In March 2025, two people from RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) teamed up to lead a workshop aimed at improving intercultural sensitivity in the classroom. ESL instructor Scott Lao and instructional designer Scott Brownlee developed and delivered a pilot training session through the Strategic Transformation and Applied Research (STAR) initiative. With strong faculty participation, the session provided practical tools for navigating cultural differences and enhancing communication with students from around the world.

If you walk or drive around town this Saturday and Sunday, you might notice that there are many items on the curb in front of people’s houses and apartments. That’s because this weekend is a Giveaway Weekend in Winnipeg. It’s a great time to get rid of some household items that you no longer use or to browse the curbs for some gently used finds.

Tips if you are giving away items:

• Place unwanted household items at the curb on your front street.
• Label each item with a FREE sticker or sign.
• Store items out of sight that you do not want to give away.
• Remove leftover items from the curb by dusk on Sunday.
• Do not put out any items that may be infected with bedbugs.

Tips if you are looking for items:

• Take only the items at the curb marked “FREE.”
• Check all items closely to ensure they are safe and in good condition before you put them in your vehicle or bring them into your home.
• Don’t walk or drive on private lawns or gardens.

For more information, please visit the City of Winnipeg website.

Join FortWhyte Alive and Access Credit Union for a day of nature-based presenters, sessions, and workshops designed to help you learn something new about our planet and how you can help protect it.

For more information, visit the FortWhyte Alive website here.

Aya’s story is one of determination, cultural adaptation and a clear goal—to become a dentist. Originally from Syria, she moved to Winnipeg with her family to complete her education and start a new life in Canada. 

The Centre for Newcomer Integration, supported by BMO (CNI), helped Aya adapt to Canadian life by providing English language training, volunteer experience placements, and community support.

“I’m Aya from Syria. But I used to live in Egypt, studying dentistry,” she explained. Aya came to Winnipeg driven by her ambition to further her studies and eventually practice dentistry in Canada.  

Carola’s story is one of courage, growth and the determination to build a new future. Originally a nurse in Chile, she arrived in Winnipeg in May 2022 with her family, ready to improve her English and pursue further training. 

“I came to Winnipeg because my husband has family here, and it felt like the right place for us.” Although she left behind a familiar life in Chile, Carola embraced the challenges of adapting to a new environment with optimism. 

Did you know that the Government of Manitoba just announced that all provincial parks will have FREE entry for the next year! (Please note, that this doesn’t include camping permits.)

Get out and explore Manitoba this spring! Check out some of these great hiking trails in Manitoba Parks:

• Beaudry Park
• Birds Hill-Cedar Bog Trail
• Birds Hill-Chickadee Trail
• Birds Hill-Kingfisher Trail
• Birds Hill-Beach Park Loop
• Spirit Sands

Vitalii Vitkovskyi, a student in the Centre for Newcomer Integration, supported by BMO (CNI), has embraced a new chapter in Canada. Originally a PHP developer and telecommunications professional in Ukraine, he is now working to enhance his language skills and regain footing in the tech field through a work placement at Powerland. 

Liudmyla “Mila” Prysiazhniuk’s story is one of artistic passion and personal growth. A professional violinist from Ukraine, Mila has embraced her new life in Winnipeg with determination and a love for music. 

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.