Business Voice Magazine (September 2022)

H A L I FA X C H A M B E R O F CO M M E RC E | S E P T E M B E R 2 02 2 | VO LU M E 3 1 I S S U E 9

"RECONCILIATION IS EVERYONE'S BUSINESS"

SPACE TO LEARN NEW BUSINESS SKILLS

“ON THE GROUND” FOR OVER 100 YEARS

Indigenous principles meet business practices Pg 16

Discover LSI’s Workplace Education Initiative Pg 20

VON meeting needs across Nova Scotia Pg 22

SAVE WITH THE CHAMBER'S

AFFINITY PARTNERS

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GROUP INSURANCE PLAN The Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan has been protecting Canadian firms for over 40 years and is regarded as the #1 Group Plan in Canada for Small Businesses!

As a member of the Chamber you gain access to many benefit programs that can save you and your company money. You can recover the cost of your membership many times over just by taking advantage of these money and time saving benefits from our Affinity Partners. Find out more at halifaxchamber.com 2

SEPTEMBER 2022

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Reconciliation and recovery in Halifax Placing the spotlight on Indigenous businesses for the second year of National Truth and Reconciliation Day

PATRICK SULLIVAN PRESIDENT & CEO

W

elcome back, readers! Welcome back to the students of all ages, welcome back to those returning from summer vacations, and welcome to those just joining us here in Halifax. We’re excited to jump into a busy fall with our

04 Event Calendar 08 New & Noted 11

Members in the news

15 Chair's Message 16 Cover Story "Reconciliation is everyone's business"

20 Spotlight Story Space to learn new business skills

22 Member Profile VON

24 SURGE Spotlight tREv Clothing

26 Trends

Chamber members.

With economic recovery on the rise and industries thriving after a tough few years, the Chamber is pleased to see the action returning to our streets. Our businesses continue to need our support, and we encourage you to visit the shops in your neighbourhood and check out a new business!

2022 is a big year for many reasons – recovery, resilience, and the second year of the National Truth and Reconciliation Day. Last year, the provincial government hosted a day of cultural activities, Indigenous speakers, and opportunities to learn more about the day. Keep an eye out for this year’s schedule.

In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, the Halifax Chamber is committed to telling more Indigenous stories. This month, we chatted with

Board of Directors — Officers

Faten Alshazly, WeUsThem, Chair Chris Cowper-Smith, Spring Loaded, Vice-Chair Mark Sidebottom, Nova Scotia Power, Past-Chair Roger Boutilier, Nova Scotia Association of REALTORS Ann Divine, Ashanti Leadership Caroline Wolfe Stewart, Nova Scotia College of Nursing

Directors

Andrew de Freitas, TMSI Ltd Christopher Googoo, Ulnooweg Captain (N) A.S. Williams CD, Maritime Forces Atlantic Hon. Joanne Bernard, Easter Seals Nova Scotia David Rideout, MetroWorks Martha Casey Paul Way, TD Private Wealth Kimberly Stephens, Acadian Seaplants Donna Harding, Engel & Völkers Heath Moore, Grant Thornton Katherine Risley, KBRS & Meridia Recruitment Solutions Ifeanyi Emesih, My East Coast Experience Media Group Inc. Nancy Foran, ESG Partners Wade Keller, Labatt Brewing

three Indigenous business owners about their entrepreneurship journeys and their impact on their communities. Head to page 16 to learn more about Akwekon Innovation and Consulting, Ulnooweg and Indigenous Treaty Partners.

As the streets open up again, there’s no better time to shop locally and socially (see our article on page 25). It’s a great opportunity to reflect on how and where we buy.

Do you have any tips to share with the business community when it comes to supporting our local economy and social community? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Connect with me anytime at: president@halifaxchamber.com @prezhfxchamber

Volume 31 • Issue 9 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 image credit: Indigenous Treaty Partners

Chamber Staff

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

BUSINESS VOICE

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EVENTS

CHAMBER EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27

CHAMBER LUNCHEON: NOVA SCOTIA'S NET-ZERO FUTURE

POWER LUNCH: 8 STEPS TO CREATING A DEA&I ACTION PLAN FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION

SMALL BUSINESS BIG GROWTH SUMMIT

12:00PM - 1:30PM Halifax Chamber of Commerce

The summit brings connection, information, and inspiration to the Halifax business community.

This conference is structured so that small business owners can build a tangible plan to strengthen their business and achieve their goals with the help of our industry experts.

KEYNOTE WITH THE HONOURABLE JONATHAN WILKINSON, MINISTER OF NATURAL RESOURCES CANADA 11:30AM - 1:30PM Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel Join us to learn about regional opportunities for economic growth in Nova Scotia associated with the transition to a net-zero economic future, including developments like offshore wind, hydrogen production, and electricity system transformation.

Free for members only. RSVP Required.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6

CHAMBER LUNCHEON KEYNOTE WITH GOVERNOR OF THE BANK OF CANADA, TIFF MACKLEM 11:30AM - 1:30PM Venue TBD Tickets available online soon.

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 4

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19

BUSINESS SUPPORT SERIES: BE A YOUTH-FRIENDLY EMPLOYER

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: PEOPLECAN TRAINING

10:00AM - 11:00AM Online

4:30PM - 6:30PM The Barrington Steakhouse & Oyster Bar

Free for members and future members.

Free for members and future members.

SEPTEMBER 2022

Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Kenneth C Rowe Hall

If you are a small business owner or entrepreneur, looking to grow your business, in need of a strategy expert to help enhance your goals, or ready to take your business to the next level, the Small Business Big Growth Summit is for you!

EVENTS

FALL 2022 CALENDAR WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9

THURSDAY, JANUARY 26

CHAMBER BREAKFAST

2023 HALIFAX BUSINESS AWARDS

KEYNOTE WITH JOYCE CARTER, PRESIDENT AND CEO, HALIFAX INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY

5:00PM - 9:30PM Halifax Convention Centre Ballroom Level

7:30AM - 9:30AM The Prince George Hotel Halifax

Launch into the stars for the most glamorous night of the year in the Halifax business community!

Let's celebrate out of this world businesses in a room full of buzz and excitement.

Tickets available online soon.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 15

POWER LUNCH: ANSWERS TO YOUR MOST CHALLENGING SELLING QUESTIONS WITH TANGENT STRATEGIES 12:00PM - 1:30PM Halifax Chamber of Commerce Free for members only. RSVP Required.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 24

FALL DINNER 2022

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: HOLLIS HALIFAX

5:00PM - 9:00PM Halifax Convention Centre Ballroom Level The Halifax Chamber's annual Fall Dinner is one of our most popular events, regularly attracting an audience of over 600 distinguished guests from the Halifax business community.

Your ticket to the Awards Gala includes networking at the pre-reception, a delicious three course meal, top-notch entertainment, attendance to the exclusive after party, and access to Halifax’s business community for a night of celebration!

Learn more at: halifaxchamber.com/awards

THANK YOU TO OUR SUMMER EVENT SPONSORS:

4:30PM - 6:30PM The Hollis Halifax Join us for an evening of great conversation.

Free for members and future members.

Join us as we explore important topics affecting the business landscape in Halifax. Stay tuned for the announcement of our theme for 2022.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15

Sponsorship Opportunities Available! For more information, contact Chris Mann, Corporate Partnership Specialist at: chris@halifaxchamber.com.

Celebrate the Holidays with BNI at the Halifax Club.

HOLIDAY AFTER HOURS 4:30PM - 6:30PM The Halifax Club

Free for members and future members.

BUSINESS VOICE

To learn more, register, and view a full and updated list of Chamber events, visit: halifaxchamber.com/events 5

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SEPTEMBER 2022

BUSINESS VOICE

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NEWSMAKERS

NEW & NOTED We welcome our new Chamber members Are you a new Chamber member?

Get listed in New & Noted! Contact Mandi Bowser, Administrative Specialist at mandi@halifaxchamber.com or call (902) 468-7111 to learn more.

33 COMMUNICATIONS Joel Goodman

Halifax, NS (416) 518-3364 joelgoodman45@gmail.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES – Publishing

5STAR SECURITY & BAILIFF SERVICES Tammy Mills

Dartmouth, NS (902) 407-5630 tm@fivestarbailiff.ca fivestarbailiff.ca SAFETY & SECURITY - Security

ADMIT CANADA Admit Canada is a leading admissions consulting firm with clients in North America and 10+ countries around the world. We know the admissions process inside out and how to market our client’s personal brand to get them accepted to their dream schools in Canada, the United States, and Europe.

Nelly Gonzalez Halifax, NS (902) 880-7224 nelly@admitcanada.com admitcanada.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Consulting (General)

AFRICA CANADA TRADE AND INVESTMENT VENTURE INC Based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, we are an organization focused on promoting and facilitating trade and investment between Africa and Canada. We create opportunities for Nova Scotian businesses looking to export and / or 8

partner with companies in Africa, as well as attract Foreign Direct Investments into Nova Scotia.

Ken Oguzie Halifax, NS (902) 293-6215 Kenneth.oguzie@activafr.com activafr.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Import/Export/Trading

BEE-CLEAN BUILDING MAINTENANCE For more than 50 years, Bee-Clean Building Maintenance has been providing expert cleaning services to customers in the public and private sectors across Canada. Working to the highest industry standards, we provide janitorial, disinfecting, and building maintenance services following best practices and prioritizing customer care.

