Introducing our 2023 Tech Forward Award finalists! – Digital Nova Scotia – Leading Digital Industry
Introducing our 2023 Tech Forward Award finalists!

October 12, 2023

We are thrilled to announce the finalists for Digital Nova Scotia’s 2023 Tech Forward Awards, presented by RBC! These awards unite our tech community for an evening of celebration to recognize and uplift our sector’s major players, changemakers, innovators and mentors striving to make Nova Scotia’s ICT industry the best it can be.

This year, we had a record number of exceptionally high quality nominations, which truly speaks to our growing and thriving sector. Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and our 23 incredible finalists listed below—we look forward to celebrating with you all next month, on Thursday, November 9, at the Waterfront Marriott Hotel!

Talent Champion Award, sponsored by Venor

Celebrating a company or organization that has gone above and beyond when it comes to tech talent, encouraging best hiring practices, creating positive workplaces, and showcasing Nova Scotia as a desirable location for career growth, the Talent Champion Award celebrates organizations that lead the charge when it comes to not only hiring talent but retaining them. Our finalists for this award are:

Tech for Good Award, sponsored by Avanade

Highlighting a company or organization in tech that is driving significant, positive change in Nova Scotia, addressing social, political, environmental and economic challenges. Our finalists for this award are:

Thinking Forward Award, sponsored by Saltwire

Celebrating an individual who dedicates considerable time to mentorship and supporting the future talent pipeline. This individual demonstrates exemplary, sustained commitment to mentoring or community involvement, and inspires our future workforce, of all ages to explore a career in technology. Our finalists for this award are:

  • Gail Tomblin Murphy
  • Melodie Joy, PMP
  • Christopher Whidden

The Provincial Spotlight Award, sponsored by Invest Nova Scotia

Recognizing a company or organization located outside of the Halifax Regional Municipality that has seen positive growth in areas such as; export, recruitment, and community engagement, and has helped put a spotlight on Nova Scotia’s tech community. Our finalists for this award are:

Best of Tech 2023 Award, sponsored by BDC

Recognize a company or organization who has done something incredible this year, such as; had significant growth, secured an impressive deal or partnership, developed a new, unique or innovative product/service, implemented creative recruitment strategies, or launched a successful brand campaign. Our finalists for this award are:

Role Model Award, sponsored by Compugen

Honouring an individual who identifies as a member of an underrepresented community in tech who showcases a clear passion for Diversity & Inclusion, inspiring others to push for inclusion and striving to make a difference. Our finalists for this award are:

  • Ogechukwu Nwachukwu
  • Emran Billah
  • Soumya Markandeya

Diversity and Inclusion Champion Award, sponsored by CEED

Recognizing a company or organization that actively promotes the importance of diversity and inclusion in Nova Scotia’s tech sector by implementing strategies for welcoming workplaces, diverse hiring practices, and inclusion initiatives. Our finalists for this award are:

One to Watch Award, sponsored by Dash Hudson

Honouring an individual who identifies as a member of an underrepresented community in tech, and is an emerging new talent in our industry, demonstrating exceptional skills and ambition, whose endeavors are helping them stand out from the crowd. Our finalists for this award are:

  • Dr. Emily Johnston
  • Jide Adesalu
  • Dr. Jennifer Johnston

The Tech Forward Awards pay tribute to the outstanding contributions of those truly making a difference and driving positive change in our sector. Want to join in on the celebrations? Tickets are available now.