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SUMMARY:Economic Engine: Driving Nova Scotia's Economy Forward 2024
DESCRIPTION:** Ticket Sales Are Now Closed **\n\n\n\nDriving Nova Scotia's Economy Forward\n\n\nHalifax and Nova Scotia are experiencing record growth in population\, GDP\, new businesses starting up\, and attracting university talent. With a provincial goal of doubling the population to two million people in the coming years\, how do we begin to shift our goals and define the future of Nova Scotia?\n\n\n\nThe Halifax Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce our second Economic Forum. \n\n\n\nThe Forum will showcase a positive\, realistic\, and optimistic narrative of where Nova Scotia?s economy is heading and how best to navigate the pitfalls while capitalizing on the opportunities. The Forum will cover a broad range of topics related to Nova Scotia?s economy\, including the most pressing issues impacting our current and future economic prosperity. \n\n\n\nJoin us on February 28th to discuss how governments and businesses need to react and respond to ensure they steward the economy in a way that maximizes the potential for all Nova Scotians. \n\n\n\nFeaturing topics including:\n\n\n Live podcast recording with Insights' Don Mills ft. Premier Tim Houston\n The Black Economy in Nova Scotia Panel moderated by Matthew Martel\, Black Business Initiative\n Keynote with Andrew Mutch\, President\, Michelin North America (Canada) Inc\n Indigenous Business Impact report with John G. Paul\, Executive Director\, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat\n Fireside Chat with Mayor Mike Savage and Cathie O'Toole\n Keynote with Hon. Sean Fraser\, Minister of housing\, infrastructure and communities\n Business of Politics Panel \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin Insights' podcast host Don Mills and Premier Tim Houston for a live and in-person podcast recording.\n\n\n\nTim Houston\, Nova Scotia?s 30th Premier\n\nBorn in Halifax\, Nova Scotia\, Tim was raised in a military family and grew up on military bases in Summerside\, PEI\, Trenton\, Ontario and Comox\, British Columbia before the family ultimately returned to Nova Scotia for his father?s retirement posting to Shearwater. First and foremost\, Tim is a dad. He and his wife\, Carol\, have been married for 28 years and have two children\, Paget and Zachary. \n\n\n\nTim attended Saint Mary?s University where he obtained a Bachelor of Commerce. He then earned his Chartered Accountant designation in Halifax. After graduation\, he and Carol moved to Bermuda where he worked with both Deloitte and in the reinsurance industry. In 2007\, knowing that they wanted to raise their children closer to their extended family\, Carol and Tim returned to Nova Scotia and have lived in Pictou County ever since. \n\n\n\nOn November 2\, 2020\, Tim was awarded his profession?s highest mark of distinction\, the Fellow (FCPA) designation\, by Chartered Professional Accountants of Nova Scotia. \n\n\n\nTim?s love of this province and its people ? and discussions in hockey rinks ? sparked his interest in politics. He successfully sought the Pictou East PC nomination in 2012 and was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in the 2013 provincial election. He was re-elected in 2017 and again in 2021. In 2018\, Tim was elected Leader of the PC Party of Nova Scotia. \n\n\n\nTim was sworn in as premier on August 31\, 2021. Premier Houston also serves as Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\nMayor Mike Savage\n\nMike Savage was elected Mayor of Halifax Regional Municipality for a third term on October 17\, 2020. As Mayor he has followed a mandate to grow the economy\, foster greater social and economic inclusion for all\, and promote a healthy\, sustainable environment.\n\n\n\nAn active member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Big City Mayors? Caucus (BCMC)\, Mayor Savage was selected by his counterparts from across the country to co-chair FCM?s Syrian Refugee response task force in 2015. In spring 2021\, he was elected Chair of the BCMC.\n\n\n\nPrior to his election as Mayor\, Mike Savage served three terms as Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour\, during which time he played a national role as Official Opposition Critic for Human Resources\, Social Development and Status of Persons with Disabilities and chaired the Liberal Party Post-Secondary and Research Caucus.\n\nCathie O'Toole\n\nChief Administrative Officer\, Halifax Regional Municipality\n\nCathie O?Toole brings with her more than three decades of leadership and public sector experience ? most recently as the General Manager of Halifax Water\, a role she has held since 2019. From 2011-2019 she was the Director of Corporate Services/CFO for the municipally-owned water utility. Prior to joining Halifax Water\, she worked with the Halifax Regional Municipality for 10 years in a variety of roles including Director of Finance/CFO and Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management.\n\n\n\nIn addition to holding a Master of Business Administration from Laurentian University and a Bachelor of Arts from Dalhousie University\, O?Toole is a Chartered Professional Accountant and has been recognized as a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants (FCPA) of Nova Scotia.\n\n\n\n\nAndrew Mutch\n\nPresident\, Michelin North America (Canada) Inc\n\nWith the recently announced $300 million Michelin expansion to support the production of electric vehicle tires in Nova Scotia\, hear more about Michelin?s decision to invest in Nova Scotia\, the economic benefits of the investment to the region\, and potential opportunities for additional sustainable markets in Nova Scotia. Introducing Michelin?s All-Sustainable strategy\, which balances People\, Planet\, and Profit\, and how that comes to life in Nova Scotia (and Canada).\n\n \n\n\n\n\n \n\n\nJohn G. Paul\n\nExecutive Director\, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat in Dartmouth\n\nMr. Paul is from Membertou First Nation and the Executive Director of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat in Dartmouth\, Nova Scotia. Taking direction from the Chiefs through frequent All Chiefs Forums and Executive Chiefs Board of Directors and Co-Chairs. Mr. Paul provides policy analysis and strategic advice on a wide range of policy issues facing First Nations in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec. The APC Secretariat?s mandate is to research\, analyze and develop alternatives to federal policies affecting its member First Nation communities. \n\n \n\nMr. Paul has a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies from Cape Breton University in 1980 and received his Master of Public Administration in Financial Management from Halifax?s Dalhousie University in 1982. A strong and dedicated advocate for First Nations\, Mr. Paul has worked toward positive change for First Nations communities in diverse policy areas for more than 35 years. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nModerator: \n\n \n \n\nMatthew Martel\n\nCEO\, Black Business Initiative (BBI)\n\nMatthew James Martel exemplifies leadership that blends entrepreneurial acumen with a commitment to social impact. His educational background\, including a master?s degree from the Sobey School of Business at Saint Mary?s University\, complements his diverse professional experience in human resources and recruitment. \n\n\n\nAt BBI\, Matthew steers the organization through an ambitious expansion\, extending its reach and influence across Atlantic Canada. BBI under his leadership focuses on providing specialized programs\, support\, and training to the Black community\, with an emphasis on financial literacy\, entrepreneurial funding\, and advocacy. \n\n\n\nAside from his role at BBI\, Matthew holds significant board positions with the Halifax International Airport Authority\, HCI3\, and Efficiency One. These roles underscore his versatile impact across different sectors. His involvement with the Halifax International Airport Authority contributes to the strategic growth of one of Canada's key airports. His role with HCI3 reflects his commitment to investment into sustainable development\, while at Efficiency One\, he advocates for sustainable energy and environmental stewardship. \n\n\n\nMatthew?s journey from a modest upbringing to his current roles illustrates his dedication to fostering equitable opportunities and advocating for systemic change. His leadership not only drives BBI?s mission but also reflects his broader vision for an inclusive and empowered community.\n\n \n\nPanelists:\n\nBarrinique N. Griffin\, CAPM\n\nProgram Manager\, Dalhousie Emera IdeaHUB\n Barrinique is a dynamic professional with a rich background spanning academia and entrepreneurship in the vibrant Nova Scotia entrepreneurial ecosystem.\n\n\n\nAs the former co-founder of Black is the New Black\, a grassroots initiative launched in 2018\, Barrinique passionately champions the creation of inclusive spaces for BIPOC young professionals. Through this platform\, she organizes events focused on entrepreneurship and mental health\, nurturing a supportive community for growth and empowerment.\n\n\n\nIn her role as a Business Advisor\, Barrinique has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of numerous local entrepreneurs\, offering strategic guidance and fostering their development. Her expertise culminates in her current position as Program Manager at Dalhousie Emera Idea Hub\, where she plays a pivotal role in designing and delivering innovative programs tailored to engineers and aspiring founders alike.\n\n\n\nFrom ideation workshops to digital program curation\, Barrinique's multifaceted approach ensures that participants are equipped with the necessary skills and mindset to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Atlantic Canada's tech ecosystem. Through her dedication and visionary leadership\, Barrinique continues to drive positive change and inspire the next generation of innovators.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNatalie Frederick-Wilson\n\nBusiness Advisor\, Centre for Women in Business\n\n\nNatalie joined the Centre for Women in Business team in 2019. As the CWB business advisor focused on student engagement\, start-up level businesses\, and the program lead of the Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship (SPICE)\, her goal is to propel and inspire women and students along the continuum from idea\, to start up\, and beyond by connecting them to the right business advice\, tools and training.\n\n\n\nAs a prior business owner herself\, Natalie has awards from the Halifax Chamber of Commerce for New Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year. She was also recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by the Black Business Initiative\, and Invisible Champion by United Way Halifax and The Bhayana Family Foundation for her work building and leading SPICE.\n\n\n\nNatalie\, who was recently recognized as one of the ?Top 25 Immigrants in the Maritimes?\, holds certificates in Business Development and in Leadership and Innovation from Dalhousie?s Rowe School of Business\, Faculty of Management. She has extensive training and experience in business automation\, customer service management\, food businesses\, and helping small business owners use technology to boost productivity.