Across Unama’ki – Cape Breton, our residents, entrepreneurs, and leaders know the value of community. We know the importance of showing up, lending a hand, and using our voices to shape a better future. Right now, there is a powerful opportunity for people across our Island to do just that.

The Province of Nova Scotia is currently seeking applications for its Agencies, Boards, and Commissions (ABCs). These are the organizations and groups that help inform, guide, and make decisions on a wide range of issues that directly impact our daily lives – from healthcare and education to economic development, environment, policing, and public service. These groups thrive on the voices of engaged citizens with diverse experiences, ideas, and perspectives. That’s where you come in.

At the Cape Breton Partnership, we work every day to advance economic growth, support local businesses and entrepreneurs, and build a stronger future for all who live, work, and invest in Unama’ki – Cape Breton. A key focus of our work, reflected in the island-wide Forward. Together. – Economic Development & Population Growth Plan that inspired our own strategic plan and that of other organizations, is ensuring our region’s voice is not only heard but valued at decision-making tables across the province. Participating in these provincial ABCs is one way we can ensure that happens.

Too often, rural perspectives are underrepresented when important decisions are made. Yet rural Nova Scotians – like those across Unama’ki – Cape Breton – bring a wealth of lived experience and insight that is integral to guiding many organizations throughout Nova Scotia into the future. Cape Bretoners understand and recognize our province’s unique opportunities, challenges, and solutions that will help to lift our communities up.

By applying to serve on a provincial agency, board, or commission, community members across Unama’ki – Cape Breton can help bring rural and regional perspectives to the forefront – ensuring they are not only heard but acted upon. Also, you already have the experience needed to apply – ABC’s only require  a commitment to your community and a willingness to contribute, no prior board experience is needed

There are more than 150 agencies, boards, and commissions in Nova Scotia, covering areas as broad and vital as the Nova Scotia Health Authority Board, Cape Breton University Board of Governors, Farm Loan Board, Library Boards, Canada – Nova Scotia Offshore Energy Regulator, Aquaculture Review Board, Invest Nova Scotia Advisory Board, Workers’ Compensation Board, Apprenticeship Agency Board, Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Council, Build Nova Scotia Board, Real Estate Commission, and so many more.

Some of these groups advise government and others regulate important sectors or provide direct oversight and guidance. All of them, however, play a critical role in shaping the direction of our province and benefit from having the voices of our region – our entrepreneurs, young professionals, Indigenous leaders, newcomers, retirees, students, and community builders – at the table.

Representation matters. Inclusion matters. When the makeup of these boards reflects the rich diversity of Nova Scotia, the decisions they make are stronger, more relevant, and more impactful.

This is a chance to take action and help drive real progress on the issues we care about. Whether it’s strengthening healthcare access, supporting sustainable development, empowering women in leadership, or helping newcomers succeed – your voice can help move these efforts forward, aligning directly with the goals of our island’s Forward. Together. plan.

If you’ve ever thought, “Someone like me doesn’t get to make those decisions,” the Cape Breton Partnership encourages you to take a look at the opportunities available to join an agency, board, or commission, find the topic you are passionate about, and apply to become a part of the positive solutions and changes these organizations can make.

Applications to join an agency, board, or commission are open now and are accepted year-round. The process is transparent and accessible, and you can learn more and apply at https://novascotia.ca/exec_council/abc/.

Unama’ki – Cape Breton has so much to offer Nova Scotia. Let’s make sure our ideas, perspectives, and leadership are part of the province’s path forward. When we show up, speak up, and step forward, together, our whole province grows stronger.

Tyler Mattheis, President & CEO

Cape Breton Partnership

For more information on the Cape Breton Partnership and Forward. Together. – Unama’ki – Cape Breton’s Economic Development & Population Growth Plan, visit http://capebretonpartnership.com/ForwardTogether.