Luis Castro Dartmouth, NS (902) 425-6100 lcastro@bee-clean.com bee-clean.com INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING Cleaning/Janitorial

CANADIAN NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR THE BLIND (CNIB) When first established in 1918, CNIB provided food, clothing, residences and library services to Canadians living with vision loss. The organization has evolved over the last 100 years; in 2017 CNIB launched a new brand for Vision Loss Rehabilitation Nova Scotia and CNIB Foundation Nova Scotia. We are ready for the next 100 years!

Katey Csernyik Halifax, NS (902) 453-1480 katey.csernyik@cnib.ca cnib.ca/novascotia NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS - NotFor-Profit Groups

SEPTEMBER 2022

CARLETTE'S POP UP SHOP Looking for a jaw-dropping confectionery creation for your next event that’s sure to wow your Crowd?

Carlette’s Pop Up Shop is dedicated to helping our community celebrate any occasion, big or small. We offer a variety of luxury custom chocolate treats, cakes, and cupcakes that will add the most fabulous touch to your sweetest dreams.

Carlette Gray

Halifax, NS (902) 497-3726 gray.carlette@gmail.com RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE - Bakery

CHARLES SALMON - RETIRED MEMBER Halifax, NS

COASTAL COVE CANDLE COMPANY INC. Coastal Cove Candle Company Inc. is a manufacturer / retailer that handpours our wooden wick soy wax candles right here in HRM. We take pride in our ecofriendly, renewable candles which are made with phthalate and paraben free fragrances. Making them vegan and cruelty-free with the ability to produce small to medium size orders means a hands-on touch to every order.

Mikaela Kadechuk Halifax Regional Municipality, NS (902) 329-3673 mikaela@coastalcovecandles.com coastalcovecandles.com SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL Gifts

COLOURSMITH LABS INC. Gabrielle Masone

Halifax, NS (416) 660-1036 gabrielle@coloursmith.com coloursmith.com HEALTH CARE - Medical Technologies

NEWSMAKERS

COOPÉRATIVE RADIO HALIFAX METRO

ELEVATE & EXPLORE BLACK NOVA SCOTIA INC.

JOANNE PULLIN LIMITED

Jason Ouellette

Rene Boudreau

Halifax, NS (902) 817-0050 jp@joannepullin.ca joannepullinrealtor.ca REAL ESTATE/CONSTRUCTION Real Estate Residential

Dartmouth, NS (902) 490-2574 direction@cjpn.ca oui98.ca COMMUNICATIONS - Broadcasting

COPIA HR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LIMITED Anna-Marie Hubbard

Bedford, NS (902) 880-2242 anna@copiaprofessionals.com copiaprofessionals.com HR, EMPLOYMENT & STAFFING Human Resources

CREATIVE LIME EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Sicily Zhou

Upper Hammonds Plains, NS (902) 989-3922 sicily@creativelime.ca creativelime.ca EVENTS - Audio/Visual Equipment/ Services

DANDELION DIGITAL Dandelion Digital works with small business owners to post with purpose through photography and social media.

We create photo galleries and content strategies to level up your brand visibility and reach your ideal client.

Allison Smith Halifax Regional Municipality, NS (902) 943-8981 allison@dandeliondigital.ca dandeliondigital.ca PERSONAL CARE & SERVICES Photography

EAST COAST SMOKEHOUSE BBQ DELI & CATERING Paula Drew

Middle Sackville, NS (902) 706-0204 eastcoastsmokehousebbq@gmail. com east-coast-smokehouse-bbq-delicatering-co.business.site RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE - Restaurant

East Preston, NS (902) 986-6118 elevateandexploreblackns@gmail. com elevateandexploreblackns. squarespace.com TRAVEL & TOURISM - Tourism

HALIFAX HURRICANES MINOR BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION Ian Bilek

Halifax, NS (902) 476-7645 ian@hhbball.com hhbball.com SPORTS & RECREATION Recreation/Sports/Fitness

IMPACTFUL HEALTH RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT INC. Mina Mekhail

Dartmouth, NS (514) 663-6462 mina.mekhail@impactfulhrd.com impactfulhrd.com COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY Biotechnology

INDIGENOUS TREATY PARTNERS Indigenous Treaty Partners is an Indigenous-owned consulting firm specializing in delivering cultural awareness training. Our training supports businesses looking to participate in reconciliation through right action. Before action takes place, there must be a foundation of understanding and that is where our training comes in.

Houston Barnaby Halifax, NS (902) 219-2533 info@treatypartners.ca treatypartners.ca EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT - Seminars/ Speakers

Joanne Pullin

JUDY LEWIS - STUDENT MEMBER Halifax, NS

LA MINE D'OR La Mine d'Or Halifax, previously LCDiamonds, has been in business for over 40 years offering private jewellery viewings for customers. Now with a new name, we will continue its legacy of providing personalized one-on-one jewellery service, premium custom design, and an all-inclusive jewellery experience for your every celebration.

Elaiza Mendoza Halifax, NS (902) 457-4745 emendoza@laminedor.ca laminedor.ca SHOPPING & SPECIALTY RETAIL Retail (General)

LIMESTONE BEVERAGES O’Neil Miller

Halifax, NS (902) 394-0188 oneilmiller92@gmail.com RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE - Beverage Sales

MARTHA CASEY - INDIVIDUAL MEMBER Halifax, NS martha.casey@dal.ca

MIRROR IMAGE MEDIA Mirror Image Media is a full service video production company that creates commercials and documentaries, founded by twin filmmakers, Meaghan and Marie Wright. Through concept development, creative direction, filming, and post-production, they are dedicated to bringing your story to life.

Meaghan Wright Halifax, NS

BUSINESS VOICE

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NEWSMAKERS (902) 880-1977 meg@mirrorimagemedia.ca mirrorimagemedia.ca ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT - Video/Multimedia

NEURON Isaac Ransom

Vancouver, BC (416) 577-8575 isaac.ransom@neuron.sg rideneuron.com TRANSPORTATION - Vehicle Rentals

OVARIAN CANCER CANADA Ovarian Cancer Canada champions the health and wellbeing of people with ovarian cancer and others at risk of this disease while advancing research to save lives. It is the only national charity dedicated to ovarian cancer. Our ultimate vision is for those affected to live fuller, better, longer lives.

Sharlene Wallace Toronto, ON (226) 753-0153 swallace@ovariancanada.org ovariancanada.org COMPUTERS, IT & TECHNOLOGY Research/Development

PEPPEREKA Whether you choose to dine-in, grab a meal to-go, or need creative catering, Peppereka exists to provide busy folks with high quality, convenient, and super fresh food options. For special event or business catering, we’re disrupting the standard sandwich platter experience.

Dean Madill

unique situations to tailor a Wealth and Asset Management Strategy to build and transition wealth.

Riley Otto Halifax, NS (902) 494-5695 riley.otto@rbc.com BUSINESS & PROF. SERVICES Business Brokers

ROCK LOVE - STUDENT MEMBER Halifax, NS

SAVE ME SAVE WE Save Me Save We is a clothing brand whose focus is to increase the conversation around mental health through the power of fashion. Our eyecatching designs, inspirational slogans, and motivational quotes welcome positive conversations.

Junior Moaku

Halifax, NS (289) 659-8193 juniorm@savemesavewe.com savemesavewe.com HEALTH CARE - Health and Wellness

SCOTIA KELP PRODUCTS Darron Hill

Halifax, NS (902) 880-3148 Scotiakelp.ns@gmail.com scotiakelp.ca INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING Manufacture/Process

SUPPORT SERVICES GROUP COOPERATIVE LTD Mariana Manole-Baker

Dartmouth, NS (902) 405-1763 dmadill@wilsons.ca peppereka.ca RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE - Catering/Food/Drink

Dartmouth, NS (902) 818-9297 Mbaker@ssgns.ca ssgns.ca HEALTH CARE - Disability Services

RILEY OTTO OF RBC DOMINION SECURITIES

I provide hands-on learning and training experiences. Contact me for strategic planning, board development, Africentric Cost-Benefit Analysis, and cultural competency and change management.

Sylvia Parris-Drummond

Riley Otto of RBC Dominion Securities provides full-service Wealth Management for high-net-worth individuals, families, and corporations.

Drawing on the vast resources of RBC Wealth Management, Riley and his team develop a deep understanding of clients’ 10

SVPARRIS CONSULTING

Halifax, NS (902) 237-5059

SEPTEMBER 2022

sylvia@svparrisconsulting.com svparrisconsulting.com EDUCATION & PROF. DEVELOPMENT - Prof. Development

THE HYBRID METHOD FITNESS NUTRITION AND ACCOUNTABILITY The Hybrid Method is a custom, step-by-step system built for your fitness, nutrition, and recovery goals, including one-on-one coaching and accountability to guarantee results.

Our interactive Fit3D ProScanner gives clients immediate access to an accurate and precise body analysis featuring their 3D avatar, BMR, posture assessment, circumference measurements, and more.

Joey Daniel

Halifax, NS (902) 210-5669 joey@hybridmethod.ca hybridmethod.ca HEALTH CARE - Health and Wellness

UCORE RARE METALS INC. Tyler Dilney

Halifax, NS (902) 482-5214 cindy@ucore.com ucore.com ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT Energy/Natural Resources

WISDOM2ACTION We are a 2SLGBTQ+-owned social enterprise and consulting firm supporting organizations and governments to facilitate positive change and strengthen communities in 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion, youth engagement, and mental health and substance use support. Our services include capacity building and organizational development, community and stakeholder engagement, and research and knowledge mobilization.

