ANS Weekly Community Grapevine – February 3rd 2026
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ANS Weekly Community Grapevine – February 3rd 2026
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“Move like the chameleon, keep one eye on the past and the other on the future.”
-African Proverb
Good evening everyONE,
In observance of Black History Month, we honour the legacy of the trailblazers whose shoulders we stand upon and the current leaders guiding the way forward. In a world filled with stories of resilience and courage, it becomes a challenge to spotlight every individual who has contributed to our rich history within a month. Thus, we have dedicated this time to exploring and embodying the seven African-centered principles that tie us to our cultural roots and guide our endeavours and interactions within our communities and beyond:
Umoja (Unity): Emphasizing the importance of togetherness and collective action in achieving common goals.
Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): Encouraging personal and communal agency, advocating for the right to define, name, create, and speak for ourselves.
Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility): Highlighting the significance of collective efforts and mutual support in addressing community challenges and solving them together.
Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): Promoting economic solidarity and shared prosperity through support for local businesses and communal economic practices.
Nia (Purpose): Guiding us to focus our energies on our collective vocation to serve our communities.
Kuumba (Creativity): Inspiring us to use our creativity and ingenuity to improve our community and beautify the world in which we live.
Imani (Faith): Strengthening our commitment to our beliefs, values, and the righteousness of our struggle towards a better world.
Employment Opportunities:
NEW Nova Scotia Health is hiring a Health Care Social Worker . This organization encourages qualified persons who self-identify as Black/African Nova Scotian to apply. This permanent, full-time position has an hourly rate of $36.57 – $48.53. The application deadline is February 17th. Click HERE for more information.
NEW Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) is hiring a Planner II – Regional and Community Planning . As per their Employment Equity Policy, HRM welcomes applications from African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons. This full-time position has an hourly salary of $42.50. The application deadline is February 15th. Click HERE for more information.
NEW Emera Inc. is hiring a Utility Worker II . This organization strongly encourages applications from persons who identify as racially visible, or belong to other underrepresented communities. The hourly wage for this position is $29.09. The application deadline is February 10th. Click HERE for more information.
NEW Halifax Harbour Bridges (HB) is looking for Seasonal Painters . Applicants are encouraged to self-identify as this organization supports employment equity. This position is full-time, seasonal, and offers a wage of $22.85/hour. The application deadline is February 13th. Click HERE for more information.
IWK Health’s department of Equity and Belonging, Health Equity, Safety and Wellness is hiring an African Nova Scotian Health Consultant . This permanent hourly position has an hourly salary range of $38.36 – $47.95. Application deadline February 3rd. Click HERE for more information.
The North End Community Health Centre is hiring for two positions:
1. Case Manager . This 1-year term position has an hourly salary of $29.42 – $30.73. This position is designated for individuals who identify as African Nova Scotians and/or people of African Descent. Application deadline February 5th. Click HERE for more information.
2. Property Management Assistant . This full-time term position has an hourly salary range of $26.40. This position is designated for individuals who identify as African Nova Scotians and/or people of African Descent. This position will remain open until filled. Click HERE for more information.
Team Work Cooperative is hiring for two positions. Their Mission is to “facilitate inclusive employment and workplace opportunities for people in Nova Scotia”. They welcome and encourage applications from African Nova Scotians and other equity group members:
1. Case Manager . This 5-Month Contract position has a salary of $48,000 – $53,000. Application deadline February 9th. Click HERE for more information.
2. Job Developer . This 1-year contract position has an annual salary of $48,000 – $53,000. Application deadline February 9th. Click HERE for more information.
The Choice Health Centre is seeking to hire an Osteopathic Manual Therapist . This organization welcomes applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons. This full-time position has an annual salary of $50,000 – $85,000. This application is open until filled. Click HERE for more information.
GeoSpectrum is hiring a Manufacturing Assembler . This full-time term position encourage applicants who identify as African Nova Scotian, racially visible, Aboriginal persons and women. Applications are open until filled. Click HERE for more information.
SuperNOVA has officially opened applications to hire a Team Lead . this organization commits to achieving inclusive excellence through continually championing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA). This Contract position has an hourly rate of $20.00/hour. Click HERE to apply.
McInnes Cooper is seeking a dedicated and Community-minded Land Titles Coordinator to join their Halifax office in a full-time, permanent position. This opportunity is designated exclusively for applicants who identify as African Nova Scotian. They strongly encourage those from historic African Nova Scotian communities to apply. Click HERE for more information.
Service Nova Scotia is hiring a Corporate Payroll Technician . Welcomes applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons. This permanent position has a Bi-Weekly wage of $2,174.61 – $2,550.37. The application deadline is February 26th. Click HERE for more information.
