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. 

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. 

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.  

January Highlights

Winter Term Courses In January, we kicked off four online courses:

• Communication for Health Professions
• Pronunciation for Health Professions
• CELBAN Module – Speaking
• Communication for Internationally Educated Nurses

We wish all students success in their occupation-specific language courses for healthcare, supporting their personal and professional growth.

November was filled with engaging events and opportunities for learning and skill development. Here’s a quick look at last month’s highlights and what’s coming up in December.

Welcome to a new month of learning and professional development opportunities! October brought insightful sessions, workshops, and chances for skill-building. Here’s a quick look back at October and what’s coming up in November.

Health Guest Speaker Webinar: Indigenous Perspectives of Health and Culturally Safe Care

Congratulations on completing your first month of studies this term! September was filled with exciting events and valuable learning opportunities for all our students. Here’s a quick recap of September and a look ahead at what’s coming in October.

Health Guest Speaker Webinar: Managing Your Stress in Challenging Situations