Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility on Campus

Inclusion Week 2026

February 12, 2026

Three people stand together and smile at the camera.

RRC Polytech’s fourth-annual Inclusion Week is March 9 to 13, 2026! The week-long event is filled with in-person and virtual opportunities for students, staff and faculty to learn how to embody equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility at work, in class, and in our personal lives.

Stay tuned to this page, more events and details are coming soon!

We strive to host accessible events. If you require an accommodation, please email diversity@rrc.ca.

Schedule of Events

Monday, March 9

Two Spirit Film Screening
hosted by Ebony Novakowski
11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
In-person: Selkirk Lounge, Notre Dame Campus

First Stories: Two Spirited 
This short documentary presents the empowering story of Rodney “Geeyo” Poucette’s struggle against prejudice in the Indigenous community as a two-spirited person (gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender).  

Second Stories:  Deb-we-win Ge-ken-am-aan, Our Place in the Circle 
Lorne Olson’s short documentary presents a vision he had of two-spirited people dancing, laughing, and smiling. His vision spurs him to rediscover the strength of the past to better face the challenges of today. This funny and buoyant film documents his touching journey.

 

Decoding Cultural Differences: Developing Intercultural and Inclusive Workspaces
Featured Speaker: Brian Rochat
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Hybrid: Teams/Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

As workplaces become increasingly diverse, inclusion requires more than good intentions—it requires intercultural awareness, reflection, and skillful action. This session explores how cultural values, norms, and communication styles shape expectations, relationships, and experiences in the workplace. 

Grounded in research on Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and cultural dimensions, participants will examine how factors such as power distance, individualism vs. collectivism, and high vs. low-context communication influence collaboration, management styles, feedback, conflict, and perceptions of “professionalism” and “soft skills.” Drawing on examples from education, work-integrated learning, and workplace settings, the session invites participants to critically reflect on how dominant cultural norms—often rooted in colonial and Anglo-European traditions—continue to shape organizational practices. 

Through guided reflection, discussion, and cultural values mapping, participants will develop greater awareness of their own cultural positioning and learn practical strategies for communicating across difference. The workshop emphasizes curiosity, empathy, and adaptability as core competencies for building more intercultural and inclusive teams, programs, and workplaces. 

Participants will leave with concrete tools, shared language, and actionable strategies to strengthen trust, reduce intercultural misunderstandings, and foster environments where diverse ways of communicating, learning, and working are recognized and valued. 

About the Presenter:

A person wearing a blue tie and black vest smiles at the camera.

Brian Rochat is a post-secondary instructor and researcher whose work centres on international education, intercultural competence, and inclusive employability. His research explores how people develop intercultural awareness and navigate difference in educational and workplace settings. Brian is the recipient of the 2025 Canadian Association of Foundations of Education Outstanding Master’s Thesis Award, recognizing his graduate research on intercultural discovery and development in international education, published in August 2024. His work has also appeared in the International Journal of Work-Integrated Learning.  

Brian joined RRC Polytech in 2021 as a Work-Integrated Learning Coordinator supporting co-operative education in business programs and became faculty in the School of Continuing Education in 2024. He currently teaches in the Social Innovation and Community Development and Business Administration programs. Prior to RRC Polytech, Brian spent six years at the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology and over a decade managing inclusive employment and workforce development programs supporting labour market inclusion for newcomers, neurodiverse and marginalized youth.  

Committed to advancing equity and intercultural learning beyond the classroom, Brian serves on several boards and committees and recently completed a term as Chair of the Canadian Bureau for International Education’s Intercultural Competence Group. His work is grounded in the belief that inclusion is an active, ongoing practice—one that requires reflection, humility, and a willingness to learn across difference. 

 

Introduction to Alternate Communications Training (ACT)
Promotional Video Screening & Discussion
Presented by students from the Language Networking Club
2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Hybrid: Teams/Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

A live screening of a promotional video for the upcoming, student-led Alternative Communications Training program offered through the Language Networking Club, which seeks to help develop students’ communication skills through the use of Drama.


Employee Appreciation Coffee Break
Notre Dame Campus: Selkirk Lounge, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Stevenson Campus (Southport): 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.

March 6 is Employee Appreciation Day, a chance to recognize the everyday efforts that make our workplace such a supportive community. To celebrate, Employee Appreciation Coffee (and Cookie) Breaks will be hosted across campuses during the week of March 9. Employees are invited to stop by, connect with colleagues, and enjoy a moment of appreciation together. Sign up for a coffee break at your campus.


Tuesday, March 10

Interruption Skills – Responding to Microaggressions and “Crunchy Moments”
Featured Speaker: Natalie Bell
Interactive Practical Skills Session
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Hybrid: Teams/Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

This session is approachable, real, and skill-based – facilitated in a respectful, strengths-based way, no overwhelming theory. Participants will leave with simple language, response options they can actually use, and a one-page takeaway tool that helps them to: 

  • Recognize common microaggressions and “edge-of-respect” comments in workplace and classroom settings 
  • Learn 3–4 practical response options (from subtle to direct) to use in the moment 
  • Practice a simple interruption script (what to say, how to say it, what to do next)
  • Understand how to follow up after the moment (repair, support, and escalation pathways when needed)

 

About the Presenter

Natalie Bell has spent over two decades supporting the Winnipeg community as a senior HR consultant, helping organizations strengthen how people work together—through practical, people-first strategies that actually stick. Her approach is grounded and holistic: clear insights, real tools, and support that meets people where they’re at (especially when the topics are hard).

Natalie brings a strong mix of real-world experience and academic knowledge, plus a deep network built on integrity and meaningful relationships. Whether she’s facilitating, coaching, or advising, Natalie is known for making complex workplace moments easier to name and navigate—without losing the humanity in the room.

Fun for Everyone
Inclusive Games and Activities
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
In-person: The Cave, Notre Dame Campus

As part of Inclusion Week – a celebration of belonging, respect, and diversity – Fun for All offers a relaxed, welcoming space to connect with others.

Join the Centre for International Education and Global Partnerships for this casual, lunch-hour drop-in event and enjoy a variety of fun and inclusive activities. Take part in board games, puzzles, Indigenous-themed games, vision board making, colouring, or simply stop by to chat and unwind. Refreshments will be provided.

Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required. Just drop in and enjoy!

 

Two Spirit Film Screening
hosted by Ebony Novakowski
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
In-person: Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

First Stories: Two Spirited 
This short documentary presents the empowering story of Rodney “Geeyo” Poucette’s struggle against prejudice in the Indigenous community as a two-spirited person (gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender).  

Second Stories:  Deb-we-win Ge-ken-am-aan, Our Place in the Circle 
Lorne Olson’s short documentary presents a vision he had of two-spirited people dancing, laughing, and smiling. His vision spurs him to rediscover the strength of the past to better face the challenges of today. This funny and buoyant film documents his touching journey.

 

Pop-Up Immersion Room Art Gallery
360° immersive gallery experience
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
In-person: Immersion Room (GM-33), Notre Dame Campus

A stage light against a black background illuminates the words "Inclusion: The Spaces We Share"

Step inside. Look around. Experience inclusion from every angle. 

As part of Inclusion Week 2026, the RRC Polytech community is invited to explore our first-ever Inclusion Week Pop-Up Immersion Room Art Gallery, titled: Inclusion: The Spaces We Share. 

Earlier this February, staff and students were invited to submit photographs capturing moments of belonging, connection, and inclusion. We received an inspiring collection of submissions from across our college community. 

Now, it’s time to experience them in a whole new way. 

14 voices. 14 perspectives. One community. 

These photographs will be showcased in a 360° immersive gallery experience, transforming the space into a walk-through reflection of diverse stories and shared spaces. Whether you stay for a few minutes or linger longer, this experience invites you to immerse yourself, appreciate the photos and the stories behind them, pause, reflect, and see inclusion through the lenses of your colleagues and classmates. 

No registration required – just drop in! 

Bring a friend. Stay a while. Experience inclusion in action. 

