Centre for Newcomer Integration

News

Canadian Immigrant Fair: July 10

July 3, 2026

The Canadian Immigrant Fair is a free, one-stop event connecting newcomers with information about careers, education and settlement.

What participants will find at the fair:

  • Hiring employers and recruiters looking for workers
  • Inspirational immigrant speakers
  • Career tips and coaching
  • Resumé Clinic with free one-on-one advice
  • Practical career and settlement workshops
  • English language help
  • Immigration and settlement help
  • Banking and small business resources
  • Meaningful connections
  • Answers to questions
  • Inspiration to succeed in Canada
  • And much more …

Where: Radisson Hotel Winnipeg Downtown (11th Floor), 288 Portage Ave

When: July 10th, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Visit the Canadian Immigrant Fair website for more information or to register.

Integrating Indigenous Perspectives in Language Education at CNI

June 25, 2026

As we mark National Indigenous History Month, the Centre for Newcomer Integration at RRC Polytech continues its commitment to advancing truth, understanding, and respectful relationships with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. This month highlights the importance of learning from history and listening to Indigenous perspectives – work that is happening across our Polytech community. Over the past year, CNI Instructor Sherry Seymour has demonstrated how this learning can be brought to life in the classroom through intentional, experiential, and relationship‑centred teaching. 

After participating in the Indigenous Residential School Museum Tour last August, Seymour has been integrating Canada’s colonial history and Indigenous perspectives into her classes even more over this past year.  

In the fall term, she took her CLB 5/6 class on a field trip around the downtown area, stopping and discussing murals like Carly & Diana Morriseau’s “We are still here,” written in Ininimowin (Cree) syllabics, and Stephen Gladue’s depiction of Brian Sinclair, an Indigenous man who died from a treatable infection while waiting 34 hours for care at an emergency room in Winnipeg. While on the tour, students witnessed first-hand how the Residential School system and Canada’s colonial frameworks have left many people in poverty and without housing. 

Seymour’s CLB 5/6 students learned about Askii Akawa Asotamaatowin (Land & Treaties) and Gawiin Bimikawesiwan (Assimilative Policies) from the Indigenous Orientation Toolkit. These modules are excellent steppingstones into learning about Treaty Rights, unceded territory, and discriminatory policies like the Indian Act and the pass system. 

Seymour contextualized the learning by sharing stories of how WW2 veterans were treated differently if they were Indigenous, in contrast to the benefits her serving grandfathers were eligible to receive. Students learned about local Indigenous veterans Sergeant Tommy Prince and Corporal Joe Keeper to connect with the City of Winnipeg and the streets named in their honour. 

At the end of the term, two guests were invited to further humanize and contextualize what students had learned in the course. Elder Paul Guimond shared cultural teachings and some of his experiences from Residential School. On another occasion, Corey Whitford shared his experiences in Residential School and taught students the Anishinaabemowin terminology to make bannock. A visit to the Indigenous Student Support Centre was also arranged, and learners were introduced to smudging and four sacred Medicines: Cedar, Sage, Tobacco, and Sweetgrass. Some students commented that they used some of the same Medicines in their cultures. 

A picture of CNI students with their instructor and Corey Whitford

Seymour has just finished a term teaching two CLB 4 classes. Her students explored land acknowledgements through a Reconciliation Awareness module developed by the Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia entitled “Welcome to Our Homelands.” Students connected to the content by composing their own land acknowledgments. In the closing Sharing Circle, students shared that they better understand Indigenous Peoples and the intergenerational trauma that impacts their experiences. They also said that they would really like to learn more.  

To build relationships and understanding, Elder Paul was invited to share his knowledge about traditional Medicines. Students enjoyed this experiential, hands-on learning, where they could smudge, taste, feel, and smell different local medicines.  

