About the Interactive Society of Nova Scotia (ISNS)

Mission Statement

The Interactive Society of Nova Scotia is a provincial subsidiary of the federal Entertainment Software Association of Canada (ESAC). ISNS aims to further the Interactive Media and Game Development industries to foster collaboration within our province.

With internationally based organizations, local indie studios, and emerging businesses employing an estimated 750+ people in Nova Scotia, ISNS supports growth through government advocacy, collaboration with universities and colleges, support for industry events, and creation of new localized opportunities for the interactive sector to thrive.

Our Mandate

ISNS is committed to:

• Creating and promoting activities that strengthen the interactive media, game, and animation industries
• Participating in forums that affect policy making and provincial budgets
• Acting as an advocate for expanding the Interactive Media and Game Development industries
• Sponsoring research that improves professional development
• Recognizing outstanding contributions from members
• Offering conferences, networking events, and communication platforms
• Bridging academic research and industry application through mentorships, fellowships, game jams, and lectures

Measurement

The impact of our contribution will be measured by the focus and success of our activities, organized to support game development, animation, and interactive media.

Our History

Founded in October 2017, ISNS was created during a time of significant change within the global interactive media landscape.

Through focused advocacy, ISNS helped protect and strengthen Nova Scotia’s Digital Media Tax Credit and supported increased investment in local talent development.

Since its founding, ISNS has worked closely with government, industry leaders, and education partners to stabilize and grow the province’s interactive media ecosystem.

Board of Directors

Board of Directors

ISNS is guided by experienced industry leaders who volunteer their time to strengthen the sector. Board members bring expertise in production, publishing, technology, finance, and talent development.

Jordan Robb

ISNS President - HR Manager, Gamemode One

Shawn Woods

ISNS Vice President – Founder, Brave Bear Ventures

Chinara Adhofer

ISNS Director - General Manager, Gamemode One

Jenny Richardson, PhD

ISNS Director - Events Committee

Andrea Smith

ISNS Director - HR Generalist, Spark Universe

Sadegh Mahjoob

ISNS Director – Managing Director, MDAD

Jeff Cameron

ISNS Advisor & Treasurer – Founder, Alpha Dog Games

Hal Richman, PhD

ISNS Advisor – COO, Blue House Energy

Adam McLellan

ISNS Advisor – Owner, Cosmocat Games

Marcelo Careaga

ISNS Advisor - Studio Manager, Ubisoft Halifax