Unconscious Bias

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The goal of this session is to understand how unconscious bias can affect our perceptions, decisions, and interactions. Unconscious biases are created by our environments and experiences. Our mind is constantly processing information, oftentimes without our conscious awareness. When we are moving fast or lack all the data, our unconscious biases fill in the gaps, influencing everything from professional decisions to our interactions with people. This session aims to raise awareness, spark conversation, and initiate action.

Speaker

• April Howe

Executive Director – People and Culture Division, Nova Scotia Public Service Commission

April joined the Nova Scotia Public Service Commission in December of 2017 as Executive Director overseeing the People and Culture Division’s five corporate units: Recruitment Services, Engagement & Innovation, Corporate Diversity & Inclusion, Internal Communications, and Organizational Development & Learning. Formerly she was a partner with Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette for 16 years leading their Career Transition practice. Earlier in her career, she held senior administrative roles within the federal government, recruitment, and communications sectors.

April completed an Executive Masters of Business at Saint Mary’s University – Sobey School of Business. As well, she’s a Certified Career Coach and has a Mediation & Conflict Management certificate from Dalhousie University.

Active in the community, April is a Director on Boards of the IWK Foundation, the Halifax Partnership, and the North End Community Health Clinic. Formerly, April sat on the boards of the United Way, the Black Business Initiative, and was a founding board member serving as Chair and Vice Chair of the Africville Heritage Trust. As a mentor to young professionals, she enjoys mentoring soon-to-be leaders in the community.