"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall"
-African Proverb

Good evening everyONE,

Tomorrow, we celebrate more than graduation; we celebrate resilience, discipline, innovation, and the courage to step into one of the fastest-growing industries in the world.

Thank you to our partners: Dalhousie University Computer Science, Dalhousie UniversitySchool of Social Work, YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth (JWL and NS WORKS), and Tidal Venture Partners and our funders: the Province of Nova Scotia, Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration, and Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

To our Matrix CODE graduates: you have completed an intensive journey of learning, building, problem-solving, and growth. You are now equipped with real software development skills, industry knowledge, and the confidence to create meaningful impact in Nova Scotia’s tech ecosystem and beyond.

You represent the future of technology: diverse, talented, and ready to lead. This milestone is just the beginning; new opportunities, careers, and possibilities await. We urge our community, employers, and partners to actively engage and support our graduates now. Tech companies: Act now, hire, mentor, and invest in this talent to drive innovation. Government and funders: Commit today to expanding support for Matrix CODE and advancing economic mobility.

Community organizations and leaders: Join us now, help expand our impact and build sustainable talent pipelines. The talent and skills are here. The opportunity is now.

Take action now–help turn this momentum into real opportunities and lasting change.

Connect with Matrix CODE today: Click the image below for more information.

Employment Opportunities:

  NEW   The Ecology Action Centre is hiring a community outreach seasonal intern. This full-time position has an hourly wage of $21. This organization encourages applications from those who identify as African Nova Scotian and other racialized people. The deadline to apply is May 6th. Click HERE for more information.

  NEW IWK Health is hiring a Rehabilitation Assistant. This Temporary Full-time position has an hourly wage of $25.84 - $31.93. This organization welcomes all interested persons who self-identify as Indigenous, Black/African Nova Scotians, Persons of Colour, Immigrants/Newcomers to apply. The deadline to apply is May 11th. Click HERE for more information.

  NEW    Halifax Regional Municipality is inviting applications for the Park and Open Space Planner. This permanent full-time position has an hourly wage of $42.50. This position welcomes applications from African Nova Scotians and other racially visible persons. The deadline to apply is May 17th. Click HERE to apply.

  NEW   The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is hiring a Director (Chief Executive Officer). This full‑time position, based in Halifax, offers an annual salary of $231,200–$272,000. The role provides strategic, operational, and financial leadership for Canada’s national museum of immigration, overseeing public programming, collections, outreach, and national partnerships. Bilingual proficiency is preferred. Application deadline is May 28, 2026. Click HERE for more information.

  NEW   The Rural Communities Foundation of Nova Scotia is hiring for multiple positions.

1. Environmental Program Coordinator for the Cape Breton–Canso–Antigonish region. This full‑time, 8‑week position pays $17.50/hour and supports regional work in climate resilience, green jobs, food self‑determination, equitable land access, and digital storytelling. The role includes community engagement, developmental evaluation, and coordination with local partners and grantees. Click HERE for more information.

2. Environmental Program Coordinator for the Cumberland–Colchester region. This full‑time, 8‑week position pays $17.50/hour plus expenses and supports regional work in climate‑resilient agriculture, green jobs, food self‑determination, equitable land access, and community storytelling. The role also assists with Local Prosperity 2026 planning, engages past grantees, and provides coordination support for local stakeholder meetings. Click HERE for more information.

3. Environmental Program Coordinator for the South Shore–St. Margarets region. This full‑time, 8‑week position pays $17.50/hour plus expenses and supports regional work in food self‑determination, climate resilience (including wildfire‑related efforts), green jobs, equitable land access, and digital storytelling. The role also engages past grantees, supports Free to Play projects, and provides coordination for local stakeholder meetings. Click HERE for more information.

The African Nova Scotian Justice Institute is hiring two Restorative Justice Caseworkers. This full‑time contract position is designated for Black persons of African descent and offers an annual salary of $56,746.68, with benefits. The role supports the delivery of the Nova Scotia Restorative Justice Program in partnership with Coverdale Courtwork Society. Application deadline is May  10. Click HERE for more information.

The Nova Scotia Health Authority is Hiring a Utility Worker - Environmental Services. This Casual position has an hourly wage of $20.74 - $21.57. The Nova Scotia Health Authority encourage all qualified applicants who self-identify as Indigenous, Black/African Nova Scotian to apply. The application deadline is May 12th. Click HERE for more information.

HR pros Inc. is hiring an Outside Industrial & amp; Commercial Sales Specialist. This full-time, permanent position has a base salary of $90,000 - $95,000 per year. This position is ideal for a driven sales professional who thrives in a self-directed, technical environment. Click HERE for more information..

