Our Team

Carman is proud to have been born and raised in Annapolis County. After graduating from Dalhousie with a Bachelor of Science degree, he had a successful career as an executive, entrepreneur, and consultant in the tourism sector here in Nova Scotia and across Eastern Canada.

Carman has a passion for helping people and is a proven problem-solver, consensus builder, and facilitator. He is deeply committed to working hard to ensure that his communities succeed in a post-pandemic world.

Randy was first elected as MLA for Antigonish in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. Before his time in public office, he was a steadfast advocate for community-based education in rural Nova Scotia. Now during his time in office, Randy remains a resilient activist of his home of Antigonish where he currently resides with his wife and four kids.

Prior to his start in politics, Randy was a professor in the Faculty of Business at his alma mater St. Francis Xavier University; he graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Information Systems degree. He also holds an MBA from the Universite de Moncton and is a current PhD candidate in Management at Saint Mary’s University.

Nick was born and raised in Lower West Pubnico — an area that is extremely proud of their deep Acadian history, and one that Nick is very proud of too. Nick completed his high school education at École secondaire de Par-en-Bas in Tusket, Nova Scotia. Nick recently completed his first year of studies at Dalhousie University, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences degree in Political Science.

Nick has worked in the community at several locations, including le Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos where he helped locals and tourists trace their genealogy and family roots to the rich Acadian history that is connected to the area and across the province. Nick also proudly worked at Dennis Point Café in Pubnico where he grew a deep appreciation for the tourism and fisheries sectors in the province. Nick is also an esteemed volunteer and has been a strong advocate for encouraging more young people to get involved in politics.

Kelly has been representing her community of Bedford Basin in the Nova Scotia Legislature since 2009. Since then, she has held a variety of cabinet positions and currently serves as the Minister of Community Services, Seniors, and the Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. Most notably, Kelly had the honour of being appointed Deputy Premier of Nova Scotia in the government led by Premier Iain Rankin.

Prior to politics, Kelly received an honours degree from the University of Waterloo’s Co-op English Program. She has worked as an award-winning television director, producer, and writer.  Kelly has lived with her husband Geoff Regan in Bedford since 1993, and they have three children.

Braedon grew up in Bedford and attended Dalhousie University and Carleton University before working in politics and journalism across the country. He returned to Nova Scotia in 2014 to work as a political assistant to both Minister Lloyd Hines and Minister Mark Furey. Braedon once again calls Bedford home, this time with his wife Caitie, and their two young children, Beau and Heidi.

Braedon is a tireless advocate for his community. He served as the assistant coach of the CPA boys’ basketball team for three seasons. Braedon has also served as a dedicated volunteer with the SPCA, the Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS), and has served on the board of the Halifax West Liberal Association. Currently, Braedon works for NATIONAL Public Relations, helping his clients tell their stories better and make a positive impact in Nova Scotia.

Michelle was born and raised in Whitney Pier and is passionate about her community. In 2005, she opened her own award-winning business, Timeless Moments Bridal Salon & Formal Wear. In 2014, Michelle sold her business and soon became the Executive Director of the Sydney Downtown Development Association after serving as an active volunteer and board president.

For many years, Michelle has been a member of the Cape Breton Regional Chamber of Commerce, has served on the board since 2014 and recently finished her role as board chair earlier this year. She is also a board member of Downtowns Atlantic Canada where she advocates for business improvement in the East Coast. Michelle lives in Whitney Pier with her husband Angus and their children.

Heather has lived in Cape Breton East for nearly her entire life. Her professional endeavours include working as a Licensed Practical Nurse in the regional hospital and nursing homes, in the classroom as a student aide, and nearly a decade working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Heather also worked in the federal government at Revenue Canada Taxation in Ottawa and Citizenship and Immigration Canada. For the past twenty five years, Heather has played an instrumental role in working with her family’s company, Peters’ Construction Limited where she was responsible for the health and safety of workers on large projects such as the Sydney Tar Ponds and Coke Ovens Clean Up Project.

As a single mother of two, Heather was an active member of the School Advisory Council at Mira Road Elementary School, held membership on both the Riverview and Sydney Families of Schools and School Options Committees. She has also coached local sports teams for youth and helped with fundraisers and children’s summer camps. Heather also  opened her family’s home to the Alternative Family Support Program through the Department of Community Services as a strong advocate for people with special needs.

Jacob proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces as a member of the Royal Canadian Navy for fifteen years. During his time serving our country, Jacob completed a degree in Political Science from Saint Mary’s University. Prior to his successful career in the military, Jacob worked in the sales and banking industries.

Jacob grew up in Hubbards and attended all three levels of school in the community. His deep connection to the community have allowed him to build strong relationships with the people of Chester-St. Margaret’s. Jacob lives in Tantallon with his wife, Meghan and their daughter.