Dennis Stuebing Halifax, NS (902) 385-1370 dennis@wisdom2action.org wisdom2action.org OTHER - Gay Business

NEWSMAKERS

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS How our members are growing Halifax

CONGRATULATIONS TO CINDY MANN!

NEW INDIGENOUS TOURISM PROGRAM AT MSVU

THANK YOU TO OUR GIFT SHOP PARTNERS

A new Indigenous cohort tourism education program is being established at Mount Saint Vincent University supported by a grant of $1,964,250 from the Government of Canada's Sectoral Initiatives Program. The first of its kind in the country, the Kinu Tourism Program is being developed by Indigenous community leaders and representatives from MSVU’s Tourism and Hospitality Management Program with a goal of removing barriers to post-secondary education while creating opportunity for future Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs. Kinu means inclusive of/us/everyone. The first students in the program are expected to begin their studies in September of 2024.

All of us at Easter Seals Nova Scotia are incredibly excited to be opening the Ability Makers Gift Shop at the entrance of our centre in Burnside and would like to thank all the local enterprises and artisans living with disabilities who partnered with us to make it possible!

The Ability Makers Gift Shop features handmade products from various local entrepreneurs with disabilities and social enterprises that employ individuals with disabilities. Thank you to our partners Michael McCullough Photo, All Ways Us, Club Inclusion, Lake City Workers, Building Futures and our own New Leaf Enterprises for working with us to open the Ability Makers Gift Shop!

BUSINESS VOICE

Congratulations to Cindy Mann, Membership Sales Manager at the Halifax Chamber, for winning Bronze in ACCE’s 2021-22 Dana Ketterling Lifetime Sales Achievement Award and the Sales Contest! The awards are presented by the ACCE Membership Development Division Circle of Champions program, which connects chamber sales professionals and inspires and recognizes excellence in membership sales performance. Bronze is awarded to individuals who have achieved 500 sales or $175,000 in sales in chamber memberships throughout their careers. Way to go, Cindy!

OCTOBER IS CANADA’S HEALTHY WORKPLACE MONTH From October 1 to October 31, CMHA NS recognizes Canada’s Healthy Workplace month, a national initiative that focuses on raising awareness around the importance of workplace mental health.

Promoting health in the workplace is one of the most important actions we can take that benefit both employees and employers — it can take our workplace from surviving to thriving. However, sometimes we don’t always know where to start. How can you create a healthy workplace? CMHA NS offers mental health training opportunities to improve workplace wellness. Visit novascotia. cmha.ca to learn more.

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NEWSMAKERS

NEW STAFFING ANNOUNCEMENT The Epilepsy Association of the Maritimes has onboarded a new Executive Director and Education and Support Coordinator this year. This change will bring growth and opportunity to the organization as they begin to expand our services into the Maritimes.

Robert Howlett is excited to take on this new role as Executive Director and will work diligently to increase the awareness and services provided for those living with epilepsy. After being involved with the Epilepsy Association of the Maritimes since the late 1980s, Susan Rahey recently joined as Education and Support Coordinator. For more information about our programs or services, contact info@epilepsymaritimes.org or 902-429-2633.

LUNG ASSOCIATION LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

CHAMBER MEMBERS AWARDED

The Lung Association of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island is excited to announce the launch of a new website for our organization at lungnspei.ca. The new website will provide patients, caregivers, researchers, and medical professionals an easy way to find out about lung health programs and services, research, information, and supports available — all in one place. This new website is easier to navigate, has a new look and feel, and will be updated with relevant content on a regular basis.

The Downtown Dartmouth Business Commission recently announced two new awards: the Community Leader of the Year Award and the Business Innovator of the Year Award. Sara Napier, Community Leader of the Year and CEO of United Way Halifax, has helped local charities provide vital services to those in need, even through the instability of the pandemic. Greg Turple, Business Innovator of the Year and President of Turple Communications, brings hightech security solutions to local businesses. Congratulations to Sara Napier and Greg Turple!

OFFICE INTERIORS WELCOMES MELISSA PRICE

SONA WELCOMES A NEW TEAM MEMBER!

STAFF CHANGES AT SUNNYSIDE MALL

Office Interiors is thrilled to introduce its newest account manager on the furniture sales team, Melissa Price. With extensive experience in the commercial contract world, she joins the team at Dartmouth equipped to manage customer projects and develop lasting relationships with them. Melissa loves expressing her creativity through interior design and enjoys sailing with family and friends.

We are so pleased to welcome our newest team member, Curtis Bramfield, to the SONA team! Curtis has joined our support team in the role of Customer Success Specialist. He is looking forward to supporting our merchants with installations and any technical questions they may have both locally and across North America. We can't wait for you to meet him!

Sunnyside Mall had some Administrative Office changes recently.

We want to give a thank you to Lynn Chisholm, as she is retiring from General Manager here at Sunnyside Mall. With that, we would like to welcome Judith Thompson as our new General Manager and Chelsea Dunn as Marketing Coordinator to the Sunnyside Family!

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SEPTEMBER 2022

NEWSMAKERS HALIFAX STANFIELD CELEBRATES AIR CARGO LOGISTICS PARK GRAND OPENING

NS POWER AWARDS 2022 MI'KMAQ BURSARY Nova Scotia Power awarded four recipients the 2022 Mi’kmaq Bursary from its Scholarship and Bursary Program. One of the recipients is Keeshia Bernard from Eskasoni. She’s enrolled in the Bachelor of Mi’kmaq Social Work at St. Thomas University, plans to continue her education in Social Work and be a role model to her foster children. Each year, NS Power offers 28 scholarships and bursaries to qualifying students enrolled in trades and degree programs. The categories are: Emerging Leader, Women in Trades, Engineering & Tech, African Nova Scotian, NS Power Family and Mi’kmaq.

View a complete list of the 2022 NS Power Scholarship and Bursary program recipients at nspower.ca/scholarships.

Leadership & Team Management Training C

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Enroll Today!

Call us: 902.989.7277 www.mystrategyup.com

The ribbon has been cut at the new Halifax Stanfield Air Cargo Logistics Park (ACLP), marking the official opening of Atlantic Canada’s largest air cargo processing facility. Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) was joined by the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and Member of Parliament for Central Nova, the Honourable Steve Craig, Nova Scotia Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture and MLA for Sackville - Cobequid, Mike Savage, Mayor of Halifax Regional Municipality, air cargo tenants, cargo logistics chain partners, and other stakeholders to celebrate the grand opening of the park. This infrastructure expansion complements existing cargo processing capabilities offered at Halifax Stanfield by Gateway Facilities and other service providers, enabling more commercial and logistics businesses in Atlantic Canada to connect to global air cargo opportunities. With a total of eight cargo aircraft aprons, cold storage capabilities, and other logistics enhancements, the ACLP increases capacity and improves efficiency for global cargo carriers operating at Halifax Stanfield, contributing to economic activity.

CRAYON STRATEGIES LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE! Crayon Strategies Inc is excited to announce the launch of our new website! Our goal is to provide our visitors with a more intuitive and user-friendly experience that highlights who we are, what we stand for, and what we can help you achieve as it relates to your equity, diversity, and inclusion goals. The website features a modern feel, complete with easy navigation, making the overall experience more impactful on all devices. We will update our content with helpful information and blog posts to enhance your equity, diversity and inclusion learning. You can now find us at crayonstrategies.ca. Happy browsing!

LEAD YOURSELF TO SUCCESS! Empower your Team, Grow your Business

K

September 30, 2022 Courtyard Marriott - Dartmouth

BUSINESS VOICE

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NEWSMAKERS

NEW GM AT THE WESTIN NOVA SCOTIAN

PROEDGE HOME TO UNIQUE 3D BODY SCANNER

MHFNS WELCOMES NEW COMMUNICATIONS LEAD

Guido Kerpel, COO of New Castle Hotels & Resorts, a leading hotel owner, operator and developer, announces that Glenn Bowie has been named general manager of the Westin Nova Scotian. Bowie has worked with New Castle for more than 25 years and most recently served as the area director of sales and marketing for the company’s Canadian Division. In that role, Mr. Bowie was responsible for the leadership and overall direction of sales and catering for six of New Castle’s Canadian properties.

Proedge Elite Training is now home to the only Fit3D ProScanner accessible to the public in Nova Scotia. The Hybrid Method owner and Proedge Trainer, Joey Daniel, has brought the body scanner for health and fitness tracking to our facility. The machine generates a 3D avatar of the user's body composition, shows and explains measurements, accurately calculates body fat percentage, allows users to track their progress, and more.

With the ProScanner, you get both data and body imaging to help you reach your wellness goals. Come visit us at 36 Duke Street, Bedford and check it out!

The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia would like to welcome Jenna Conter as our new Communications Lead. Jenna comes from a journalism background and brings with her a variety of communications experience in the nonprofit sector. We look forward to having Jenna as part of our team as we continue to build a future where Nova Scotians living with mental disorders can thrive in their communities.

