Young Nova Scotians Selected for Leadership Program

The future looks promising for some of the province's most talented young professionals.

Twenty young Nova Scotians, aged 20-35, will attend the 21inc Emerging Leaders Summit Nov. 21-24 in St. Andrews, N.B.

"More and more often, young people are holding positions of leadership in organizations and communities throughout our province," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "Programs like 21inc help young people develop relevant skills, which fosters innovative, growing and globally competitive companies.

"The development of these young leaders from all areas of the province will benefit their communities and their contributions will make life better for families in all regions."

Cheryl Stewart, chair of Fusion Halifax, is one of the Nova Scotians selected to participate in the summit.

"Celebrating and further cultivating leadership among the next generation is a critical element in making Halifax a magnet for talent," said Ms. Stewart. "The 21inc Emerging Leaders Summit gives me and my fellow nominees a chance to share with one another, learn from the best and invest in our own future. That is one investment that will yield results for communities all over the province."

The province, through Economic and Rural Development and Nova Scotia Business Inc., has invested $30,000 to support the leadership project. It is also supported by other public and private sector partners.

The young professionals are champions in areas like technology, business, government, entrepreneurship and community groups.

The other 21inc leaders are:

• Dr. André Bernard, resident physician-anesthetist, Dalhousie University
• David Eisnor, manager, self-employment benefits, Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED)
• Colette Everett, group account director, Revolve Branding
• David Finlayson, marketing manager, Helly Hansen
• Dr. Leah Genge, resident physician, University of Calgary
• Heidi Jamieson, vice president, taxation and special projects, Sobeys Inc.
• Kelly Johnstone, acting general manager, Cobham Tracking and Locating Ltd.
• Mike Kennedy, consultant, strategy and operations, Deloitte
• Clare Levin, executive director, Peaceful Schools International
• Ron Lovett, president, Source Security and Investigations Inc.
• Ryan MacNeil, sustainability consultant, self-employed
• Joanne Macrae, founder, The HUB Halifax
• Tracey Newman, manager, field and collection services, Workers Compensation Board of Nova Scotia
• Raymond Rashed, district banking manager, The Bank of Nova Scotia
• Julia Rivard, CEO, Sheep Dog Inc.ca
• Matthew Rodgers, general manager, Bishop's Cellar
• Derek Simon, associate, Burchells LLP
• Michelle Strum, owner, Halifax Backpackers
• Ashley Ward, executive director, Give to Live

The summit focuses on enhancing motivation, relationships, strategy, structure and outcomes. Candidates have been selected from throughout Atlantic Canada.