As we celebrate Welcoming Week at RRC Polytech, I’m reminded of the power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. Welcoming is not just a gesture—it’s about building lasting relationships and showing that no matter where you come from, you have a place here.

At RRC Polytech, we’re proud to be part of a diverse, vibrant community that continues to grow stronger as we welcome students from across Canada and around the world. Our goal is to provide an environment that supports your growth, not just academically, but personally. For many newcomers, stepping into a new place can be daunting, but it’s within these shared spaces that connections are made, opportunities are created, and transformation begins.

As someone who has worked to strengthen relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, through the Treaty relationship, I believe that creating welcoming spaces goes beyond making people feel comfortable—it’s about ensuring that each person can bring their whole self into the room. We need to ensure that this environment honours where people come from and supports who they are becoming.

I’d also like to tie this message to something I hold close: the importance of understanding our shared histories. As we prepare for Truth and Reconciliation Week, it’s essential to recognize that welcoming is about acknowledging the past and moving forward together. Our shared journey as a country offers us the opportunity to build a more inclusive and respectful future. Education plays a vital role in this process—not only as a tool for learning but as a way to foster healing, growth, and mutual understanding. By embracing these opportunities, we can create spaces that honour our histories while paving the way for a brighter, more unified tomorrow.

Welcoming Week is an opportunity to build bridges—between communities, between cultures, and between people. Let’s continue to work together, fostering an environment where every student feels supported and valued, and where the act of welcoming is just the beginning of their journey. Treaty 1 historian Dr. Jean Friesen says it best when she says Treaties are “enduring relationships that lead to mutual obligations.” This will carry over to a better understanding of Canada.

Thank you to everyone who has made this week special. Let’s carry forward this spirit of inclusion, learning, and community as we move ahead together.

Ekosi,

Jamie Wilson
Vice-President, Indigenous Strategy, Research and Business Development
RRC Polytech

At RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI), we understand that moving to a new country comes with unique challenges, especially for internationally educated health professionals striving to continue their careers. That’s why we’ve designed our health programs to teach critical communication skills and foster a sense of belonging and confidence. As we celebrate Welcoming Week 2024 from September 13th to 20th, we’re proud to highlight the experiences of students who have navigated these challenges and emerged stronger, ready to contribute to Canada’s healthcare system.

In addition to the continued support from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Province of Manitoba recently made it possible for temporary residents, refugee claimants, and Canadian citizens to participate in CNI’s health programming. We want to thank the Manitoba government for their support. We had the pleasure of welcoming Marvin Marcial, policy and program coordinator from Manitoba Labour and Immigration, during Welcoming Week.

Supporting Professional Growth, Fostering Belonging

Welcoming Week is about more than just recognizing newcomers—it’s a reminder of the strength found in diversity and the value of creating spaces where people can thrive. CNI’s health programs embody these values by helping internationally educated nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare workers overcome communication barriers. 

The programs don’t just teach technical language skills; they help students develop intercultural awareness, improve collaboration with colleagues, and build patient relationships. These are skills that go beyond the classroom and into real-life scenarios, making a difference every day.

For more information, visit the health programs page. 

This year, we’re turning the spotlight on the stories of health program graduates who have transformed their professional paths thanks to CNI’s tailored programs. Their stories show what’s possible when you invest in yourself and the positive ripple effect it has on patient care and healthcare teams across Manitoba.

Success Stories in Health Programs

Take Nagwan Abdellattif, for example. As an Egyptian pharmacist, she knew she had the expertise to excel but struggled with the confidence to express herself fluently in English. “I was always comparing myself to native English speakers,” she admits, reflecting on her journey. “It made me feel like I wasn’t good enough.” 

After completing CNI’s communication courses, her perspective changed. Now a pharmacy manager, Nagwan credits the program with helping her regain her confidence, saying, “These courses didn’t just help me professionally—they helped me feel more comfortable in everyday conversations, too.”