Glass Brothers Construction INC is actively recruiting for multiple roles. As part of their hiring process, they want to emphasize their dedication to inclusivity and diversity. Statement: "Our commitment goes beyond construction projects; it extends to fostering inclusivity, providing opportunities, and championing diversity."

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

1. Glass Brothers Construction is recruiting  Framers and Carpenters. This part‑time role offers an hourly wage of $25–$33, a Monday–Friday schedule, paid mileage, benefits, enhanced vacation, and opportunities for paid training and career progression. Candidates should bring 2–5+ years of carpentry or framing experience and be comfortable working independently and on‑site across multiple locations. Click HERE for more information

2. Glass Brothers Construction is recruiting  ICF Installers. This part‑time role offers an hourly wage of $25–$33, a Monday–Friday schedule, paid mileage, benefits, enhanced vacation, and opportunities for paid training and advancement. Applicants should have 2–5+ years of ICF installation experience and strong skills in site prep, block stacking, rebar, alignment, and bracing. Click HERE for more information

3. Glass Brothers Construction is recruiting  Labourer Apprentices. This part‑time role offers an hourly wage of $19–$25, a Monday–Friday schedule, paid mileage, benefits, enhanced vacation, and opportunities for paid training and career growth. Ideal candidates bring foundational construction knowledge and a willingness to learn ICF, carpentry, and framing. Click HERE for more information

Smooth BBQ & Smokehouse is opening May 8th in Cole Harbour and they’re building an incredible front-of-house team to match the energy. They’re currently looking for Experienced Servers (minimum 2 years) who thrive in a fast-paced environment and know how to deliver top-tier service. Serving experience is required. Bartending experience or Serve Right certification is a huge asset. You can expect: competitive wages + tips, a fun, fast-paced, team-driven environment, and the opportunity to be part of a brand new restaurant launch. Open until filled. Click HERE for more information.

Nova Scotia Correctional Services is hiring a Correctional Officer. This opportunity is designated to applicants that are and/or identify as an Indigenous Person, or African Nova Scotian. Application deadline May 28th. The hourly salary for this relief position is $29.29 - $35.91. Click HERE for more information.

Programs, Events, Grants & Additional Opportunities:

  NEW   Are you interested in giving back to the youth of your community? BIJ is seeking to grow its team of volunteers   across the province of Nova Scotia! We offer programs, workshops, youth conferences, seminars and sessions dedicated to motivating youth through entrepreneurship, social enterprise, education and personal development. Click HERE to apply.

  NEW   The Nova Scotia health Authority is hosting a virtual session Enhancing well-being Through Leisure – Virtual Session. Join Erika Dahr for an engaging session. Learn what recreation therapy is and how it can support your mental, emotional, and physical health. This is a great opportunity to explore healing through community and meaningful opportunity. This session is open to African Nova Scotian/Black community members. This event will be held on May 7th from 7-8pm. For more information Click HERE for more information.

  Dalhousie University’s School of Architecture, in partnership with Halifax Public Libraries, is launching a community‑engaged Design Studio focused on reimagining the Halifax North Memorial Public Library. This initiative brings together BEDS and MARCH students from May 4 to July 16, 2026, and invites a cohort of North End high school students, particularly those from the African Nova Scotian community to participate in a series of collaborative design sessions. Youth will explore architecture, engineering, and urban planning through hands‑on activities, studio tours, co‑design workshops, and project reviews, contributing their lived experience to a community‑rooted design process. Sessions take place on May  14, May  19, and June  12, with opportunities for deeper involvement for especially interested students. Click HERE for more information

     The Canadian Race Relations Foundation, in partnership with the Dais, has officially opened applications for the 2026 Anti‑Racist Youth Lab. This national initiative brings together Black, Indigenous, and racialized youth aged 18-30 for a three‑day in‑person learning experience in Toronto from July 9–11, 2026. Participants will build skills in public policy and systems change, connect with peers and practitioners across Canada, and strengthen their anti‑racism leadership. Travel, accommodation, and select meals are covered. Applications close on May 13, 2026 (11:59 PM EST). Click HERE for more information.

   The Coady Institute is hosting a Coady Coffee House and webinar on Canada–Africa Relations in a Time of Turmoil, featuring Dalhousie scholar Dr. David Black. This session takes place on May 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM in Room 342 at StFX and online, offering participants an opportunity to explore Canada’s evolving engagement in Sub‑Saharan Africa, global development, diplomacy, and disability‑inclusive policy through Dr. Black’s extensive research and expertise. Fresh Ethiopian coffee will be served for in‑person attendees. Click HERE for more information.

