On December 3, RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) in partnership MANSO welcomed approximately 70 newcomer-serving organizations from across Manitoba for an Open Doors event.  

The Open Doors series is a new initiative designed to strengthen connections across Manitoba’s newcomer-serving sector. This series invites newcomer servicing organizations to open their doors, share their work, and build relationships that support collaboration and innovation. Hosting the event at CNI provided an opportunity for participants to see the programs and spaces where newcomers build the language and communication skills they need to move forward in education, training and employment. 

The event opened with remarks from Kerri Korabelnikov, Dean, School of Education, Arts and Sciences at RRC Polytech. She spoke about the importance of collaboration across organizations and the role partnerships play in supporting newcomer success throughout Manitoba. 

Members of the CNI leadership team then shared overviews of their program areas, including Stage 1 and Stage 2 language training, occupation-specific programs and health programming. These presentations gave partners a clearer understanding of how CNI supports learners at different points in their journey, from building foundational English skills to preparing for work, post-secondary education and regulated professions. 

Lindsay Lambert, from the RRC Polytech Student Recruitment team, shared information on the wide range of full-time and part-time programs available. This not only highlighted educational pathways beyond language training at CNI but also created opportunities to connect newcomers with other organizations and resources. By showcasing these programs, the session helped build awareness of how learners can continue their education and engage with broader community supports.  

Following the presentations, participants engaged in facilitated networking sessions. CNI team members joined partners in small group discussions to explore shared questions, challenges, and opportunities. These conversations fostered open dialogue and practical strategies for how organizations can work together to better support newcomers across the province.  

The formal portion of the event concluded with closing remarks from MANSO, including an overview of upcoming events and opportunities to continue collaboration within the network. 

The afternoon wrapped up with guided tours of the Centre for Newcomer Integration, providing  participants a chance to explore the space, ask additional questions and continue informal conversations. For many attendees, seeing the classrooms and learning environments added important context to the earlier discussions. 

Events like Open Doors highlight the value of bringing organizations together in person. By sharing spaces, programs and perspectives, partners can strengthen relationships and build a more connected newcomer-serving sector in Manitoba.