For Fouad Ahmed, another pharmacist, the training was about more than mastering language—it was about mastering difficult interactions. He recalls a particularly challenging day when a patient, frustrated by a prescription delay, took out his anger at the counter. “Using the empathetic communication skills I learned at CNI, I was able to de-escalate the situation and leave the patient satisfied,”

Fouad says. “Before the course, I might have felt overwhelmed by that situation.” His story illustrates how communication isn’t just about words; it’s about building trust in moments of tension.

Iryna Tkachenko, a nurse from Ukraine, highlights another side of CNI’s programs: the cultural learning embedded within the language training. “I used to worry about sounding impolite or misunderstood, especially in stressful situations,” she shares. 

Through CNI’s courses, Iryna learned how to navigate cultural differences and apply nonverbal communication strategies to connect with patients with disabilities. “It’s not just about speaking English—it’s about understanding people,” she says.

Iryna also appreciated the program’s flexibility, which allowed her to balance studying with her job. “It’s especially helpful for those of us living outside of Winnipeg or juggling multiple jobs,” she adds. Her story reflects the reality of many newcomers who manage multiple responsibilities as they work toward their career goals.

For more information on Welcoming Week 2024 and how you can get involved, visit Welcoming Week 2024. 

CNI/LTC Students- Check your class BINGO card for a chance to win some great prizes!

Here are the first 4 words and definitions:

1. Networking
   • Interacting with others in order to develop professional or social contacts for employment or business. Networking can be helpful to learn about job opportunities and trends in a particular field.  
   • For additional information on networking, contact a CNI/LTC- Student Integration Coordinator, Jillian (jhoogland@rrc.ca) for Winnipeg students or Reena (rmnerbas@rrc.ca) for regional students.
   • Read about a recent networking event hosted by CNI here.
2. Mentor 
   • A mentor is someone with a lot of experience and knowledge in a particular field who acts as a trusted advisor. They can provide guidance, advice, and feedback to help someone achieve their goals.  
   • For additional information on mentors, contact a CNI/LTC- Student Integration Coordinator, Jillian (jhoogland@rrc.ca) for Winnipeg students or Reena (rmnerbas@rrc.ca) for regional students.
3. Red River College Polytechnic Students’ Association Food Bank
   • The Students’ Association works with Harvest Manitoba to provide food hampers for students in need.
   • For more information on the food bank, visit the Red River College Polytechnic Students’ Association website.
   • If you need support to get food, contact a CNI/LTC Student Integration Coordinator, Jillian (jhoogland@rrc.ca) for Winnipeg students or Reena (rmnerbas@rrc.ca) for regional students.
4. Culture
   • All the ways of life including arts, beliefs, and institutions, that are passed down from generation to generation. It creates a sense of security and safety for individuals as it gives them a unified sense of belonging.

Check your class Weekly W-O-R-D-S card and try to complete one of the following patterns for a chance to win a prize:

If your class completes a BINGO, email CNI/LTC Student Integration Coordinator, Reena (rmnerbas@rrc.ca).

All the best!

As we take part in Welcoming Week 2024, it’s essential to look back on the initiatives that have played a crucial role in helping newcomers build vital skills and integrate into their new community. Earlier this year, RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) hosted a dynamic networking event for CLB 7/8 students at the Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae. This event aimed to provide students with an opportunity to practice networking skills, including small talk, elevator pitches, and general conversation skills in English. 

The event brought together students from different classes to interact and network with each other. The primary purpose was to help students practice and enhance their networking skills in a real-world setting. Various activities were designed to focus on both the concepts of networking and practical application, allowing students to engage in meaningful conversations and build connections. 

In the weeks leading up to the event, four CLB 7/8 classes attended presentations on networking. These sessions covered essential networking concepts and provided students with the chance to complete and practice their elevator speeches. This preparation ensured that students felt confident and ready to participate fully in the event. 

The event, held on June 5, 2024, kicked off with a welcome speech and land acknowledgment, followed by an overview of networking’s importance. Students then participated in two main activities: Networking Bingo and Speed Networking. 

During Networking Bingo, students engaged in conversations with various attendees, filling out a bingo sheet with names and quick discussions. The goal was to encourage longer interactions rather than just getting quick answers. This activity helped students break the ice and start meaningful conversations. 

The Speed Networking activity allowed students to practice their elevator pitches and engage in one-on-one conversations, focusing on connecting with others from different backgrounds and industries. Example networking questions were displayed to facilitate meaningful exchanges. This segment was particularly well-received, with one student noting, “I enjoyed exchanging LinkedIn contacts and making new connections.” 

The event received positive feedback from students, who appreciated the opportunity to meet and practice networking with peers in a comfortable environment. “It was so helpful and great to meet new people and learn about different positions and backgrounds,” shared another student. Many found the activities helpful for practicing their communication skills and building their professional networks. One student commented, “The event provided a lot of useful information and new connections.” 

Instructors also highlighted the importance of such events for newcomer students. While language development is a primary focus, CNI also aims to support newcomers in their job search and integration into Canadian society. Networking is a crucial job-searching tool, and the event provided a valuable platform for students to practice and build their confidence. 

Chris Reeve, one of the organizers, shared, “For me personally, it is a joy to see students come together and make new connections, practice what we discussed in class, and gain confidence in their networking abilities.” 

For more information on how you can participate in Welcoming Week 2024 and contribute to creating a more inclusive community, visit Welcoming Week 2024. 

Celebrating Welcoming Week 2024 is an ideal time to reflect on the impactful events that have helped newcomers feel welcomed into the community. Earlier this year, RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) partnered with the Manitoba Museum to host a special evening for CNI students and their families—a night that exemplified the spirit of inclusivity and learning that Welcoming Week is all about. 

As attendees explored the museum’s extensive exhibits, they delved into Manitoba’s history, culture, and natural environment. One participant reflected, “The museum’s exhibits provide deep insights into the natural and cultural history of Manitoba.” This immersive experience helped students and their families gain a deeper understanding of their new home, making it more than just an educational outing. 

A highlight of the evening was the Indigenous Connections exhibit, which provided valuable insights into Manitoba’s diverse cultural heritage, including the traditions and histories of Indigenous communities. “The Indigenous culture is amazing,” remarked one participant, emphasizing how learning about these cultures fostered a deeper appreciation and connection to the local community. 

The event also promoted inclusivity and community engagement. One CNI student noted, “This event is fantastic for integrating all students and teachers.” The evening provided an opportunity for students to engage in meaningful and memorable learning experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and participation in their new environment. 

Social interaction played a significant role in the success of the night. The museum visit allowed students, faculty, staff, and families to interact and build social networks. One participant shared, “It was a great opportunity to visit the museum with my family,” highlighting the importance of these interactions in easing the transition to a new country and improving language skills. 

The museum’s atmosphere encouraged curiosity and exploration, which are vital for lifelong learning. A participant reflected, “The museum encouraged curiosity and exploration, helping students develop critical thinking skills.” This spirit of discovery is essential for personal growth and continued learning. 

The success of the Night at the Museum was a testament to the hard work and dedication of many individuals. Over 560 CNI students and their guests enjoyed an enriching experience. 

The Night at the Museum was more than an event; it was a celebration of learning, community, and the shared journey of integration. Thank you to everyone who made this evening possible. Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of newcomer students and their families, helping them feel more connected, welcomed, and integrated into the Manitoba community.  

For more information on how you can participate in Welcoming Week 2024 and contribute to creating a more inclusive community, visit Welcoming Week 2024. 

The week of September 13^th to September 20^th is Welcoming Week. This is an annual opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, places and values that help everyone feel welcome and give them a sense of belonging in their local community.

Students at the Centre for Newcomer Integration’s Language Training Centre in Steinbach were asked to reflect on the ways that they were welcomed since arriving in Canada, and to share stories about the people who have helped them along the way.

Keep reading to see what they said: 

When I arrived in Canda, I immediately felt like I belonged here. I came to Canada at the end of 2022, and I’m still going through the adaptation process. Through there are difficulties in adaptation, I often receive help from local people. I feel grateful to these people because they help me selflessly and with pleasure. I’m happy to live in Canada now.

Aleksandr

I would like to talk about the feeling I had upon arrival in Canada. I was met by a friend who I had not seen for a long time. I was very happy and excited. Canada surprised me with its beautiful nature. I haven’t seen much in Canada yet, but I think everything is in my future.