\n\n\n\nAn American immigrant of Afro-Caribbean descent\, Natalie believes that helping others succeed is the greatest form of service. She encourages other small businesses to take calculated risks\, mentors international students and newcomers through the process of settling in Nova Scotia\, and enjoys speaking on panels and at networking events. Natalie understands that being a champion for underrepresented women in business requires stewardship commitment and care. In her spare time\, she documents her families? adventures on social media with the message that adventure is for all.\n\n\n\nJosh Creighton\n\nCorporate Partnership Specialist\, Halifax Chamber of Commerce\n\nJosh Creighton is a lifelong resident of Nova Scotia. Being a former resident of Uniacke Square ?where many who reside there are descendants of the historic community of Africville ? has instilled in him a passion for social justice. \n\n\n\nJosh joined the Halifax Chamber of commerce in 2021 to help support their DEA&I action initiatives as the Community Engagement Specialist before moving into his current role as Corporate Partnership Specialist.\n\n\n\nJosh's introduction into entrepreneurship was initiated via community development work after witnessing many in his community overcome challenges underpinned by systemic racism. Josh currently owns two companies\, JC consulting\, and Fumes Rolling Papers. He hopes to contribute to the overall economic state of the community here in Halifax while also advocating for diversity and Inclusion across sectors.\n\n\n\nJosh also sits on CBC's African Nova Scotian community advisory board. In his spare time\, Josh enjoys reading\, cooking\, hiking and practicing martial arts. \n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKeynote: Hon. Sean Fraser\, Minister of housing\, infrastructure and communities\n\n\n\nIn order to solve Canada's national housing crisis\, we need to adopt an all hands on deck approach. Working with every community\, and every level of government we can and will overcome this challenge.\n\n\n\nThe Honourable Sean Fraser was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Central Nova in 2015. He now serves as the Minister of Minister of Housing\, Infrastructure and Communities. He has previously served as Minister of Immigration\, Refugees and Citizenship\, as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and to the Minister of Middle Class Prosperity and Associate Minister of Finance\, and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. In 2021\, he also served concurrently as Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Prime Minister.\n\n \n\nPrior to entering politics\, Sean built a successful legal practice as a commercial litigator with one of Canada?s top-ranked law firms\, and studied international law under a Judge of the International Court of Justice and a Former Secretary-General of NATO as part of his Master?s Program in The Hague in the Netherlands. He also spent time working as a human rights lawyer for marginalized groups and individuals in Johannesburg\, South Africa.\n\n \n\nMinister Fraser grew up in Pictou County Nova Scotia\, where he and his wife\, Sarah\, are raising their young family.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTrevor Floyd\, MSc\n\nPartner\, Iris Communications\n\n\n\nTrevor is a founding Partner of Iris Communications\, a strategy and communications advisory firm based in Halifax\, Nova Scotia. Iris Communications' senior communications\, business\, and government advisors work with private and public sector organizations operating at the intersection of business\, government\, and society.\n\n\n\nTrevor has a strong knowledge of government and political processes acquired through over a dozen years of providing research\, analysis\, and strategic advice to senior government leaders on highly sensitive issues. Before founding Iris Communications\, he was Senior Director for the largest integrated communications firm in Atlantic Canada\, providing public affairs counsel to clients across the Atlantic region.\n\n\n\nTrevor has held key leadership roles in the Office of the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board and the Office of the Minister of Environment for Nova Scotia\, where he provided strategic counsel and a respected voice on fast-moving\, complex\, and politically charged issues.\n\n\n\nBefore joining the provincial government\, he spent nine years with the federal government at both the political and bureaucratic levels in Ottawa and Halifax\, gaining expertise in a variety of areas\, including fisheries management\, aquaculture\, public policy development\, climate change\, and clean energy\; environmental assessment and permitting\; and government\, stakeholder\, and First Nation consultation.\n\n\n\n \n\nTrevor is a St. Francis Xavier University graduate and lives in Halifax with his wife\, Jennifer\, and three children.