CCRW THANKS PARTNERS

PEOPLECAN TACKLES MONEY HERITAGE IN BOOK! PeopleCan Training is excited for the summer launch of Think and Grow Rich for the Skeptic. This book is loosely based on Debbie Adams’ own struggles as a forced entrepreneur. When the shift from heart to serve to profit motive presented challenges, Debbie took a deep dive into her money heritage that was presenting barriers to profitability in business. For more information on a book launch in your area, visit peoplecanbiz.com.

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In seven months, The Canadian Council on Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW) has provided skill development and support to seven hundred and eightysix clients. We want to celebrate and thank the three hundred and sixty-nine new businesses across Canada who have supported our clients in attaining meaningful and equitable employment opportunities, while enhancing a culture of diversity and inclusion for persons with disabilities. Without your participation and willingness to work with our program facilitators, we wouldn’t be able to empower our clients to contribute to your teams’ successes. CCRW looks forward to developing further partnerships throughout 2022. Thank you!

SEPTEMBER 2022

Imagine what we could do together.

We represent over 2,000 REALTORS® in an industry that accounts for 1.8% of our province’s GDP. Our data and expertise can contribute to conversation, action, and a positive future for all.

Let’s move Nova Scotia forward.

nsrealtors.ca

CHAIR'S MESSAGE

Connecting to your most important resource WeUsThem recognized as Top Diversity Employer

FATEN ALSHAZLY PRINCIPAL & CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER WEUSTHEM

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his past July, WeUsThem had the honour of being recognized as a Top Diversity Employer by Atlantic Business Magazine (a Halifax Chamber member).

This recognition speaks to our greatest resource: our people! So, for this issue of Business Voice magazine, I would like to share what I believe are successful approaches to how we should truly bring DEAI into the workplace.

Parity and diversity on your staff and board I talk about diversity a lot, not just because I am from a visible minority, but also because it is a key aspect of how we fill our talent gaps — and because it’s the right thing to do! We need to look beyond what we have seen in the past. If we do, I believe that we will find an entire untapped talent potential that can be brought into our organizations with fresh perspectives.

But many employers looking to increase the diversity of their workforce may feel stuck at the start. They may look to building policies and processes to ensure they are doing it right — but there is no singular “right” approach. Give

yourself permission to make mistakes, but also give yourself the accountability to act — and act now!

The federal government launched the 50 – 30 Challenge as a framework to accelerate diversity actions in Canadian businesses and organizations. It asks that organizations aspire to two goals when it comes to the makeup of your board or senior management: 50% women and/ or non-binary people and 30% from equity-deserving or underrepresented groups. The Halifax Chamber was an early adopter of this challenge and encourages our members to reach the same goal. The 50 – 30 benchmark is a goal, but it’s not the ceiling. Getting different perspectives around the table is invaluable in conducting good business.

Policies that work As I noted before, don’t let the development of policies bog you down — act now. You can build policies with your workforce collectively as you evolve.

Agree around the table that you will make mistakes and will promise to continually learn from each other as we grow and evolve. That said: does your workplace have a respectful workplace, DEAI, psychological safety, or similar policies?

If you do, when were they last updated?

Policies should never sit on a shelf.

They need to be living, breathing documents with actionable guidelines that can change when you need them to — not just when the policy document states you should. Be sure to revisit your policies regularly to ensure they still align with your people, goals, and practices.

There are a lot of experts in our city to help you with all of this, but in my experience, common sense approaches that are informed by collective brainstorming go a long way. Reach out to the experts if you need to, but remember to include those that will be impacted by these policies to get their perspective.

BUSINESS VOICE

Camaraderie and celebration Another reason we were recognized by the Atlantic Business Magazine was the level of camaraderie we have cultivated at WeUsThem. One way we have done this is by hosting or joining intentional celebrations of cultural festivals unique to our individual employees. This isn’t just because we want our employees to feel included, but also for our own cultural knowledge and education, which continues to grow each day.

Cultural knowledge is not just a fun exercise to explore the kaleidoscope of what the world has to offer. As an organization that has clients in six continents, this knowledge helps us in our daily business practices, engagements, and operations.

Recently, I had the pleasure of getting a note from Patrick Sullivan (CEO, Halifax Chamber of Commerce). Patrick wanted to get some information on what the Chamber could do to support individuals attending our events during the month of Ramadan (a month of fasting for Muslims). This note meant the world to me! It showed leadership to acknowledge that he did not have all the information, but recognized that something needed to be done, so he reached out to someone who had the knowledge. This is action — and yes, we will make mistakes, but let’s do so collectively while enjoying each other’s unique perspectives.

As an organization, your people are your most important resource. Their unique attributes, cultural norms, and ethnicity matter. Enjoy them and understand that they are the key drivers of your success and innovation. If you have stories or suggestions to share, please connect with me at: weusthem.com @fatenalshazly @fatenalshazly 15

COVER STORY

"Reconciliation is everyone’s business” Indigenous principles meeting business practices in Kjipuktuk By Emily Bednarz IMAGES CONTRIBUTED

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hen speaking about the newly reopened Windhorse Farm (pictured below), Chris Googoo, Chief Operating Officer of Ulnooweg, says, “We're bringing our Indigenous knowledge-holders into our teachings — but we also take some of the science today, embed the two together, and practice what Etuaptmumk actually means to us.”

Etuaptmumk is the Mi'kmaw word for Two-Eyed Seeing. Elder Albert Marshall explains that Etuaptmumk is “learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous knowledges and from the other eye with the strengths of Western knowledges.”

It’s a perfect word to describe how innovative Indigenous business leaders in Kjipuktuk are bringing their ways of knowing and being to our local business community. Read on to discover how Ulnooweg, Indigenous Treaty Partners, and Akwekon Innovation & Consulting are revolutionizing the way businesses and organizations conceptualize wealth, health, and reconciliation.

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Ulnooweg ulnooweg.ca Ulnooweg started over 37 years ago, in the era following the 60s scoop. “A number of our community members were coming back home looking for cultural and family connections,” says Googoo.

“A few discussions led to a few presentations to the Chiefs, which led to a gathering at Liscombe Lodge, which led to the creation of Ulnooweg Development Group, as well as the Mi'kmaw Family & Children's Services of Nova Scotia.”

For the next 20 years, Ulnooweg operated under a broad mandate related to business support services. They incorporated as a registered charity in 2005, launching what is now the first of their three divisions: The Ulnooweg Development Group. After expanding their education and training services, their second division took shape: The Ulnooweg Education Centre, an education and research charity.

Ulnooweg has continued to grow ever since. “In 2018, we launched the Ulnooweg Indigenous Communities

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Foundation to bridge the gap between philanthropy in Canada and Indigenous communities,” says Googoo. Most recently, they launched a US-based foundation called Friends of Ulnooweg Indigenous Philanthropies.

Parsing the progress and barriers for Indigenous entrepreneurs Over his years with Ulnooweg, Googoo has seen markers of progress and innovation in the local Indigenous-led business community. “The opportunities that Indigenous people are trying to capitalize on are no longer the mom-and-pop stores,” says Googoo. “That has morphed into Indigenous businesses looking at the corporate and private sectors, where there is opportunity and available financing.”

Barriers still exist for Indigenous entrepreneurs though, notes Googoo.

The Indian Act prevents those on reserve from using the land they live on as collateral for business loans, and only one percent of charitable organizations accessing

COVER STORY philanthropic funds are Indigenous-led, says Googoo.

There are also barriers that aren’t “written on paper,” says Googoo.

“Barriers like racism and prejudice still exist, but they’re not as bad as they were a decade or two ago,” he says. “That has a lot to do with relationship-building and society looking at Indigenous people in more positive ways. As more successes occur, we highlight the Indigenous businesses and community as potential partners — more spaces, discussion, and collaboration open up from that.”

One such success story Googoo highlights is Mi'kmaw artist Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade, who recently partnered with Nike to create beaded shoes for the iconic brand. “Beaders and leather-workers are jumping into the mainstream economy,” says Googoo. “You can call it innovation — how they're using their teachings passed down from generations.”

Innovation in business, education, and outreach The team behind Ulnooweg has recognized the need to innovate from within. “A lot of our work over the past five years has been to push the community into a space of innovation,” says Googoo. “And it's been pushing ourselves into this space as well — into the network, the Chamber dinners, the conferences.

It’s also the willingness of our own entrepreneurs to connect to individuals that are in this innovation space. Once we make those connections, you see more Indigenous entrepreneurs take that leap into new areas. We’re starting to see that develop right now, and that's pretty exciting.”

One area of innovation for Ulnooweg is Windhorse Farm, an education and healing centre. “You don't have to do much but walk the land to heal from it,” Googoo says. After the success of its first year, there are a number of projects planned for Windhorse: a night-sky observatory and a performance art centre will be ideal venues for teaching and storytelling.

In the meantime, Googoo sees Etuaptmumk in action at Windhorse, particularly when it comes to science and forestry. “In one hour, we can see an elder talking about plant life and in the next hour talk about how lidar technology can break down a tree,” he says. “The two knowledges blend together so that at

the end of the day, it is about respecting nature and our connections to it.”

Motivating systemic change The Indigenous principles Ulnooweg promotes may seem at odds with corporate culture. But Googoo highlights this as an opportunity for intervention and reflection. “We're all human beings, and when we take ourselves out of that context, our decisions are no longer based on empathy or dignity,” he says. “One of the things that businesses, even not-forprofits, struggle with is the definition of what wealth is. They have to think about the impact of generated wealth, which may be taking wealth away from certain sectors of society.”

Googoo highlights EleV, one of Ulnooweg’s newest programs for youth presented in partnership with the MasterCard Foundation. “EleV is focused on improving opportunities for youth in employment and education, higher education, and empowering them through culture and leadership skills,” says BUSINESS VOICE

Googoo. “We've funded about $1.5 million for youth-led initiatives in cultural language or reclamation in communities across Atlantic Canada.”

Programs like EleV are working toward breaking down systemic barriers, a complex and ongoing process says Googoo. “You can't always draw a straight line to breaking down systemic barriers,” he says. “To provide these resources that have led to communities and groups gaining confidence and being involved in breaking down systemic barriers — when you affect systemic change and see it actually happening — it's a really great story.”

Googoo champions the new generation of innovative, Indigenousled businesses and organizations.

Both Indigenous Treaty Partners and Akwekon Innovation & Consulting serve as examples of how young, Indigenous entrepreneurs are reconceptualizing corporate culture through Indigenous principles and community-building.

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COVER STORY

Indigenous Treaty Partners treatypartners.ca Houston Barnaby and Corey Mattie are on a mission to Indigenize corporate Canada. “We believe reconciliation is everyone’s business,” their website reads. “We guide organizations through approachable and guided knowledge sharing on what it means to be Indigenous in Canada.”

Indigenous Treaty Partners is an Indigenous-owned consulting firm, founded in 2021, that specializes in delivering cultural awareness training. “Our training supports businesses looking to participate in reconciliation through right action,” say Barnaby and Mattie.

“Before action takes place, there must be a foundation of understanding — that’s where our training comes in.”

When it comes to allyship and partnership-building, the team at Indigenous Treaty Partners endeavours to meet their clients where they are. “Often, the companies that we support have great intentions and high aspirations to create lasting relations,” say Barnaby and Mattie. “If a client's aspirations are suspected to be out of reach for the short term, we offer foundational Indigenous cultural training, coaching, and project and program support, making these high aspirations achievable and measurable.”

Such training services provide the framework to help non-Indigenous peoples better engage and support Indigenous peoples in Canada, say Barnaby and Mattie. “Our curriculum 18

focuses on the history and rich culture of Indigenous Nations in Canada,” they add. “But we are also focused on moving them emotionally, to the realities of our Nations. Once companies have a sound understanding of the history in this country, they are moved to do more. Our cultural training transforms people in the workplace into allies."

The team at Indigenous Treaty Partners also provide speaking services, ensuring more Indigenous voices are heard at events and in the office. “Our main mission as a company is to support our Indigenous brothers and sisters by being approachable and compassionate in the delivery of our curriculum,” say Barnaby and Mattie. “This is no different in our speaking engagements. We work to repair relationships and move forward, together, in healing our Nations.”

Finally, Indigenous Treaty Partners work with clients to conduct research.

“We support organizations through economic reconciliation and project planning,” say Barnaby and Mattie. “We support an organization with research capacity to answer the important questions, like the murky waters of the Duty to Consult, and we also understand the unique nuances of communities in our area — primarily the Mi’kmaq of Mi’kma’ki.”

Barnaby and Mattie see corporate Canada as the ideal place to focus reconciliation efforts. “Industry can be successful when it utilizes its own resources and knowledge to support local Indigenous entrepreneurs,” they say.

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The two acknowledge the partnerships Indigenous Treaty Partners has built with CIBC, BDO, Barrington Consulting Group, EverWind Fuels, and the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. “These businesses are showing the rest of Canada their commitment to reconciliation and a shared future,” say Barnaby and Mattie.

While they are pleased to see the commitment to reconciliation, Barnaby and Mattie acknowledge there is still much work to be done. “Reconciliation is an ongoing process,” they say. “The damage was done over many years, and so it will take some time for things to improve.” Still, they are bolstered by the progress taking place in the Kjipuktuk business community. “Every single action and initiative makes a difference,” they say. “We are turning reconciliation into action, and this would not be possible without our amazing partners supporting and cheering us on.”

One such partnership Indigenous Treaty Partners has built is with Ulnooweg. “We established our own registered scholarship — the Indigenous Treaty Partners L’nu Scholarship Fund — in partnership with Ulnooweg Indigenous Communities Foundation,” say Barnaby and Mattie. “Five percent of our profit is donated to the fund, which will give yearly scholarships of $2,500 to Indigenous students in Atlantic Canada.

The scholarship serves as an example of what industry can do here in Halifax.”

Keep an eye out for new Online Learning Modules at Indigenous Treaty Partners this Fall!

COVER STORY

Akwekon Innovation & Consulting akwekon.ca In January 2020, Michael MaraclePolak first started Akwekon as an export business. “My plan was to export Indigenous products internationally,” says Maracle-Polak. “Three months after I started the business — thankfully before I engaged in any transactions — COVID-19 hit. As the pandemic carried on, all of the emotions and reflection that society went through seemed to create an overwhelming demand for different Indigenous perspectives.”

That’s when Maracle-Polak shifted gears. “I found myself being invited to participate in consultations on Diversity Equity and Inclusion work, programming, speaker series, design projects, and executive leadership consultations,” he says. “At the start of 2022, I did an audit of my schedule the prior year, and I realized it was a full-time business. I decided to pivot Akwekon from an export business to a design and consulting company — two things I have become skilled in over the last 25 years.”

Since the pivot, Akwekon has taken a holistic approach in applying Indigenous principles to organizational leadership and governance. The Akwekon team uses Storytelling, Gathering Minds, and Truth Sharing to achieve this. “Storytelling is equivalent to guest speaking,” explains Maracle-Polak. “We use this method to deliver important, inspiring, and thought-provoking messages through

Indigenous teachings and stories.

Sometimes we use this method to dissect a company’s DNA or culture — it can be a foundational step in helping spark the mindset shift that needs to happen in the corporate world in order to realize reconciliation.”

Gathering Minds is equivalent of a workshop, says Maracle-Polak. “It’s focused and deep teamwork. It’s about solving complex problems and leveraging Indigenous principles to design better solutions,” he says. “We do this by blending existing innovation design frameworks with ancient Indigenous knowledge to make decisions.”

Finally, Truth Sharing is the equivalent of Executive Coaching. “The focus here is on ‘Truth,’” says Maracle-Polak.

“The objective is to find those leaders that are tasked with trying to develop Indigenous market strategies and move them further in their reconciliation journey, so that they can pursue their business objectives in a way that is authentic and real.”

Maracle-Polak adds that Akwekon works with both non-Indigenous and Indigenous organizations. “With Indigenous organizations, our work involves helping them understand the way non-Indigenous corporations operate so that better alignment can happen on a project, joint venture or potential partnership,” he explains. "With non-Indigenous organizations, we find there is a larger demand for a vision and strategy with Indigenous people. There's also a lot of fear that restricts more meaningful

BUSINESS VOICE

and bold strategies from emerging in the market. We help provide comfort in the design and execution of those bold strategies.”

Like his colleagues from Indigenous Treaty Partners and Ulnooweg, MaraclePolak agrees that reconciliation is an ongoing process. “I would love to see more businesses understand the value of Indigenous knowledge and build it into their core values, policies, and procedures,” he says. On the other hand, Maracle-Polak is encouraged by the progress he sees. “I love that support for Indigenous business and community is happening and is gaining momentum,” he says. “It feels to me like it’s the first time in my life people are paying attention.”

What’s on the horizon for Akwekon?

“I am working on a Smart EV Moderate Livelihood Fishing Vessel with a partner at Covey Island Boats,” says MaraclePolak. “We are building Indigenous design elements into every aspect of the boat and the company joint venture.”

Akwekon is also designing an Indigenous talent program, developing a continued learning curriculum with Dalhousie.

The Akwekon team is also in the process of completing a Nature Guide Certification through Ulnooweg and Windhorse Farms. Maracle-Polak closes with thanks to Grand River Enterprises, Indigenous Treaty Partners, Covey Island Boats, Grand River Employment and Training, Glooscap Ventures, Born in the North, The Royal Eagles, and Ulnooweg.

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Still space to learn new business skills Labour, Skills and Immigration’s Workplace Education Initiative helping businesses to reach new heights IMAGES CONTRIBUTED

VANESSA MARGUERATT MANAGER, WORKPLACE EDUCATION & TRAINING LABOUR, SKILLS AND IMMIGRATION ROBERT BERNARD FOUNDER AND CEO ASCENT & DESCENT SPACE SOLUTIONS LTD.

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ith the advent of modern spaceflight, ambitious entrepreneurs have been creating more companies around the world, capitalizing on the global space economy’s $1.25 trillion projected revenue by 2030 (see Northern Sky Research’s 2022 Global Space Economy Report for more details). Even within Canada, businesses are trying to establish themselves so they can take a piece of this revenue. With the development of a spaceport in our very own province, this 20

propensity is only going to increase.

Recognizing this opportunity and inspired by various space mission stories (such as the Apollo 5 mission led by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration), Robert Bernard, P. Eng., founded Ascent & Descent Space Solutions Ltd. in 2020. As an aspiring entrepreneur, Bernard had already earned both a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Carleton University in 2005 and a Master of Science degree in Space Studies from the International Space University in 2018. Locating the company in Nova Scotia was a logical choice, given that Bernard was born and raised here — plus, he wanted to try to help both his province and country better retain its technical talent.

