Business Voice Magazine (March 2022) by Halifax Chamber

H A L I FA X C H A M B E R O F CO M M E RC E

MARCH 2022

| VOLUME 31

ISSUE 3

WOMEN IN BUSINESS SHARE THEIR SPARK

REJUVENATING WITH NATURE FOLK

GRADUATE TO OPPORTUNITY

Celebrating International Women's Day Pg 12

Women-owned spa opening new location Pg 18

LSI Program supports students and business owners Pg 22

DON'T BE LATE FOR OUR VERY IMPORTANT DATE

APRIL 1, 2022 Congratulations to the 2022 Halifax Business Awards Finalists! NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

EXPORT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Eunoia Lifestyle Shop Inc. Jo to the Web Solutions Natural Butter Bar Taya Ties The Highlander Spa

Couryah Courier Services Inc Delectable Desserts Inc Lumi Studios Red Ear Media Temi Bakes

Admiral Insurance AquaMedia Inc. CGI Focal Research Consultants Limited Smart Income

NOT-FOR-PROFIT OF THE YEAR

INNOVATIVE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Alice House Kids Help Phone Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia Ronald McDonald House Charities Atlantic St. John Ambulance

CacheFlo Inc. Clean Valley Bio-Filtration Technologies CIC CarbonCure Technologies Side Door Smarter Spaces

Eastern Passage Village Veterinary Hospital Morris East Restaurant Parkwood Home Care Ltd Precision BioLogic WLWP Wealth Planners

BUSINESS LEADER OF THE YEAR Ann-Marie Flinn - Champion Foundational Change Agency Kathleen Jay - Maplewave Rebecca Cable-Munroe - Admiral Insurance Paul Empey - Precision BioLogic Tia Upshaw - Top Notch Cleaners & Black Women in Excellence Society

BOOK YOUR TICKET TODAY:

halifaxchamber.com/awards 2

MARCH 2022

TABLE OF CONTENTS

14 TABLE OF CONTENTS:

04 President’s message 05 Chamber Events 06 New & Noted 08 Members in the news 12 Women in business share their spark

Celebrating women entrepreneurs in Halifax

16 Centre for Women in Business celebrates 30 year anniversary 18 Member Profile

Nature Folk Wellness Collective

20 Working for You

Board of Directors – Officers

Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power, Chair Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem, Vice-Chair Gavin MacDonald, Cox & Palmer, Past Chair Roger Boutilier, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS Ann Divine, Ashanti Leadership Karim George, InTouch Communications

Directors

Michele Peveril, Halifax Port Authority Brad Proctor, McInnes Cooper Richard Butts Caroline Wolfe Stewart, Nova Scotia College of Nursing Andrew de Freitas, TMSI Ltd. Christopher Googoo, Ulnooweg Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals Nova Scotia David Rideout, MetroWorks Chris Cowper-Smith, Spring Loaded Technology Martha Casey, VOLTA Captain (N) A.S. Williams, CD, Maritime Forces Atlantic Kimberly Stephens, Acadian Seaplants Denise Allen, Food Processors of Canada Donna Harding, Engel & Völkers Paul Way, TD Private Wealth

Chamber Staff

Volume 31 • Issue 3 Business Voice is published 11 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. 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 and table of contents photo credit: Blush Décor

Patrick Sullivan, President and CEO Becky Davison, Vice President, Marketing Kent Roberts, Vice President, Policy Sandra White, Director of Finance and Administration Emma Menchefski, Communications Manager Emily Bednarz, Communications Coordinator

24 Trends BUSINESS VOICE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

A time to celebrate, advocate, and recalibrate What’s on the horizon for the Chamber in March 2022

PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO

s we enter March 2022, things are changing for the Halifax Chamber and for our members. The relaxation of restrictions after two long years of COVID-19 will usher in a spring that is very different than recent memory. I know businesses, our members, and all Nova Scotians are apprehensive with these changes but we are, on the whole, vaccinated, and there are therapeutics to aid in treatment as we begin to move forward. There are no perfect paths as this pandemic ends, but I take comfort in the care and concern that businesses, their owners and government are showing as we move forward. The Halifax Chamber will move forward thoughtfully and carefully, and I am pleased to share some updates and highlights with you for March 2022 at the Chamber. We are celebrating women in business, sharing our provincial and municipal Pre-Budget Submissions, and preparing for the relaxing of COVID-19 restrictions in the province.

International Women’s Day On March 8, communities across the world celebrate International Women’s Day. In Halifax, this year’s theme is “Disrupt and Celebrate: The future of gender equality for women, girls and gender diverse people in the Halifax region.” 4

The theme is about celebrating the incredible work of women and advocates in our community, while leaving room for conversations that disrupt — conversations that dig into the barriers that inequality fosters in our community. Starting a business in Halifax is tough work. Even tougher in a pandemic. Even tougher for women — especially for women of colour, women with disabilities, and women of other marginalized groups. The Chamber is dedicated to helping businesses open and stay open. We want to see local business owners thrive and find success. Part of that means supporting and promoting the efforts of female entrepreneurs here in Halifax, and so we are thrilled to be featuring them in this month’s issue of Business Voice.

Pre-Budget Submissions Our Pre-Budget Submissions to both the Province and the Municipality serve as another avenue of advocacy at the Chamber. In these documents, we provide our recommendations to the province and municipality as they head into budget season. This year, we have highlighted several key areas for focus: fiscal sustainability, affordable housing, reduced barriers for our workforce, support for our most affected sectors, red tape reduction, and continued collaboration through the Nova Scotia Business and Labour Economic Coalition. The Chamber would like to commend our public servants on the work they have done during COVID-19. There is, though, still much to be done to ensure our business community can grow and flourish. Special thanks to our policy team for working diligently on these submissions. And a huge thank you to our membership for coming to us to voice your concerns, your priorities, and your successes. Thank you for helping us to ensure all Nova Scotians are valued and heard.

MARCH 2022

@prezhfxchamber Provincial Re-Opening Like many other places in the world, Nova Scotia is opening up again. On Wednesday, February 23, the province announced that COVID-19 restrictions would end on March 21. Our members have expressed a variety of emotions after hearing this news: some are thrilled, and some are concerned. Many have expressed a sense of cautious optimism. Moving ahead, with caution, describes our feeling at the Chamber. With improvements in vaccinations and testing, we are undoubtedly in a better place than we were last year. We will continue to operate in a way that serves our business community safely and effectively, based on advice from the experts. As always, we follow the recommendations of our Public Health officials. They believe that the pandemic may be over, but they acknowledge the endemic is ongoing. COVID-19 created a public health crisis, but it also created an economic crisis. We are happy that businesses will be able to operate normally again. We are dedicated to rebuilding our economy and rejuvenating our business community. At the end of the day, one thing remains the same. In times of lockdown, re-opening, and everything in between: we’re in your corner. ■

EVENTS

CHAMBER EVENTS TUESDAY, MARCH 8

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9

TUESDAY, MARCH 22

BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES

IS YOUR BUSINESS COMPETITION ACT COMPLIANT?

WHAT'S YOUR EXIT STRATEGY?

GETTING THE BEST OUT OF YOUR COMMERCIAL LEASE IN A POSTPANDEMIC WORLD

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM VIA ZOOM

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

2022 HALIFAX BUSINESS AWARDS NEW DATE: FRIDAY, APRIL 1 Halifax Convention Centre 5:00 PM: Reception Begins 6:00 PM: Dinner and Awards Ceremony

TUESDAY, APRIL 5

THURSDAY, APRIL 7

TUESDAY, APRIL 19

SPECIAL EVENT

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

SPECIAL EVENT

MOOSE HIDE CAMPAIGN – RECONCILIATION AND ENDING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

JOHN W. LINDSAY YMCA

ANNUAL STATE OF THE PROVINCE WITH TIM HOUSTON

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

5640 Sackville Street, Halifax 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

Halifax Convention Centre 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM

VIA ZOOM

THURSDAY, APRIL 28

WEDNESDAY, MAY 4

WEDNESDAY, MAY 18

SPECIAL EVENT

ANNUAL STATE OF THE MUNICIPALITY WITH MAYOR MIKE SAVAGE

2022 SPRING DINNER: REIMAGINING HEALTHCARE

WONDER WOMEN CONFERENCE

Halifax Convention Centre

11:00 AM - 1:30 PM

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Stay tuned for updates!