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nKristan Hines\n\nSenior Vice President\, Corporate and Public Affairs\, NATIONAL Public Relations\n\n \n\nKristan is passionate about helping people achieve their goals ? and this is evident in everything she does. For over 20 years\, she has tackled some of Atlantic Canada?s most compelling challenges and provided counsel to senior leaders in government and industry across Canada. \n\n\n\nAs NATIONAL?s Senior Vice President of Corporate and Public Affairs\, Kristan brings together experts in strategic communications\, government relations\, crisis management\, and public engagement from across the NATIONAL network to navigate complex issues and position clients for success. \n\n\n\nA trusted advisor and problem-solver\, Kristan brings perspective to the conversation ? drawing on her understanding of the Atlantic Canadian landscape\, her vast network\, and her experience as a political advisor on Parliament Hill and Chief of Staff to a former Premier of Nova Scotia. \n\n\n\nA proud graduate of Acadia and Dalhousie\, Kristan is currently the Vice Chair of the Dalhousie University Board of Governors. In addition\, she serves on the Executive Committee of Phoenix Youth Programs\, and the Downtown Halifax Business Commission Board of Directors.\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nDavid Tarrant\n\nVice President National Strategic Communications\, Enterprise Canada\n\n\n\nDavid Tarrant is Vice President of National Strategic Communications at Enterprise Canada. David also leads Enterprise Canada?s Atlantic Canada Office providing strategic communications\, government relations advice and writing services to public\, private and not-for-profit sector clients throughout the region and across Canada. David also serves as a Strategic Advisor to Creative Currency\, Enterprise Canada?s wholly owned advertising agency and content studio. \n\n \n\nDavid joined Enterprise from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford where\, as Executive Director of Strategic Communications\, he was responsible for all Government of Ontario advertising\, branding and public opinion research activities. He was co-author of Premier Ford?s 2018 election platform and wrote the communications strategy and narrative for both of Premier Ford?s winning campaigns. \n\n \n\nCloser to home\, David served as a senior strategist on the campaign team of Premier Tim Houston where he supported narrative and message development. Earlier in his career David also worked as communications advisor and senior speechwriter in the office of former Premier John Hamm.\n\n \n\nDavid is also experienced in federal politics. As Communications Strategist in the Office of Prime Minister Stephen Harper\, David oversaw all communications activities involving Natural Resources Canada\, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada\, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. \n\n \n\nDavid?s private sector experience includes seven years working on Bay Street for BMO Financial Group where he served a Director of Strategic Communications. Prior to that role David was the senior communications partner for executives in BMO?s Risk\, Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering\, Anti-Terrorism Financing groups. \n\n \n\nA native of St. John?s\, Newfoundland\, David today lives with his wife and three children in Bedford.\n\n\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nChris Lydon\n\nPresident\, M5 Public Affairs\n\n\n\nChris joined m5 Public Affairs in 2017 and has led its growth as the now largest government affairs practice in the region. An expert at building and maintaining strong relationships and translating the language of the industry to that of Government\, and vice-versa\, Chris honed his interest in public affairs and the motivations of populations and political decision-makers through his 8 years in the Office of the Premier where he served as a senior communications advisor and policy lead on many contentious files. Most recently\, he was a member of the Transition Team for incoming Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston when his Party assumed office in 2021. He has additionally advised the Premier?s Offices in Prince Edward Island\, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador on strategic communications matters.\n\n \n\nAs a consultant he has worked in the private sector\, representing many of the largest employers in Atlantic Canada including those in the government\, medical\, pharmaceutical\, energy\, financial\, legal\, gaming\, Indigenous\, and non-profit sectors. He has also served as lead in-house counsel on government and stakeholder relations to Atlantic Lottery\, playing a significant strategic role in increasing both corporate reputation and social license.\n\n\n\nHis national government and political experience are robust after serving as Chief of Staff to the federal departments of Labour and Status of Women Canada. His organizational and communications skills earned him a national assignment in the Regional Emergency Operations Centre leading the on-the-ground crisis communications and coordinated response of Canada?s insurance industry to the Fort McMurray wildfire and he also served as the Campaign Director (2016) and Campaign Chair (2020) for the successful re-election of the Mayor of Halifax. \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\nThank you to our Partners\n\n\n\n\n\nAdvocate Partners\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHost Partners\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\nSponsorship Opportunities Available\n\nPlease contact Josh Creighton\, Corporate Partnership Specialist to discuss\n\n(902) 481-1229 or josh@halifaxchamber.com
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\nDriving Nova Scotia's Economy Forward
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Halifax and Nova Scotia are experiencing record growth in population\, GDP\, new businesses starting up\, and attracting university talent. With a provincial goal of doubling the population to two million people in the coming years\, how do we begin to shift our goals and define the future of Nova Scotia?
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\nThe Halifax Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce our second Economic Forum. \;
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\nThe \;Forum will showcase a positive\, realistic\, and optimistic narrative of where Nova Scotia?s economy is heading \;and how best to navigate the pitfalls while capitalizing on the opportunities. \;The Forum will cover a broad range of topics related to Nova Scotia?s economy\, including the most pressing issues impacting our current and future economic prosperity.
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\nJoin us on February 28th to discuss how \;governments and businesses need to react and respond to ensure they steward the economy in a way that maximizes the potential for all Nova Scotians. \;
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\nFeaturing topics including:
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\n - Live podcast recording with \;Insights' \; Don Mills ft. Premier Tim Houston
\n - The Black Economy in Nova Scotia Panel moderated by \;Matthew Martel\, Black Business Initiative
\n - Keynote with Andrew Mutch\, President\, Michelin North America (Canada) Inc
\n - Indigenous Business Impact report with John G. Paul\, \;Executive Director\, \;Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat
\n - Fireside Chat with Mayor Mike Savage and \;Cathie O'Toole
\n - Keynote with \;Hon. Sean Fraser\, Minister of housing\, infrastructure and communities
\n - Business of Politics Panel \;
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\nJoin Insights' \;podcast host Don Mills and Premier Tim Houston for a live and in-person \;podcast recording.
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\nTim Houston\, Nova Scotia?s 30th Premier
\n\nBorn in Halifax\, Nova Scotia\, Tim was raised in a military family and grew up on military bases in Summerside\, PEI\, Trenton\, Ontario and Comox\, British Columbia before the family ultimately returned to Nova Scotia for his father?s retirement posting to Shearwater. \;First and foremost\, Tim is a dad. He and his wife\, Carol\, have been married for 28 years and have two children\, Paget and Zachary. \;
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\nTim attended Saint Mary?s University where he obtained a Bachelor of Commerce. He then earned his Chartered Accountant designation in Halifax. After graduation\, he and Carol moved to Bermuda where he worked with both Deloitte and in the reinsurance industry. In 2007\, knowing that they wanted to raise their children closer to their extended family\, Carol and Tim returned to Nova Scotia and have lived in Pictou County ever since. \;
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\nOn November 2\, 2020\, Tim was awarded his profession?s highest mark of distinction\, the Fellow (FCPA) designation\, by Chartered Professional Accountants of Nova Scotia. \;
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\nTim?s love of this province and its people ? and discussions in hockey rinks ? sparked his interest in politics. He successfully sought the Pictou East PC nomination in 2012 and was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in the 2013 provincial election. He was re-elected in 2017 and again in 2021. In 2018\, Tim was elected Leader of the PC Party of Nova Scotia. \;
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\nTim was sworn in as premier on August 31\, 2021. \;Premier Houston also serves as Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Trade. \;
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\n \;\n\nMayor Mike Savage
\n\nMike Savage was elected Mayor of Halifax Regional Municipality for a third term on October 17\, 2020. As Mayor he has followed a mandate to grow the economy\, foster greater social and economic inclusion for all\, and promote a healthy\, sustainable environment.
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\nAn active member of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Big City Mayors? Caucus (BCMC)\, Mayor Savage was selected by his counterparts from across the country to co-chair FCM?s Syrian Refugee response task force in 2015. In spring 2021\, he was elected Chair of the BCMC.
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\nPrior to his election as Mayor\, Mike Savage served three terms as Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour\, during which time he played a national role as Official Opposition Critic for Human Resources\, Social Development and Status of Persons with Disabilities and chaired the Liberal Party Post-Secondary and Research Caucus.
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Cathie O'Toole
\nChief Administrative Officer\, Halifax Regional Municipality
\n\nCathie O?Toole brings with her more than three decades of leadership and public sector experience ? most recently as the General Manager of Halifax Water\, a role she has held since 2019. From 2011-2019 she was the Director of Corporate Services/CFO for the \;municipally-owned \;water utility. Prior to joining Halifax Water\, she worked with the Halifax Regional Municipality for 10 years in a variety of roles including Director of Finance/CFO and Director of Infrastructure and Asset Management.
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\nIn addition to holding a Master of Business Administration from Laurentian University and a Bachelor of Arts from Dalhousie University\, \;O?Toole is a Chartered Professional Accountant and has been recognized as a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants (FCPA) of Nova Scotia.