    NSCC is offering a one‑year Disability Support Professional Certificate Program  beginning  September 2026. This program trains students to support persons with disabilities through a rights‑based, community‑focused approach, and includes two mandatory field placements. A full bursary covering tuition, textbooks, and fees is available for eligible Canadian citizens and permanent residents who commit to one year of employment with Nova Scotia’s Disability Support Program after graduation. Click HERE for more information.

    Join the Jamaican Cultural Association of Nova Scotia for an exciting Indoor Flea Market on Saturday, May 16 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Emmanuel Anglican Church, 322 Herring Cove Rd, Spryfield. This community event will feature great deals, bingo, prizes, and a variety of unique items for sale, all in support of the JCANS fundraiser table. Click HERE for more information

  The MacPhee Centre for Creative Learning is seeking passionate community members to join its  Volunteer Board of Directors, with a strong interest in connecting with and reflecting the African Nova Scotian community. Based in downtown Dartmouth, the Centre empowers youth ages 12–19 through free, arts-based programming that builds confidence, creativity, and opportunity. They are also looking for individuals with experience in finance, law, or human resources who want to help guide and strengthen this work.  Click HERE for more information.

  The Delmore "Buddy" Daye learning institute has officially opened registration to the Africentric education conference. The 2026 Africentric Education Conference is a unique two-day gathering of Africentric community members, educators, changemakers, and global leaders. Through keynote presentations, wisdom circles, research presentations, and community-engaged sessions, the conference creates space to reflect, connect, and act. This conference will be held on May 28th and 29th at Mount Saint Vincent University, however not to worry if you cannot make it in person you can also register to attend online. Click HERE for more information.

  Black Wellness Co-operative NS is working on expanding their Group fitness programs and are looking for instructors to lead adult classes in: Truro, Upper Hammonds Plains, Cape Breton, and Shelburne. These are designated roles focused on building consistent, community-based programming. Paid opportunity. Certification support available. 1 class/week commitment (12 weeks). Click HERE for more information.

  The Association of Black Social Workers are proud to announce the official opening of their Black Mental Health Clinic.  A space created to support healing, culturally grounded care, and wellness in our community. They are now accepting clients across Nova Scotia. To access services, call 1-855-732-1253 Ext. 1 (spots are limited). Click HERE for more information.

  Blk Women in Excellence's 16-Week Start-Up Program is officially open and starts May 19, 2026. If you’re a Black woman in business, this space was created for you. Whether you’re just starting, have an idea, rebranding, or feel like you’re missing the fundamentals, this program will give you the structure, clarity, and support you need to build something real. This is a fully educational program designed to help you build a business that is sustainable and scalable. Spots are limited. Click HERE for more information.

  Anchor Youth Space – North End Halifax is a safe, inclusive space for youth aged 12–25 and their caregivers. Anchor is a welcoming, low-barrier space designed to support the health and wellbeing of youth and their caregivers in the North End of Halifax. No appointments needed. No fees. Just a space built for you open on evenings and weekends. Click HERE for more information.

Scholarships & Bursaries:

   The Government of Nova Scotia's  University Entrance Scholarship  supports Black African Nova Scotian students as they transition from high school to university. Valued at $4,500, this award recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement among Grade 12 graduates in the Nova Scotia school system. Open to students entering university in the fall immediately after graduation. Applications are due May 29, 2026. Click HERE for more information.

   The Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation African Nova Scotian Student Bursary is now open. This bursary supports African Nova Scotian and Black students pursuing studies in a health-related field at a recognized post-secondary institution. One award of $8,000 is available and is renewable for up to four years. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural competency and representation within the healthcare system. The application deadline is May 15, 2026. Click HERE for more information.

  The Efficiency Nova Scotia Bright Futures Award is now live. Open to full and part-time students who will be enrolled in year 1 of eligible programs at any campus where the eligible programs are offered. One award will be designated for a student who's African Nova Scotian. Application deadline June 10th. Click HERE for more information.

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.

Copyright © 2020 ANS SOCIAL INNOVATION LAB, All rights reserved

Contact us:
anslab@onenorthend.com
Please allow us up to 48 hours for response time on business days, nonetheless, our goal at the lab is to reply to your inquiries as promptly as possible!

Our mailing address is:
912 Herring Cove Rd, Halifax, NS, B3R 1Z6

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ANS Weekly Community Grapevine - May 5th 2026