Viktoriia

I came to Canada a year ago. I felt happy because it was my dream. My friend met me at the airport. I was tired but overjoyed. I remember the sun was very bright and the sky was blue. I hope to be happy in Canada with my family.

Oleksii

I came to Canada with my family and my cat. We were very excited on the first day in Canada, because we had never been here. I was very grateful for people in Canada, who met us and helped us immediately upon arrival in Canada. I am very lucky to live in Canada, although I am not a Canadian citizen yet.

Olesia

I came to Canda with my family one year and six months ago. It happened in November. It was cold outside, around -16C. We felt the cold. Our friends met us at the airport. After that, we lived in a hotel for about two weeks. Finally, we moved to Steinbach to our Canadian friend’s Dick and Lotti. We were excited to see how our Canadian friends wanted to help us. Also, we got some houseware things from Ukrainians who have lived here longer than us.

Oleksandr

The first time I came, I visited my cousin in Montreal on July 16th, 2010. I am so happy because it is a big city, and I feel like it is the same as my country. The people speak French, I have many friends. I visited many places. It is the best day. I was very happy.

Nawel

When I came to Canda with my family, I have felt nervous, because this is a new country. Also, different people and other cultures. Time has passed and I feel better than then.

Liudmyla

My family came to Canada on October 1st in 2022. I felt good because I saw good and kind people in Canada. I felt safe in Canada. Our friends invited us for dinner, and I visited with new people in the church. I am so happy to live in Canada.

Bahar

I came to Canada with my family in October 2018. When I came at that time, it was wintertime. The first winter felt very crazy and there was lots of cold weather. But I like the nature and the people helped each other. I am so happy to live in Canda.

Dhara

We arrived on November 22nd, 2023, in Winnipeg. We had sponsored from a church. Some people came and said welcome to our family in airport from the church. Our family felt very happy. I will not forget it for the rest of my life.

Mir Abbas

When I moved here, Canada welcomed me very warmly. I was surprised to see that everyone was smiling and outgoing. Our hotel staff and some strangers tried to help me as a newcomer, so I was very grateful for that. When I met with my neighbors, I found they were kind and positive people. Now I try to welcome newcomers with the same warmth I was welcomed with.

Nataliia

When I arrived in Canada, I was not ready for a lot of the challenges that I found here. I never spoke English before, I didn’t have money, and the cold weather surprised me. Despite all this, I met many people who were waiting for me. They gave me a lot of support, care and help. I felt welcomed to Canada since the first day I arrived in Winnipeg.

Simon

Through these stories, we see that everyone has an important role to play in helping others to feel welcome.  

Continue to check the CNI News for more messages about Welcoming Week.  

RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) is pleased to warmly welcome Carmen Puente in her new role as Strategy Coordinator.

Carmen holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration, alongside numerous business-related certificates earned in Venezuela and several leadership micro-credentials from Red River College Polytechnic.

Her extensive knowledge of CNI operations comes from her previous roles as a Student Records Officer for IRCC-funded programs and services, and as an Administrative Assistant for Global Access English Language Foundations and its Programming for Academic Advancement.

In her new role, Carmen will leverage her wealth of experience and skills to coordinate a project aimed at enhancing the settlement and integration of newcomers to Manitoba through partnerships between CNI and other newcomer-serving organizations.

This project is generously supported by BMO Financial Group. Carmen’s first day in her new position is September 16.

At RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI), we believe in creating a welcoming environment where every newcomer feels they belong and have the tools to succeed. This commitment was recently demonstrated through our successful collaboration with Computers for Schools Manitoba, where we provided essential technology to help newcomers thrive in their educational and professional pursuits. 

As part of our ongoing efforts to support newcomers, we organized a computer drive, offering free desktop computers with an optional Windows 10 installation for a nominal fee and low-cost laptops with various operating system options. The drive was complemented by presentations from Computers for Schools Manitoba, providing newcomers with insights into the available technology and how to access it. 

