Sam is a student at Dalhousie University and Owner of Melmerby Adventures water sport rentals. He is very interested in improving his connections with community through his involvement with various local and provincial groups. Sam looks forward to working with the board and partners towards improving transportation across the province.

Cyril currently resides in Chéticamp and works for the CSAP, Le Conseil scolaire acadien provincial, as Mathematics and Science Consultant. He is a board member of several community organizations including NIRCA, Le Conseil des arts de Chéticamp, and l’Acabie. He believes volunteers are the heart of most communities in Nova Scotia, particularly rural communities and this passion has motivated him to be an active volunteer in his community for the past 30 years and plans to continue throughout his upcoming retirement.

Sarah Balloch is a well-rounded Engagement Manager with Net Zero Atlantic. Previously, she was the program manager at Clean Foundation with experience in public outreach and engagement surrounding energy efficiency-related programming, rebate programs and community-focused programming. While currently living in Halifax she was raised in West Hants and continues to work towards making Nova Scotia a leader in the environmental space. With a BA in Environmental Studies and an MA in Environmental Education and Communication, Sarah has a wide breadth of knowledge relating to environmental issues and the complex social, economic and ecological systems they exist in. Her enthusiasm for the environment continues into wild spaces, with training from the Outdoor Council of Canada, Hike NS, Canadian Women & Sport and the Canadian Wildlife Federation.

Shelley Adams is the Manager, CNIB Voice (Advocacy) for Atlantic Canada.  She has worked at CNIB for over 20 years in many capacities.  She has a Bachelor of Psychology and a Bachelor of Social Work and is a registered social worker.  She is the mother of two children and loves to knit and listen to audiobooks in her spare time.  She is blind and has a guide dog named Rookie.  Her lived experience and passion for helping others with disabilities are what got her interested in being part of the NSCTN board.  Transportation is one of the most significant barriers faced by people with disabilities, so she is grateful to be able to bring that voice to the table.

Tanya is the Executive Director of East Hants Community Learning Association (EHCLA)/East Hants Community Rider (EHCR). EHCLA believes in a strong and connected community, and through individualized programming and opening doors to education and transportation, they help to contribute to a more prosperous and proud community. With the availability of rural transportation, they are empowering individuals to live with a sense of freedom and confidence. EHCR is committed to delivering safe, affordable, and accessible rides to all those facing transportation challenges in our community, irrespective of age or mobility.

Gil is a former Regional Councillor with the Region of Queens Municipality, representing the Caledonia area, and is currently president of GJ Utility Safety Training and Consulting Services. He has over 35 years experience in Electrical Utility Management and continues to offer humanitarian support following major storm events. Gil is adamant that accessible transportation is basic infrastructure and should be treated and supported like any other utility service.

Phil is the Communications and Programs Manager for East Hants Community Learning Association (EHCLA)/East Hants Community Rider (EHCR). He is always looking for ways to better connect people with their communities through programs and fun-filled events for all ages. He sees transportation as a key part of life and is focused on finding ways to make it more accessible to everyone. Phil can usually be found in the driver’s seat, transporting family, friends, his dog Odin or anyone else who needs a ride.

Mary has worked with Seniors Outreach and Resource Centre, where she diligently worked to help vulnerable older adults maintain their dignity and independence, and to stay connected to their communities. Mary is excited to continue this work as part of the NSCTN Board to help improve transportation options for everyone.

Julie Weir is currently a provincial Program Manager with Nova Scotia Health, focused on growing our healthcare workforce, especially in rural communities. Prior to joining NSH, Julie managed Clean Foundation’s Workforce Development department, working with youth and environmental and clean tech organizations in NS and across Canada. Her past experience in economic development, research, education, as well as with all levels of government lend to collaboration and informed perspectives.

Heartwill Elewosi currently works with the Provincial Government’s Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD) as a Youth Counsellor.  Heartwill has over 7 years of experience as a Mental Health and Disability Supports Professional. Originally from Ghana, West Africa, she currently resides in Kentville, Kings County, Nova Scotia. Heartwill holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Health Psychology, a Bachelor’s in Psychology (Major) with Adult Education, and a Diploma in Disability Supports and Services. She has been and continues to be a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, especially regarding universal design and the destigmatization of mental health and disability. During her studies at NSCC Kingstec, she served on the disability and inclusion committee as well as the wellness committee. She is also a mental health content creator, raising awareness about mental health in the hope of breaking the stigma around it.

This is Aron’s second time around as a health sector representative ex-officio with NSCTN. He has been working in the health sector for 15 years, in different capacities from health educator to health promoter, and eventually the strategic partnership engagement consultant, all within the Eastern Zone of Nova Scotia Health. For the last six years, he has been managing the Eastern Zone Public Engagement Community Health Board (PECHB) Support program. The CHBs Community Health Plans, a legislative responsibility of the CHBs based on the Health Authorities Act, align very well with the kind of work that the NSCTN strategic plan. It has been a great partnership, and he looks forward to future collaborations to try to reduce barriers when it comes to accessibility, isolation and transportation.