Ascent & Descent Space Solutions is actively investigating a variety of different space technologies to produce, like deployable mechanisms for satellites, propellant tanks for usage on launch vehicles and spacecraft, and technologies that support ascent and atmospheric SEPTEMBER 2022

re-entry operations. Bernard uses his professional background to bolster his company’s endeavours — he has over a decade of experience as a structural engineer that spans working in the Canadian aerospace and defence sector to the European Space Agency in the space sector. When not focusing on development of new technologies, Ascent & Descent Space Solutions contracts out Bernard’s expertise in engineering to aid other businesses.

Though highly skilled, Bernard quickly recognized that a successful entrepreneur must be able to effectively communicate, sell, focus, learn, and strategize. He knew that growing a business would require a sound strategy based on inherent business sense and skills, so he sought guidance. “I do not have a business degree, so any courses focused on improving productivity and knowledge for business owners are an asset for me to attend,” says Bernard.

Bernard recently completed the Workplace Education Initiative, a

SPOTLIGHT

ROBERT BERNARD, P. ENG.

“The Labour, Skills and Immigration programs have been instrumental in allowing me to foster relationships and find new opportunities. Without a doubt, I would not have been capable of continuing the operation of my own company had I not taken these courses.”

— Robert Bernard Founder and CEO, Ascent & Descent Space Solutions Ltd.

VANESSA MARGUERATT, P. ENG.

program funded by Labour, Skills and Immigration. “I was able to attend focused courses, spread out over several weeks, with a number of hours that provided minimal disruptions,” he says.

“This time allowed the topics taught to be directly applied into company operations — in many cases, almost immediately.”

The Workplace Education Initiative provides business skills training to business owners and their employees, at no cost to participants. The training runs over ten weeks (four hours per session) and is customized to individual, industry, and community needs. Workplace Education Initiative training enhances individual workplace skills and supports businesses and organizations to be more successful, open to change, and ready for growth.

Businesses and organizations need the skills that are in demand; the Workplace Education Initiative helps Nova Scotian businesses gain the skills needed to innovate and compete. “As

my small business matures, there will be costs that it will eventually need to incur in order to remain operational,” says Bernard. “However, as a result of developing my skills through these courses, I am now able to do my own bookkeeping and basic accounting. I’ve learned legal essentials for business, allowing me to draft standard contracts and only obtain paid legal advice as necessary. I’ve even designed and currently maintain the website and social media for our company.”

Bernard estimates that this workplace training has resulted in cost savings of at least $15,000 to date. Through his business and acting as volunteer, he has also used these skills to support a rocketry association called Launch Canada (learn more at launchcanada. org). Launch Canada, in affiliation with a group called the StarDust Alliance, hosted Canada’s very first high-powered amateur rocketry competition during the first week of August 2022 (learn more at stardustfestival.org).

BUSINESS VOICE

The Workplace Education Initiative promotes and supports business skills development by increasing knowledge and enhancing critical workplace skills.

“The time developing my business skills was time well spent,” says Bernard. “The Labour, Skills and Immigration programs have been instrumental in allowing me to foster relationships and find new opportunities. Without a doubt, I would not have been capable of continuing the operation of my own company had I not taken these courses.”

If you are interested in learning more about the programs offered through the Workplace Education Initiative visit: novascotia.ca/lae/ workplace-education Learn more about Ascent & Descent Space Solutions Ltd. at: ascentdescentspacesolutions.com

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MEMBER PROFILE

“On the ground” for over 100 years VON meets the needs of communities across Nova Scotia every day By Emily Bednarz IMAGES CONTRIBUTED

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rom the Halifax Explosion to COVID19, VON has been meeting the needs of local communities since 1897. Today, VON has outposts across the country, but Halifax is home to the first office in Canada. “We were actually the first home care nurses and the first public health nurses in most communities — especially for those who couldn’t afford private or hospital care,” says President and CEO Jo-Anne Poirier. “We now provide not only home nursing care, but other types of home care, home support, and community support services like Adult Day Programs and Meals on Wheels.”

While communities and their needs have changed since 1897, the VON approach remains the same. “It’s not really a story of how much we’ve changed,” says Poirier. “But how we’ve been on the ground in homes and communities for more than a century, responding to whatever the local needs might be at the time and providing care and services based on that need.”

A century ago, VON prioritized issues like maternal and child mortality, the aftermath of the Halifax Explosion, and typhoid outbreaks. “Today it’s food insecurity, COVID-19, and seniors who want to age safely in their homes,” Poirier says. “VON has always focused on identifying and responding to local needs with the best care and services we can possibly provide.”

Highlighting the impact VON now provides care to more than 10,000 people every day in Ontario and Nova Scotia, through an incredible number of programs and services. “One of the important things about responding to community need is being able to expand our programs and services in response to increased demand,” says Poirier. “We’re proud of how our programs and services 22

“We’ve been on the ground in homes and communities for more than a century.”

— Jo-Anne Poirier CEO, VON reach so many across Nova Scotia every day.”

VON’s impact is reflected in the numbers. Last year, VON made over 2 million home visits in the 16 counties they serve in Nova Scotia. They also employ more than 2,000 people in the province, including over 800 nursing staff and over 800 continuing care assistants. “More than 300 Nova Scotians volunteer for VON,” adds Poirier. “We delivered almost 130,000 meals to over 2,500 clients last year. Our Transportation program provided over 4,000 trips, totaling over 170,000 kilometers.”

In the past, essential support and care services, like those that VON SEPTEMBER 2022

provides, may not have received their time in the spotlight. “People don’t often realize how important home and community support services are to the entire healthcare system…we’re a bit invisible,” says Poirier. “That is starting to change, though.”

In June, the Nova Scotia government announced an investment of more than $8.6 million in new models of home care delivery, day programs, supportive equipment and more. “Things like housing, caregiver support, seniors’ centres, and adult day programs can really make a difference at the personal and community level,” says Poirier.

MEMBER PROFILE

Meeting challenges COVID-19 produced unprecedented challenges for VON, but it also amplified existing needs. “As the pandemic progressed, we saw increasing pressures on the entire health system and in the communities we serve,” says Poirier.

“Food insecurity increased, meaning rising demand for our community support services. Client needs don’t stop because of the pandemic.”

As an organization, VON was able to adapt their services to pandemic restrictions. “First and foremost, we focused on keeping our staff, our clients, and their families safe, using best practices in infection prevention and control,” says Poirier. “We were then able to adapt many of our programs and services, offering programs online and dropping off ‘activity bags’ at the homes of our adult day clients.”

Those working in healthcare have and continue to face extraordinary pressures, Poirier notes. “Healthcare workers across the province were feeling overwhelmed and there was — and still is — a real risk of burnout,” she says. “Despite that, our staff volunteered to support

critically understaffed long-term care facilities, also helping with mass vaccination efforts. We’re grateful for the incredible level of commitment we’ve had from our staff throughout the pandemic.”

VON Connect Even before COVID-19, VON faced a particular challenge: paper. “A symptom of home and community care being less visible is that we still are very much a paper-based area of healthcare,” says Poirier. “Being paper-based makes it even more difficult to meet the significant rise in demand for our care and services.”

To address the paper challenge, VON recently announced the launch of a 4-million-dollar digital health technology campaign: VON Connect. “VON Connect is a software tool that will connect all VON sites and VON staff, plus our clients and their families,” says Poirier.

“All client records, outcome data, best practices information, and schedules will be accessible from anywhere. It will allow us to provide more virtual care, automate manual processes, and spend more time with a client with less time filling out paperwork.”

BUSINESS VOICE

The move to digital will significantly impact VON’s operations and efficiency, says Poirier. “Honestly, it will be transformative for our entire organization and make the outstanding care and services we provide even better,” she says. “It will allow us to relieve pressure off hospitals and long-term care by providing care for people in their homes and communities, where they want to be.”

After all, home is at the heart of VON’s mission. Poirier notes that by 2030, more than one in four Nova Scotians will be 65 or older, and a vast majority of them will want to age at home. “It’s where they’re comfortable, and it’s close to loved ones,” she says.

“The work VON is doing right now — adapting our programs, growing our human resources capacity, and especially VON Connect — is how we’re preparing for this future. We want to make a difference in the lives of as many Nova Scotians as possible.”

To learn more about VON’s services, volunteering opportunities, and ways you can support their essential work, visit: von.ca

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SURGE SPOTLIGHT

Building the symbol of success tREv Clothing on inspiration, inclusion, and designing by principle By Emily Bednarz IMAGES CREDIT: TREVOR MOUNT

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his past July, local designers showcased their work at the Invest in NEST Fundraiser Runway showcase.

Proceeds from the show went to Halifax's North End Startup and Training Program (NEST), established to support Black and Indigenous entrepreneurs and creators.

Chamber members like tREv Clothing (as well as MichNatFashion and DB Pearlz Designs) put the spotlight on their style while contributing to a meaningful cause.

Invest in NEST is the perfect example of how Trevor Silver, the designer behind tREv Clothing, builds his brand principles — trust, respect, education, and value — into his work. “The show was successful in fundraising to assist NEST, while also showcasing diverse talent from designers, musicians, and chefs we have here in Halifax,” he says.

On the runway, Silver was able to showcase a timeline of his designs.