9:30 PM: Event Ends We can't wait to welcome you to the 2022 Halifax Business Awards! Join us for the most glamorous night of the year and let's celebrate the Halifax Business Community in a room full of buzz and excitement on April 1, 2022. The Halifax Chamber will continue to monitor the social distancing restrictions and updated guidelines to ensure we can host this event in the safest and most fun way possible. Purchase your ticket and learn more about the 2022 finalists at: halifaxchamber.com/ awards

THURSDAY, MAY 26

THURSDAY, JUNE 9

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

SPECIAL EVENT

UNIVERSAL REALTY GROUP

2022 CHAMBER GOLF CHALLENGE

5657 Spring Garden Road, Halifax

Granite Springs Golf Club

4:30 PM - 6:30 PM

THANK YOU TO OUR FEBRUARY SPONSORS:

4441 Prospect Road, Bayside

BUSINESS VOICE

NEWSMAKERS

NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members AKWEKON INNOVATION & CONSULTING Michael Maracle-Polak

1715 Lower Water St Suite 712 Halifax, NS (647) 884-9742 info@akwekon.ca akwekon.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Management Consulting

BLUE NILE MASSAGE & WELLNESS Fantanesh Attomsa

Bedford, NS (902) 830-4274 Bluenile.massagetherapy@gmail.com bluenilemassagetherapy.com HEALTH CARE - Massage Therapy

CIBT Operating for 30 years in over 22 countries, CIBT helps people and goods move across borders. We handle business visas, immigration, and legalizing trade documents. CIBT is a fully customizable and scalable solution for any size of business. We are a global leader that helps Canadian exporters save money. Anthony Waddell Halifax, NS (888) 665-9956 Anthony.Waddell@cibt.com cibtvisas.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Import/Export/Trading

CRAYON STRATEGIES INC Crystal Witter

Dartmouth, NS (902) 277-2979 crystal@crayonstrategies.ca crayonstrategies.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Consulting (General)

FISH SAFE NOVA SCOTIA Fish Safe NS is a non-profit, industry-funded safety association 6

representing 1,566 seafood companies in Nova Scotia. Our mission is to inspire a strong safety culture for the NS seafood industry through collaboration, education, and promotion. By increasing safety, we reduce injuries and re-training costs and ultimately lower WCB premiums. Matthew Duffy 127 Chain Lake Dr Suite 9 Halifax, NS (902) 471-3534 matthew@fisheriessafety.ca fisheriessafety.ca NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS Associations/Agencies

GLASS BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION Bruce Glass

99 Wyse Rd Suite 1137 Dartmouth, NS (902) 418-4559 bruce@glassbrothersconstruction.ca glassbrothersconstruction.ca REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION Builders Residential

GOLDEN LIVING - SENIOR LIFESTYLE SUPPORT Golden Living - Senior Lifestyle Support offers a unique, in-home service to seniors wanting to age in place. We provide lifestyle enrichment and non-medical home support services that improve overall quality of life and well-being, so they can live into their golden years with purpose and joy. Camryn McNeil Halifax, NS (902) 414-5722 camryn@goldenliving.ca goldenliving.ca HEALTH CARE - Health Care Services, General

IPLUME WRITING INC. Founded in 2017, iPlume Writing Inc. has quickly established itself as a leader. We MARCH 2022

provide a variety of writing and editing services for all your content needs. From grant writing and prospecting, business proposals, policy writing, and editing to research, contracts, and website and marketing copy, we do it all! We produce only the highest quality content while maintaining affordable payment rates. Amanda Rogers Hammonds Plains, NS (902) 880-5107 iplumewriting@gmail.com iplumewriting.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Writing

IRIS LINGUISTIC AGENCIES Iris linguistic agencies was established in 2009 as a sole proprietor, having completed a program at CEED and being a current member of ISANS. The owner, Yoko Irisawa, teaches the Japanese language to a wide range of age groups. Her study room is accessible for teaching the Japanese language, cooking, and other cultural experiences. Yoko Irisawa Halifax, NS

(902) 222-7772

learnjapanese.halifax@gmail.com yokosojapanese.com EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT - Education/Schools

KEEL BRANDS LIMITED Catherine Baker

204 Brownlow Ave suite 135 Dartmouth, NS (902) 441-9382 Catherine@keelgroup.com RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE - Restaurant

MAGIC WINERY BUS LIMITED Magic Winery Bus Limited is North America’s only wine tour experience on board a traditional British double-decker bus. It’s visiting captivating destinations, learning from local winemakers, tasting

NEWSMAKERS fabulous wines and discovering the miraculous terroirs they call home with unmatched hospitality! We also offer charter tour services for the corporate sector, conferences, and large groups. David Hovell Wolfville, NS (902) 670-0340 dhovell@magicwinerybus.ca magicwinerybus.ca TRAVEL & TOURISM - Tourism

MEDIKA BEAUTY INSTITUTE INC Lurinda Swanepoel

Halifax, NS (902) 483-4221 info@medikainstitute.com medikainstitute.com EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT - Education/Schools

MICHNAT FASHION Funmilayo Odeniyi

Dartmouth, NS (902) 580-0380 support@michnatfashion.com michnatfashion.com ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT - Crafts

NEW HORIZONS COUNSELLING Sheri Dawson Dartmouth, NS (902) 403-2971

sheri.dawson23@gmail.com newhorizonscounselling.ca HEALTH CARE - Counselling

OAKTREE DESIGNS We are a small but mighty web development and graphic design studio that focuses on getting a small businesses message out to the world. We have a unique take on the web design business with flexible payment options, monthly plans, affordable graphics, and complete marketing solutions for web, including social media marketing and advertising options and printing services. Christine Kollo Eastern Passage, NS (902) 580-7166 christine@oaktreedesigns.ca oaktreedesigns.ca COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY Web Design

ODOOTEC CANADA OdooTec is a business software focused technology firm with extensive experience in ERP, CRM, Supply Chain, HR and other Odoo apps supporting businesses with state-of-the-art software. It provides functional consulting, customization and technical support to a broad spectrum of business practices using or planning to use enterprise software applications. Hesham Elmahdy Bedford, NS (902) 809-5507 hfm@odootec.ca odootec.ca COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY Software Consulting

PASSION 4 PURPOSE WELLNESS INC. Passion 4 Purpose Wellness Inc. is a photography studio that offers traditional and therapeutic photography. Traditional photography includes head shots, group photos, portrait sessions. Our therapeutic photography teaches others how to use photography as a way of self-care and how to share our passions through photography. Hannah Jackson 56 Portland St Suite 201 Dartmouth, NS

(902) 406-1515

hannah@passion4purposewellness. com passion4purposewellness.com PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES Photography

organizational, and systemic change. Guided by our values, we’re a nimble team of dedicated learning experts with diverse lived experiences. Corrie Melanson

Halifax, NS (902) 802-8558 info@corriemelanson.ca seachangecolab.com EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT - Training Programs

SHUMBA CONSULTING With a core lens of diversity and inclusion, we work with organizations to develop and deliver engaging and impactful workplace education and management solutions. In our communities and today’s workplace, consistent and continuous education, training, and policies that focus on diversity and inclusion awareness are essential for courageous organizations. Tinaye Manyimo Halifax, NS (902) 489-3469 tk@shumbaconsulting.ca shumbaconsulting.ca BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Consulting (General)

STANA COLOVIC - RETIRED MEMBER Stana Colovic

Halifax, NS OTHER - Retired Member

SATTVA BOUTIQUE Sarah Andrews

2453 Agricola St Halifax, NS (902) 431-2453 Sarah@sattvaboutique.com SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL Retail (General)

SEA CHANGE COLAB CONSULTING INC. We help leaders and change makers ignite transformational learning and impact by shifting from passive to active learning, from problem-focus to possibility, and by connecting personal, BUSINESS VOICE

Are you a new member?

To submit your 50-word description for New & Noted, please contact Mandi Bowser, Administrative Specialist at mandi@halifaxchamber.com or 902-468-7111 within the first six months of membership. 7

NEWSMAKERS

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax WILLFUL’S $750,000 DEAL ON DRAGONS’ DEN Willful’s co-founders Erin Bury and Kevin Oulds appeared on the latest season of Dragons’ Den, landing a $750,000 investment from investors including Dragon and Canadian tech entrepreneur Michele Romanow. Since 2017, Willful has been on a mission to make estate planning more accessible for Canadians, ensuring that every Canadian has a will. The new investment will go towards product development and building new customer-requested features. “We’re thrilled to welcome our new investors to join us as Willful grows,” says Erin Bury. “As we see the estate planning industry slowly evolve, we’re excited to be leading the way and this new funding will help us remain innovators in this space.”

Growing Nova Scotia together. NSAR is working to better the housing market, helping over 700 families buy their first home through Nova Scotia’s Down Payment Assistance Program. Together, we can keep the momentum going.

nsrealtors.ca

ART GALLERY OF NOVA SCOTIA LAUNCHES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION PLAN

ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM ATLANTIC SCHOOL OF THEOLOGY

The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia Board of Directors announced today they have begun the transition of leadership of the organization after voting not to renew CEO Nancy Noble’s contract. Noble joined the organization as CEO in 2016 after serving as CEO of Museum of Vancouver for 11 years. She helped Art Gallery of Nova Scotia reset its vision; provided inspiration into the design and programming of the new art gallery planned for development on the Halifax waterfront beginning construction in summer 2022; and helped successfully negotiate funding for the new facility with federal, provincial and municipal governments. “The board, the arts community and all stakeholders of the Art Gallery wish Nancy well in the next chapter of her career”, stated Grant Machum, Acting Chair of the Board, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. The Board has appointed Sarah Moore Fillmore as Interim CEO, effective immediately. Sarah has been Chief Curator and Deputy Director of Programs at the Gallery for 13 years. The board will begin a comprehensive search for a permanent CEO right away.

In recognition of her increased responsibilities and the wide scope of her leadership role, and with the support and affirmation of the Executive Committee of the AST Board, Linda MoxsomSkinner’s title has been changed to Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). With the departure of AST’s last CAO in 2019, Linda has taken on more and more of the responsibilities of that role in addition to her leadership of fund development, marketing, communications, student recruitment, and alumni relations. Linda has Management Advisory Committee (MAC) responsibility for operation of the campus and our facilities, and for capital projects. AST is also announcing Rev. Dr. Rob Fennell as Acting President. Dr. Fennell’s service as Academic Dean has been valued and appreciated by the AST community. In his new role as Acting President, Rob has the confidence, support, and gratitude of his faculty colleagues, the administrative staff, and the Board of Governors. Rob brings considered, informed, intellectual and spiritual leadership to his new role. .

MARCH 2022

NEWSMAKERS MARCH IS EASTER SEALS MONTH! March is Easter Seals Month, and this year we are celebrating 100 years of Easter Seals delivering life-changing programs and services that have enhanced access, independence, social inclusion, and quality of life for Canadians living with disabilities. Did you know that 30% of Nova Scotians live with a disability? That’s the highest percentage among all of the Canadian provinces. As a provincial organization, we provide programs and services for Nova Scotians with disabilities from Yarmouth to Cape Breton. Throughout Easter Seals Month, we will be highlighting stories about the importance of accessibility and inclusion for all individuals.

DIGITAL NOVA SCOTIA AND THE NOVA SCOTIA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LAUNCH BIZBEACON CELEBRATING SUCCESS AT IPLUME WRITING INC.

WEUSTHEM NAMED TOP TEN NEW INNOVATORS

Following a very successful fourth year, iPlume Writing Inc. is celebrating its high success rates for securing funding for underserved communities. Total funding awarded in 2021 is $6 million, with $20 million still to be announced. iPlume Writing Inc. provides editing and writing services for grant writing and prospecting, business proposal writing, and more. “I’ve always been passionate about helping others, and I’m thankful we’re able to enrich our underrepresented communities,” says CEO, Amanda Rogers. “We do this by offering affordable services that are filling the gap for first-rate grant writing because there are plenty of great organizations that struggle to get funding because their ideas aren’t being communicated as effectively as possible."

WeUsThem is an advertising agency based in Halifax Nova Scotia. We've been recognized alongside businesses such as Shopify in the Top Ten New Innovators List, the recognition celebrates Canadian companies who prioritize creativity, social impact, sustainability and inclusivity. “It’s an honour being named alongside these innovative and progressive companies in the top 10 New Innovators list” says CEO of WeUsThem Ashwin Kutty. As a full service advertising agency, WeUsThem serves an elite clientele nationally and internationally including the Canadian Space Agency, Global Affairs Canada, Telus Inc, the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, and Dalhousie University.

BUSINESS VOICE

Looking to advance your digital marketing? Built by Nova Scotian digital experts for Nova Scotian small businesses, the new online learning hub, BizBeacon provides easy access to digital marketing learning resources and support. Developed by Digital Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Department of Economic Development, BizBeacon features a calendar of ongoing live and virtual learning events, one-on-one consultations with local digital experts in Nova Scotia, and a library of learning materials and tools. The platform aims to help small businesses enhance their online presence, grow their business, and build their digital footprint, while connecting them with local digital experts. If you’re a small business, register today for FREE and begin exploring the resources, tools, and events available to you at: bizbeacon.ca

NEWSMAKERS

OFFICE INTERIORS NAMED BEST IN CLASS Haworth, a global leader in the contract furnishings industry, announced that Office Interiors has been named a 2022 Best In Class dealer. This distinction is based on exceptional performance in market development, sales, customer satisfaction, operational excellence and enterprise development. The Best In Class distinction is reserved for premier dealers who operate at the highest performance levels and are successful in maintaining rigorous standards over time, against high-performing peer dealers. These dealers have risen to challenges, contribute to their communities and play a vital role in creating great spaces.

FUMES ROLLING PAPERS MAKES HISTORIC MOVE WITH NSLC The Halifax Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to share that NSLC Cannabis locations across Nova Scotia will soon be stocking products from Fumes Rolling Papers, a local business co-owned by our Community Engagement Specialist Josh Creighton. Up until this point, there has never been a local, Black-owned business with products available through the NSLC. Congratulations to Fumes Rolling Papers for creating this historic moment in our business community!

PUB CRAWL S2 PREMIERES ON BELL TV Popular Demand Pictures is excited to announce the launch of season two of their TV series Pub Crawl premiering on March 15th. Filmed in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Pub Crawl employed over 10 locals, featured 7 bars, and showcased Halifamous figures such as Mayor Mike Savage, artist Rich Aucoin and many more. The series will be available on Bell Fibe TV or the Fibe TV app to watch. For more information on the series and other work, check us out on social media: @populardemandpictures.

START A NEW JOB IN THE TRADES The African Nova Scotian Road to Economic Prosperity in partnership with the Halifax Partnership and their Connector program have been working with trade organizations to help advertise employment opportunities within the African Nova Scotian community. If you’ve considered a career in the trades below, we are currently recruiting for entry level positions in a number of roles. Some of the opportunities include: Labourers, Bricklayers, Carpenters, Commercial Roofers, Commercial Painters, and Commercial Glass Installers (Glaziers). There are also more specialized roles available like: Iron Workers (Rebar), Concrete Form workers, and Mason Tenders. If interested in these opportunities, please send your resume to Terry Dixon at tdixon@ halifaxpartnership.com.

MARCH 2022

AIR CANADA LAUNCHES NEW NON-STOP SERVICE TO VANCOUVER FROM HALIFAX STANFIELD The Canadian provinces of Nova Scotia and British Columbia both offer endless natural beauty to explore, and soon it will be even easier for travellers to enjoy what each coast has to offer with Air Canada’s new, non-stop service between Halifax and Vancouver. Starting May 1, Air Canada will offer nonstop flights between Halifax Stanfield and Vancouver International Airport (YVR) with service up to five times weekly. The announcement marks an important milestone in the long-standing relationship between Air Canada and Halifax Stanfield. Air Canada has served the Halifax community for 81 years and adding connectivity to the west coast is a natural fit for Canada’s flagship carrier. As HIAA works towards recovery from the ongoing effects of the pandemic, Air Canada’s announcement comes at a pivotal time for the airport.

NEWSMAKERS

MEET KIERA SPARKS LUCAS! Kiera Sparks Lucas is a vibrant 21-yearold woman who has cerebral palsy, a condition that affects motor skills and speech. She uses a walker and a wheelchair for mobility, but these things never slow her down! Kiera has been a camper, an Easter Seals Nova Scotia Ambassador and recently completed The Next Step, our supported employment program for youth with disabilities. At Easter Seals Nova Scotia, we help individuals like Kiera lead full and exciting lives. We help remove barriers, whether physical or stigmatized to allow people of all abilities to participate in meaningful work and play. Our vision is simple, we envision a world where everyone is included!

CRUISE INDUSTRY IN HALIFAX PREPARING FOR STRONG RECOVERY Halifax is the marquee cruise port in Atlantic Canada, welcoming hundreds of thousands of cruise guests in a typical year. In 2019, the last year of cruise, the economic benefit for Halifax and the surrounding area was an estimated $165 million. The 2022 cruise season in Halifax will start on April 26 with the arrival of Norwegian Getaway, a Norwegian Cruise Line vessel and Ocean Navigator, an American Queen Steamboat Co. vessel. The season will run until November 5, 2022. The Port of Halifax is expecting 152 vessel calls in 2022. A complete vessel posting can be found at the Cruise Halifax website at cruisehalifax.ca.

BUSINESS VOICE

KBRS ADDS TWO NEW MANAGING PARTNERS We are excited to announce that Natalie Hand and Katherine Risley have joined the Managing Partner team of KBRS and Meridia Recruitment Solutions. They will support the continued success of our leading executive search, recruitment solutions and HR consulting firm, which has continued to grow in recent years under the leadership of fellow Managing Partners Kevin Stoddart, Jeff Forbes, and Andrea Forbes-Hurley. Katherine and Natalie each have nearly 20 years of experience in talent acquisition. They have demonstrated leadership in upholding the firm’s commitment to exceptional service and results for our clients and candidates. We look forward to a bright future together. kbrs.ca

COVER STORY

Women in business share their spark Recognizing and celebrating women entrepreneurs in Halifax By Emily Bednarz ALL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

arch 8 is International Women’s Day. What better time to shine a spotlight on the incredible female entrepreneurs in Halifax? Tanisha Ashpall-Brown owns Blush Décor, a decorating service that can outfit any occasion. Suzana Toulany owns Geo’s Pizzeria, a Dartmouth restaurant that can satisfy your weekly pizza cravings. Connie McInnes owns R Studios, a group of fitness centres that fits every body at every level. These businesses represent different sectors, and yet the entrepreneurs behind them share similar motivations. They are driven by witnessing the joy and success of others — by creating positive experiences for the people they work with and serve. Read their stories below to learn how they discovered their passions and are working to make Halifax a stronger, bigger, and more interesting place to live.

