Digital Nova Scotia last week honoured members of the province’s tech community with its Tech Forward Awards, recognizing diverse contributors and contributions to the province's ecosystem.
The winners are:
Diversity and Inclusion Award: MOC BioTechnologies
“MOC BioTechnologies has made significant strides in fostering diversity and inclusion in Nova Scotia’s tech sector. Their inclusive hiring practices and workplace initiatives have created a welcoming environment where all employees can thrive.”
Talent Champion Award: Immediac
“Immediac stands out for its commitment to developing and retaining tech talent in Nova Scotia. The company’s forward-thinking hiring strategies, combined with a focus on positive workplace culture, have positioned them as leaders in fostering local talent and showcasing Nova Scotia as a top destination for career growth in tech.”
Tech For Good Award: GEO Nova Scotia
“GEO Nova Scotia is using technology to create lasting, positive impacts by addressing critical social and environmental challenges. Their commitment to sustainability and community well-being is helping to build a brighter future for Nova Scotia, one tech solution at a time.”
Thinking Forward Award: Dr. Srini Sampalli
“As a professor at Dalhousie University, Dr. Sampalli’s MYTech Research Lab has mentored students across all academic levels...His Wall of Champions whiteboard proudly displays the names of students he’s guided since 1993, including Erik Demaine, now a renowned professor at MIT. Dr. Sampalli’s commitment extends beyond his lab; he was awarded an NSERC CREATE grant to train 200 students in emerging cybersecurity technologies, creating direct pathways into the workforce through internships.”
Provincial Spotlight Award: IGNITE Atlantic
“IGNITE Atlantic is making waves beyond HRM, helping to grow Nova Scotia’s tech sector through export, recruitment, and community engagement. Their efforts have put a spotlight on the dynamic tech innovation happening across the province, proving that tech talent is thriving in all corners of Nova Scotia.”
Best of Tech Award: HealthEMe
“HealthEMe has had an outstanding year, marked by impressive growth and innovation in the health tech space. Their groundbreaking products and successful partnerships are helping to improve health outcomes across Nova Scotia and beyond, earning them this year’s coveted Best of Tech Award.”
One to Watch Award: Seif Elbayomi
“Seif Elbayomi’s journey from Egypt to Canada, where he pursued a degree in computer science, has been marked by resilience and determination. As one of the organizers behind DevOpsDays Halifax 2024, Seif played a key role in bringing this major tech event to the region. His passion for fostering community is evident in his volunteer work with Canada Learning Code, where he helps make tech accessible to all. Through these initiatives and his involvement as a Student Ambassador at Dalhousie University, Seif continues to connect, mentor, and inspire others in the tech industry."
Role Model Award: Isaac Cook
“Isaac Cook’s dedication to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) is at the core of everything they do. As a trans, disabled, and queer individual, Isaac has made it a personal mission to create space and opportunities for underrepresented communities. As Dal Innovates’ Project Manager of Inclusive Innovation, Isaac has led initiatives like bringing QueerTech to Atlantic Canada, showcasing the need for more inclusive spaces in tech. Their work extends beyond this role, from developing accessible websites for small businesses to leading discussions with the Diversity Institute to improve mentorship for equity-deserving founders.”