“What inspired our runway looks were items past and present, with a preview of a future collection I’m currently working on: the CULTURE Collection,” says Silver. “The centerpiece for this collection will be the ‘University of Life’ design, which explores the complexities of education across cultures while advocating for life-long learning.”

Collaboration and community were also key to Silver’s participation in the show. “The ‘Invest in NEST’ Showcase was a collaboration with Solitha Shortte’s ‘Fabric of Our DNA’ Showcase,” he says.

Silver met Shortte when they were both starting up businesses; Shortte runs Soli Productions, a talent agency. “I participate in all of Soli Productions’ shows and we collaborate whenever we can,” says Silver.

Silver established tREv Clothing in 2017, with his principles in mind. “My goal from the beginning was for the tREv brand to ultimately be a symbol of

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success,” he says. “I want the logo and the principles to inspire people to trust, respect, educate, and value themselves and others. I needed the brand to have real meaning beyond the material: an ideal that can act as a guiding light towards our own individual success.”

Alongside these principles, Silver is inspired by the people he works with. “It’s definitely been a grind from the beginning, but beyond the principles, it’s the people who love the tREv brand that keep me going,” he says. “I enjoy creating for them and those who have yet to discover tREv. Whether you see culture, diversity, unity, or love, my intentions with the tREv brand are to inspire success.”

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tREv Clothing currently shares a space with Eastcoast Kicks and will be opening a new storefront in the Bedford Place Mall this September. In the meantime, keep updated at: trevclothing.com The Halifax Chamber recognizes the need to create opportunities for those who face systemic barriers within the business community. It is our ongoing priority to ensure participation amongst the broader, more diverse business community. Our SURGE program provides complimentary Chamber memberships to businesses from underrepresented groups who qualify.

WORKING FOR YOU

Advocacy in action Localizing and socializing procurement

KATHLEEN MACEACHERN SENIOR POLICY ANALYST

GREG WARBURTON SUMMER LAW STUDENT, MCMILLAN LAW

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he Halifax Chamber has been working diligently to ensure our members are up-to-date and aware of the programs, services, and announcements that could impact their business. We have also spent countless hours chatting with members, producing relevant webinar material, and advocating for increased supports and common-sense policies to the government. Our advocacy work is often quite specific, focusing on issues like taxes, transit, and red tape. As our business community begins to recover, it is time to start looking forward. It’s time to find new and better ways to do

business. One such way is through local and social procurement.

Billions of dollars are spent on the procurement of goods and services each year in Nova Scotia, but not all those dollars are spent locally. There are good reasons why it’s high time to adopt a local lens when procuring products.

When governments and businesses alike choose to procure goods or services from outside our region, a significant amount of money “leaks” out of the community — to our detriment. The reason for this is straightforward: when a local business is awarded a procurement contract, it has a far greater multiplier effect than a non-local one.

It’s been found that, when awarded a procurement contract, local businesses recirculate upwards of 33% of revenue earned, while non-local businesses recirculate as little as 1% and only as much as 18%. This means that a theoretical $1M contract awarded to a local business would recirculate upwards of $330,000, compared to a non-local business that would circulate anywhere from $187,000 to $10,000. This means that a local business recirculates 77% more than the very best non-local business, and 3200% more than the worst.

There are countless other benefits of BUSINESS VOICE

procuring locally, including job creation, improved charitable giving (local businesses are more generous than non-local ones), supporting the revitalization of downtown cores, and generating (and keeping) knowledge and skill here in Nova Scotia. Local procurement doesn’t only support small businesses, but our community more broadly.

Of course, the reality is that different levels of government play a lopsided role in the procurement of goods and services. From building new hospitals to the salt we use on the roads in the winter, governments buy a lot — and they buy a lot non-locally. A responsibility falls on all levels of government to adopt a local lens in procurement as a method to support regional economic development. But this doesn’t mean we don’t all have a role to play in supporting our local businesses and community. Adopting a local lens when procuring goods and services is a good place to start.

The Chamber will continue to support our business community and residents through the provision and discussion of new and innovative ways to do business. We are open to ideas or stories and would love to hear from you. You can reach our Senior VP of Policy, Kent Roberts, at kent@halifaxchamber.com.

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Is your business on a solid foundation?

The importance of a business strategic plan

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STEPHEN SLAUENWHITE REGIONAL DIRECTOR, ATLANTIC CANADA THE CFO CENTRE

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hen building a house, the design takes into consideration the size of the building, as well as the number, types, and sizes of rooms. The design considers the features of the building, like the length, width, number of stories, windows, doors, and the roof.

During the planning stage, the foundation of the house is planned out — the foundation must be able to support the proposed structure. The foundation plan includes things like the land layout, soil type, drainage, concrete type, thickness, and rebar. Once the house design is finished, the first step in the home construction is building the foundation that can support the building construction.

A contractor would never start constructing walls, joists, roof trusses, and all the finished living space unless they knew the foundation could support the building. (The local building inspector would make sure of that!)

The same is true in business — and the Strategic Plan is the foundation for a company. Unfortunately, the term “Strategic Plan” is used frequently in the business world and all too often, it 26

For over 100 years, Business Voice has been the main communication vehicle for members of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce. The magazine promotes the Halifax business community and keeps our members informed.

Get started today at: halifaxchamber.com/business-voice

is not fully understood by the business owner (particularly as to what should be included) or the plan itself is not documented and regularly reviewed over time.

Every strategic plan should have and consider Structure (the company as a legal entity), Owner and Owners (shareholder’s agreement, incorporation documents, governance requirements), Operations (human resources, procedures, policies, technology, and budget), and Risks (key employees, government regulations, competition, and cybersecurity).

If a business owner does not have the skills or knowledge to work through a Strategic Plan, they need the assistance of a financial professional. Financial professionals like us can not only help answer whether your business built on a solid foundation — we can use our professional training, skills, experience, and knowledge to help build a strategic plan for today that will allow you to grow with your business into the future.

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An experienced financial professional can work with a business owner and their advisors to ensure the Strategic Plan is reviewed and that options are considered, implications are fully understood, and the Strategic Plan is documented.

Make sure your business has a Strategic Plan – a solid foundation to build your business on.

Learn more at: cfocentre.com _____________________________________ Stephen Slauenwhite has 35 years of business experience ranging from executive roles during his 25 years with Royal Bank, 10 years as the Chief Financial Officer of a large manufacturing company and today he works with numerous professional CFOs on his team providing fractional CFO services to clients across Atlantic Canada.

Stephen holds an Executive MBA from St. Mary’s University in Halifax, NS and is an accredited CPA, CMA professional accountant.

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How international students help the local community Offering a hand to vulnerable students can strengthen Nova Scotia

IVEN HE GENERAL MANAGER FOR YOU NEWCOMER COUNSELLING AGENCY INC

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n a sunny afternoon in Halifax, you can usually see university campuses crowded with students — including a large number of international students that come to Halifax each year. The universities in Halifax host more than 12,000 international students at any given time. At lunchtime, these students often cram into Halifax restaurants and crowd onto park lawns. Local schools like Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University, Mount Saint Vincent University, and the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design attract plenty of foreign students who come to seek higher education and gain work experience here after graduating.

These foreign students bring many economic and cultural benefits to Halifax and have a huge economic influence on local businesses like property companies, restaurants, and shopping centers.

Many international students set up their own businesses, and by doing so introduce various cultural characteristics to the local community and create new job opportunities. Restaurants, bubble teahouses, and niche shops operated by international graduates in downtown Halifax attract many locals to visit.

However, sometimes international students are a vulnerable group — especially those who have left home for the first time. When these young students arrive in a different country with a different social environment, it is hard for them to adapt to their new surroundings.

“By showing our support for these students, we can help improve Halifax as a community. ” — Ivan He General Manager, For You Newcomer Counselling Agency Inc.

During the pandemic, as many of the local universities cancelled in-person classes, many foreign students still chose to travel to Halifax, where they struggled with quarantine policies, academic pressures, and the housing crisis.

Finding suitable accommodations is a headache for most students, but especially for international students who lack important resources (like social networks, references, and North American credit) to help establish themselves in a new community. As the vacancy rate in Halifax is only one percent, many international students stay at a hotel for weeks while they search for an apartment. This can be extremely costly and stressful.

Fortunately, local community members offer a helping hand to these vulnerable students and help them contact local developers and renters. One such example is Lei Wang, who was an international student at Saint Mary’s University. Wang now works for a language school that has helped more than 50 foreign students BUSINESS VOICE

apply for apartments this year.

Local organizations such as ISANS and For You Newcomer also help international students connect with local communities and resources. The picture above shows a group of Chinese students, with the Residential Leasing Manager from Southwest Properties, participating in a Chinese New Year celebration organized by For You Newcomer before the pandemic. Many international students are likely to work and live in Halifax when they graduate, and in turn, they will help new international students discover Halifax.

It is important that international students have the help and resources they need. By showing our support for these students, we can help improve Halifax as a community overall.

Learn more at: foryoucounselling.com

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A layered approach to IT security Overlapping protections to keep your business safe

“The best security approach incorporates layers of defenses, mixing business and technical solutions. ” — Ian Roddis President, Kinesin Data Technologies Incorporated

IAN RODDIS PRESIDENT KINESIN DATA TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED

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e live in a world driven by IT, and the pandemic forced everyone to lead even more virtual lives — through remote work, increased online shopping, and a greater reliance on social networks.