Blush Décor

Owner: Tanisha Ashpall-Brown blushdecor.ca Growing up in Jamaica, Tanisha Ashpall-Brown was the person to call for all things décor. If someone was celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, a wedding, they would hear: “go get Nisha, she can make things pretty,” says Ashpall-Brown. “I was always involved in somebody’s celebration back home.” Ashpall-Brown is now the owner of Blush Décor in Halifax, a decorating and delivery service to help you celebrate your milestones in style. Looking back, Ashpall-Brown recognizes that entrepreneurship runs in the family. “My mom was a cosmetologist,” she says. “I grew up around her doing that work, even before I knew that was entrepreneurship. And my dad was a mechanic. I grew up seeing MARCH 2022

them leave the house to go do their work and come back. Later on, I realized, hey, my parents are actually entrepreneurs.” Ashpall-Brown fell in love with décor at a young age, and working in a bridal store in Jamaica inspired her love of sharing in celebration. “It was the most amazing thing to walk somebody through picking the right dress,” she says. “We had a little bell in the studio, and once they picked the dress, we would ask, ‘Are you ready to ring the bell?’ When we rang the bell, everybody would know — even our neighbors — that somebody found their wedding dress. Those experiences really triggered my love for this.” Here in Halifax, Ashpall-Brown continues to be inspired by witnessing the joy of others. “What keeps me motivated is pretty easy,” she says. “I love to share in people's successes. I love to celebrate life with people. I love to celebrate their

COVER STORY achievements with them. I love to see people happy — to see the smiles when I turn up on your doorstep, and you realize that what I brought is something for you and it's something really beautiful. I get to witness that.” The arrangements at Blush Décor display Ashpall-Brown’s modern style, but they are always catered to the individual. (And they’re always Instagramworthy.) “I'm inspired by other industry experts, but my personal touch comes from me talking to you,” she says. “It comes from a consultation, it comes from your smile. It comes from how I see you light up when you describe what you want to be sent to a loved one.” Ashpall-Brown receives a lot of calls from out-of-province, which surprised her at first. “But the pandemic had created so many barriers — people couldn't connect,” she says. “We realized that even though we were in a pandemic, milestones were just not canceled. Blush Décor is all about keeping families connected through celebration.” AshpallBrown describes a call with a customer in Los Angeles, whose mother was living

in Halifax. “She was like, ‘My mom turns 70, and I cannot be there.’ For me, it was just raw emotion,” says Ashpall-Brown. “That's where I get my inspiration from. I create from the message in your heart, and I put that message in my bookcase.” Although she finds incredible joy in her work, Ashpall-Brown has also faced challenges. From funding, to networking, to marketing, to supply chain issues — the grind of being a new small business owner can be a “lonely street sometimes,” she says. A fierce sense of determination and self-compassion has helped Ashpall-Brown overcome these issues. “I can do this – that was my mantra,” she says. “I also learned that ‘no’ does not mean no. It just means you have to do your own research, and that you have to take your time to grow and scale your business. My biggest takeaway is that you have to put the work in.” Blush Décor currently offers balloon arrangements, flowers, party décor, and they are now looking to expand their gift box products. Gift boxes contain a customized assortment of products to be delivered to a friend, family member,

BUSINESS VOICE

or colleague. Ashpall-Brown describes her vision for how her gift boxes could be used: “If there's a company that has employees working from home, and some of them are feeling demotivated, we can connect those employers to their employees by sending a box with your branding that says, ‘Hey, I appreciate you. I appreciate all that you've done through this.’” Ashpall-Brown is also working on a project with a local charity to deliver gift boxes to those undergoing cancer treatment. The boxes would contain products to deliver smiles, but also to help relieve symptoms like nausea. The initiative is dear to Ashpall-Brown, who has lost close relatives to cancer. “I noticed that some people go into that fight alone, and some people come out of it alone,” she says. “We want to bridge that gap. Whether you're going into that fight, or you're in the middle of that fight, or you're leaving that fight, we can hand you a box to say, ‘Hey, we're here. We want to be a part of your journey. We want to stand with you.’”

COVER STORY

Geo’s Pizzeria

Owner: Suzana Toulany geospizzeria.com Since immigrating to Canada from Lebanon in 2005, Suzana Toulany has owned and operated multiple pizza franchise businesses in Halifax. In April 2021, Toulany opened Geo’s Pizzeria in Dartmouth. Geo’s isn’t just a family-owned business — family is at the core of Toulany’s approach and passion for food. “At home, we grew up mingling around family kitchen tables,” she says. “Having family and friends around our dinner table was almost a daily occurrence, and we have many happy memories of harvest seasons, especially the olive harvest.” Toulany was also particularly inspired by the women in her life. “Our mom, aunts, and grandmother were amazing cooks — especially my aunt, Mouzaya,” she says. “Cooking is her absolute passion, and she instilled a love of cooking and sharing good food in me at a young age.” Recognizing her talent and passion for food, Toulany’s family was sure she would work in the restaurant business. “The idea of opening a restaurant was really a given,” she says. Toulany’s family has since enthusiastically supported Geo’s Pizzeria — a blessing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Taking on this adventure during a pandemic was not an easy decision,” says Toulany. “However, our excitement and passion dominated any fear. We happily took on this challenge as a family. We work together and support each other.” That support also comes from the Geo’s family that extends beyond direct relatives. “Our dear staff quickly became part of our family,” says Toulany. “And we are so grateful to the community for embracing and supporting us.” If family is the inspiration for Geo’s Pizzeria, community-building is the purpose. “Geo’s Pizzeria was born and grown here,” says Toulany. “Giving back to the community is one of our main goals.” For Toulany, this starts with connecting with her customers. “As the saying goes, nothing brings people closer like good food,” she says. “The friendships we’ve built with everyone that comes to Geo’s for their daily favourite meals really keep us going.” Geo’s Pizzeria also gives back to the community in other ways. They are currently working on collaborating with a local charity (stay tuned for details in their flyer), as well as taking part in Dine Around Halifax to support local businesses and Feed Nova Scotia. They also recently treated healthcare workers with a surprise delivery. The replies from healthcare staff were heartwarming and

MARCH 2022

moving, says Toulany. One reply said: “You created an amazing buzz amongst staff, who were moved with your kindness. I can’t believe you wrote handwritten notes on all the boxes. The timing of your boost could not have been better!” While there are many pizza shops in Halifax, Toulany views this variety as a strength. “Diversity is a beautiful thing. It’s what makes Halifax so special,” she says. “Geo’s is about different generations working together, good memories, traditions, new and exciting ideas, love for hospitality, and sharing with others.” What makes Geo’s Pizzeria stand out is in the details, says Toulany. Alongside offering halal, vegan, and gluten and lactose free options, Geo’s also serves up original tomato sauce. “Geo’s kitchen is not a typical list of ingredients or cooking skills,” says Toulany. “It’s a combination of passions to deliver the finest, tasty, homemade-quality meals.” Toulany is looking forward to a busy spring and summer season at Geo’s, with new additions to their menu to include more variety and health-conscious options. “We hope, alongside everyone, that we can see the light at the end of this tunnel of pandemic,” she says. “I have learned not to be distracted by the temporary obstacles along the way, to never give up, to embrace the challenges, and to enjoy the journey!”

