Four Nova Scotia women reflect on visibility, courage, and what it means to shape the next generation of leaders
Joanne Bernard Past Chair, Halifax Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
For Joanne Bernard, women’s leadership isn’t just about who holds the title—it’s about who’s watching.
“It’s really important that women take on leadership positions in community, be present in boardrooms,” she says. “It is also important for women to be present in the capacity where they’re not only leading with the traits that they have inherited, but that they’re modeling that for the generation that may be behind them.”
Bernard sees visibility as the work itself. “Women lead differently. They offer different perspectives. They have different lived experiences, and it’s important to capture that.”
Donna Harding Chair, Halifax Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Donna Harding’s path to leadership began in a small Newfoundland community, shaped by a father who believed women belonged everywhere.
“During my formative years, he really pushed me to step out as a leader,” she says. That push carried her into the Canadian Navy, where women were a minority—but opportunities existed for those willing to reach for them.
Today, Harding looks at the Nova Scotia business community and sees the shift she once only imagined. “I look at all of those wonderful female leaders shaping our future,” she says. “I am proud and thankful to see that women are finally getting the place in society where they can effect meaningful change.”
Suzanne Gravel Past President, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS®
Suzanne Gravel’s leadership story starts with survival—and with her children watching.
“As a young single mother and single woman, it became apparent to me that I had to take charge of my own life,” she says. “It was important to me for them to see that it was ok to be a woman alone, be a single parent and have a successful career.”
For Gravel, becoming a leader wasn’t a leap—it was a series of them. “This happened by taking baby steps, leaps of faith and watching the leaders in front of me setting examples for me to follow.” She credits NSAR with giving her both the platform and the tools to pass that knowledge forward.
Sandi Carroll President, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS®
Sandi Carroll grew up as the only girl among six brothers—and learned early that leadership is something you claim.
“It came very naturally to try and extend some leadership into that role,” she says. Her father’s advice has stayed with her: “Aim high and don’t hold back. Choose your own path and be involved in all that you do.”
Now stepping into the presidency at NSAR, Carroll carries that message forward. “I definitely encourage anyone, especially young women, to step up and enter into a leadership role.”
