambition with a small team? By leaning into collaboration and clarity. We rely on strong systems, like our CRM and automated booking tools, to keep things running smoothly, but what really makes it work is our community partnerships. We’ve built a trusted network of talented local vendors who each bring their expertise, allowing us to focus on the creative and personal touches that make every celebration special.
IYALODE African Wholesale Market
What would you say is your organization’s proudest achievement? Being recognized for the impact we have created within our community—like winning the New Business of the Year Award from ISANS and being a finalist in that same category at last year’s Halifax Business Awards. These recognitions affirm that our efforts to provide access to multicultural products, empower women, and celebrate diversity are truly making a difference in Halifax.
What is one way your business helps Halifax thrive? IYALODE African Wholesale Market helps Halifax thrive by promoting inclusion and cultural diversity through commerce. We provide access to minority products that help locals and newcomers feel safe and at home while introducing the wider community to new tastes and traditions. By doing so, we contribute to economic growth and cultural understanding across the city.
Liquid Assets Nova Scotia
What would you say is your organization’s proudest achievement? Our proudest achievement has been creating a one-of-a-kind Nova Scotia experience inside Halifax Stanfield International Airport. We showcase the incredible range of local wine, spirits, and craft beverages our province offers in one of the most challenging retail environments imaginable. We’ve helped dozens of small rural producers reach travellers worldwide. After COVID, we grew our margins, expanded our reach through home delivery and province-wide shipping, and continued to champion local producers. We’re proud to represent Nova Scotia’s creativity and craftsmanship every day.
How do you balance big ambition with a small team? At Liquid Assets NS, our ambition isn’t about growing bigger—it’s about making the biggest difference for local producers and customers. With a small, experienced team, every person counts, so we focus on depth over scale: getting to know our producers’ stories, helping them test new products, and giving travellers a personal experience with Nova Scotia’s craft beverages. We leverage community connections, the Chamber’s expertise, and airport support to extend our reach. Our ambition is measured by the difference we make—helping local businesses grow and introducing Nova Scotia’s products to more customers.
One Day Affair
What would you say is your organization’s proudest achievement? Our proudest achievement is the incredible team we have built, the people who are truly the heart of our business. It is a privilege to watch our team grow, not only in their skills but in their passion for what they do each and every day. They are our extended family.
How do you balance big ambition with a small team? Balancing big ambition with a small team is a challenge for most. At One Day Affair, each of us wears many hats, and every team member is cross-trained in multiple roles so we can work together efficiently and seamlessly. Clear communication is key when working as a team.
uptreeHR Inc.
What would you say is your organization’s proudest achievement? We’re incredibly proud of our growing partnerships with local non-profits. These organizations bring an extra level of purpose to our work and allow us to make a meaningful impact across Nova Scotia, from sector councils to transition houses and energy efficiency organizations. Combined with our long-term partnerships in construction, manufacturing, tech, and agriculture, we’ve built a strong reputation as an ethical, trusted HR partner helping more than 100 Halifax businesses thrive sustainably.
What challenge taught you the most this past year? This year, we took a leap, growing from two to six full-time team members to meet demand. It was a significant risk, but it taught us that thoughtful growth can unlock incredible opportunities. We’re now serving 2.5 times more clients and achieving more than ever before.
Export Business of the Year
Presented by Invest Nova Scotia
Carson Exports
What was the turning point that took your business global? With modest beginnings in the 1990’s exporting cars overseas, our first turning point, where we could reach a global audience, was around 1999/2000 during the dot-com era when we could reach a global audience. Our next major turning point was in 2015 when we entered the US marketplace.
What is your organization’s biggest achievement to date? Our biggest achievement to date was selling 525 cars out of 525 cars at a Michigan auto auction in March of 2025 in under three hours’ time. We export 12,000-15,000 vehicles each year and invest that success back home, supporting more than 40 local jobs, growing local and Canada wide partnerships, and contributing to community causes like Autism Nova Scotia.
Kuehne+Nagel Canada Ltd.
What was the turning point that took your business global? Canada was among the first non-European countries where Kuehne+Nagel established operations, demonstrating its early commitment to global logistics. Canada’s strong trade ties with Europe and the U.S. made it an ideal hub for transatlantic freight forwarding and supply chain services. Our history in Canada dates back to 1953!