Finally, over the past month, Seymour has been honoured to pilot The Tools and Knowledge Left for Us by Our Ancestors, a course developed in-house by Maxine Fehr, where students learn to “evaluate the need to honour Indigenous worldviews in modern-day as well as the contributions of Indigenous Peoples” and “listen to stories recounted by Residential School Survivors.” A feast was held in conjunction with Maxine Fehr’s pilot cohort to celebrate their learning on June 25th.  

As an instructor, Seymour says that she is learning alongside her students. She is still in the midst of understanding her own positionality, while seeking the truth and learning to listen to more Indigenous voices, and more often. She hopes that more instructors will feel the call to learn and discover their why in terms of reconciliatory education. 

Canada Day Celebrations

June 25, 2026

Celebrate Canada Day on Wednesday, July 1!

Assiniboine Park

  • Family-friendly activities including concerts, dance lessons, fire and tipi teachings
  • When: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

The Forks

  • Indigenous, newcomer, and multicultural artists bring music, drumming, comedy, dancing, handmade goods, storytelling, and more to this special celebration.
  • When: 10:30 AM – 9:00 PM

A World Within a Word: Celebrating Canadian Multiculturalism Day at RRC Polytech

June 23, 2026

June 27 is Canadian Multiculturalism Day, a time to recognize and celebrate the many cultural communities that help shape Canada’s diverse and vibrant society.

Multiculturalism is built on the belief that everyone should be able to take pride in who they are, celebrate their heritage, feel a sense of belonging, and participate fully in society. It is about respect, understanding, and recognizing the value that different experiences and perspectives bring.

To learn about how RRC Polytech is marking Canadian Multiculturalism Day, please visit the following blog post: A World Within a Word: Celebrating Canadian Multiculturalism Day at RRC Polytech : RRC Polytech: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility on Campus

Handwritten words and phrases shared by staff members to celebrate Canadian Multiculturalism Day.
A mosaic of languages and cultures. Handwritten words and phrases shared by staff members to celebrate Canadian Multiculturalism Day.

Opening Day Fun: CNI Students Experience Goldeyes Season Opener 

June 19, 2026

On May 19, newcomer students from RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) were invited to Blue Cross Park to take part in the excitement of the Winnipeg Goldeyes’ 2026 season opener. The Goldeyes faced off against the Kane County Cougars, setting the stage for an energetic and memorable evening. 

Students had the opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a live professional baseball game, something that was brand new for many attendees. The evening was made even more exciting with a special promotion, as the first 5,000 fans in attendance received free Goldeyes jerseys!  

A CNI student posing with the Goldeyes mascot

The ballpark was filled with excitement as fans cheered on the home team, creating a welcoming and engaging environment for CNI students to connect with the community. For many, the event offered not only a first game, but also a unique introduction to a popular North American pastime and a chance to enjoy the experience with family and friends. 

One student reflected on the experience, saying, “It was a very good experience because I went with my nine-year-old son, who just happened to have joined the school’s baseball team.”   

Events like these play an important role in helping newcomers feel a sense of belonging and connection as they settle into life in Manitoba. By participating in local traditions and community activities, students can build confidence, create lasting memories, and strengthen their understanding of Canadian culture. 

One student shared their enthusiasm, saying, “I would recommend this experience to other newcomers because it is fun, interesting, and a great way to discover Canadian culture and improve our English. “  

RRC Polytech extends its appreciation to the Winnipeg Goldeyes Baseball Club for providing such an engaging and inclusive experience. Opportunities like this continue to support CNI students in their journey toward integration and community connection. 

5 CNI students and their instructor Smiling

Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations

June 19, 2026

Indigenous Peoples Day at Assiniboine Park

  • Music, entertainment, and fun in recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day​
    • When: Saturday, June 20​
    • Where: Outdoor Gardens at The Leaf, Assiniboine Park​

Indigenous Peoples Day at The Forks

  • Many Nations, One Heartbeat ᐊᐧᐦᑯᐦᑐᐃᐧᐣ Wáhkóhtowin​
  • Celebrate connection, culture, and community through 11 days of activities, including a community powwow, Indigenous artist performances, children and youth activities, culture-sharing talks, and more​
    • When: From National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) through Canada Day (July 1)​
    • Where: The Forks​

World Refugee Day Celebration

June 18, 2026

We’re excited to join MANSO for Winnipeg’s World Refugee Day Celebration! 🎉

Red River College Polytechnic and the Centre for Newcomer Integration work with newcomers every day, and June 18 is our chance to celebrate the contributions newcomers make to our community.

