When you walk into Activate-Halifax, you can feel the energy. The space buzzes with cheering, laughter and friendly competition as groups of players moving through rooms filled with puzzles, challenges, and games that they interact with in real time. Activate has been recognized as THE fastest growing Leisure and Entertainment company in the Americas by the Financial Times in 2025, building on its success as the Globe and Mail’s recognition of it as Canada’s fastest-growing entertainment business in 2024.
Behind the experience driving that growth is a dedicated team. And for Halifax Store Leader Jade Beer, that team is stronger today because of inclusive hiring.
Activate’s connection to Ready, Willing & Able (RWA) began when Leigh Carter, a Halifax based Labour Market Facilitator for Ready, Willing and Able (RWA), met with Jade. Having worked with RWA in a previous comapny, Jade was “was excited to carry on that work at Activate,” Jade explained.
Soon after their meeting, Jade reviewed candidates put forward by RWA, interviewed those she and her team saw as a potential good fit, and found a successful candidate. Activate welcomed Jason to the team as a Game Facilitator—a role that blends customer service, room maintenance, and cleaning, but with a strong focus on creating a great guest experience. Jason quickly became a valued team member, bringing dedication, reliability, and a positive attitude.
“Working with Jason has reminded me of the importance of individualizing leadership,” Jade said. “Every team member brings their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Recognizing that has made me a better leader.”
The team adjusted its communication style to ensure clarity and consistency, not only to support Jason but to benefit everyone. “By focusing on clear and consistent communication, we’ve reduced confusion and mistakes when rolling out new initiatives. It’s really increased efficiency and confidence across the team.”
RWA also provided training for Activate’s leadership team. Leigh led a session on inclusive employment and managing diverse teams—an experience that helped managers better recognize how to support every employee.
For Activate, inclusive hiring hasn’t required dramatic changes. Instead, it’s been about being open, supportive, and willing to work with each person’s strengths. The result? A friendlier, more understanding, and more efficient workplace. Jade has a clear message for other employers considering inclusive hiring:
“Do it! Hiring inclusively has been such a great experience for us. Jason brings so much to the team, and it’s made our workplace stronger.”