What challenges or opportunities do you see in the future of export? The future of exports in Atlantic Canada is incredibly promising. Now more than ever, we have the opportunity to diversify our global customer base, reduce reliance on traditional markets, and champion the “Made in Canada” brand. Canadian exports stand as a symbol of quality and integrity—and we’re proud to help bring that reputation to the world stage.
Maritimes Immigration Consulting
What was the turning point that took your business global? The turning point came when we began collaborating with international colleges and agencies. We realized our impact could go beyond Nova Scotia by guiding students and professionals worldwide to build their futures in Canada.
What is your organization’s biggest achievement to date? Our proudest achievement is helping hundreds of clients start new lives in Canada while strengthening local communities. Seeing international students and skilled workers succeed and knowing we played a small part in that journey has been the most rewarding milestone for our team. We now have clients from over 35 different countries.
Smart Coach Inc.
What was the turning point that took your business global? The turning point came when Smart Coach transitioned from a Google Sheets prototype into a fully scalable, cloud-based SaaS platform. Coaches from programs across North America, Europe, and Australia began adopting the system, proving that the need for workflow automation and performance analytics in football transcends borders.
What is your organization’s biggest achievement to date? Smart Coach became one of the first Canadian-built football analytics platforms to gain adoption in both NCAA and international football programs. Our ability to bridge education, technology, and sport has positioned Halifax as a hub for sport innovation on a global stage.
Not-for-Profit Business of the Year
Presented by Medavie
DASC (Dartmouth Adult Services Centre)
What would you say is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? In 2024, we transformed how participants with intellectual disabilities experience their programs at DASC. Activity choice is now at the forefront of participants’ time spent at DASC. Today, participants tell us what they want to do at DASC, and it’s on us to ensure we’re providing a diverse and enriching range of paid employment and non-employment activity choices. People who work in our social enterprise are paid a full wage. DASC is proud of how its staff team, participants, and business customers have adapted to, supported, and incorporated these changes.
What challenges do you see in the next 12-18 months? How will you overcome them? Our business goals include identifying a made-at-DASC product we can promote and sell to local customers. We rely on business-to-business relationships (and these will remain vital!) to create paid employment for persons with intellectual disabilities in our social enterprise, but we’d love to develop our own product for our own market. Additionally, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Remedy is informing tremendous change within the disability support space. DASC’s priorities must and should align with the Remedy to promote choice for where and how persons with disabilities work, live, and access their community.
Feed Nova Scotia
What would you say is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? We’re most proud of transforming from a traditional food charity into a food justice organization. Feed Nova Scotia now drives systemic change while meeting urgent needs—advancing food sovereignty, influencing public policy, and supporting hundreds of community organizations province-wide. This evolution reflects our belief that food insecurity is rooted in poverty, and that dignity, equity, and justice must be at the heart of every response.
What challenges do you see in the next 12-18 months? How will you overcome them? As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, demand for support is soaring while community resources are stretched thin. We’re addressing this by strengthening partnerships, diversifying revenue, and advocating for bold government policy. Food insecurity isn’t a food problem—it’s a poverty problem—and only systemic action can end it.
Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia
What would you say is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia has grown from a small volunteer-led organization into a provincial leader in affordable homeownership. Our proudest accomplishment isn’t measured in houses built—it’s the evolution of how we build impact. We’ve transformed from traditional construction into a model that includes home repairs, social enterprise, and equity-based ownership. By adapting to today’s housing realities, we’re creating new pathways to stability, dignity, and belonging for families across Nova Scotia.
What challenges do you see in the next 12-18 months? How will you overcome them? As Nova Scotia’s housing crisis deepens, the challenge is not just to build more homes, but to build differently. Over the next 12–18 months, Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia will focus on innovation, scale, and sustainability as we roll out our new strategic plan. We’re expanding social enterprises like the ReStore and Home RePair Program and deepening partnerships with government, business, and community leaders. By combining financial discipline with creativity and collaboration, we’ll continue to redefine what affordable homeownership can look like, building a stronger, more inclusive community across Nova Scotia.
Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
What would you say is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Our proudest accomplishment is continuously growing our granting program year-over- year. Last fiscal year, we awarded 375 grants totaling more than $4,000,000! This record-breaking investment demonstrates our commitment to fostering a collective, forward-thinking community of hope.
What has been your favourite campaign or fundraiser in the last year? In February 2025, we launched a virtual campaign called Body Movin’. Recognizing the strong link between physical activity and mental wellness, the month-long fundraising initiative encourages Nova Scotians of all ages and abilities to get moving. Haligonians told us they danced in their kitchens, made snow angels, and played pickleball, all while raising critical funds for mental health. We’re super excited to get this campaign up and movin’ again next month with the support of Halifax Olympian, Karen Furneaux!