Unsurprisingly, cyber-attacks and social engineering scams are also on the rise. Cryptocurrencies have made it much easier for scammers to safely profit from crimes, and an increasingly connected life means there are more ways that attackers can target your business.

Luckily, there are some easy-to-implement best practices to keep your business safe and limit the impact of catastrophes.

Defense begins with the heart of your company: your people. So much of our lives are lived online that it's easier than ever for attackers to find personal details and use them to craft phone calls and emails, all aimed at fooling your employees into sending money or obtaining access to internal systems.

Foster skepticism in your company by offering security awareness training, at least once per year. Help employees remain on guard by adding banners to 28

emails from external parties, telling the recipient to be cautious of links and attachments. Disable the automatic loading of images in emails to prevent senders from knowing if their emails were opened, potentially revealing a solid lead.

Work with a specialist to ensure your domain is difficult to spoof in emails.

Guard against social engineering by implementing business protections, such as a policy of not accepting new wire instructions without a verification phone call with a known-safe or secure phone number.

There are also easy technology changes you can make to enhance your security profile.

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Windows and Mac OS X provide out-of-the-box defenses against viruses and malware. They can also be configured to be more aggressive, potentially making third-party software unnecessary. Keep your devices patched and protect your edge by working with email providers that offer scanning of emails for malicious payloads.

Encourage users to install browser extensions like Privacy Badger and uBlock Origin that are open-source defenses against malicious websites and intrusive ads.

A company-managed password manager can increase security by making it easy to generate secure usernames and passwords. They also provide business continuity, as passwords are stored and accessible in SEPTEMBER 2022

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the event an employee can’t provide the details themselves.

Finally, create a plan in case of a successful attack. Who will be the point of contact? How will you limit the attack? What’s the fastest way to get your business up and running again?

Speaking of data, remember the 3-2-1 rule: keep at least three copies, in at least two locations, and at least one copy completely offline. Backups are a key defense against clouds going down, ransomware attacks, or geographic disasters. Keep in mind that synchronization tools like OneDrive or Dropbox are not backups. Corrupt data, accidental deletions, and ransomware can be synchronized just as easily as good data.

The best security approach incorporates layers of defenses, mixing business and technical solutions. Train your workforce, take and regularly test backups, keep software and firmware up-to-date, and write and maintain disaster recovery plans.

Security is a constantly changing landscape. If you are not an IT person yourself, find a trusted partner that can help protect your business without limiting your ability to get work done.

Learn more about Kinesin Data Technologies at: kinesin.ca

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How good is the growth in Nova Scotia?

Examining the latest population, business confidence, economic, and employment data

MARGARET CHAPMAN COO & PARTNER NARRATIVE RESEARCH

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here is no doubt that we are living in a time of change. We see this every day as we emerge from the current stage of the pandemic and witness the major economic challenges of inflation, and rising interest rates. In this environment, it is helpful to examine demographic and psychosocial changes to provide context for organizations to make more informed decisions. Narrative Research has been understanding behaviours and societal trends for nearly 45 years, and this wealth of data gives us a prism through which to examine current conditions.

Atlantic Canada’s population has historically been more rural than the rest of Canada, but with recent waves of immigration, inter-provincial migration and urbanization, this is beginning to shift in Nova Scotia, albeit slowly. As of 2021, 41% of the province’s population lived in rural areas (defined as living in an area with a population of 5,000 or fewer residents). This is more than double Canada’s average of 18%. For governments and businesses, providing services in areas where populations are dispersed can prove challenging. But the trend toward urbanization is evident. For example, in 2021 Halifax’s population

grew by 9.1% — close to double the growth rate of the province as a whole.

Nova Scotia’s population is changing in other ways as well. Last year, we welcomed 9,000 new permanent residents, a record-breaking year, and our population growth is now nearly meeting the Canadian average of 5.2%. Nova Scotia grew at 5% from 2016 to 2021 — much higher than the 0.2% growth experienced in the previous 5-year period. Our retention rate for new immigrants was also the highest in Atlantic Canada at 71%, meaning people generally want to stay here once they arrive.

The composition of our immigrant population is changing as well: the top five source countries in 2021 were India, China, Philippines, South Korea, and Nigeria. Welcoming new immigrants from a variety of countries brings new opportunities and a new mix of perspectives. As a business community, we need to continue to find ways to integrate new immigrants into our region to ensure this high retention rate is maintained.

We believe population growth is positive, but only if our economy is also growing. We have monitored consumer confidence in our region for decades, and current levels are worrying. In our most recent survey of Nova Scotians, confidence hit a record low — well below levels experienced at the start of the pandemic.

Consumer confidence is often the canary in the coal mine, foreshadowing tightened spending as Nova Scotians are wary of making major purchases.

We also monitor working Nova Scotians’ economic circumstances.

Our latest data on the subject suggests that only a minority of employed Nova Scotians received a pay increase in the previous year, and those pay rises were, on average, trailing inflation. This means fewer dollars available to spend on discretionary items, although some household savings likely were accrued during the pandemic related to remote BUSINESS VOICE

“We believe population growth is positive, but only if our economy is also growing. ” — Margaret Chapman COO & Partner, Narrative Research

work and a lack of travel / vacations.

Moreover, Nova Scotians’ lives are changing because of economic conditions. People are driving less, limiting the number or distance of trips, changing the type of food they buy, and a quarter of the population is assuming more debt — in part due to the increased cost of living. That same quarter of the population indicated they are stressed about the total debt they are carrying, and some are concerned about whether they will ever be able to pay off their debts.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that unemployment is extraordinarily low, and most of those who are employed feel secure in their employment. Most employees have a high level of commitment to their employers and are satisfied with their job. But many employees tell us they are looking for flexibility in how they work, and there doesn’t seem to be a ‘one-size fits all’ situation in terms of location: half prefer to work on site, a third wish to work remotely, and 17% seek a mix.

Changes in environment, public opinions, and the economy are never easy to navigate as a business community, but understanding the context of changes can help to provide some guidance as we chart our course for the future.

Learn more about Narrative Research at: narrativeresearch.ca 29

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Three steps to a successful CSR strategy Responsible businesses care about more than their bottom line Step 1: Identify What Matters

SARAH RILEY CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER R&G STRATEGIC

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orporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has long been a hot topic for enterprise organizations, but companies of all sizes are starting to get curious about CSR. A great CSR strategy doesn’t just positively impact our environment and society at large. It’s a means to:

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More deeply engage your team Attract talent Reduce turnover Fortify your reputation Build customer trust And yes—even boost your bottom line

But how and where to get started can be daunting. And there’s another catch: once you begin implementing your CSR plans, you’ll also want to think about how you promote your efforts to see the biggest return.

CSR goes deeper than simply consideration for your company’s social and environmental impact. When you’re doing it right, CSR provides value across the entire spectrum of your business activities. Here are 3 key steps to crafting your CSR strategy.

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A great CSR strategy sits at the centre of what matters to your community at large, and the environmental and social issues that factor into your success. If you’re stumped, start with your operational essentials. A bakery, for instance, relies on water and the physical health of employees to perform tasks like carry heavy items and knead dough. This puts a focus on water use and wellbeing.

Once you’ve identified potential social and environmental priorities, vet them with your community. Remember, your “community” means more than your C Suite! It’s your customer, your neighbour — even other businesses vital to your supply chain.

The biggest mistake small to medium-sized businesses make is allowing management teams to dictate a CSR approach. A CSR strategy handed down without widespread team engagement is the one most likely to be met with cynicism.

How do you find out what’s important to your employees and your wider business ecosystem? You ask! From focus groups to surveys, there is no “wrong” way to engage your community on what matters most.

Step 2: Invest and Measure Now that you’ve outlined some key issues and areas of opportunity, it’s time to initiate CSR programming. This is where creative thinking comes in. The bakery identifying “water use” as a key issue might sponsor a nonprofit dedicated to preserving water quality or local watersheds.

A meaningful CSR tactic doesn’t have to be as sweeping as a new HR policy or a big charity investment. It can be as subtle as a single change in procurement. Making the switch to a more

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sustainable option in your supply chain can have a huge impact, from reducing waste to lessening negative effects on the environment.

No matter your program, remember the most important aspect: measurement. Without metrics, it’s impossible to communicate your impact. Whether it’s number of trees planted or volunteer hours, you’ll want to identify the key metrics that help your audiences understand what all this was for.

Step 3: Communicate Don’t let your CSR efforts go unnoticed. Organizations who excel at CSR are able to help their audiences understand not only where they stand, but also exactly what kind of impact their CSR investment has had. The best CSR communications plans consider and engage both customers and your wider community.

So, should you plan and implement a CSR strategy? We think so! But don’t take our word for it. Pay attention to these statistics:

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According to a global study by Neilson, 3 out of 4 millennials (a generation with the most spending power!) would pay extra for sustainable offerings.

S&P 500 companies making sustainability a core strategy outperform those that fail to show leadership.

87% would purchase a product or service because a company supported an issue or cause they’re passionate about.

Learn more about R&G Strategic at: rgstrategic.com

SAVE WITH THE CHAMBER'S

AFFINITY PARTNERS

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As a member of the Chamber you gain access to many benefit programs that can save you and your company money. You can recover the cost of your membership many times over just by taking advantage of these money and time saving benefits from our Affinity Partners. Find out more at halifaxchamber.com BUSINESS VOICE

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