The Honourable Karla MacFarlane was Nova Scotia’s first female Speaker.

Ms. MacFarlane was initially elected as Member of the Legislative Assembly for Pictou West in 2013. She was re-elected in 2017 and 2021.

Upon forming government in 2021, Ms. MacFarlane was honoured to serve as the Minister for the Department of Community Services, Minister of L’nu Affairs, and the Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. She has also served on Treasury and Policy Board.

During her tenure as MLA, she served as the critic for a variety of portfolios including Health, Justice, and Environment. She proudly served as Interim Leader in 2018, and as Caucus Chair from 2018 to 2021.

In 2015, she received the Rising Star Award and in 2016, the Legislator of the Year Award from the Springtide Collective.

Ms. MacFarlane graduated from Husson University with an Associate Degree in Business Communications. Prior to politics, she was a small business owner, community volunteer, and was most happy helping others.

She cherishes spending time with family and friends and is immensely proud of her two adult children.