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\nAndrew Mutch
\nPresident\, Michelin North America (Canada) Inc
\n\nWith the recently announced $300 million Michelin expansion to support the production of electric vehicle tires in Nova Scotia\, hear more about Michelin?s decision to invest in Nova Scotia\, the economic benefits of the investment to the region\, and potential opportunities for additional sustainable markets in Nova Scotia. Introducing \;Michelin?s All-Sustainable strategy\, which balances People\, Planet\, and Profit\, and how that comes to life in Nova Scotia (and Canada).
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John G. Paul
\nExecutive Director\, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat in Dartmouth
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Mr. Paul is from Membertou First Nation and the Executive Director of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat in Dartmouth\, Nova Scotia. Taking direction from the Chiefs through frequent All Chiefs Forums and Executive Chiefs Board of Directors and Co-Chairs. \; Mr. Paul provides policy analysis and strategic advice on a wide range of policy issues facing First Nations in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec. The APC Secretariat?s mandate is to research\, analyze and develop alternatives to federal policies affecting its member First Nation communities. \;
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Mr. Paul has a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies from Cape Breton University in 1980 and received his Master of Public Administration in Financial Management from Halifax?s Dalhousie University in 1982. A strong and dedicated advocate for First Nations\, Mr. Paul has worked toward positive change for First Nations communities in diverse policy areas for more than 35 years. \;
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Matthew Martel
\nCEO\, Black Business Initiative (BBI)
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Matthew James Martel exemplifies leadership that blends entrepreneurial acumen with a commitment to social impact. His educational background\, including a master?s degree from the \;Sobey \;School of Business at Saint Mary?s University\, complements his diverse professional experience in human resources and recruitment. \;
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\nAt BBI\, Matthew steers the organization through an ambitious expansion\, extending its reach and influence across Atlantic Canada. BBI under his leadership focuses on providing specialized programs\, support\, and training to the Black community\, with an emphasis on financial literacy\, entrepreneurial funding\, and advocacy. \;
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\nAside from his role at BBI\, Matthew holds significant board positions with the Halifax International Airport Authority\, HCI3\, and Efficiency One. These roles underscore his versatile impact across different sectors. His involvement with the Halifax International Airport Authority contributes to the strategic growth of one of Canada's key airports. His role with HCI3 reflects his commitment to investment into sustainable development\, while at Efficiency One\, he advocates for sustainable energy and environmental stewardship. \;
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\nMatthew?s journey from a modest upbringing to his current roles illustrates his dedication to fostering equitable opportunities and advocating for systemic change. His leadership not only drives BBI?s mission but also reflects his broader vision for an inclusive and empowered community.
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Panelists:
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Barrinique N. Griffin\, CAPM
\nProgram Manager\, Dalhousie Emera IdeaHUB
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Barrinique is a dynamic professional with a rich background spanning academia and entrepreneurship in the vibrant Nova Scotia entrepreneurial ecosystem.
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\nAs the former co-founder of Black is the New Black\, a grassroots initiative launched in 2018\, Barrinique passionately champions the creation of inclusive spaces for BIPOC young professionals. Through this platform\, she organizes events focused on entrepreneurship and mental health\, nurturing a supportive community for growth and empowerment.
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\nIn her role as a Business Advisor\, Barrinique has been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of numerous local entrepreneurs\, offering strategic guidance and fostering their development. Her expertise culminates in her current position as Program Manager at Dalhousie Emera Idea Hub\, where she plays a pivotal role in designing and delivering innovative programs tailored to engineers and aspiring founders alike.
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\nFrom ideation workshops to digital program curation\, Barrinique's multifaceted approach ensures that participants are equipped with the necessary skills and mindset to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Atlantic Canada's tech ecosystem. Through her dedication and visionary leadership\, Barrinique continues to drive positive change and inspire the next generation of innovators.\n
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Natalie Frederick-Wilson
\nBusiness Advisor\, Centre for Women in Business
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Natalie joined the Centre for Women in Business team in 2019. As the CWB business advisor focused on \;student engagement\, start-up level businesses\, and the program lead of the \;Specialized Program in Cooking Entrepreneurship (SPICE)\, her goal is to propel and inspire women and students along the continuum from idea\, to start up\, and beyond by connecting them to the right business advice\, tools and training.
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\nAs a prior business owner herself\, Natalie has awards from the Halifax Chamber of Commerce for New Business of the Year and Small Business of the Year. She was also recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by the Black Business Initiative\, and Invisible Champion by United Way Halifax and The Bhayana Family Foundation for her work building and leading SPICE.