TEAM Work Cooperative
What would you say is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Hearing from people whose lives we’ve helped change. Whether it’s someone landing their dream job or taking their very first step into employment when they didn’t believe it was possible. Every story matters. And even as TEAM Work has grown, we’ve never compromised what drives us: connecting one-on-one, treating each person with dignity, and building pathways to belonging.
What challenges do you see in the next 12-18 months? How will you overcome them? One of the biggest challenges ahead is the rising cost of living. Barriers like housing instability and unreliable transportation or childcare make it harder for job-seekers to access and maintain meaningful, inclusive employment. At TEAM Work, we’re meeting this head-on: building stronger partnerships, securing funding to remove practical barriers (like travel or training costs), and advocating for full wrap-around supports so people don’t just get jobs—they stay in them and thrive.
Innovative Business of the Year
Presented by Dalhousie University Faculty of Management
3DBioFibR Inc.
What is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Our proudest accomplishment is transforming a breakthrough technology from a Dalhousie lab into a world-class manufacturing platform that redefines what’s possible in the materials space. We’ve proven that advanced technology can scale sustainably and competitively. It’s proof that world-leading solutions can be built here—and exported everywhere.
What role does innovation play in Halifax’s future? Innovation is the foundation for Halifax’s economic growth. By nurturing startups, supporting collaboration with research institutions, and fostering an ecosystem where ideas can thrive, Halifax can become a global leader in emerging industries.
Aruna Revolution
What is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Our proudest accomplishment is proving that sustainability and human health can thrive together while directly improving people’s lives. Through Aruna, we’ve created access to safer, compostable menstrual products in workplaces and schools, sparking vital conversations around equity and environmental care.
What is something new that’s happening at your company? Aruna is evolving from a Nova Scotian leader into a global solution for sustainable hygiene. Beyond menstrual products, our proprietary fibers are being explored for applications in incontinence care, medical textiles, and packaging, really redefining what compostable materials can do. It’s a powerful moment for us: transforming years of R&D into tangible global impact and proving that a small Atlantic Canadian company can lead the future of sustainable innovation.
Good Robot Brewing Company
What is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? The last five years have been a waterslide of challenges for businesses in our three sectors: tourism-hospitality, CPG, and manufacturing. During that time, we’ve managed to grow sales, processes, and employee headcount (from 20 to 85 employees), all while fostering a sense of camaraderie, support, and buy-in. That brand equity and buy-in helps to make us a good organization—with the prerequisites to be great. Every week, we march towards being a great company.
What is a problem your business is solving in a new way? We are helping reduce our carbon footprint and costs for regional breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries with our new logistics service. Our consolidated production, storage, delivery, and order fulfilment solution massively reduces freight emissions and costs to our clients. Fourteen Atlantic Canadian businesses now use this service.
Nova Graphene
What is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Nova Graphene is proud to have turned world-class research into tangible innovation across multiple industries. In just a few years, we’ve advanced from laboratory testing to commercial viability, developing graphene-enhanced solutions that span defence to manufacturing—from polymers and plastics to lubricants, coatings, and ballistic armour.
What is something new that’s happening at your company? Since winning Innovative Business of the Year in 2024, Nova Graphene has been invited to join multiple Team Canada trade missions around the world. These missions have allowed us to showcase Canadian innovation on a global stage, advancing not only the adoption of graphene-based technologies but also positioning Canada as a leader in advanced materials research and development.
Oberland Agriscience Inc.
What is your organization’s proudest accomplishment? Commissioning our first commercial-scale facility on the outskirts of Halifax has been a huge accomplishment for Oberland. We’re proud of the leadership and determination of our dedicated team for getting us here. We’re immensely grateful for the support of our shareholders, partners, government, and the many programs in Atlantic Canada who make it possible for companies to succeed.
What is a problem your business is solving in a new way? Oberland was started to help solve Canada’s food waste problem and close the gap of the looming protein crisis. Oberland can divert 36,500T of organic waste from Nova Scotia’s landfill and low-grade compost annually, transforming it into premium-quality nutrition for animal feed and soil health amendments.