📍 Central Park, Winnipeg

📅 Thursday, June 18  |  11 AM – 3 PM  |  FREE

Face painting, button-making, rock painting, multi-sport games, soccer scrimmage, and community booths. Bring your family, your team, your clients — all welcome.

In Manitoba, we’re better together. See you there!

A Night of Discovery: CNI Students Explore the Manitoba Museum 

June 18, 2026

On June 2, 2026, RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) hosted a special evening at the Manitoba Museum, bringing together students, staff, friends and families for a memorable night of learning, exploring and connection. 

Ad adult and two children, posing in front of a museum exhibit.

More than 280 attendees participated in the event, including over 71 regional students along with their friends and family members. The strong turnout highlighted the enthusiasm and engagement of the CNI community, as well as the importance of creating opportunities for newcomers to come together in a welcoming and inclusive environment. 

Throughout the evening, students had the opportunity to explore the museum exhibits and learn about Manitoba’s history, nature and culture in an interactive and engaging setting. For many students, it was a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of life in Manitoba, while sharing the experience with loved ones. One student remarked, “The event was amazing. I discovered new things I had never seen before.” 

Two people standing together

Events like this play an important role in supporting newcomer integration by fostering a sense of belonging, encouraging social connections, and providing meaningful cultural experiences. By participating in community activities, students can build confidence, strengthen their language skills, and create lasting memories. 

RRC Polytech extends its sincere thanks to the Manitoba Museum for hosting this special event, as well as to the staff and volunteers whose efforts made the evening possible. Their support helped create a welcoming and memorable experience for all who attended. When asked about their experience, one student commented, “I liked it all. It is amazing! I had a good experience. I recommend people to come and see.”

A group of volunteers, smiling

RRC Polytech’s CNI remains committed to providing enriching opportunities that support both the personal and educational journeys of students, helping them feel connected and empowered as they build their lives in Canada. 

June is National Indigenous History Month

June 9, 2026

This month, we celebrate and recognize Indigenous History as Canadians. Indigenous Peoples have shaped Canada as it is today and have been part of the land since time immemorial. June is a focal point to celebrate and appreciate the unique histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people throughout the history of this land. The Summer Solstice, which lands around June 21 every year, is a celestial event observed by countless Nations for generations and is designated as Indigenous Peoples Day.

Visit RRC Polytech’s Indigenous Education website to learn about how you can celebrate this important month!

Show your PRIDE with RRC Polytech!

May 27, 2026

Join the 2026 Pride Parade and Rally! On Sunday, June 7, 2026, you are invited to walk alongside peers representing RRC Polytech. All are welcome.

The rally begins at 10a.m. at the Manitoba Legislative Grounds and the Parade will begin shortly after 11a.m.

This year to mark sustainable efforts, staff and students will be wearing the same bright yellow shirts as last year. A limited amount of new t-shirts have been ordered. Please help support our efforts and re-wear your shirt.

Register today to reserve your shirt and let us know you’ll be joining us!

We will not be offering T-Shirt pick-up will be available during June 2-5 at P308 (EDC) or C306 (NDC) as follows:

  • Tuesday June 2 12:00 PM -2:00 PM
  • Wednesday June 3 9:00 AM-12:00 PM
  • Thursday June 4 12:00 PM -2:00 PM
  • Friday June 5 9:00 AM-12:00 PM

Pick up will be available as well as on the morning during the rally at the RRC Polytech float. 

More details about the rally and parade will be emailed to registered participants.

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of the Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anishininwak, Dakota Oyate, and Denésuline, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.