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\nNatalie\, who was recently recognized as one of the ?Top 25 Immigrants in the Maritimes?\, holds certificates in Business Development and in Leadership and Innovation from Dalhousie?s Rowe School of Business\, Faculty of Management. She has extensive training and experience in business automation\, customer service management\, food businesses\, and helping small business owners use technology to boost productivity.
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\nAn American immigrant of Afro-Caribbean descent\, Natalie believes that helping others succeed is the greatest form of service. She encourages other small businesses to take calculated risks\, mentors international students and newcomers through the process of settling in Nova Scotia\, and enjoys speaking on panels and at networking events. \;Natalie understands that being a champion \;for underrepresented women in business requires stewardship commitment and care. In her spare time\, she documents her families? adventures on social media with the message that adventure is for all.
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Josh Creighton
\nCorporate Partnership Specialist\, Halifax Chamber of Commerce\n\n
Josh Creighton is a lifelong resident of Nova Scotia. \;Being a former resident of Uniacke Square \;?where many who reside there are descendants of the historic community of Africville ? has instilled in him a passion for social justice. \;
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\nJosh joined the Halifax Chamber of commerce in 2021 to help support their DEA&\;I action initiatives as the Community Engagement Specialist before moving into his current role as Corporate Partnership Specialist.
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\nJosh's introduction into entrepreneurship was initiated via community development work after witnessing many in his community overcome challenges underpinned by systemic racism. Josh currently owns two companies\, JC consulting\, and Fumes Rolling Papers. He hopes to contribute to the overall economic state of the community here in Halifax while also advocating for diversity and Inclusion across sectors.
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\nJosh also sits on CBC's African Nova Scotian community advisory board. In his spare time\, Josh enjoys reading\, cooking\, hiking and practicing martial arts. \;
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\nKeynote: Hon. Sean Fraser\, Minister \;of housing\, infrastructure and communities\n
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In order to solve Canada's national housing crisis\, we need to adopt an all hands on deck approach. Working with every community\, and every level of government we can and will overcome this challenge.
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\nThe Honourable Sean Fraser was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Central Nova in 2015. He now serves as the Minister of Minister of Housing\, Infrastructure and Communities. He has previously served as Minister of Immigration\, Refugees and Citizenship\, as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance and to the Minister of Middle Class Prosperity and Associate Minister of Finance\, and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change. In 2021\, he also served concurrently as Parliamentary Secretary to the Deputy Prime Minister.
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\nPrior to entering politics\, Sean built a successful legal practice as a commercial litigator with one of Canada?s top-ranked law firms\, and studied international law under a Judge of the International Court of Justice and a Former Secretary-General of NATO as part of his Master?s Program in The Hague in the Netherlands. He also spent time working as a human rights lawyer for marginalized groups and individuals in Johannesburg\, South Africa.
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\nMinister Fraser grew up in Pictou County Nova Scotia\, where he and his wife\, Sarah\, are raising their young family.\n\n
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\nTrevor Floyd\, MSc
\nPartner\, Iris Communications
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Trevor is a founding Partner of Iris Communications\, a strategy and communications advisory firm based in Halifax\, Nova Scotia. \;Iris Communications' \;senior communications\, business\, and government advisors work with private and public sector organizations operating at the intersection of business\, government\, and society.
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\nTrevor has a strong knowledge of government and political processes acquired through over a dozen years of providing research\, analysis\, and strategic advice to senior government leaders on highly sensitive issues. Before founding Iris Communications\, he was Senior Director for the largest integrated communications firm in Atlantic Canada\, providing public affairs counsel to clients across the Atlantic region.
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\nTrevor has held key leadership roles in the Office of the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board and the Office of the Minister of Environment for Nova Scotia\, where he provided strategic counsel and a respected voice on \;fast-moving\, complex\, and politically charged issues.
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\nBefore joining the provincial government\, he spent nine years with the federal government at both the political and bureaucratic levels in Ottawa and Halifax\, gaining expertise in a variety of areas\, including fisheries management\, aquaculture\, public policy development\, climate change\, and clean energy\; environmental assessment and permitting\; and government\, stakeholder\, and First Nation consultation.
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\nTrevor is a St. Francis Xavier University graduate and lives in Halifax with his wife\, Jennifer\, and three children.