Ronnie is a fisherman from Meteghan and spent his fishing career in Baie Sainte-Marie. In 2000, Ronnie was first elected to the Municipal Council of Clare. He was elected Deputy Warden in 2008 and later Warden in 2012, where he continues to serve today. During his time in council, Ronnie has been an instrumental leader in many projects, including the Clare Health Centre (Centre Médical Dr. Lionel d’Entremont), the Municipality’s Doctor Recruiting and Retention Committee, and a municipal project to implement high speed internet throughout the community.

Currently, Ronnie is the Vice President of the Board of Governors at Université Sainte-Anne. Ronnie is a strong advocate for rural economic development and lends his time to the Board of Conseil de Développement Économique de la Nouvelle-Écosse as a vice-chair. Ronnie proudly lives in Meteghan with his wife, Tina, and daughter, Mattea.

Rafah was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as MLA for Clayton Park West in 2017. Currently, Rafah serves as the Liberal Caucus Chair and Whip. As a resident of Clayton Park West for over 36 years, she has been a passionate advocate for her community and continues to take initiatives around women’s empowerment, youth involvement in the community, and litter prevention.

Rafah is a parishioner of St. Benedict’s Catholic Church, and a member of the Italian Cultural Centre. She speaks five different languages and has worked as a medical interpreter for new immigrants and refugees for close to 30 years.

Rhonda spent much of her life in British Columbia before her strong ties to Nova Scotia brought her to her current home in Colchester County. Rhonda has taught elementary school, as well as music, art, drama, and has participated in numerous musical and theatrical performances. In 2010, she had the opportunity to be a part of the opening act for the Vancouver Olympics where she played fiddle and vocals. She is currently the pianist for the Caledonian Orchestra of Nova Scotia.

Rhonda has a diploma from attending Bible School for three years, as well as a Bachelor of Commerce and is working toward completing her Master’s in Business Administration. She has volunteered on a number of boards, including two affordable housing boards. Rhonda is an accomplished artist and runs a small business selling artwork of Nova Scotia vistas.

Merlyn has been a resident of the community of Valley for the past 28 years. Currently, he serves as the Operations Manager and Health & Safety Officer for a Nova Scotia retail gas and convenience company. For over 27 years, Merlyn has been a member of the Valley-Kemptown and District Fire Brigade. Merlyn has held various positions and currently holds the position of Captain. He also volunteers with the Colchester Fire Fighters Association and has served as President for the past 22 years.

Merlyn has been a dedicated community volunteer for many years through his involvement in emergency services, coaching youth sport, and other service organizations. His professional experience has provided him with strong financial and management skills and has made him acutely aware of the issues that matter the most in Colchester North.

Tony has proudly represented his community as MLA in the Nova Scotia Legislature since 2013. During his time in government, Tony has served as Minister of Communities, Culture, and Heritage, the Public Service Commission, and currently serves as the Minister of Communications Nova Scotia. Additionally, Tony has served as the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs where he has served as a tireless advocate for African Nova Scotians across the province.

Before entering politics, Tony worked as a counsellor with the Department of Community Services, helping at-risk youth, families, and incarcerated individuals navigate the system. He also worked as a project coordinator with the Black Educators Association and as a patient attendant at Victoria General Hospital.

Lorelei previously served as HRM Councillor for 12 years, and served as Deputy Mayor in 2015. During that time, she participated in the Regional Plan Review and promoted the development of the Cole Harbour Basin Open Space Plan. She represented HRM Council on the boards of the Halifax Partnership, Halifax Water, Trade Centre Limited and Destination Halifax, and the Canadian Urban Transit Association. Lorelei was the second woman to be Deputy Mayor in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Lorelei was born in the small Acadian fishing village of Petit-de-Grat on Isle Madame on Cape Breton Island. Lorelei and her husband have called Cole Harbour home for over 36 years. In addition to serving on HRM Council, she has been active in the community since this time. She has also served as Chair of School Advisory Councils at all three levels of schools, as a board member of the Cole Harbour Outdoor Pool & Tennis Complex, as the founding Chair of the long running Cole Harbour Harvest Festival, and a member of the board of Cole Harbour Place.

Bill Casey served seven terms as the Member of Parliament for Cumberland-Colchester where he collaborated with all levels of governments to make positive change for his constituents. Bill is committed to bringing the unique issues of the region to the forefront of the government decision-making table.

Bill understands the importance of tackling the imminent threat that climate change poses to the people of Cumberland North.  As MP for the area, Bill worked with all levels of government to ensure the important transportation link to Cumberland North and Westmorland County is not jeopardized due to the ongoing climate emergency. Bill’s experience will position him to be an effective leader on issues such as post-pandemic economic recovery, climate change, and strengthening the relationship of Cumberland North with the entire province.

Rollie was born and raised in Cumberland County. He is a tireless advocate for access to health care for our veterans. As a veteran who has served at home and abroad, Rollie understands the complex medical needs of those who have served, and will be a strong voice for veterans as MLA for Cumberland South.

D’Arcy, his partner, and their two children are active members of the Dartmouth East community.  He has held leadership positions with great success in the academic, business, and community sectors. As a manager with organizations such as ISANS and Concentric Nova Scotia, D’Arcy has been able to help immigrants and non-profits build futures right here in Nova Scotia.

As an active community leader and volunteer, D’Arcy has twice been recognized by the Province of Nova Scotia for his commitment to volunteerism and education. D’Arcy has been involved with a number of School Advisory Councils and has been able to secure grants to provide more opportunities for students. Currently, D’Arcy is the Chair of the School Advisory Council at Brookhouse Elementary. 

Pam is a driven and passionate volunteer and businesswoman, most notably as the co-founder of CarShare Atlantic (now Communauto Atlantic). Since 1996, Pam has worked with over 250 businesses, not-for-profits and government departments. For twenty years, she led projects that addressed issues such as poverty, gender equality, food security, and housing. Pam is also the Founder of Choosethical Ventures Inc., a consulting company based in Vancouver and Halifax. Her work in Nova Scotia has been with The Office of L’nu Affairs, the “Made in Nova Scotia” tri-partied treaty negotiations, The Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre, and the Nova Scotia Department of Lands and Forestry.

As a dedicated volunteer, Pam has given her time on the Board of Inspiring Communities and Tennis Nova Scotia. As part of the team for the recent project for new affordable housing units at the Mi’kmaw Friendship Centre, Pam has developed strong relationships with Nova Scotia’s Indigenous community and is an advocate for reconciliation in our province. Pam has devoted her career to creating a greener, more equitable world.

Jimmy recently retired from Council after serving as councillor for the Municipality of the District of Digby for the past 20 years, and most recently as Warden for the past 4 years. During his time on council, Jimmy served on the board of the Federation of Nova Scotia Municipalities and was elected as President in 2011. He also served as the Chair for Property Valuation Services Corporation and the Library Board Association of Nova Scotia for a number of years.

Throughout his time in municipal politics, Jimmy worked to enhance municipal transit, resulting in Kings Transit and Transport de Clare. He is committed to sustainability and led projects that work on climate change initiatives, such as the installation of tidal gauges in five locations to monitor sea-level rise. Before politics, Jimmy was employed at T & C Motors, a family owned and operated business for over 40 years.

Joyce was first elected in 2013 as the MLA for Cole Harbour-Eastern Passage and served her riding until 2017. Prior to entering politics, Joyce owned and operated her own small business, Impressions Salon, in Eastern Passage for more than 30 years.

She is known for her selfless character and dedication for helping anyone who needs it. Joyce is an active member on the board of the Fisherman’s Cove Development Association. As an MLA, she championed the construction of the new Eastern Passage High School. Joyce proudly lives in the community with her husband Joe and son Ryder.

Kevin Murphy was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as MLA for Eastern Shore in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. Kevin has been the Speaker of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly since 2013, making him the longest currently serving Canadian Speaker.

Kevin has a spinal cord injury as a result of a hockey accident in 1985 and has never let his disability be a barrier to anything he has set his mind to.  Kevin has a long history of community involvement in many organizations along the Eastern Shore

Kevin graduated from Saint Mary’s University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Commerce and has remained in the community of the Eastern Shore operating several successful small businesses over the past 3 decades.

Kevin and his wife Stephanie have been married since 1999, and reside in Porters Lake with their two children Jackson and Rachael.

Patricia has proudly called Nova Scotia home for her entire life. She graduated from Dalhousie University/University of King’s College with a Bachelor of Arts Degree before receiving a Bachelor of Education from Mount Saint Vincent University. Patricia worked for a number of years as a teacher in Halifax before returning to school to complete her Masters of Education in Counselling from Acadia University. During her time as a guidance counsellor and teacher at Forest Heights Community School in Chester Grant, Patricia had the opportunity to work with Dr. Stan Kutcher, piloting his mental health curriculum, which has since been adopted nationally.

A career in politics was a natural fit for Patricia who had been an active volunteer in her church, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the IWK, and the Diman Association of Canada. She has had the privilege of serving as MLA for Fairview-Clayton Park since 2013 and in 2017 was appointed to cabinet. She currently serves as Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Internal Services.

John John has always been an active member in his home of Glace Bay-Dominion. He is an exceptional athlete and has represented his hometown nationally and internationally as a champion boxer and a baseball player. John John is currently a teacher at Glace Bay High School and owns John John’s Knockout Fitness where he inspires and motivates his students and clients.

Throughout his career, John John has demonstrated his commitment to helping at risk youth unlock their true potential. He has taught the Steps to Success program, behaviour intervention programs, and often works with outside agencies to help young offenders. John John has volunteered with the Police Boys and Girls, mentoring programs at Cape Breton University, and supports local initiatives such as the Hawks Club Field of Dreams fundraisers. He has been married to his wife Candee for 21 years and they are proudly raising their two teenage boys, Matthew and Keigan in Glace Bay-Dominion.

Lloyd was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as MLA for Guysborough-Eastern Shore-Tracadie in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017.  

He was the Municipal Warden of the Guysborough Municipality and worked for many years in the energy and hospitality industries. His past experiences have proven beneficial as he has served as Minister of Natural Resources and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal.

In 1991, Ali and his wife fled their home in Somalia due to the civil war. After spending seven years in a Kenyan refugee camp, they came to Canada to build a better life for their family. Since 2004, Ali has worked for the Halifax Regional Fire Department as a firefighter and spent time as the fire department’s Diversity and Community Liaison Officer. Ali’s inspiring story has been featured at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights as a testament to his hard work and dedication to build a new life for him and his family.

Ali has devoted his life to the community by advocating for a mosque and a community centre that provides a place for his family and neighbours to gather. As a father of eight, Ali has been a strong ally for youth and coordinated a free basketball program for immigrant youth at St. Andrew’s Community Centre as well as a swimming program at the Canada Games Centre. Ali has been involved with a number of community boards, including the Maritime Muslim Academy Board.

Brendan was first elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature in 2013 as the MLA for Halifax Atlantic. Since being elected, Brendan has served as Deputy Speaker and Ministerial Assistant to the Minister responsible for Housing Nova Scotia. In Premier Iain Rankin’s new government, Brendan had the honour of being appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs.

Prior to entering politics, Brendan worked with the Halifax Water Commission as a sales representative and technician. His ability to connect with his constituents is unmatched, which led him to be named the Best Member of the Provincial Legislature by The Coast for three years in a row. Brendan and his wife, alongside their three children, live happily in his riding of Halifax Atlantic.

Jackie has spent much of her life in the community of Halifax Chebucto. She has a background in medicine and is currently a psychiatrist with a passion for mental fitness and resilience. Jackie is a teacher at Dalhousie University and has founded a resilience training institute.

Outside of her career in medicine, Jackie has worked for sexual assault services and served on boards including Stepping Stone, Doctors Nova Scotia, the Canadian Mental Health Association, and other non-profits.  As a mother of two, Jackie was involved in many of her children’s sports teams as they were growing up and is passionate in ensuring Halifax Chebucto is a community for future generations to thrive.

Labi was first elected as MLA for Halifax Citadel-Sable Island in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. He has served as Minister of several portfolios before being appointed Minister of Finance and Treasury Board and Minister of Inclusive Economic Growth and Minister of Trade in Premier Iain Rankin’s government.

Son of Greek immigrants, Labi grew up with a unique perspective of Nova Scotia, spending much of his youth working in his parent’s restaurant. Before losing his parents at a young age, he’s parents instilled the value of education so that he would have opportunities they did not. Labi has earned his Bachelor of Commerce and MBA St. Mary’s University, and additionally completed his Certified Management Accounting (CMA) designation and is now a Certified Professional Accountant CPA-CMA. Labi resides in his riding with his spouse Jill, and their two children.

Colin grew up in Halifax before attending St. Francis Xavier University where he obtained a degree in Political Science and played on the football team. He was called to the Nova Scotia Bar in 2015 and currently works as a Public Defender with Nova Scotia Legal Aid. Colin has lived in Halifax his entire life and has called North End Halifax his home for the past five years with his wife Alexandria Barnes and their dog Boomer.

Colin is a passionate community advocate. He currently sits on the Board of Directors of Wee Care Developmental Centre and has volunteered at the Ronald MacDonald House. Colin is also a proud community member of the St. Stephen’s Elementary School Advisory Council.

Ben was proudly elected to represent his hometown of Hammonds Plains-Lucasville as MLA in 2013. Since then, he has served on numerous committees, including Veterans Affairs, Private & Local Bills, and Public Accounts. Most recently, Ben had the honour of being appointed to Premier Iain Rankin’s cabinet as Minister of the Public Service Commission.

Ben attended all three levels of school in his riding before going on to complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Management from Acadia University. Ben’s passion for advocating for youth began when he served as President of the Students’ Union at Acadia University and as a member of Students Nova Scotia and the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations. Ben is heavily involved in his community and actively volunteers as a coach for youth soccer and hockey.

Michael Blois is a life-long resident of Gore, East Hants and grew up on an eighth-generation family farm with his parents, Debbie and Barron, and three brothers, Beau, Emmett, and Willem. He attended Hants North Rural High in Kennetcook before going to complete a Bachelors of Science in Agricultural Business at Dalhousie University and a Masters of Business Administration at St. Mary’s University.

Michael has a strong connection to the community as a result of his lifelong dedication to volunteering. In 2016, Michael became the Director of East Hants Chamber of Commerce and was awarded the Tom Parker Award for Chamber Member of the Year in 2019. His goal of making Hants East a sought after destination for people across the province has led him to many entrepreneurial ventures, such as his business MudCraft, Empire Trails, and his family farm, Courthouse Hill Farm.

Brian has been a leader in the agricultural industry for the past 40 years. Born and raised in Hants County, Brian worked with his father on their family farm for several decades, and now Brian and his son are continuing the tradition. Brian and his wife raise and show Clydesdale horses at Caseydale Farms.

Brian is an active community volunteer and was recognized with a Volunteer Service Award for Hants West. He has been involved in several community boards and organizations, including serving as president of the Windsor Agricultural Society. After building his career and raising his family in Hants West, Brian is committed to promoting the many strengths of the community including tourism, entrepreneurship, and local and diversified agricultural ventures.

Damian is a resident of Inverness with a vast understanding of the issues in the community. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. F.X., a Recreation Leadership Diploma from NSCC, and an Economic Development Designation from the University of Waterloo. With over 10 years of experience in working in Nunavut and Nova Scotia in housing, economic development, and entrepreneurship, Damian has a deep connection to the issues that matter most to the residents of Inverness.

Damian has served as both the Executive Director of the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Officer for Inverness County. His company, Colindale Business Solutions is focused on helping businesses with startup, operations and expansion. He is also the founder of Rural Cape Breton Living Society, a non-profit social enterprise focused on the development of affordable, sustainable, and accessible housing. Damian is a dedicated community volunteer, lending his time to the Port Hood Minor Baseball Association, Next Gen Cape Breton, Mawita’mq Society, Port Hood Development, Inverness Raceway, Port Hood Triathlon, and the Port Hood and Area Recreation Commission.

Geof is a proud resident of Steam Mill where he lives on a small farm just down the road from where he grew up.  For over 25 years, Geof has worked for Canada Post in downtown Kentville. Geof and his wife Sherri have raised their two daughters in the Annapolis Valley. His oldest daughter is a recent graduate of Acadia University and his youngest daughter is a student at Northeast Kings Education Centre.

Geof is an active member of his community and volunteers his time with many local organizations including the Kentville Lions Club, Centreville Community Development Association, and Charles Macdonald Concrete House Museum. For fifteen years, he volunteered with the Valley local of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers as secretary-treasury and union president. Throughout the years, Geof’s family has proudly welcomed students from around the world into their home as an international host family.

Keith was first elected as MLA for Kings South in 2013. Keith has held numerous roles as a member of the Liberal team, including caucus chair and Deputy Speaker. Most notably, he was appointed as Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Chair of Treasury and Policy Board  in Iain Rankin’s new government. 

Before entering politics, Keith worked as an architect for many years. He also had the privilege of serving on Wolfville Town Council and Iqaluit Town Council.

Emily was born into a sixth generation family apple farm in Rockland where she and her husband now raise their three children. She has been twice elected to Kings County Council, both times being selected Deputy Mayor. Emily was also elected as President of the Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities where she works to build a strong relationship between municipal and provincial governments.

Emily has been a strong advocate for the community, serving on the Grand View Manor board and the Doctor Recruitment and Resident Retention Committee, helping residents of Kings County access valuable medical services. She has been a strong voice for young people and women in government and is regularly asked to speak about her experiences. Emily’s experience on her family farm has allowed her to be a champion for rural life and agriculture in Nova Scotia.

Suzanne is honoured to serve the constituents of Lunenburg since 2013. She has served as Deputy Speaker, Ministerial Assistant to the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development and chaired/vice-chaired numerous committees of the legislature. Suzanne currently serves as the Minister for Communities, Culture and Heritage and Minister for Gaelic Affairs.

After graduating from the Old Mahone Bay School, Suzanne attended Mount Saint Vincent University to study Early Childhood Education, and would later teach at the Child Study Centre. In 1989, she and her husband Ken returned to Lunenburg County where she participated in community activities and was recognized as a Provincial Representative Volunteer in 2010 for the Town of Mahone Bay. Having raised three sons, Suzanne is enjoying grandparenting three young granddaughters.

Jennifer was first elected as a member of the South Shore Regional School Board in 2012. She was immediately elected as Chair, serving in this role for three terms until 2018. Recently, Jennifer launched her local media company, Simple Local Life. She works with businesses to create digital content and highlight the wonderful things happening on the South Shore.

Jennifer is a strong community leader and has volunteered with the Hebbville Academy Home and School Association and School Advisory Committee, and currently with the RootEd School Food Project and the United Way. Jennifer and her husband, Troy live in Hebbville where they raised their three children, Hannah, Noah, and Grace.

Fred was born and raised in Northside-Westmount and currently resides in Sydney Mines with his wife, Jean. For the past 30 years, Fred has held various leadership positions in a variety of industries including retail, construction, fishing, and harvesting, as well as post-secondary education. For the past twenty years, he has held senior management positions at Nova Scotia Community College, Marconi Campus and has been Principal for the past eight years.

Fred has played a significant role in the development of the new NSCC campus on the waterfront in Sydney and is very active in the community. He was elected to the Cape Breton Victoria Regional School Board in 2004 and served until 2018, including two terms as Vice Chair. Fred currently sits on the Cape Breton Partnership Board, is chair of the CBRM Regional Enterprise Networks, and has been involved in the Little League Canadian Championship and Canadian Cancer Relay for Life event.

Jim has a long history of service in Pictou Centre. Currently, he serves on the boards of the Pictou County Fuel Fund, the Pictou Academy Educational Fund, and Pictou County Safe Harbour. He was recognized earlier this year by the Pictou County Chamber of Commerce for creating the Facebook page, “Helping During Coronavirus – Pictou County,” a virtual community space for neighbours and businesses to connect during the pandemic.

Jim recently retired from Nova Scotia Community College – Pictou Campus after 30 years as an instructor, counsellor, and manager of student services. He and his wife Wanda live in New Glasgow. They have two adult children.

Joe is a life-long resident of Pictou East and currently lives in Kenzieville with his wife Laura. After graduating from East Pictou Rural High School, he worked at his family-owned small business which he now co-owns with his brother. In 1987, Joe joined the Barney’s River Volunteer Fire Department and has served as Chief for the past 24 years. He currently serves as the President of the Pictou County Firefighters Association and is involved with the County Council Liaison Committee, the Nova Scotia Hemophilia Advocacy Committee, and the Kenzieville Cemetery.

As a community advocate, Joe has accomplished many projects to improve the lives of Pictou East residents. He has been recognized by the Nova Scotia Fire Marshal for his work in the industry and was named Pictou County’s Volunteer of the Year in 2017. Since 2011, he has been a champion for improved insurance for firefighters in Pictou County. Most recently, Joe was a strong voice to ensure that a dangerous section of Highway 104 would be twinned by 2023 to protect the lives of Nova Scotians.

As a lifelong resident of Pictou West, Mary is dedicated to the community and the families who live within it. Mary is currently the Municipal Councillor for District Four and serves on eight committees. As a municipal politician, Mary is passionate about the issues that matter most to her neighbours and constituents.

After graduating from West Pictou District High School, Mary continued her education with a Diploma in Motor Vehicle Repair and holds a class one license which has allowed her to drive a tractor trailer during her downtime. Mary spent twenty years working in retail and has been a proud bus driver for Chignecto-Central Regional Centre for Education for nineteen years. Through her various endeavours, Mary has been able to make meaningful connections with students in Pictou West and their families.

Angela is from Cherry Brook, Nova Scotia and now resides in the community of North Preston. She is a dedicated social justice advocate and esteemed lawyer who has used her voice to promote equity for African Nova Scotians. Most notably, she is the author of the report, “This Land Is Our Land: African Nova Scotian Voice from the Preston Area Speak Up.” Earlier this year, Angela was named the Executive Director of the Land Titles Initiative in the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism where she works to address the legacy of systemic racism in historic African Nova Scotian communities.

Angela has been recognized for her leadership and has been the recipient of the Judge Sparks award, Burnley “Rocky” Jones Human Rights Award, and was recently acknowledged as one of the Top 100 Most Accomplished African Canadian Black Women in Canada in 2020. Angela has worked as the Manager of Equity and Access to Justice for the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society and completed her articling at Nova Scotia Legal Aid after graduating from the Schulich School of Law in 2017. Angela has been married to her husband Dean for 22 years and they are the proud parents of three children.

Susan was elected as Municipal Councillor for the Region of Queens Municipality in 2000. She served on Council for 16 years. Prior to her time in municipal politics, Susan worked for a local television company, Able Cablevision for over 20 years. In 1998, she purchased a locally-owned commercial printing firm, Veinot’s Print and operated the company in Brooklyn for more than 16 years.

Susan’s experience in municipal government and as a business owner has poised her to navigate the challenges that have arisen from COVID-19. Susan has been involved in many organizations including the Astor Theatre Society, South Shore Housing Coalition, South Queens Chamber of Commerce, and Queens General Hospital Foundation. Currently, she is committed to creating more affordable housing options for the residents of Queens through her work on the Housing Committee with the Queens Care Society. Susan is also the Chair of QCCR FM99.3 Radio. 

Matt is a proud resident of Richmond County where he and his wife Chantal raise their three young children, Maëlle, Lucas, and Loïc. After graduating from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Engineering, he knew he wanted to live in Richmond County because of his strong Acadian heritage. Currently, Matt is the Coordinator of Operations for the Conseil Scolaire Acadien Provincial, where he works with all levels of government to improve the lives of students across the province.

As a director for both the Petit-de-Great Beautification Society and the Arichat Community Development Association, Matt is actively involved in bringing green, active, and accessible social infrastructure to his community. He is deeply committed to working hard in an open, transparent, and honest manner to ensure that Richmond succeeds as it bounces back from the pandemic.

Born and raised in Sydney, Mary moved to Halifax to pursue her education at Mount Saint Vincent University and later Dalhousie University where she received her Masters of Public Administration. Now living in Lower Sackville, Mary has over 30 years of experience working in the mental health field as a crisis consultant where she helps individuals and organizations deal with disasters. Through her crisis consulting business, Mary has been able to help  survivors of traumatic events.

Mary has been a dedicated volunteer in the community for many years. She has devoted her time to a variety of organizations such as Hope Cottage, the Women’s Health Education Network, Halifax Pride, and Mission to Seafarers. Mary is passionate about making mental health resources more accessible for all Nova Scotians.

Donalda MacIsaac is a passionate volunteer and advocate for healthcare and social change that impacts people’s lives. Donalda serves on a variety of organizations including the Health Advocacy Committee of the Nova Scotia chapter of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP), the CSA Blood Quality Control Committee, the Central Zone Continuing Care Quality Committee and previously served two terms on the Cobequid Community Health Board where she served as Co-Chair for four years. Donalda is a co-founder of the QEII Diversity in Healthcare bursary which has grown to fund the education of over 100 students from underrepresented and marginalized communities.

In addition to her healthcare advocacy, Donalda is a strong voice for her community. She currently sits on the board of the Cobequid Radio Society where she volunteers as the Office Manager for CIOE Community Radio as well as sitting on the board of the Cobequid Cultural Society and serving as Vice President of the Black Beauty Culture Association. Donalda has also been a lifelong advocate for affordable and social housing, both as a member of the North West Planning Committee and in her past involvement in the planning and development in the Jim Macdonald Housing Co-op.

In 2016, Penny was elected to the Council of the Municipality of the District of Shelburne by acclamation, and was successfully re-elected in 2020. Penny has proudly served as Warden since 2016. Prior to being elected to politics, Penny worked for the Municipality for nearly 25 years.

Penny has been a resident of Shelburne County for her entire life and has always been an active community volunteer. She has chaired and participated in many local organizations and committees, including the Hillcrest Academy School Advisory Council, Whirligig & Weathervane Festival, Birchtown Community Centre, and Osprey Arts Centre. Penny is also a founding member of the Shelburne County chapter of 100 Women Who Care.

Derek has served his constituents in the Nova Scotia Legislature since 2015. Since then, he has served as the Minister of Municipal Affairs, Minister of Energy and Mines, and Minister of Lands and Forestry. Under Premier Iain Rankin’s leadership, Derek had the honour of being appointed Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development. 

Derek attended Cape Breton University and served as both President and Vice-President of the Student Union. He also worked as the coordinator of entrepreneurship support initiatives for Cape Breton University and the Nova Scotia Community College. For four years, Derek served on Cape Breton Regional Municipality council before successfully running as MLA for Sydney-Whitney Pier in 2013. Derek is a proud resident of Sydney, Cape Breton, where he lives with his wife and two daughters.

Iain Rankin grew up in Timberlea where he was active in sports and music. Summers were spent crossing the province to be with family. To Bridgewater for a walk around the duck pond with his grandmother. Day trips to Summerville Beach with his aunt, stopping at Seaside Seafoods for lunch.

In Mabou, Iain was immersed in his rich Gaelic culture, hearing the tales of his ancestors alongside his 47 first cousins, 24 aunts and uncles, and his grandparents. Two weeks a year were spent at the Gaelic College to learn about his heritage, practice the Gaelic language, and refine his talents on the bagpipes, the instrument he would go on to play as part of the Dartmouth Pipes and Drums band.

Throughout high school and later as a student at Mount Saint Vincent University, Iain helped manage the family business, a gas station in Beechville. The gas station was a gathering point for many in the close-knit community, a familiar place to grab a coffee and catch up with neighbours and old friends about everything from the personal to the political. It’s here at his family’s gas station where Iain learned about the harrowing history of Beechville, a community that faced generations of encroachment and discrimination. This experience taught him how important it is to listen and to learn in order to lead, and it set him on lifelong a mission to fight injustice.

After graduating from university, Iain moved to Jasper, Alberta and later to Ottawa, Ontario to pursue his career in business. But neither place felt like home. Missing his family and life-long friends, he yearned to be back in Nova Scotia, surrounded by the vibrant culture he grew up in.

Iain moved back home to Nova Scotia, and it wasn’t long after that he felt the call to public service. Being away from home showed him just how much love he had for his province. He wanted to dedicate himself to building a better Nova Scotia, and to make a positive difference for those who felt unheard or left behind.

In 2013, Iain was elected as the Liberal MLA for the riding of Timberlea-Prospect, and he was re-elected in 2017. As MLA, Iain has been a strong and dedicated representative for his community, always putting people first. Known for being an engaged and accessible MLA, Iain has forged a deep bond with the constituents he is honoured to serve, and he has gone to bat time and time again for his community and their interests.

In 2017, Premier McNeil appointed Iain to cabinet. Iain has served as Minister of Environment and as well as Minister of Lands and Forestry. As a climate advocate and leader, Iain has put fighting the climate crisis at the centre of his work in both of these roles, staying focused and committed to the delicate yet crucial balance between environmental sustainability and responsible economic growth.

Today, Iain lives in Timberlea with his wife Mary and their dog Weston. Weekends are often spent exploring the many hiking trails, lakes, rivers, and shores our beautiful province has to offer. Other weekends are spent attending events in his community, or paying a visit to Mary’s family in Antigonish.

Tamara was born and raised in Truro, and has had a passion for politics and social justice from a young age. After graduating as Valedictorian from Cobequid Education Centre, she went on to complete a Bachelor Arts with a major in Sociology from Saint Mary’s University. Tamara began working in several provincial government departments, including environment, human resources, and the Supreme Court Family Division. In 2009, she began working with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission where is currently employed as a human rights officer.

Tamara resides in Truro with her husband, Lester, and their two sons and is a proud Autism Mom. She uses her life experiences to advocate for social justice issues. As part of her participation in a research study with the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, she will be the keynote speaker at their race and disability conference in March 2022.

Nadine has strong roots in Cape Breton as she grew up in the community of Waycobah with many of her extended family. Nadine has an education in Business Administration and has been involved with the Coady Institute. As part of their Indigenous Women’s Community Leadership program in 2017, she launched her business, Slow Cooked Dreams, which empowers low income community members with skills to prepare healthy food options for themselves and their families.

Nadine has also started Indigevisor Advisory and Consulting to bridge the gap between First Nations and the construction sector to help employ people for large infrastructure projects. This has led to involvement in projects with teams in the UK, Arizona, and most recently the Cape Breton Regional Hospital redevelopment. She has also been a strong advocate for advancing women in leadership positions, and particularly women of diverse backgrounds. As a Project Consultation Officer with Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn (Mi’kmaq Rights Initiative) Nadine has tremendous experience negotiating on important files such as environment and agriculture.

Marni has lived in the riding of Waverley-Fall River-Beaver Bank for over 40 years. She is a dedicated volunteer who has donated her time and expertise as President of the LWF Ratepayers and as Chair of the Windsor Junction Community Centre. As a dedicated mother of four, Marni has also been a passionate leader in the sports community, serving as the Director of Communications for LWF Baseball, Vice-Chair of Sackville Skating Club, and Director of Marketing & PR for Skate Canada Nova Scotia.

Marni has led a successful career in the consulting and non-profit field. She has worked with several organizations over the years, including Dalhousie University, Northwoodcare Group, Nova Scotia Nature Trust, and Nova Scotia SPCA. Marni’s community-led values have led to her involvement in several non-profit and volunteer organizations.

Zach has worked tirelessly for the constituents of Yarmouth since his election in 2010. Prior to entering politics, Zach attended Saint Mary’s University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 2007. He served as National Director of the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations from 2007 to 2009 before his successful election bid as Liberal MLA for Yarmouth.

Zach has been a proven advocate for all Nova Scotians. In 2013, he was appointed to cabinet as Minister of Natural Resources. Since then, he has been responsible for numerous portfolios, including Municipal Affairs, Communications Nova Scotia, Education and Early Childhood Development, and currently as the Minister of Health and Wellness. Zach is a proud resident of Yarmouth, alongside his wife, Katie, and their two young daughters.