Aya’s story is one of determination, cultural adaptation and a clear goal—to become a dentist. Originally from Syria, she moved to Winnipeg with her family to complete her education and start a new life in Canada. 

The Centre for Newcomer Integration, supported by BMO (CNI), helped Aya adapt to Canadian life by providing English language training, volunteer experience placements, and community support.

“I’m Aya from Syria. But I used to live in Egypt, studying dentistry,” she explained. Aya came to Winnipeg driven by her ambition to further her studies and eventually practice dentistry in Canada.  

Carola’s story is one of courage, growth and the determination to build a new future. Originally a nurse in Chile, she arrived in Winnipeg in May 2022 with her family, ready to improve her English and pursue further training. 

“I came to Winnipeg because my husband has family here, and it felt like the right place for us.” Although she left behind a familiar life in Chile, Carola embraced the challenges of adapting to a new environment with optimism. 

Did you know that the Government of Manitoba just announced that all provincial parks will have FREE entry for the next year! (Please note, that this doesn’t include camping permits.)

Get out and explore Manitoba this spring! Check out some of these great hiking trails in Manitoba Parks:

• Beaudry Park
• Birds Hill-Cedar Bog Trail
• Birds Hill-Chickadee Trail
• Birds Hill-Kingfisher Trail
• Birds Hill-Beach Park Loop
• Spirit Sands

Vitalii Vitkovskyi, a student in the Centre for Newcomer Integration, supported by BMO (CNI), has embraced a new chapter in Canada. Originally a PHP developer and telecommunications professional in Ukraine, he is now working to enhance his language skills and regain footing in the tech field through a work placement at Powerland. 

Liudmyla “Mila” Prysiazhniuk’s story is one of artistic passion and personal growth. A professional violinist from Ukraine, Mila has embraced her new life in Winnipeg with determination and a love for music. 

February Highlights:

On 21st of February, we hosted a webinar called Collaborating with Specialized Supports on the 21st. The session featured three guest speakers who provided valuable insights into the roles of various members of collaborative healthcare teams.

Attendees learned about the common challenges faced by patients and clients needing specialized support, how to recognize those in need, and the resources available to assist them, including community resources, assistive tools, and relevant legislation. The speakers also shared communication tips and strategies to support patients and clients effectively, covering topics such as social work, spiritual health, and communicative devices.

Are you an internationally educated health professional looking to advance your career in Manitoba’s healthcare sector? The Communication for Internationally Educated Health Professionals (CIEHP) Program at RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration provides the focused support, networking, and cultural insights you need to build a rewarding Canadian healthcare career. 

What is the CIEHP Program? 

The Communication for Internationally Educated Health Professionals (CIEHP) Program is specifically designed to help internationally trained health professionals overcome common challenges when entering the Canadian workforce. Whether you have just arrived in Canada or have been here for some time, our program equips you with the critical communication skills, cultural awareness, and professional insights needed to thrive in Manitoba’s diverse healthcare settings. 

Ha’s story is one of determination and adaptation. Originally from Vietnam, she made the move to Canada after a long and meaningful connection with a man from Canada. Her journey highlights newcomers’ challenges and the support they receive through the Centre for Newcomer Integration, supported by BMO (CNI). 

When Laila Souto Rodrigues arrived in Canada in 2017, she was filled with hope and dreams but faced the daunting challenge of not speaking English. She turned to Manitoba Start, a government program dedicated to assisting newcomers. A counsellor there provided her with a structured plan, outlining steps such as immersing herself in English, securing employment to initiate the permanent residency process, and volunteering in the healthcare sector to gain relevant experience.  

When Roman Petrushel and Kate Pine moved to Canada, they brought years of entrepreneurial experience and a thriving business background. However, they were uncertain how quickly they could adapt to the Canadian market and whether their success abroad could translate to a new country. They anticipated a long journey to establish themselves but were pleasantly surprised by how quickly things progressed, thanks in large part to RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI).