The Hall of Fame recognizes leaders in Atlantic Canada who create opportunities, break down barriers, and foster inclusion for newcomers.
The Hall of Fame is a tribute to leaders in Atlantic Canada who have shown outstanding dedication to immigrant communities. While not all inductees are immigrants themselves, each has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and fostering inclusion for newcomers. Through their leadership, advocacy, and service, they have helped shape a more welcoming and diverse region.
This year, we recognize a group of exceptional individuals whose commitment to immigrants and newcomers has left a lasting impact. Their work reminds us that building a stronger, more vibrant Atlantic Canada is a collective effort.
Joyce Carter
Joyce Carter is President and Chief Executive Officer of Halifax International Airport Authority, where she joined in 1999 and became Chief Financial Officer in 2006, Chief Strategy Officer in 2008, and President and CEO in 2014.
In 2023 she was recognized as one of Atlantic Canada’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Business by Atlantic Business Magazine, awarding women who have made tangible differences in their communities, and celebrating extraordinary change-makers.
She is a Board Member of the Airports Council International (ACI) World Governing Board, served on the ACI North America Board of Directors from 2018 to 2021, is a Board Member and immediate Past Chair of the Canadian Airports Council, is past President and current Board Member for the Atlantic Canadian Airports Association, sits on CUA’s Board of Directors, and serves on the Joint Regional Transportation Agency Advisory Board for the Government of Nova Scotia.
Rany Ibrahim
Rany Ibrahim is a multi-award-winning senior executive with extensive experience in economic development, public policy, and innovation. He currently serves as Director of Economic Development and Trade with the Government of Nova Scotia, where he leads initiatives that foster economic growth and international collaboration.
Beyond his public service role, Rany is a seasoned management and international trade consultant, technology entrepreneur, and part-time university faculty member. He is deeply committed to promoting immigration, diversity, equity, and inclusion, having actively championed programs and policies that drive meaningful change in these areas.
Rany’s passion for human rights, freedoms, and democracy stems from his lived experiences and academic pursuits. With a strong business and workforce development background, he has worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between industries, communities, and governments.
Known for his dedication to empowering others, Rany is a frequent keynote speaker, mentor, and advocate for immigrant entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, and underrepresented communities. He has been recognized for his leadership and contributions through numerous accolades, including his induction into the MECE Hall of Fame.
Rany is a member of the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference, is among Atlantic Canada’s 50 most inspiring entrepreneurial leaders under 40, a Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards winner, and was recognized by the Nova Scotia House of Assembly for his contributions and community involvement.
Faten Alshazly
Faten Alshazly is a powerful advocate for women in leadership, helping chart paths for young professionals and seasoned leaders alike. Through mentorship, work placements and career advice, she supports women through their professional and entrepreneurial journeys.
In 2021 Faten was named Atlantic Canada’s Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business, and she was honoured nationally for her success in and out of the boardroom by Women Get On Board. The Stevie Awards also named her Executive of the Year, then Entrepreneur of the Year in Canada.
Faten Alshazly is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of WeUsThem, an ad agency with a client roster that includes TELUS, the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union, the Canadian Space Agency, the Government of Canada, The Kempinski Group, Kaplan International, Cambridge University and the Sinai Health System, to name a few.
As a result of her commitment to leadership development she has been named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by WXN, and as part of her work in the community she has served on numerous boards, notably as Chair of the Halifax Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray
Since becoming the 34th President of Saint Mary’s University in July 2015, Dr. Summerby-Murray has made an incredible impact on the university community and beyond.
As a champion of Saint Mary’s, Dr. Summerby-Murray has led initiatives in entrepreneurship, accessibility, community engagement, and global connectedness. His accolades include being named one of Atlantic Business Magazine’s ‘Top 50 CEOs’ and receiving the Halifax West Community Hero Award, as well as the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee pin.
Chika Chiekwe
Born and raised in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Chika’s journey from the daughter of Nigerian immigrants to a respected lawyer at Cox & Palmer is truly inspiring. She actively serves on the boards of the Halifax International Airport Authority, YWCA Halifax, Hope Blooms, and the Nova Scotia Career Development Association, and contributes to the Maritime Women’s Basketball Association and other organizations promoting diversity and inclusion.
Vinita Savani
Vinita Savani started her career in 1997 and worked her way to a successful career in finance. Now a Senior Vice President at RBC, she supports immigrants through volunteer work and mentorship.
In addition to her former position with My East Coast Experience as an Advisory Board member, Vinita has dedicated her time to helping and recognizing immigrants and their achievements, and mentoring women in their careers.
