Walking through the doors of Manitou a bi Bii daziigae at RRC Polytech, you’re immediately struck by the innovative energy that permeates the building. The light streaming through the glass ceiling not only illuminates the space but also symbolizes the bright future in programming and technology that unfolds here. When the team at Johnston Group entered, they felt that same spark — an environment where cutting-edge programming is not just taught but lived. This inspired them to invest $250,000 towards the programs and spaces that foster the next generation of innovators.

“The community that RRC Polytech has created inspires students to not only pursue a career path that is meaningful to them, but also to make a difference in their own communities,” said Dave Angus, President, Johnston Group. “Johnston Group holds these same values and together we want to be able to create a thriving community that inspires future generations.”

The students walking between the classrooms come from diverse backgrounds and each has a unique story to share. For some, this is their first time in Canada, and they are learning a new language and figuring out what they want to do next. Some are working to become the video game programmer they have been dreaming of since childhood. Others are the first of their family to leave their community and attend college. Each of these people belong at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae and the space was created with them in mind.

“Manitou a bi Bii daziigae is located in the heart of downtown Winnipeg, designed as a hub for technology, collaboration and community – creating more opportunities for a connected learning experience,” said Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech. “Johnston Group’s investment in this space – in this vision for post-secondary education – provides even more opportunities for students to grow and innovate. This gift not only supports RRC Polytech, but it is a direct investment into downtown Winnipeg and the community we are proud to continue building there.”

Johnston Group has invested $250,000 to support Manitou a bi Bii daziigae along with the programs and spaces held within. This includes: the Centre for Newcomer Integration – where over 2,500 students build their English language skills, cultural communication, and academic skills to further their education, training and employment goals, The ACE Project Space – an interactive workspace, where students, entrepreneurs, non-profit organizations and corporations collaborate to bring ideas to life,  and, the School of Indigenous Education – which includes the Social Innovation and Community Development program, where students learn to transform their values and passions into ventures and become agents of change in communities experiencing barriers to development.

“The students that graduate from these programs make a difference in our communities and we want to support them in their journey,” added Angus. “When we put people first, we can all work and live in thriving communities and being a part of RRC Polytech does exactly that.”

In recognition of this investment, a workroom on the first level of Manitou a bi Bii daziigae has been named after Johnston Group. Workrooms are multi-use spaces that all students, staff and community members can access, providing a safe space to come together to work, research and share ideas.

“Partnering with organizations that believe in the work we’re doing is a part of our strategic plan and Johnston Group is one of these partners,” said Meier. “For years Johnston Group has supported RRC Polytech students with co-op placements and Work-Integrated Learning opportunities as well as hiring many graduates, and today’s gift is just one more way we are expanding this partnership. We are grateful to Johnston Group for their continued partnership and support.”

Johnston Group administers group health and dental benefits, critical illness, disability and life insurance to more than 30,000 small businesses, 300 larger companies and 350 Indigenous organizations across Canada. Find more info at https://johnstongroup.ca/.

Manitou a bi Bii daziigae is a part of RRC Polytech’s Exchange District Campus in downtown Winnipeg and the programs house in the space have been developed in consultation with Manitoba’s fastest-growing industries including business, creative arts and IT. Find more info at https://www.rrc.ca/edc/manitou-a-bi-bii-daziigae/.