COVER STORY

R Studios

Owner: Connie McInnes rstudios.co In 2014, entrepreneur Connie McInnes opened Rio, a yoga and pilates studio. This location would eventually grow into an innovative chain of health and fitness centres in Halifax. In addition to Rio, R Studios now also includes Rebel (for cardio boxing and strength training), Rogue (for kickboxing and circuit training), and during the pandemic, Connie opened Rinse (for hot yoga and pilates), and Rival (for getting your spin cardio fix). What was it that lit the studio spark for McInnes? “A lifetime in fitness and competitive sports fused with a desire to create a unique community,” she says. “I created the concept when I was 21, and the original idea was to have one unique space that disrupted what the industry was currently doing.” That disruption placed greater focus on community-building, fun, and engagement. “The expansions were never part of the vision,” says McInnes. “But since I got started, it’s been hard to stop!” R Studios also emerged from McInnes’ passion for marketing and branding. The “R” theme began with the second studio, Rogue. The marketing tease for the new space was “RIO goes

rogue,” a play on how the studio would contrast the tranquil vibes of Rio. “It just grew from there,” says McInnes. “Now, I regularly have people sending me different ‘R’ brand ideas, so we have a long list to go!” Regardless of the studio or challenge, McInnes is anchored by her sense of purpose. “COVID certainly was a bit of a wrench, but I’ve always had a very strong sense of our ‘why,’ and I have never strayed from our foundation,” she says. “My passion for what we do has allowed us to overcome anything — and there’s been a lot of things — that comes our way.” With the onset of the pandemic, R Studios launched a diverse set of virtual classes to keep members connected and engaged. It's easy for McInnes to be inspired by the R Studios community. “I believe we make a big difference in what we do,” she says. “The last two years demonstrated that really clearly. We have witnessed some major life changes within people, and I feel like we have created amazing opportunities for people to uncover their potential. That’s enough motivation in itself to make people smile every day.” McInnes also appreciates that her clientele recognizes R Studios’ unique approach and its impact. “People don’t feel like they need to ‘fit in,’ or focus on BUSINESS VOICE

what they look like, or how much weight we’re challenging them to lose,” she says. The approach has even found success overseas. “We had a cool opportunity to open a studio in France a few years back,” says McInnes. “It was pretty incredible to see that, despite our imperfect attempt at teaching in another language and offering what we offer here in a completely different country, our message still translated. Our brand still translated. Our impact was still profound.” McInnes is currently working on adding another “R” to R Studios. “We are about to introduce REST: The Recovery Room inside one of our spaces,” she says. REST is set to include an infrared sauna and cold plunge therapy. The future for R Studios also includes a heightened focus on diversity and inclusion. “I am excited to see what impact we can make,” says McInnes. “The business is starting to spread outside of our walls and of what we can do inside. Our focus is shifting to how can we create real change.” She is committed to the success of others, but what has McInnes learned about herself since becoming a business owner? “Turns out I’m not as much of a free spirit as I thought,” she says. “This ‘passion’ project of mine has become a bit of a force to be reckoned with, and I am here to see that through.” ■

SECONDARY STORY

Centre for Women in Business celebrates 30 year anniversary Plus: 2022 International Women’s Day video contest showcasing local entrepreneurs By Emily Bednarz IMAGE CREDITS: MICHELLE DOUCETTE PHOTOGRAPHY

or 30 years, the Centre for Women in Business has helped their women entrepreneurs launch, develop, and maintain thriving businesses. Tanya Priske, Executive Director at the Centre for Women in Business, joined the team 18 years ago with the goal of making an impact. “It was somewhere else that I could make a difference,” says Priske. “Working with women business owners in Nova Scotia and helping them start and grow their businesses — that was something I was passionate about, as an entrepreneur myself.” With support from Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the centre first opened in 1992. “The need was something that Mount Saint Vincent saw at that time,” says Priske. “In order to grow our economy, we needed more entrepreneurs. So, how do we get more women starting businesses?” The university joined forces with ACOA to develop a series of business development centres, including the Centre for Women in Business. While much has changed in the business landscape for women since the 90s, the centre’s mission remains as relevant as ever. “I think the premise is still the same,” says Priske. “We want to continue to help women along the full continuum of entrepreneurship: from idea generation straight through to succession planning. We want to make sure that they have the resources they need in order to succeed.” Programs at the Centre work to support women entrepreneurs at every stage of their business development. “We recognize that there are many stages of entrepreneurship at the Centre,”

says Priske. “The Blueprint for Success Program has helped women start a business and introduce or diversify their product lines, and the Advanced Management & Mentoring Program is for that next stage of growth. Say you’ve been in business for three years and you’re hovering at $250,000 in sales. How do you scale up your business to reach that $1 million mark?” The Centre has also expanded its activities to work with women entrepreneurs when they reach revenues over $1 million. “Our Greater Heights of Growth program is something that we’re very proud of,” says Priske. “We just took that program national, so we're not just working with women here in Nova Scotia — we're working with women across the country.” The Centre’s focus on export and procurement has made an impact on MARCH 2022

women-owned businesses. “We look at what skills can help women grow so that they can export, and we help develop export readiness by leading trade missions,” says Priske. “Introducing supplier diversity to the region, really engaging women in the supply chains of corporations and governments and working with our national certification bodies has really been a game changer for a lot of women.” The RBC Alliance of Young Women Entrepreneurs Program is designed to get more young women interested in entrepreneurship. “We see 50 women a year who are starting side hustles as they're taking their degree,” says Priske. “And to us, that's exciting.” The Centre saw its membership grow over the course of the pandemic, which has prompted a renewed focus on diversity and inclusion for the Centre

SECONDARY STORY there. We’ve all owned businesses, and we know it’s not easy. We're here to support you through all stages as you start and grow. Pick up the phone, go online, book an appointment, and have a chat, because it may change your life.”

Celebrating International Women’s Day

team. “I think of the tens of thousands of women that we've worked with,” says Priske. “Looking at the diversity of not only our team but also of the women that we work with has been something we've focused on, especially during the pandemic. We know that women were adversely impacted, and so we are adding extra focus to the underrepresented or underutilized groups that may need more support.” Since opening, the Centre has seen growth from just a handful of members to upwards of 500. “We recognized 30 years ago that there weren't a lot of

women-owned businesses,” says Priske. “And we know there's a lot more women out there today that perhaps don't consider themselves entrepreneurs. Maybe they're doing a little bit of a side hustle, but they are still contributing to the economy.” For those women who are just starting out, or who have an idea but aren’t sure where to start, Priske has some clear advice: “Call the centre and book a one-to-one business advisory,” she says. “It’s complimentary. We're here to listen and provide guidance. Don't do it alone. Most of us at the Centre — we’ve been BUSINESS VOICE

Every year, the Centre for Women in Business celebrates International Women’s Day with an event featuring inspiring women from our community. Since the onset of the pandemic, the event has been held virtually. For 2022, the event will still be virtual, but with a twist. “We wanted to do things a little differently from last year,” says Jenn Robeson, Communications Coordinator at the Centre for Women in Business. “We spoke to people both internally and within our community, and we're all fatigued by the regular Zoom gathering. We wanted to think of something that would be a little bit more enlivening and encourage folks to participate.” Sponsored by RBC, the “Women to Watch: Entrepreneurs Building Our Community” is a video contest open to all Nova Scotian women in business. Entrepreneurs submit a 60 second video that highlights their business, the value that they bring to the community, and what being a woman in business means to them personally in 2022. There are three grand prizes up for grabs in three categories: Most Creative Video, Most Passionate Video, and Most CommunityEngaged Video. Above all, the contest is about celebrating the stories of women in our business community. “For lots of folks, the pieces that impact you are the pieces that feel authentic and like someone is speaking from their experience,” says Robeson. “That's really what we wanted to be able to draw out and share. It’s a way we can get the community talking to each other, celebrating each other, and encouraging each other.” The winner of each category will receive a professional video shoot, and their winning videos will be shared during the International Women’s Day virtual celebration on March 8. For more details on the contest, event, and everything the Centre has to offer visit: centreforwomeninbusiness.ca

MEMBER PROFILE

Rejuvenating with Nature Folk Women-owned Dartmouth spa on taking stock and thoughtful expansion By Emily Bednarz ALL PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

eep breath in…And out…Welcome to Nature Folk Wellness Collective, an infrared sauna and massage studio in Downtown Dartmouth that is owned and staffed by women. At its core, Nature Folk is about offering a tranquil escape for their clients in a thoughtfully designed space, with a team that finds joy in their work. “Our vision for Nature Folk is to create a unique wellness offering that encourages a deeper connection with intuitive self-care,” says co-owner Ashley Cluett. “A place to come reflect, bathe, and breathe.” Nature Folk Wellness Studio (as it was previously named) was co-founded by Cluett and Anna Tremblay in 2019. Prior to opening their Portland Street location, the pair spent a year conducting market research, consulting with experts,

and creating a business plan. “We knew that we were bringing a unique offering to the wellness industry in Nova Scotia,” says Cluett. “And the only true test would be to see how the community interacted with and responded to it.” Ready to test the waters, the Nature Folk team completed renovations, opened its doors, and started connecting with clients. “We created a community, a roster of repeat customers, and a positive and supportive work environment,” says Cluett. “We operated Nature Folk Studio over three years — gauging community interest, welcoming feedback, building a brand, creating a customer base, making mistakes, learning, changing, and adapting.” Creating a supportive work environment was key for the talented team at Nature Folk. “We work hard, but we are conscious of each other’s wellness,” MARCH 2022

says Cluett. “Our individual skill sets intersect in a magical way and allow for organic flow of task orientation – no one is interested in micromanaging, and all of us feel empowered to take the reins in one way or another.” The venture wasn’t without its challenges, though. “Of course, opening straight into a pandemic was a huge, unexpected challenge,” says Cluett. During times of lockdown, however, the Nature Folk team took the opportunity to pause and take stock. “The pandemic offered a natural, although unexpected, stop that forced us to slow down and refocus on what really matters — on what is at the core of our business. We have continued with this more balanced approach ever since.” Besides the inevitable challenges brought on by the pandemic, the business was also impacted by space limitations,