Dalhousie University is hiring a Talent Pathways – Candidate Roster for Temporary Positions . The university encourages applications from Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (especially Mi’kmaq), persons of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), and other racially visible individuals. This is a term position. Applications are open until filled. Click HERE for more information.
The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth is hiring an Adventure Director . This organization is an equal opportunity employer, and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds (i.e. Black/racialized individuals). This full-time position has a weekly salary of $650. Applications are open until filled. Click HERE for more information.
Programs, Events, Grants & Additional Opportunities:
NEW Application Deadline Extended! Great news! The application deadline for the Black Student Recruitment Initiative with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) has been extended to Monday, February 9, 2026! This extension gives new applicants more time to apply and offers a perfect opportunity for those with incomplete applications to log back in and finish what they started. The initiative offers paid Summer 2026 student opportunities for Black students in science and related fields across multiple regions in Canada. Don’t miss this chance to gain hands-on experience, expand your network, and explore meaningful careers in oceans, fisheries, and aquatic sciences. Click HERE for more information.
NEW Join the Black Business Initiative (BBI), for an Online Workshop: How to Use AI Tools to Save Time & Money in Your Business !
In this workshop, small business owners will learn how to leverage AI to Save Time and Money for Your Business. AI is all of the buzz lately, but have you been thinking how can you use it to improve your business? This session will cut through the noise! Gain a practical introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) and how these tools can immediately improve efficiency and reduce operating costs. Participants will learn about key areas where AI delivers real value and how to adopt it responsibly and effectively. This event is taking place on February 5th at 6:30 pm. Register now as spots are limited! Click HERE for more information.
The Delmore Buddy Daye Learning Institute (DBDLI) has a couple upcoming opportunities:
NEW 1. Young, Black, and Thriving is a two-part virtual mental health and wellness series centering Black youth voices, lived experiences, and Africentric pathways to well-being. Join DBDLI for honest, affirming conversations focused on healing, resilience, and community-based support. Sessions will take place on February 17th and 24th, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, virtually on Zoom. This series creates a safe and empowering space to reduce stigma and strengthen connections to wellness resources. Together, we rise by building community and supporting Black youth well-being. Click HERE for more information.
2. Join the Delmore Buddy Daye Learning Institute for She Leads , an inspiring half-day conference honouring the leadership, resilience, and brilliance of Black women in our communities. This energizing gathering will uplift voices, celebrate excellence, and empower the next generation. Opening remarks by: The Honourable Twila Grosse, Minister, African Nova Scotian Affairs & The Honourable Leah Martin, Status of Women, Engaging panels and featured speakers from the public, business and non-profit sectors, and a welcoming space for connection, celebration and empowerment. Who should attend? Black women leaders and young professionals, Community members, allies, and advocates, and Professionals in non-profit, community, government, and industry sectors. Click HERE for more information.
3. The 2026 Delmore “Buddy” Daye Learning Institute African Nova Scotian History Challenges are now live! They welcome all students from grade primary to 12 explore the achievements and stories of Black communities in our province. The initiative brings classrooms, families, and communities together every year as hundreds of students create projects through art, research, and creativity. Awards totaling $3,000, medals, and prizes will be presented to winning recipients at an awards ceremony in the spring. Deadline February 6th. Click HERE for more information.
Join the Black Wellness Co-operative for Strength in Heritage: Our Black History Month Bootcamp . Take part in an inclusive workout open to all ages and abilities to come together to sweat and connect during Black History Month. This 60 minute group fitness circuit-style class with a coach at each station. Experience a well-rounded full body workout guided by your BWC coaches and friends cheering you on and hyping you up along the way! Come ready for a good time and to challenge your body and mind in a way that will leave you feeling great! This event will take place on Saturday, February 21st from 1 pm to 2:30 pm, at Pro-EDGE Elite Training facility. This is a fundraiser class and all funds will be used towards the BWC Scholarship. Click HERE for more information.
The Black Cultural Centre has a couple upcoming events:
1. 2026 African Heritage Month Gala is taking place February 28th, 2026 from 5pm – 11:30pm at the Halifax Convention Centre. An unforgettable evening celebrating the rich culture and heritage of the Black community in Nova Scotia. Their theme “Deep Roots, Powerful Future” reflects the strength that comes from knowing where we come from. It’s a celebration of heritage, growth, and the collective resilience that empowers us to shape a brighter tomorrow. The African Heritage Gala is part of the Capital Campaign to Expand so that we can continue to educate and empower. As the largest SOLD OUT gala ever hosted in Nova Scotia (1,200 guests), we invite you to be part of a night filled with tradition, artistry, and community. Click HERE for more information.
