"I chose to move back to Cape Breton because it's my home, but on top of that because Cape Breton is underrated as a place to live. It breaks my heart to hear people say it's impossible to thrive here. It's not true. There are so many people here with big ideas and even bigger ambition who are taking action and building a new Cape Breton. I wanted to contribute to that. I didn't want to live somewhere else hoping that other people would build Cape Breton up. I wanted to be here and be a part of a movement shattering those misconceptions to see Cape Breton grow. As a business owner and graphic designer I'm able to work with these groups to help them market and build confidence in how they show up in the world. My husband and I took a chance on ourselves and the Island where we grew up - it's paid off in so many ways."

Emily Rankin Owner, Take Note Graphic Design Port Hood, Inverness County

"We moved to Cape Breton from Andy’s native New Zealand in 2014. Before making the move, we spent a great deal of time considering the characteristics we valued most in a future home. They included access to services and market potential, but mostly revolved around community and environment. We wanted to live in a place where neighbours depended on each other. Where we might spot a moose from our living room window. Where a day in the garden could be followed by sunset on the beach. We found what we were looking for in Cape Breton - and much more. Four years later, we’d choose it again in a heartbeat!"

Kailea and Andy Pedley, Farmers, Patchwood Farm, Pipers Glen, Inverness County

“I came to Cape Breton 23 years ago, taking my family with me and leaving a career behind. Falling in love with the Island, I knew that choosing to live here meant I would need to create my own opportunities, so I turned my glass-hobby into a business and today we have the Glass Artisans Studio & Gallery. It wasn't a difficult choice, the area is beautiful and has a thriving artistic and entrepreneurial community that make it an easy choice to continue making every day. Even the winter months, when there are fewer travelers in the area, give me the time to let my creative process take its course and replenish product in time for the summer when it's time to sell my art again. I truly love my community and my work. It's like they say: Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life.”

Wendy Smith Owner / Manager, Glass Artisans Studio & Gallery North Shore, Victoria County

"Being born and raised in Cape Breton, it was natural for me to want to return to my roots after my studies. This island is culturally vibrant and it deserves more recognition than some might give it. I am proud to be able to share my culture with our visitors, but mostly with our youth and community members. As a music and dance teacher, I get to do what I love most while sharing my passion with the wonderful people of my community. The support here is a true and solid one and I’m proud to call Cape Breton my home."

Nicole LeBlanc Cheticamp, Inverness County Owner and Instructor, École de Musique Raveston