Born and raised in a small French Acadian fishing village nestled in picturesque southwest Nova Scotia, Pubnico was not just my home village, it was the tapestry of my upbringing. 

My parents, the cornerstones of our family's foundation, each carved their unique paths in life. While Mom dedicated her younger years to raising her brood of five children, she balanced the roles of a stay-at-home mom with the meticulous management of our dad';s fishing business. Her entrepreneurial spirit later propelled her into the realm of business, earning her stripes as one of Avon's top representatives in Atlantic Canada. Dad hailed from a long line of seasoned fishermen. He spent six decades weaving his tales upon the ocean's canvas as he owned and captained several fishing vessels. His quiet demeanor and unwavering passion for the sea were matched only by his profound interest in people, places the the harmonies of music.

As the middle child among my siblings, our familial bond was woven tight, enduring through the years and miles. Childhood was a medley of academic pursuits, the melodies of classical piano, the rhythm of dance and the camaraderie of sports against the backdrop of rural Nova Scotia landscapes. 

At the tender age of fourteen, a newfound sense of responsibility beckoned as I discovered my parents would not finance my elder sister's university education. Determined to chart my own course, I embarked on my inaugural foray into the world of employment donning an apron at the local "Marge'e Drive-in". There, amidst the sizzler of burgers and the crispness of fried clams, I mastered the art of multitasking, all the while fostering a warm rapport with patrons and diligently squirreling away earnings for my collegiate aspirations. 

High school beckoned as SAR High School, a bilingual institution. While engaging in various extracurricular pursuits, it was was leading our Red Cross Youth Group that ignited my passion for community service, culminating in a transformative experience representing Nova Scotia at a Red Cross Youth Forum in Toronto.

My journey continued at Acdia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, where I pursued a Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Accounting and Finance. Fifteen years post graduation, a newfound chapter unfolded as I ventured into the uncharted waters of the financial services industry. Breaking barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, I found my calling in guiding individuals towards financial empowerment, a path imbued with purpose and fulfillment.

Beyond the confines of the office, life unfolds in the embrace of cherished moments with my daughter, beloved pets and the extended embrace of my family and friends. Whether immersed in the rhythms of the kitchen, the serenity of yoga, or the melodies of music, each moment is a celebration of life's rich tapestry, a testament to the enduring bonds of love, laughter and explorations. 

Background

• Chartered Investment Manager (CIM®) – 2012
• Chartered International Wealth Manager (CIWM) – 2010
• Fellow of Canadian Securities Institute (FCSI) – 2004
• Financial Management Advisor (FMA) – 2004
• Elder Planning Counselor (EPC) – 2001
• Branch Manager of a Bank Owned Full Service Brokerage Firm – 2001-2007
• Insurance Licensed – 1997
• CIRO registrant – 1996

Associations over the years:

• Board of Directors of Start for Life Foundation
• Member of Yarmouth and Area Chamber of Commerce
• Member of District Council of CIRO
• Founding member of 100+ Women of Yarmouth County Who Care

Supporter of numerous local, regional, national and international charities and groups, particularly focused on the health and welfare of children, women and animals.

I was born and raised in the beautiful coastal town of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. My mother was a librarian and my father worked as the executive producer for our local television station. He also ran his own photographic and commercial videography businesses, so creativity and storytelling were a big part of our home life.

As a child, I was always active-swimming, figure skating, playing the piano and spending time with my grandparents were some of my favourite things to do. My first job was an actress at our local community theatre, which sparked a lifelong appreciation of the arts.

I went to Yarmouth Consolidated Regional High School. I was on the swim team, worked as a lifeguard and swimming instructor and earned my Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which I was honoured to receive from Prince Edward.

After high school, I attended Dalhousie University and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. My path into financial services was somewhat unexpected—I was in a car accident and received a settlement. As I explored how to invest that money, I became fascinated by the industry. I officially began working in financial services in 1996.

In 2003, I returned to school and became a registered massage therapist. I ran my own massage therapy business for 10 years while continuing to work in financial services, balancing both worlds with passion and commitment.

These days, when I am not working, I love spending time with my husband and our son. We enjoy traveling, gardening, walking our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, preserving the harvest from our garden and giving back to our community through volunteering. I have a blackbelt in Taekwondo, a discipline that has taught me resilience, focus and perseverance. Also, I enjoy playing the piano when I find a quiet moment.

Background

Insurance Licensed – 2019

Bachelor of Arts degree-1993

Associations over the years:

Board of Directors Yarmouth County Historical Association

Lifetime Member of Yarmouth County Historical Association

Board of Directors Big Brothers Big Sisters

Gold Award Society for Province of Nova Scotia

Supporter of numerous local charities and groups.

Born and raised on Cape Sable Island, a place that has shaped my identity and values, my childhood was filled with the charm of coastal life. My mother, a hairdresser and my father a fisherman, taught me the values of hard work.

My education journey began at Barrington Municipal High School, where I thrived both academically and athletically. I was actively involved in soccer, basketball, and softball. And these sports not only taught me the importance of teamwork but also fostered lasting friendships.

After high school, I pursued further education at the Nova Scotia Community College, focusing on Business Information and Technology. In my second year, I concentrated on Investment Management, a field that sparked my interest in financial planning and investment strategies. This academic journey helped me develop the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the business word and prepare for my future career with CIBC and CIBC Wood Gundy.

As I moved through life, I learned to value the time spent with family. Traveling when I can has opened my eyes to new cultures and experiences. One of my greatest joys is walking on the beautiful beaches of Nova Scotia, where I find solace and inspiration in nature. Recently, I’ve also developed a newfound appreciation for gardening, discovering the therapeutic benefits of nurturing plants and watching them flourish.

As I look to the future, I hope to continue growing both personally and professionally. I aspire to deepen my knowledge in investment management and contribute positively to my community.

Background

• NSCC Investment Management Diploma – 1997
• NSCC Business Information & Technology – 1995

Member of Yarmouth and Area Chamber of Commerce