Business of the Year
Presented by Air Canada
EastPoint
What would you say is your organization’s biggest achievement? EastPoint’s greatest achievement is the culture we’ve built together. It’s a genuine, people-first environment where collaboration, creativity, and care drive everything we do. Our culture is what attracts incredible talent and keeps them here, growing alongside the company. It’s also what allows us to consistently deliver exceptional work, build lasting client relationships, and remain one of Halifax’s most respected and sought after employers.
How have you helped Halifax grow? By building a thriving company rooted entirely in the city. With one office in Halifax, we’ve created meaningful local careers that keep top engineering and architectural talent right here at home. We keep people living and working in Halifax, which boosts local businesses and the city’s economy. Our projects strengthen Halifax’s infrastructure, enhance community spaces, and contribute directly to the city’s growth. By valuing people and place, we’ve helped build a stronger, more connected city that continues to attract talent from across the globe.
Halifax International Airport Authority
What would you say is your organization’s biggest achievement? HIAA emerged from the devastating impacts of the pandemic stronger, having weathered passenger volumes that fell to just 10% of previous levels, reduced flights to four destinations, and significant financial losses. Despite these challenges, we adapted, sustained operations, and focused on recovery. By 2024, passenger volumes and financial stability were restored. In 2025, we reached 30 international non-stop destinations and an expanding domestic network, demonstrating our people’s dedication and our commitment to connecting communities and goods worldwide.
How have you helped Halifax grow? Over 25 years, HIAA has positioned Halifax Stanfield as Atlantic Canada’s primary gateway and logistics hub. Through partnerships with tourism organizations, trade groups, and local businesses, the airport drives economic and social growth, creating jobs, boosting exports, and attracting visitors, while contributing over $4 billion annually to Nova Scotia’s economy. In 2025, Halifax Stanfield served approximately 4.1 million passengers and offered 48 destinations, including 30 non-stop international routes, demonstrating how air access attracts investment and promotes sustainable growth.
Integrated Staffing
What would you say is your organization’s biggest achievement? Establishing dedicated offices in every Atlantic province, making us the only staffing and recruitment firm with true regional coverage and support. By expanding our footprint across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, we ensure that employers and job seekers receive local expertise backed by a strong Atlantic network. This has strengthened our ability to contribute to economic growth and workforce development throughout the region.
How have you helped Halifax grow? We help employers find the talent they need to operate, scale, and thrive. We support key sectors including manufacturing, logistics, insurance, finance, and contact centers by connecting them with reliable, qualified workers. We also create employment opportunities for thousands of local job seekers every year, helping individuals build careers and stay in our community. By strengthening both sides of the labour market, we contribute to a more competitive, resilient, and growing Halifax economy.
Parkwood Home Care
What would you say is your organization’s biggest achievement? Our greatest achievement is the compassionate, expert care we provide for every client. As a woman-led and founded company, we’ve grown 20–30% annually to become one of Nova Scotia’s largest privately owned networks home care providers. With a 98.3% client retention rate, our clients’ loyalty speaks to the trust and quality of care we deliver every day.
How have you helped Halifax grow? We employ over 100 Haligonians, providing meaningful work and peace of mind to local seniors and families. We proudly give back to our community through our Parkwood Cares “Baskets of Love” project and through our support for organizations such as Spencer House Seniors Centre, YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast, Phoenix Youth Programs, Brunswick Street Mission, Acadia Women in Business Night, North End Community Center, The Alzheimer’s Society of Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Hearing and Speech—where President Lorna served on the board—and The Dartmouth General Foundation.
Remember When HealthCare
What would you say is your organization’s biggest achievement? Our greatest achievement has been setting new standards of care across Nova Scotia through our unwavering commitment to consistency, connection, and community partnerships. What began as a small, pandemic-born start-up has evolved into a trusted, province-wide healthcare provider redefining what “aging in place” means.
What is the best risk your company has taken? Our biggest and best risk was twofold—launching in rural communities instead of city centres and expanding beyond traditional homecare into medical services like nursing and foot care, offered both in-home and in-clinic. These bold decisions challenged industry norms but allowed us to reach underserved populations, bridge critical healthcare gaps, and create a stronger, more accessible care network across Nova Scotia.
Business Leader of the Year
Presented by Doane Grant Thornton LLP
Bassima Jurdak, Access Language Services Inc.
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date as a business leader? I’m proud of many milestones. We grew into one of the largest translation and interpretation agencies in the Maritimes, starting as a one-person initiative and growing to over 500 people. I am also proud of implementing environmentally friendly technology and achieving ISO certification. Most importantly, we give voice to the voiceless, creating equal access to justice and healthcare while empowering the local newcomer workforce.
