Pictou County Pride serves the 2SLGBTQIA+ population of Pictou County. We work to support and advocate for two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and gender diverse, agender, intersex, or other identities related to sex and gender. This population is traditionally underrepresented in communities, resources, and funding initiatives. Pictou County Pride strives to ensure that 2SLGBTQIA+ people have access to inclusive programs, safe community activities, and social opportunities. We also strive to serve the greater Pictou County community at large by promoting diversity and inclusion around gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression.
Board of Directors
Carissa (she/her) - Board Chair
Carissa is a Queer creative community arts organizer, project manager graduate of OCAD University’s Material Art and Design: Fibre program. She has a special interest in connecting artists and creatives with opportunities, spaces and networks.
Over the past ten years, Carissa has worked with artists across various mediums in a variety of spaces from professional gallery’s to pop up exhibitions across Canada and the US.
She is currently the executive director of Creative Pictou County as well as the owner of The Meadow Retreat and Creative Space, a rural artist residency.
Carissa is most excited to support fellow 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs as well as use her connections in tourism to ensure Pictou County is a welcoming place for rainbow visitors.
Kiana - Director
I am grateful for the opportunity to join the board of Pictou County Pride. As a community member who grew up in Pictou County, I know the value in having support and connections in a rural area.
I am a healthcare social worker with a background in group facilitation, community outreach, and am an active volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters and our local Autism Nova Scotia chapter.
When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my young family, potlucks with friends, and watching football; Go Birds!
I look forward to connecting with more community members at our upcoming programming and events.
John (he/him) - Director
I was a teacher, counselor and administrator. As a senior, I know many of the difficulties that people of my generation faced. I was a past member of the previous Pictou County Pride board, founded by the late Gerard Veldhoven. I know the value of learning and for all of us to keep an open mind. I am very interested in helping to set up learning opportunities for our members and the population at large.
Coming soon, info for Timber, Maddie and Ashlyn!
Ron (he/him) - Director
Originally from just outside of Vancouver, I now reside in New Glasgow and am currently retired. For approximately 25 years, I was an active member of L&G of MeadowRidge, a community group where we organized monthly potlucks in members' homes and built strong, lasting connections. I also contributed to the publication of a monthly newsletter for about 20 years, helping to keep our community informed and engaged.
Our group took part in Vancouver’s Pride Parade three times, each occasion highlighting messages that were meaningful to us and reflective of the times. We also attended a variety of cultural events together, including plays that spoke to LGBTQ+ themes and experiences.
As an out gay man for many years, I bring with me a deep commitment to community and visibility. I hope to share that experience and offer inspiration to our local LGBTQ+ community here in Pictou County.