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\nKristan Hines
\nSenior Vice President\, \;Corporate and Public Affairs\, NATIONAL Public Relations
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\nKristan is passionate about helping people achieve their goals ? and this is evident in everything she does. For over 20 years\, she has tackled some of Atlantic Canada?s most compelling challenges and provided counsel to senior leaders in government and industry across Canada. \;
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\nAs NATIONAL?s Senior Vice President of Corporate and Public Affairs\, Kristan brings together experts in strategic communications\, government relations\, crisis management\, and public engagement from across the NATIONAL network to navigate complex issues and position clients for success. \;
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\nA trusted advisor and problem-solver\, Kristan brings perspective to the conversation ? drawing on her understanding of the Atlantic Canadian landscape\, her vast network\, and her experience as a political advisor on Parliament Hill and Chief of Staff to a former Premier of Nova Scotia. \;
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\nA proud graduate of Acadia and Dalhousie\, Kristan is currently the Vice Chair of the Dalhousie University Board of Governors. In addition\, she serves on the Executive Committee of Phoenix Youth Programs\, and the Downtown Halifax Business Commission Board of Directors.\n \;
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\nDavid Tarrant
\nVice President \;National Strategic Communications\, Enterprise Canada
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David Tarrant is Vice President of National Strategic Communications at Enterprise Canada. \; \;David also leads Enterprise Canada?s Atlantic Canada Office providing strategic communications\, government relations advice and writing services to public\, private and not-for-profit sector clients throughout the region and across Canada. David also serves as a Strategic Advisor to Creative Currency\, Enterprise Canada?s wholly owned advertising agency and content studio. \;
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\nDavid joined Enterprise from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford where\, as Executive Director of Strategic Communications\, he was responsible for all Government of Ontario advertising\, branding and public opinion research activities. He was co-author of Premier Ford?s 2018 election platform and wrote the communications strategy and narrative for both of Premier Ford?s winning campaigns. \;
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\nCloser to home\, David served as a senior strategist on the campaign team of Premier Tim Houston where he supported narrative and message development. \; \;Earlier in his career David also worked as communications advisor and senior speechwriter in the office of former Premier John Hamm.
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\nDavid is also experienced in federal politics. As Communications Strategist in the Office of Prime Minister Stephen Harper\, David oversaw all communications activities involving Natural Resources Canada\, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada\, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. \;
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\nDavid?s private sector experience includes seven years working on Bay Street for BMO Financial Group where he served a Director of Strategic Communications. \; \;Prior to that role David was the senior communications partner for executives in BMO?s Risk\, Compliance and Anti-Money Laundering\, Anti-Terrorism Financing groups. \;
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\nA native of St. John?s\, Newfoundland\, David today lives with his wife and three children in Bedford.\n\n
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\nChris Lydon
\nPresident\, M5 Public Affairs
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\nChris joined m5 Public Affairs in 2017 \;and has led its growth as the now largest government affairs practice in the region. \;An expert at building and maintaining strong relationships and translating the language of the industry to that of Government\, and vice-versa\, Chris honed his interest in public affairs and the motivations of populations and political decision-makers through his 8 years in the Office of the Premier where he served as a senior communications advisor and policy lead on many contentious files. Most recently\, he was a member of the Transition Team for incoming Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston when his Party assumed office in 2021. He has additionally advised the Premier?s Offices in Prince Edward Island\, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador on strategic communications matters.
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\nAs a consultant he has worked \;in the private sector\, representing many of the largest employers in Atlantic Canada including those in the government\, medical\, pharmaceutical\, energy\, financial\, legal\, gaming\, Indigenous\, and non-profit sectors. He has also served as lead in-house counsel on government and stakeholder relations to Atlantic Lottery\, playing a significant strategic role in increasing both corporate reputation and social license.
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\nHis national government and political experience are robust after serving as Chief of Staff to the federal departments of Labour and Status of Women Canada. His organizational and communications skills earned him a national assignment in the Regional Emergency Operations Centre leading the on-the-ground crisis communications and coordinated response of Canada?s insurance industry to the Fort McMurray wildfire and he also served as the Campaign Director (2016) and Campaign Chair (2020) for the successful re-election of the Mayor of Halifax. \;
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\nThank you to our Partners
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\nAdvocate Partners
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Host Partners
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Sponsorship Opportunities Available
\nPlease contact \;Josh Creighton\, Corporate Partnership Specialist \;to discuss
\n(902) 481-1229 \;or \;josh@halifaxchamber.com \n
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LOCATION:Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel 1919 Upper Water Street\, Halifax\, NS
UID:e.2481.4102
SEQUENCE:3
DTSTAMP:20260406T210712Z
URL:https://business.halifaxchamber.com/events/details/economic-engine-driving-nova-scotia-s-economy-forward-2024-4102
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR
