Welcoming Week is a time to celebrate the contributions newcomers make to our communities and to highlight the ways organizations across Manitoba work together to build inclusive spaces. At RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI), this commitment extends beyond the classroom and into workplaces across the province. One example is CNI’s recent collaboration with Shared Health Diagnostic Services, where tailored workshops helped healthcare employees strengthen communication skills, build confidence, and support diverse teams. 

In response to rising demands and staffing pressures, Shared Health Diagnostic Services partnered with RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) to enhance communication skills among frontline staff. Since fall 2023, more than 140 employees have participated in a customized workshop series designed to address real communication needs in Manitoba’s healthcare environments. 

Supporting Healthcare Teams Through Tailored Training 

The initiative, called the Workshop Series for Employees of Shared Health Working in Diagnostic Services, features three interactive workshops: 

• Communicating Effectively with Patients and Families 

• Communicating Effectively with Coworkers and Other Health Professionals 

• Reflecting on Communication Skills and Planning for the Future 

Each session is aligned with workplace realities and supports professional development. Workshops are delivered in a blended format: two hours of asynchronous online learning, followed by a 1.5-hour live virtual session on MS Teams, and a 30-minute written reflection. This structure provides flexibility while still allowing for collaboration and application. 

The final series of workshops wrapped up on June 18, 2025, marking the conclusion of 20 successful sessions delivered across the province. 

Real Impact on Communication Confidence 

Participants include staff from across the province—lab professionals, diagnostic imaging technologists, and clinical support workers—who have responded positively to the experience. 

“I used to think that doctors had all the right answers. Now I realize that no one knows us better than ourselves. Voicing concerns—whether as a patient or employee—leads to better care.” 
— Diagnostics worker, HSC 

“The concept of assertive communication really stood out. I realized I’m more assertive than I thought, and that confidence is something I can continue to build.” 
— Diagnostics worker, Thompson General Hospital 

Strengthening Manitoba’s Healthcare System 

This workshop series is the latest in a long-standing partnership between Shared Health and CNI to support internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) and improve system-wide communication. 

“Shared Health Diagnostic Services sees IEHPs as a significant source of qualified employees,” said Joanne Goldstone, Senior Clinical Education and Training Specialist at Shared Health. “Our work with RRC CNI has provided insight into the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Courses like these support IEHPs in finding personal success while meeting the needs of the employer.” 

Lasting Benefits for Staff and Teams 

According to Joanne, the workshops gave staff the confidence and skills to navigate challenging conversations and improve teamwork—particularly for employees from diverse language or cultural backgrounds.  

“The sessions created a safe space to practice real-life communication scenarios,” she said. “Staff shared that they now feel more equipped to handle tough conversations, ask for clarification, and collaborate more effectively.” 

While long-term results are still developing, early feedback suggests that participants are more mindful of their tone, word choice, and communication style, laying the foundation for stronger, more inclusive healthcare teams. 

Interested in Partnering? 

CNI invites other healthcare organizations across Manitoba to consider similar collaborations. Whether adapting existing workshops or developing new offerings, these partnerships help organizations invest in staff, improve retention, and strengthen communication at all levels. 

To learn more about tailored training solutions for your healthcare team, contact the CNI team at hesp@rrc.ca.