The event took place at RRC Polytech’s Exchange District Campus (EDC), starting with an informative session on June 3rd. Representatives from Computers for Schools delivered presentations on their programs, guiding students through the application process. This initiative allowed participants to engage directly with experts and gain a deeper understanding of the resources available to them. 

On June 21st, the excitement continued as CNI and Computers for Schools Manitoba distributed the computers to 147 newcomers. The event was marked by the presence of RRC Polytech President and CEO Fred Meier, alongside Dr. Christine Watson, Vice-President of Academic. Their participation underscored the importance of this initiative and the college’s dedication to supporting newcomers in their journey to success. 

This initiative aligns perfectly with the spirit of Welcoming Week 2024, which takes place from September 13^th to 20^th. Welcoming Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the people, places, and values that make our community inclusive and welcoming for everyone, no matter where they come from. It’s an annual opportunity for us to showcase our efforts to create a welcoming environment where everyone belongs. 

During Welcoming Week, RRC Polytech will be highlighting stories from our community, including the experiences of newcomers who have benefited from initiatives like our computer drive. We encourage everyone to participate in the week’s activities, share stories of inclusion, and showcase how we work together to make our community a better place for all. Be sure to follow our social media channels and use the hashtag #WelcomingWeek2024 to join the conversation. 

Through partnerships like the one with Computers for Schools Manitoba and events like Welcoming Week, we continue to break down barriers and build bridges for newcomers. We are proud of the impact these initiatives have made and remain committed to ensuring that everyone who comes to RRC Polytech feels welcome and equipped for success. 

For more information on Welcoming Week 2024 and how you can get involved, visit Welcoming Week 2024. 

Welcoming Week 2024 is here! From September 13th to 20th, we at RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) are excited to join communities across Canada in recognizing and celebrating the people, places, and values that help everyone feel welcome and that they belong. This week is dedicated to fostering inclusivity and celebrating the diverse contributions that newcomers bring to our community. 

What is Welcoming Week? 

Welcoming Week is an annual Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) event. It’s a time to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts that create welcoming communities where everyone, regardless of their background, can thrive. At RRC Polytech’s CNI, these values resonate deeply with our mission to support newcomers in their journey.  

How You Can Participate 

We have an exciting lineup of activities and events planned throughout the week to celebrate and engage with our diverse community: 

Student Stories: 

Throughout the week, we will be sharing personal stories from CNI students. These narratives will highlight their experiences as newcomers to Canada, the challenges they’ve faced, and the triumphs they’ve achieved. These stories will not only inspire but also remind us of the strength and resilience that newcomers bring to the community. 

Welcoming Week Community Resource Fair: 

Join us at the Roundhouse (E240) on September 16th from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM and September 17th from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for our Community Resource Fair. This is a fantastic opportunity to: 

• Meet CNI staff and learn more about the programs and services we offer. 
• Connect with community organizations that provide valuable resources and services for newcomers. 
• Enjoy free refreshments and snacks while mingling with community members. 
• Take a selfie at the Welcoming Week photo booth and write a welcome message . Share your photos on social media with #WelcomingWeek2024 and tag @RRCPolytech. 

Why It Matters 

Creating a welcoming community is a shared responsibility. When we embrace diversity and inclusivity, we not only enrich our cultural landscape but also foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. This week is a reminder that successful integration is a two-way street: the more welcoming we are as a community, the more newcomers will feel at home and be able to contribute to our shared future. 

Get Involved! 

Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time resident, there’s something for everyone during Welcoming Week. We encourage you to participate in the events, share your own stories of welcoming or being welcomed, and help spread the message of inclusion on social media. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #WelcomingWeek2024 and tag @RRCPolytech in your posts! 

Let’s come together to celebrate what makes RRC Polytech, the Centre for Newcomer Integration, and Canada great: our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and the shared goal of creating communities where everyone belongs. 

Did you know that Manitoba’s provincial parks offer hundreds of campgrounds, beaches and hiking trails?

It’s true! You can learn more about Manitoba parks on their website.

Great news… The Manitoba government is offering free entry to province’s parks this weekend! It’s a great time to explore Manitoba’s natural treasures.