 

Faculty Development Session: Decolonizing Classroom Practices
Facilitated by Gerald Sereda
In-person: Room F205, Notre Dame Campus

This workshop is designed for Instructors seeking to create inclusive and culturally responsive learning environments through de-colonizing the curriculum and their classrooms. Participants will engage in an exploration of decolonization principles, gaining practical insights and strategies to re-shape their classrooms as well as their instructional and assessment practices. By the end of this workshop, participants will have gained the knowledge and practical skills needed to create decolonized classrooms that embrace diverse perspectives, foster inclusivity, and promote culturally responsive teaching and learning. 

Upon completing this workshop, you will be able to: 

  • Identify teaching and classroom strategies that are aligned with Indigenous ways of knowing. 
  • Apply teaching strategies that incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing and learning in the classroom. 
  • Use assessment strategies that reflect Indigenous ways of knowing and honour diverse ways of demonstrating knowledge and skills.   
  • Create opportunities for students to build community in the classroom and work within their strengths using project-based learning, universal design for learning, and other relevant strategies. 

 

Wednesday, March 11

International Women’s Day Panel Discussion & Networking Event
Panel Moderator: Brie Mitchell
8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
In-person: Selkirk Lounge, Notre Dame Campus

Join us for International Women’s Day 2026: Advancing Equality Together, an inspiring morning dedicated to celebrating the leadership, resilience, and impact of women across our RRC Polytech community. Guided by the 2026 theme, Give To Gain, this event invites us to reflect on how generosity—through mentorship, advocacy, shared knowledge, and inclusive leadership—creates stronger institutions and more equitable futures. While all employees are welcome, this gathering is designed to center on and uplift women’s voices, experiences, and contributions across teaching, research, service, and leadership. 

The event will begin with a moderated panel discussion featuring leaders from diverse roles across the polytechnic. Panelists will share personal reflections on what they have received in their journeys, what they intentionally give to support others, and how we can embed reciprocity and equity into our systems and culture. The conversation will continue through structured speed networking, creating space for meaningful dialogue, connection, and collective action. Together, we will celebrate progress, acknowledge ongoing barriers, and recommit to advancing gender equality — at RRC Polytech and beyond. 

Meet the Panelists: 

  • Iris He, Manager, Business Systems 
  • Tamara Chambers-Richards, Dean, School of Health Sciences & Community Services 
    • Dr. Tamara Chambers-Richards is an experienced academic leader in Canada and Jamaica, focusing on strategic planning, developing equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging strategic development, retention, community collaboration, as well as decolonizing curriculum and research.  
    • Dr. Chambers-Richards earned a PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Saskatchewan, a Master of Public Health in Research Epidemiology, and a Bachelor Science in Medical Laboratory Technology from Northern Caribbean University.  
    • She has worked across Jamaica and Canada, including in post-secondary institutions. Most recently, she worked as the Dean of the School of Health Sciences at the College of New Caledonia (CNC), where she earned a College of Institutes Canada bronze award for leadership excellence. 
  • Andrea Kraj, Research Chair 
    • Dr. Andrea Kraj, P.Eng. is the Research Chair in Sustainable Construction at RRC Polytech, where she leads applied research advancing low-carbon building systems, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable construction innovation, with specialization in microgrids and distributed energy systems for resilient communities. An engineer and entrepreneur, she is committed to translating sustainability into practical solutions that strengthen both communities and the construction sector. Andrea is also a Fulbright Program Arctic Scholar and host of the Fempower Podcast, amplifying women’s leadership, innovation, and impact. 
  • Melanie Gudmundson, Chief Human Resource Officer 
    • Melanie Gudmundson is currently the Chief Human Resource Officer at Red River College Polytechnic. She has been with the Polytechnic since 2009 and has valued the opportunity to grow her leadership career within the institution, progressing from HR Consultant to CHRO. Melanie is a member of the College’s Executive team and provides strategic leadership across a diverse portfolio. Her areas of responsibility include Human Resource Services, Safety, Health and Security Services, Legal and Compliance, Labour Relations, and Organizational Development. Over the past year, Melanie has also been leading the development of the College’s institutional AI Strategy. She strives to lead with a strong focus on connection and relationships and bringing a human‑centred approach to executive leadership. Melanie is committed to creating environments where people feel respected, supported, and engaged. 
  • Amy Jackson, Director, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah 
    • Amy Jackson is an entrepreneur, artist, and community connector from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. She serves as the Director of Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah at Red River College Polytechnic, where she leads initiatives that support Indigenous entrepreneurs and strengthen community-driven innovation. 