MEMBER PROFILE

which restricted capacity for eager clients. “Our ability to find flow and systematic ease in the space was definitely impeded by our limited square footage,” says Cluett. “And our ability to bring in revenue hit a ceiling.” Taking client satisfaction seriously, the Nature Folk team found these limitations at odds with their determination to meet their clients’ needs. “While our physical space remained small, what we expected of ourselves remained large,” says Cluett. “This created an uncomfortable disconnect between what we were trying to achieve and the pressure we were putting on ourselves to continuously offer more.” Cluett, like many business owners, couldn’t help but take the pressures personally. “As an entrepreneur, I think it can be difficult to separate yourself from your business,” says Cluett. “There seems to be an unconscious push to show

up with all that you are capable of — to bring and execute all ideas at once.” Fortunately, plans for Nature Folk always included room for thoughtful, gradual growth. “We made the intentional choice to start small in the hopes of expanding over a six-year period,” says Cluett. In 2021, the Nature Folk team grew to include Kristen Morse as a new business partner, and a new Nature Folk space is anticipated to open this spring. “We are now embarking on the expansion we had always hoped for,” says Cluett. This expansion has led to a perhaps unexpected place: Dartmouth’s former City Hall. The renovated 5,000 square foot space will feature private infrared sauna rooms, treatment rooms, traditional Finnish saunas, cold plunge and hot mineral pools, a movement studio, and an outdoor courtyard with BUSINESS VOICE

fire pits. “Original architectural details of the 1960s City Hall will remain,” says Cluett. “With the addition of soft, natural materials, poured concrete pools, custom millwork in white oak, and two traditional saunas designed and built by Hewn + Barter.” The space will be an urban take on the traditional Nordic spa, says Cluett, with inspiration drawn from bath houses and spas in Japan, Australia, and Scandinavia. “We have taken aspects of each of these places to come up with an offering that is also uniquely east coast,” says Cluett. “The space, while well thought out and very intentional, will feel welcoming, cozy and anything but pretentious.” Be sure to visit their new space in Spring 2022. In the meantime, you can follow the Nature Folk journey at: naturefolk.ca 19

WORKING FOR YOU

How to build a global business from Nova Scotia Acadian Seaplants setting the example By Jim Meek iMAGE CREDIT: ACADIANSEAPLANTS.COM

o me, seaweed is the stuff you trip over on romantic beach walks with your golden retriever, Lena, while she rolls in clumps of kelp in the intertidal zone. To Louis Deveau, seaweed is the stuff dreams are made of. This I learned while writing a book about the man: Cultivating Success – the Life of Acadian Seaplants Founder Louis Deveau. Deveau, born the son of a blacksmith in Salmon River, Digby County in 1931, built a global company (with sales to 80 or so nations) based on one fundamental insight: seaweed isn’t just seaweed. He had figured this out before he launched Acadian Seaplants Limited (ASL) in 1981 from an office set up in his son’s bedroom. Deveau started his business by buying the Canadian assets of his old employer, Marine Colloids of Rockland, Maine. At first, the US company was also the only customer for ASL’s seaweed harvest in the Maritimes. Depending on one buyer was risky business, so Deveau devised a strategy for the ages — find new markets and develop new products. To deal with the former, he quickly took off to Spain in search of customers and soon secured a contract to sell Irish moss to a Euro client. Developing new products — that is, showing that seaweed isn’t just seaweed — proved a trickier challenge. Back then, seaweed was primarily used as a food product additive. Deveau’s innovative masterpiece was growing seaweed vegetables destined for Japan. These were cultivated at a 100-acre land-based facility in Shelburne County. Given the rigours of Japanese food regulations, selling “sea vegetables” into that market was a tough task. (It would be easier, perhaps, to teach a moose to carry your golf clubs.) Here’s how it worked: after some false starts, the ASL charged scientists at its research centre in Cornwallis with

developing seed-stock pure enough to pass muster. Each year, a single perfect cutting of Irish Moss starts off life in a test tube at the lab. From there, it’s moved to a bio-tank inside a protected greenhouse. Six months later, the biomass from Cornwallis is transferred to bigger tanks at Charlesville. There the company grows up to 12 tonnes of sea vegetables from the original, single cutting of seaweed – as it does year-in-and-year-out. The magic is in the research and its commercialization. Any company can harvest seaweed, as ASL does in Canada, the US, Ireland, and Scotland. Many competitors produce agricultural bio-stimulants (super fertilizers) for the farming business — now ALS’s biggest customer. But no one else in Deveau’s sector built an R&D juggernaut that drew together so many top research scientists from universities and government agencies. As a result, ASL was able to show farmers that seaweed-based products from its Cornwallis-based MARCH 2022

seaweed extract plant could help them grow bumper crops of quality oranges. Skeptics, meanwhile, could verify the validity of ASL science by perusing peer-reviewed articles published in major research journals. So there you have it: Deveau added mega-value to a traditional resource industry after starting ASL from the family home in Dartmouth four decades ago. (Today, at 90, he still puts in an honest day’s work.) ASL became a ‘knowledge-based industry’ long before those buzzwords started tripping off the tongues of every politician trying to stake a claim to the future. And it all got built from Nova Scotia. Call me biased, but I figure his story tells us we could use a few more leaders like Louis Deveau in this province. Learn more about Acadian Seaplants at: acadianseaplants.com Jim Meek is a Halifax based writer and consultant. His biography of Louis Deveau was released last fall by Nimbus Publishing.

WORKING FOR YOU

How does authentic leadership create success? Grant Thornton roundtable with finalists of the 2022 Halifax Chamber Business Awards

t a Grant Thornton roundtable in January, finalists of the 2022 Halifax Chamber Business Awards gathered for a candid conversation about what it means to be an authentic leader. The cross-industry panel—including leaders from technology, not-for-profit, retail, and R&D—shared their thoughts on the characteristics of authentic leadership and why it’s key to personal and organizational success. The participants expressed that leading authentically is more important than ever. They also noted that it isn’t a set of behaviors or statements that are limited to the workplace—it’s a mindset that creates empathy, connection, and understanding across an organization. The participants shared concrete advice on how to lead authentically, including building trust, having a shared leadership model, emphasizing mentorship, and creating time and space to avoid burnout.

Building trust Building and maintaining trust is a journey that spans a leader’s career. You can create a leadership style and organization that’s rooted in trust by sharing parts of yourself that aren’t directly related to your work life. This shows comfort with vulnerability and demonstrates that you care about your people’s lives outside of work. You can also build trust by redefining what it means to fail. Authentic leaders position failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Approaching failure from a place of humility; curiosity and agility builds trust by showing your people that you value a range of perspectives and the ability to learn and move forward together.

Implementing shared leadership Engagement leads to empowerment. This can be created through a shared leadership model that emphasizes

transparency and articulates your organization’s purpose. When your people feel empowered to play an active role in problem-solving and their own development, they’re more likely to apply those behaviors to their interactions with their colleagues. Shared leadership also signals that it’s acceptable not to know all the answers. It builds a sense of transparency that can help people understand an organization’s decision-making process and their part in building and maintaining a workplace culture that facilitates self-defined leadership and autonomy.

Building a culture of mentorship

leaders to share experiences and explore insights. If you’d like to discuss how to meet your business goals, our business advisors are here to assist you on your journey.

Round table facilitators •

Melinda Fleming Principal, Indirect Tax +1 902 491 7743 Melinda.Fleming@ca.gt.com

•

Gerry Lacroix Partner, Assurance +1 902 491 7747 Gerry.Lacroix@ca.gt.com

•

Everyone—regardless of where they are in their career—can benefit from mentorship. Building mentorship into your leadership style lets your people know that you’re committed to everyone’s development and wellbeing while also contributing to a culture where people feel seen, connected, and supported.

Lana Elewa Senior Manager, Assurance +1 902 420 7184 Lana.Elewa@ca.gt.com

•

Rodney Belliveau Partner, Assurance +1 902 491 7720 Rodney.Belliveau@ca.gt.com

Creating time and space to avoid burnout

•

Matthew MacAdam Partner, Taxation +1 902 420 7153 Matthew.MacAdam@ca.gt.com

•

Jillian Murray Partner, Transactions +1 902 491 7745 Jillian.Murray@ca.gt.com

Many organizations are facing widespread fatigue and burnout. You can encourage your people to prioritize their health and well-being by leading by example. Part of leading authentically is knowing when to pause, listen, and make space for ourselves and for others. This allows for better decision making, the ability to work more proactively, and the empowerment to step away to recharge when necessary.