What leadership advice would you give an up-and-comer? Lead with empathy, equity, and curiosity. Our work connects people and cultures, so leadership means listening, inspiring trust, and balancing innovation with humanity. At Access Language Services, we’ve built more than a business, we’ve built opportunity, proving that leadership is about empowering people and creating lasting impact.
What is one value that guides every decision you make? Integrity. It means staying true to every word, every client, and every assignment. In our industry, trust and confidentiality are everything. They’re what transforms language into connection. It’s the reason we’ve grown, the reason people believe in us, and the foundation of how we serve, grow, and create lasting impact through every connection we make.
Donna Williamson, Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date as a business leader? Over 22 years in leadership, my proudest accomplishment has been building strong, values-driven teams and cultivating genuine connections with staff, donors, partners, and government alike. I lead by example—never from above, always from alongside. I believe that leadership is about accountability, empathy, and trust.
What leadership advice would you give an up-and-comer? Lead with empathy and conviction. Hire people who share your values and challenge your perspective—and then give them room to grow. Listen more than you speak, and never underestimate the power of authenticity. People don’t follow titles—they follow trust.
What is a bold goal you’ve set for the next year? Our bold goal is to expand Habitat for Humanity Nova Scotia’s impact across HRM by creating new pathways to affordable homeownership and scaling programs that help families and seniors stay safely housed. Halifax’s middle class, teachers, nurses, and tradespeople, are being priced out of the communities they serve.
Lillian (Missy) Searl, Period Equity Alliance Society
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date as a business leader? Since founding my grassroots organization in 2009 and turning it into a not-for-profit, we have built partnerships across the province with schools, community organizations, shelters, and community cupboards to address menstrual inequity in Nova Scotia. We have not only distributed essential menstrual products to those facing barriers, we also raised public awareness about period poverty, dignity, and inclusion. We have become a trusted community ally with organizations like the HFX Wanderers FC—centering compassion and representation through collaboration.
What is one value that guides every decision you make? The value that guides my decision-making is compassion. I believe leadership is about ensuring that everyone, especially those most often left out, feel supported and cared about. Every decision I make is rooted in empathy, fairness, and respect for lived experience.
What advice do you give and remind yourself to follow? Build community, not competition. Collaboration among women leaders multiplies the impact we have on our communities (from board rooms, committees, classrooms and small businesses).Do not wait for permission to take up space. Your voice, mission and life experience are enough.
Bradley Farquhar, Purple Cow Internet
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date as a business leader? My biggest accomplishment has been building a team that cares as much as I do about the herd. As an entrepreneur, it’s not easy to step back and allow the team to run the show, but I’ve watched them time and time again create game-changing experiences that no one else is even thinking about in Canada. We’re not perfect, but I can say we genuinely care about the herd and keep getting better every day.
What leadership advice would you give an up-and-comer? Don’t be afraid to set big goals and say them out loud. “Purple Cow will be a billion-dollar business within five years.” That kind of statement takes courage, but it attracts the right people. Too often, we Nova Scotians stay humble and keep our dreams quiet. But big goals bring out the best in teams. Dream loud and the team will come together.
What advice do you give that you still need to remind yourself to follow? Don’t make everyone else’s problems your own. As a leader, your energy needs to go into the big picture: vision, funding, and team development—not micromanaging response times or small issues. It’s so easy to get pulled into the little things, but real impact comes from focusing on the big stuff.
Shane Kennedy, SA Kennedy Financial Group Inc.
What would you say is your biggest accomplishment to date as a business leader? My proudest accomplishment to date has been making the decision to leave a comfortable executive position with one of Canada’s big banks and start my own full-service insurance and financial-services business in the middle of a global pandemic. What began as a fledgling two-person office has since grown into a dynamic, values-driven team that gives back to the community and has been recognized among the top agencies in Atlantic Canada and ranked nationally for the past two years.
What leadership advice would you give an up-and-comer? There’s a picture in my office that shows a ship in a harbour with the words: “A ship is safe in harbour, but that’s not what ships were built for.” My advice to any aspiring leader is to take the risk. Step out of your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t happen in safety. It happens when you set sail.
What is one thing Halifax does better than most cities for business? Halifax is a city with a heart. It’s a place where people genuinely want to see others succeed. If you’re willing to ask for help and be clear about what you need, the community will show up for you. They’ll lend a hand, make an introduction, or offer advice that helps you become better.
