Born and raised in East Preston, Nova Scotia, where her grandmother served as a midwife, Yvonne Atwell has always been deeply connected to her community. After moving to Toronto in the 60s in search of opportunities, Atwell returned home to Nova Scotia in the late 80s and became a prominent figure in local activism.

Upon her return, Atwell noticed that East Preston had changed very little during her absence. Determined to make a real difference, she began working with young people, and slowly earning the community's trust. Her dedication to local issues eventually led to a pivotal moment when she was encouraged to run for political office. Despite not initially aspiring to politics, Atwell embraced the challenge.

Running for the New Democratic Party (NDP), Atwell faced considerable obstacles as a Black woman. Many doubted her qualifications, but her unwavering commitment and support from her family and community propelled her forward. After multiple attempts, she was finally able to win a seat, becoming the first Black woman from her community to enter the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.

In her political role, Atwell navigated the complexities of government, advocating for her constituency while balancing the dynamics of opposition politics. Her journey highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a community leader and a pioneer in provincial politics. Through it all, Atwell's focus on sincere community engagement and strong organizational support has been key to her success, demonstrating the power of grassroots activism in achieving political milestones.