Find the way forward

Learn more about Grant Thornton at: grantthornton.com

Authentic leadership isn’t a buzzword—it’s a mindset that’s essential to build organizations where everyone is heard, empowered, and engaged. At Grant Thornton, we want to help grow strong communities and connect

BUSINESS VOICE

WORKING FOR YOU

Graduate to Opportunity program opens possibilities for employers, recent grads Charting the success of the Department of Learning, Skills, and Immigration program By Emily Bednarz

n the surface, it might seem counter-intuitive to hire someone fresh out of school. After all, when you’re running a small business, every new hire is critical, and particularly now, after two years into a global pandemic. But hiring a recent graduate could turn out to be the smartest thing you’ll do this year. Employers like Smarter Spaces, a nominee for the 2022 Halifax Business Awards in the Innovative Business of the Year category, have seen innovation surge and opportunities multiply after hiring a recent university or college graduate with the province’s Graduate to Opportunity (GTO) program. “The grad we hired is a rock star,” says Smarter Spaces Inc. CEO Colin Gillis. “In a matter of months, she’s grown beyond her original job and taken on entirely new responsibilities. She’s contributing directly to our company’s success, and we’re so impressed. We’re getting her to help us recruit more post-secondary graduates for future hires.” Graduate to Opportunity reimburses 25% of the first-year salary and 12.5% in the second year for a new, permanent, full-time job paying at least $35,000. The incentive jumps to 35% if you hire an international graduate or someone who identifies as a member of a designated equity-seeking group: African Nova Scotian or racially visible, Mi’kmaq or Indigenous, person with a disability, or a woman in an under-represented occupation. Applications are quick and easy and they’re typically turned around in less than a week. Employers who use the program love it: satisfaction rates in surveys top 90%. According to Jill Balser, the

Glen Myers (left), Managing Partner at Global Courseware Inc., hired Katelyn Roy (right) as Marketing Coordinator through the GTO program.

province’s Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration, the best reason for a business to hire a grad is the bottom line: they’ll help your business grow. But she says there are other good reasons for looking at a university or college graduate, like keeping skilled, well-educated young talent living and working in Nova Scotia. “We’ve been able to celebrate reaching a million residents at the end of 2021 and we're targeting two million by 2060. The recruitment and retention of young grads is a very effective way to support that population growth,” says Balser. The program is succeeding in its retention goals. More than 85% of recent grads hired through GTO are still working in the province when the funding runs out, and more than half are with their original employer. MARCH 2022

“Most graduates want to live and work in Nova Scotia and if we can help them launch their careers here, the vast majority will stay, have families, shop in local stores, and contribute to their communities and the economic health of the province,” says Balser. “GTO is supporting many hundreds of jobs in HRM, of course, but it’s also having an impact on graduate employment and business growth in every region of the province.” A GTO hire has led to a boost in export sales for Global Courseware, a business training company in rural Nova Scotia. 90% of Global’s business is exports, and all marketing and promotions responsibilities are in the hands of recent Mount Saint Vincent University graduate Katelyn Roy. “It’s hard to over-state Katelyn’s contribution,” says owner Glen Myers.

WORKING FOR YOU

Colin Gillis, CEO at Smarter Spaces, hired Kayla Morrow as Revit Technician through the GTO program. Kayla has become a "rockstar" member of their team, says Gillis.

Jill Balser, Minister of Labour, Skills and Immigration sees the positive impacts of the GTO program in supporting Nova Scotia's population growth.

“She adapted very quickly to her new role with us and we began to recognize her potential as a leader in our organization. She started taking on greater responsibilities, including leading several key R&D projects. Katelyn continues to grow within the business and we think she will eventually move into a senior leadership role, such as Brand Manager, providing oversight for our entire organization.” Graduate to Opportunity is available to small business (of fewer than 100 fulltime employees), non-profits, start-ups, and social enterprises. More than 900 employers in virtually every sector — from law, to ocean tech, to craft breweries — have hired close to 2,000 recent graduates with GTO so far. “As a small business in rural Nova Scotia, it can be challenging to invest in hiring and training new staff,” says Myers. “Funding through the GTO program reduces that risk for employers and enables them to provide meaningful BUSINESS VOICE

employment. Without the funding, we might not have been able to hire Katelyn, and she has proven to be invaluable as we continue to grow as a world-class exporter of Intellectual Property.” “GTO encourages employers to give young people an opportunity,” adds Balser. “It encourages them to think differently about who they’re hiring, because we know that young people come with new ideas and can challenge us to think about business in a different way. It's a fresh take on the way that we work.” Applications can be made to GTO online at: novascotia.ca/gto

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From “just in time” to “just in case” How you can proactively manage supply chain challenges short run. Although it may feel like you have little or no control over the situation, I would suggest proactive measures that you can start taking immediately to reduce supply shortage issues.

1. Treat your supplier well.

COLLEEN O’TOOLE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LIGHTHOUSE TRANSPORT LTD

trip to the local grocery store makes the supply chain issues facing the country all too apparent. The empty shelves and freezers that we see are becoming the dreaded “new normal.” This means that, as consumers, we are forced to make choices, such as paying more for our favorite brands when they are available, buying less, or switching to a different product altogether. As a small and medium-sized business owner, you must look at the above scenario as a cautionary tale and think about what you can do to ensure your customers do not have this experience. The last thing any business owner wants is to have their customers buy less or — worse yet — switch to a different option. The fact is that supply chains are no longer running as smoothly as pre-Covid times, and they will not correct in the

This means making your supplier a priority in terms of payment. It is easy to get trapped by paying late to improve cash flow, but in the end, if the supplier has to make a choice between two customers, they will most likely pick the one who respects payment terms. As a secondary part of this, try to create a strong personal relationship with them. When you treat them with respect even when things are going wrong, you may get a better end result.

2. Try and source multiple suppliers. It would be good to know you have options in case your primary supplier, despite your best efforts, is unable to meet your requirements. I would suggest, even with your second or third supplier choice, that the same principles in suggestion one still apply, especially for supplies that are essential to your offerings. These days, the ability to be agile and pivot is necessary for survival.

3. Try buying in bulk. This is good for a couple of reasons. You should be better able to negotiate a lower price, and you will have ample product on-hand to minimize supply disruption. Although “just in time” inventory management has been popular for decades, I would suggest we are in a time of “just in case.” Having extra product available helps to avoid the pitfalls of supply chain issues.

4. Find extra space for storage. In order to accommodate your extra inventory, look at how you can revamp your current location. If this isn’t feasible, 24

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you can always look for a third-party logistics provider. Outsourcing warehousing needs is not a new concept, but it might be the perfect solution for businesses in the current climate. These warehouses can provide ultimate flexibility for businesses in need of extra space.

5. Keep your clients informed. When things do not go as planned, be honest with your clients. This may sound intuitive, but let’s face it: no one wants to be the bearer of bad news, and our natural inclination is to postpone difficult conversations. When you build trust with your clients, they will appreciate a candid conversation about expected timelines. It is never a good idea to over-promise and under-deliver. Your business may not be a large grocery store, but right now, as business owners, we are all weathering the same supply chain storm — albeit in different sized boats. Supply chain issues are complex and the solution to challenges in manufacturing, human resources, and COVID-19 will not be solved overnight. But remember: not all is lost. By taking a few proactive measures mentioned above, you will be setting your business up for a successful year. Your challenges could be in one or multiple areas of the supply chain, but there is always a solution to reduce negative impact on your business. Whether it is about local or international transportation or additional space for storage/ warehousing, you can reach out to professional companies who can deliver to you a turnkey solution. Do not struggle, and do not put your business under unnecessary stress. Discover more at: lighthousetransport.com

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Peace of mind for your future Five important reasons why you should have a will

Estate planning and talking about death can feel scary and overwhelming sometimes. But life is unpredictable. — Erin Bury, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Willful

ERIN BURY CO-FOUNDER & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER WILLFUL

s the pandemic continues, many Canadians are finding themselves thinking about their own mortality. And what goes hand-in-hand with death? Wills. Over 57% of Canadians do not have a will and millions have wills that need to be updated. So, what’s a will and why do you need one? Your will (or last will and testament) is a legal document that outlines your wishes after you pass away. This includes how you want to distribute your assets, such as property or money, and also outlines guardians/custodians that you would want to care for minor children and pets after you die. Your will is also where you name who you’d like to settle your affairs on your behalf – known as an executor. Here are 6 reasons why you need a will:

1. Prompt important conversations A common excuse we hear from those without a will is “my family will know what to do if I die.” But this assumption can cause family friction during a highly emotional time. Writing

a will and putting your decisions down in writing takes the burden off your loved ones to guess (and challenge) what your wishes would be.

2. Decide who will be in charge of closing your estate This is your opportunity to choose the right person as your executor. You may have family and friends who love and care for you, but they may not be the right person to close your estate. It’s important to choose someone who you not only trust but someone who has the time, energy, and organizational skills to serve this role.