Employee Appreciation Coffee Break
Portage la Prairie Campus: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Steinbach Campus: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

March 6 is Employee Appreciation Day, a chance to recognize the everyday efforts that make our workplace such a supportive community. To celebrate, Employee Appreciation Coffee (and Cookie) Breaks will be hosted across campuses during the week of March 9. Employees are invited to stop by, connect with colleagues, and enjoy a moment of appreciation together. Sign up for a coffee break at your campus.


Immersive Stories with Adam Nepon
Hosted by Abigail Adedokun
2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Hybrid: MS Teams/In-person: Selkirk Lounge, Notre Dame Campus

Adam will speak about identity landscapes, lived experience and bias, and how we build the skills to move through cultural or identity differences with confidence and compassion. 

About the Presenter

A person wearing a blue blazer smiles at the camera.

Adam Nepon brings his experience as a storyteller, consultant, and inclusion-focused leader whose multi‑ethnic identity shapes his work. Born in Winnipeg and identifying as both Ashkenazi Jewish and Red River Métis, Adam grew up facing antisemitic violence while also moving through the world with the privilege of a non-visible Indigenous identity. These experiences taught him to read environments quickly, navigate bias, and understand how survival instincts can shape our assumptions about others. 

Today, Adam serves as Manager, Business Development – Health Transformation at RRC Polytech. His immersive storytelling invites audiences to explore identity, privilege, and the biases we all carry, while building the intercultural competencies needed for meaningful connection. Known for his humour and honesty, Adam creates spaces where difference becomes a source of learning, resilience, and belonging. 

Cultural Inclusion Event: Sharing Our Heritage!
Student-led Cultural Sharing Booth
Presented by: Global Access: English for Academic & Professional Purposes Program
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
In-person: Notre Dame Campus, Library Hallway

Step into a world of colours, sounds, and stories as students from the Global Access: English for Academic & Professional Purposes program bring their cultures to life.

This is your chance to:

  • Engage with diverse cultural concepts
  • Interact with students from around the globe
  • Participate in fun and educational activities

This student-led event is a celebration of the rich tapestry if cultures within our community. It’s designed to foster understanding and respect for different traditions and practices. Come with a curious mind and an appetite for knowledge. Sample a buffet of mini cultural lessons from different countries. Everyone is welcome!

Drop in, no registration required.


Fun for Everyone
Inclusive Games and Activities
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
In-person: Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

As part of Inclusion Week – a celebration of belonging, respect, and diversity – Fun for All offers a relaxed, welcoming space to connect with others.

Join the Centre for International Education and Global Partnerships for this casual, lunch-hour drop-in event and enjoy a variety of fun and inclusive activities. Take part in board games, puzzles, Indigenous-themed games, vision board making, colouring, or simply stop by to chat and unwind. Refreshments will be provided.

Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required. Just drop in and enjoy!

Film screening: Ice Breakers
12:00 p.m.
In-person: Student Lounge, Interlake and Peguis-Fisher River Campus

Through the present-day journey of a gifted young hockey player, Ice Breakers uncovers the buried history of how Black athletes helped pioneer modern hockey.

Thursday, March 12

Stories We Carry: The Hijab, Identity, and Inclusion
Storytelling Workshop
Presented by Amna Burki
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
In-person: EMP Immersion Room, Notre Dame Campus

This interactive storytelling workshop invites students to explore how visible expressions of identity, including religious attire such as the hijab, shape experiences of belonging, perception, and inclusion in campus and community settings.  

Using storytelling as a reflective and connective tool, Amna Burki guides participants through conversation and shared narratives that examine assumptions, stereotypes, and the stories we tell about one another. While the hijab is a point of reflection, the session also creates space to discuss other forms of religious and cultural dress and what they represent.  

Participants are encouraged to reflect on identity, visibility, and respect, and to consider how curiosity, empathy, and listening can contribute to more inclusive campus communities. No prior storytelling experience is needed, only openness to learning and dialogue.  

About the Presenter

Amna Burki is a storyteller, facilitator, and DEIB consultant who harnesses the power of storytelling to cultivate leadership, inclusion, and cultural understanding. With a background in Economics, Management, and Gender Studies, she brings over two decades of experience working with community organizations and non-profits, advocating for equity and belonging.  

As a trained oral storyteller, Amna recognizes storytelling as one of the most powerful ways humans make sense of the world and an essential skill for effective leadership. She has collaborated with boards, non-profits, and businesses to facilitate meaningful conversations, using storytelling to bridge divides, build resilience, and enhance communication. A sought-after speaker and storyteller, she believes stories have the power to drive lasting change. 

Employee Appreciation Coffee Break
Exchange District Campus: P107, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Interlake and Peguis Fisher River (Selkirk Campus): 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Stevenson Campus (Winnipeg): – 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Winkler Campus: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

March 6 is Employee Appreciation Day, a chance to recognize the everyday efforts that make our workplace such a supportive community. To celebrate, Employee Appreciation Coffee (and Cookie) Breaks will be hosted across campuses during the week of March 9. Employees are invited to stop by, connect with colleagues, and enjoy a moment of appreciation together. Sign up for a coffee break at your campus.


Friday, March 13

Social Justice Coffee House
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
In-person: Selkirk Lounge, A147, Notre Dame Campus

The Anti-Racism Action Committee is excited to host a Social Justice Coffee House for Inclusion Week, and we warmly welcome all staff, faculty and students to join us for this inspiring event!

What to Expect: 

  • Theme:  Social Justice issues across Turtle Island and beyond 
  • Collecting Donations: Donate snacks, new adult socks and underwear,  personal hygiene items (shampoo, conditioner, body wash/soap, razors, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste) and menstruation supplies are top needs. Donations will be brought directly to Sunshine House.  Sunshine House fills gaps and engages with folks with the goal of fulfilling social, community and recreational needs. Participants can always come as they are — there is no requirement to be sober. Visitors can access everything from hot meals and harm reduction supplies to laundry and bathing facilities, free clothing, foot care, referrals and other supports. In addition to their home base at 646 Logan Ave., they also operate the Mobile Overdose Prevention Site (MOPS), Manitoba’s first ever sanctioned supervised drug consumption site. In March 2025, they opened Kelly’s Corner, a transitional residence for 2SLGBTQIA+ people who are exiting encampment or unsheltered living. Please see here about the good work Sunshine House is doing, and if you are able to, support their current 50/50 fundraiser: Sunshine House | Drop-In and Resource Centre | Winnipeg  

Why Attend? 

  • Express Yourself: This is a safe space to voice your thoughts and feelings on important social justice matters. 
  • Connect with Peers: Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact. 
  • Learn and Grow: Gain new insights and broaden your understanding of issues affecting different communities. 

How to Participate: 

  • Perform or Present: If you’re interested in performing or presenting, please fill out the form below with what you’d like to share. Each person will present for up to 5 min (or longer if time allows). Showcase your talents by playing an instrument, singing a song, or reading a poem related to a social justice theme. 
  • Be an Audience Member, bring a friend/colleague/student: Even if you’re not performing, your presence contributes to the dialogue and community spirit. Please indicate that you will be part of the audience by filling out the form below. 
  • After you fill out this form to indicate that you will be attending, you will be sent a meeting invite to hold the space in your calendar. 

Refreshments: 

  • Complimentary coffee and light snacks will be available for all attendees.  

Sunshine House is a drop-in and resource centre focusing on social inclusion and harm reduction in Winnipeg, Manitoba. 

Self-Guided Resources

Accessibility

To learn more about RRC Polytech’s commitment to accessibility the following additional links and resources are offered:

Anti-Racism

To learn more about RRC Polytech’s commitment to anti-racism the following additional links and resources are offered:

Indigenous Support

2SLGBTQIA+

To learn more about RRC Polytech’s commitment in supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, the following additional links and resources are offered:

General Inclusion Support

To learn more about RRC Polytech’s commitment to inclusion across various identities and communities, explore the following links and resources:

More Resources

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.