2. George (Sonny) Bernard Jr. (June 25, 1947 – May 15, 2025) was a gifted artist whose creative spirit touched countless lives. He approached every project with deep pride and unwavering attention to detail. Through his lens, he captured moments of grace and significance. The Black Cultural Centre hopes you can join them on February 12th at the Black Cultural Centre for the Launch of a Retrospective Exhibition of Mr. Bernard’s photography: Through the Lens of Sonny Bernard, taking place February 12th – 6:30pm – 8:30pm at the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia. Click HERE for more information.
Feeling buried in emails, admin, and marketing tasks? It’s time to let AI be your most reliable team member. Join Tribe Network’s beginner-friendly Virtual workshops learn to: Automate daily tasks, Create marketing content in minutes, and Turn your ideas into real products. Upcoming sessions take place Feb 10 and Feb 24 at 6 pm. Click HERE to register for the session on Feb 10th. Click HERE to register for the session on Feb 24th.
PREP Academy has a couple opportunities:
1. PREP Academy is undertaking a comprehensive Refresh of Finance Systems as they transition their accounting and payroll functions in-house. They are seeking a consultant to support a nonprofit QuickBooks conversion, systems integration, workflow redesign, and alignment with our accounting policies. This engagement will play a key role in strengthening their internal controls, improving efficiency, and supporting their continued growth as a registered charity. Click HERE for more information.
2. PREP Academy is seeking a Small-Medium Sized Audit firm to support their first audit as a registered charity. This engagement will include an annual audit in accordance with Canadian Auditing Standards, preparation of an independent auditor’s report for CRA filing, and collaboration with management and the Board throughout the process. They invite firms with nonprofit and charitable audit experience—and a values-aligned, equity-informed approach—to review the full RFP on their website and submit a proposal. Click HERE for more information.
Are you a Black and/or African Nova Scotian writer, looking to take part in a 1-4 week retreat? The Writers Foundation of Nova Scotia are welcoming applications to take part in the Jampolis Cottage Sponsored Residencies . Each successful applicant is provided with free, private residence and a $2000 honorarium. Low-residency and split-residency options are available to accommodate writers with work and care commitments. Click HERE to Apply!
The BMSAC is excited to host a virtual Mock MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) designed to help you strengthen your interview skills in a supportive, judgment-free environment. All interviewers will be experienced medical students, resident physicians, and staff physicians. Event Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026. Registration Deadline: Friday, February 6, 2026. Spots are limited, so registration may close earlier. Click HERE for more information.
Join UNSTOPPABLE for a powerful Half-day Conference celebrating the brilliance, resilience, and leadership of Black women and women of colour in our communities. This is a space to connect, learn, and be inspired by voices shaping the future. Date: February 10, 2026. Location: Mount Saint Vincent University. Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Free to attend, registration required. Save your spot. Click HERE for more information.
The YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth has opened a new initiative: Anchor Youth Space – North End Halifax . Anchor is a welcoming, low-barrier space designed to support the health and wellbeing of youth and their caregivers (aged 12-25) in the North End of Halifax. No appointments needed. No fees. Just a space built for you that is open evenings and weekends. Their mission is to empower youth and caregivers through accessible, responsive, and holistic support. Through collaboration with local organizations and government partners, Anchor offers integrated services in: Mental health and substance use; Employment and housing support; Community and social development. Operating all under one roof, it is designed by youth, for youth. Their team and services are rooted in equity, ensuring everyone gets the support and opportunities they need. Click HERE for more information.
Scholarships & Bursaries:
The PREP Academy online Scholarship Directory provides African Nova Scotian students access to a digital list of funding awards that can help support a student’s education. Organizations can POST awards for students to access. Click HERE to access.
FREE MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS
alongside are providing support to people of African Descent in Nova Scotia with their Provincial Impact Toll Free Line . This includes mental health supports, social supports, education information and supports, public health COVID-19 information and supports, and much more! Call them, toll free @ 1-855-732-1253.
African Nova Scotian and Black youth across Canada deserve mental health and well-being support informed by their rich cultures and diverse lived experiences. RiseUp powered by Kids Help Phone is a national, 24/7, bilingual E-Mental Health Support Service for Black youth. The service is free and available from coast to coast to coast. Click HERE for more information.
Nova Village NS is now offering FREE family (with youth up to the age of 19), couple, perinatal counselling and mental health assessments — available virtually or in person. This service is provided by a registered counselling therapist. In addition, there is a monthly peer support group for new moms and a 6-week mental wellness program.
Click HERE to learn more
The North End Community Health Centre offers mental health services through their PAUSE Mental Health program. They are open from 5 pm to 8 pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays for over the phone appointments, and Wednesday’s for in-person appointments at 2131 Gottingen Street. Please call their toll free number (1-800-598-5270) at any time, and leave your name and phone number to be matched with a therapist.
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anslab@onenorthend.com
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