3. Ensure important relationships in your life are remembered When you die without a will (known as dying intestate), provincial laws will decide how your estate is distributed and it may not be how you would’ve arranged it. Common-law partners and other dependents you wish to provide for are vulnerable if you die without a will.

4. Have an emergency plan in place for your minor children and dependents (and pets!) No one wants to think of a tragic event that could leave your child or children without their parents. Your will tells your loved ones and the courts who you’ve entrusted to provide care and support for your child or children.

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5. Decide how your estate will be distributed Your will lets you determine how you’d like to divide your estate and gives you a place to allocate special gifts or items with monetary or sentimental value, such as books, art, and jewelry. Help your loved ones navigate who gets what and minimize the chances of arguments that may arise when wishes aren’t made clear. Now that you know why you need a will, you can easily make your will from a few options. Canadian law does not require you to create your will with a lawyer or notary. A lawyer can assist if you need legal advice, but many people have simple and straightforward estates that do not require legal advice. For simple estates, you can use a will kit or an online platform that can guide you through the process to customize your legal documents to fit your needs and wishes. How you choose to make your will is a very personal decision based on your life situation and needs. Estate planning and talking about death can feel scary and overwhelming sometimes. But life is unpredictable. Having a will can help you prepare for the unexpected and protect your loved ones from chaos and complications. Get started today at: willful.co

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Preventing workplace conflict Tips for a healthier workplace courtesy of Big Waves Consulting

BROOK THORNDYCRAFT BIG WAVES CONSULTING

new manager contacts me in the hopes I can help his team function better. The twelve people on the team have broken into three camps that refuse to communicate. Multiple team members have filed complaints. He tells me the conflict has gone on for twelve years, because the previous manager ignored it and hoped it would go away. He has the budget for one day of mediation. I tell him one day of mediation between twelve people might have worked in the first year, but not after the conflict has been left to smoulder for over a decade. The best approach to conflict is a culture of prevention. In her book Circle in the Square: Building Community and Repairing Harm in School, Nancy Riestenberg applies a public health framework of prevention to a restorative approach to school discipline. She talks about prevention as a pyramid: it’s very stable when right side up, but when turned upside down, it becomes a tippy hazard. I find this metaphor to be helpful when thinking of an organization’s response to conflict. Lots of organizations I work with look like upside-down pyramids, teetering on one point. A tiny amount of attention goes to preventative

approaches such as supporting healthy disagreement, creating cultures of feedback, and prioritizing psychologically safe workplaces. A slightly larger amount of attention goes to dealing with conflicts or complaints as they come up, particularly if there are legal implications, a grievance procedure, or a human rights process. But because things are often left unaddressed, the biggest focus ends up being on damage control after a major complaint, investigation, or workplace trauma. In the end, waiting until something is a crisis creates far more suffering, wasting energy and expense. This upside-down pyramid is out of balance — it leads to lots of stress and can leave people at the bottom to get squished when it tips. An organization with a preventative culture has the fluidity and flexibility to encourage disagreement, prevent serious harm, and learn from both successes and mistakes. The following are tips for leaders who want to create a healthy conflict culture: • Be transparent about power and decision making in the organization. • Celebrate the value of diversity. • Prioritize conflict skills and emotional intelligence, especially for

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leaders. Emphasize feedback, reflection, and learning. • Support people to build trust-based relationships. • Develop effective and clear conflict systems. • Address burnout and treat people as whole people. • Be intentional about building community on remote teams. • Make it safe for people to come forward with problems. • And finally, conflict can help, not hurt. Conflict in any workplace is inevitable, but it can be generative rather than destructive. In the end, the most effective route to a resilient organization is to create a healthy workplace in which people feel comfortable and empowered to raise concerns, share ideas, and talk about difficult issues. While shifting the balance is a culture-change process that happens over time, there are concrete steps you can take right away to move your workplace in that direction. This article is an excerpt of a longer blog post on the same topic. For more information about the tips above, check out the full blog at: bigwaves.ca/blog •

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Rediscover your inner champion Women’s retreat takes participants on a journey of transformation By Judith Kays

few short years ago, Ann-Marie Flinn was in a 30-year corporate career that felt unfulfilling. From the outside, she appeared successful in all aspects of her life. What people didn’t know was that she was struggling with unresolved trauma that impacted her physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Flinn underwent a transformation, or what she calls a “spiritual awakening,” while taking a leave of absence from her career. It was then that she found her passion. Flinn wanted to help others, particularly women, find their own passion and live their true authenticity. While working a full-time job, being a mom and competing in sports, Flinn completed courses in coaching, leadership, facilitation, and a variety of wellness certifications from world renowned programs. That led to Flinn leaving her high-profile career three years ago to launch her own business, Champion Foundational Change Agency, bringing evidence-based knowledge and skills to her clients. As a workplace wellness facilitator, keynote speaker, and mindset coach, Flinn has guided and inspired thousands of people through their professional and personal journeys. Flinn offers a variety of individual and corporate programs through her agency, including transformational programs and retreats specifically curated for female leaders in mind. Through her own experience, Flinn understood the power of retreats to prioritize self-care in a supportive environment. In November 2021, Flinn launched, and sold out, her very first Champion Yourself to Wellness Women’s Retreat. “Overall, by engaging in this retreat, the participants played an active role in the rediscovering of their inner champion,” says Flinn. “The coming together of these women allowed them to experience physical, mental and emotional experiences by empathizing and connecting with themselves and each other. Participants experienced ‘a-ha’ moments

that triggered transformational shifts and helped them create deep and powerful change.” The depth and success of Flinn’s retreat was felt and flagged by all the participants, some of whom have already signed up for a new retreat this spring. Vicki Bates, a local business owner, says she was feeling like she needed a break from her work to focus on herself and some decisions that had to be made in her professional and personal life. “I needed time for me, to be able to detach completely and give myself the space to decompress,” says Bates. “What I didn’t expect was the overwhelming amount of positivity and transformative information that allowed me to see more of myself, which has ultimately helped me understand mental mindset and the ‘why’ behind my decisions.” Fellow participant, Lisa Peck, says that the retreat gave her inspiration while discovering what may be holding her back from facing certain issues in her life. “The workshops were profound, emotional, and helped us face some truths,” she says. “The power of having a group of females together, being honest, supportive and engaging is immeasurable.” As Flinn continues her quest to BUSINESS VOICE

promote and engage female leaders, she’s created new retreats for 2022. Her holistic healing techniques, cognitive coaching and connection exercises are only a few of the highlights within the breathtaking atmosphere of Windhorse Farm in Wenzell Lake, N.S. “I continue to create ways to engage individuals, and specifically other women, to manifest the outcomes of their own success,” says Flinn. “When we live from our true authenticity, we can create, lead and thrive in this imperfect world.” The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is #BreakTheBias and Flinn says she wants to be a part of the solution that empowers women to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive world. “My mission is to help women live with purpose and passion. While we’ve made great strides over the past 50 years, there’s so much more to be done. Moving from a limiting mindset to rediscovering our inner champion is the key to living and thriving with joy.” Find out more about Champion Foundational Change Agency and the upcoming June 10th-12th women’s retreat at: changechamp.ca.

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Striving for harmony First Impressions on self-confidence, safe practice, and supporting women entrepreneurs By Deborah Hart

irst Impressions Medical Aesthetics & Rejuvenation Clinic works with professionals, assisting them to clinically reverse the signs of aging and maintain a healthy appearance. A respectful, authentic, and compassionate team of licensed professionals, we provide safe, individualized treatments for the skin, face and body, assisting patients to age gracefully and maintain/regain their self-confidence and vitality. We are advocates of safety in advanced medical aesthetic practice and education, holding memberships and Board positions locally, nationally, and internationally. Our clinicians, Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Medical Aestheticians are experts in this specialty field of medicine. They pride themselves on the provision of advanced

skills and treatments, continuous education, and the most up-to-date treatments with your safety and natural outcomes as their top priority. What we’ve found is that most people become frustrated with their bodies as they age. This creates a constant and nagging worry in us about how we look, how others perceive us, and how we feel about our overall health. The focus on our appearance often takes a toll on our relationship with our body, and this lack of confidence can bleed into other areas of our lives. As a woman entrepreneur, as for many entrepreneurs, it can be difficult to completely shut off from work and create a work-life balance. Work and life often merge into one. Striving to achieve harmony amongst priorities and

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assigning self-care and the delegation of tasks as top priorities can minimize these challenges. This is a topic we speak to in some of our education sessions. We support professionals and entrepreneurs every day, and as a woman-owned business, we are among a growing ecosystem that supports other women in business and women entrepreneurs as they too continue to grow. We appreciate the support of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce in business education and support for entrepreneurs; this continued support can only further the growing ecosystem of women in business. You can learn more about First Impressions by visiting: firstimpressionsclinic.ca

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MARCH 2022

Business Voice Magazine (March 2022)

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