Join us in welcoming Red River College Polytech alumni, Maria Jose Eguigure Torres for Thrive Week’s inspirational keynote presentation in-person and live-streamed. Light refreshments provided and enter to win a door prize.

REGISTER –

Notre Dame Campus: In-Person or Virtual – Thursday, November 7, 2024, 12:15pm to 1pm, in the Emerging Media Production Connected Classroom (G139).

OR

Exchange District Campus: In-Person to watch the live-stream together – Thursday, November 7, 2024, 12:15pm to 1pm in (P107).

Unable to attend? Register for the Virtual option to receive the recording.

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Students and employees are invited to join Thrive Week keynote speaker and RRC Polytech grad Maria Jose Eguigure Torres as she shares her five step process to build resilience and overcome challenges. After competing at the national level in basketball and flag football and creating her own event planning business, Maria Jose moved to Canada to pursue her dreams.  Continuously learning and applying grit and grind in everything she does, Maria Jose believes that a correct mindset is a powerful tool to remain focused on goals, leading to amazing results. Listen as she shares her journey and the five steps that have helped her thrive in these different aspects of life.

Maria Jose Eguigure Torres – Maria Jose studied Industrial Business and Project Management in Honduras before coming to Winnipeg in 2022 to study Hospitality and Tourism Management at RRC Polytech. Back home in Honduras, after a national level sport career she found her passion was creating memorable experiences through event management.

When she moved to Canada, Maria Jose reaffirmed her commitment to impact and inspire others, volunteering with different events and clubs and starting the Honduran Community in Winnipeg.

After graduating from RRC Polytech she now works as an Event Coordinator with Assiniboine Park Conservancy and is the president of the Honduran Community in Winnipeg. Maria Jose continues playing basketball with a local league and has started a women’s flag football team where she creates a safe place for women to learn, connect and stay active.

Maria Jose also loves dancing and was part of the first Latin American Folklorama Pavilion, were she had the opportunity to dance different rhythms and support Punta choreography, a Honduran dance that was showcased for the first time ever in Folklorama thanks to Latin Roots Company.

Maria Jose believes that everything happens for a reason and no matter how many times we receive a ‘no’ or make mistakes, the most important thing is to continue getting better each day and staying true to oneself, learning from each experience.

Take a break from reading, PowerPoints, and hybrid classes with puzzles and colouring pages provided for your relaxation. Create an inspirational bookmark with the provided supplies.

Drop-in to the Notre Dame Campus and Exchange District Campus libraries anytime.

Check out a book or ebook from the Healthy Minds, Healthy College collection (see display at NDC library).

Including:

• Aki-Wayn-zih : A Person As Worthy As the Earth
• Psychology of physical activity : determinants, well-being and interventions
• The medicine path : a return to the healing ways of our indigenous ancestors
• The gifts of imperfection let go of who you think you’re supposed to be and embrace who you are
• Healing through the dark emotions : the wisdom of grief, fear and despair
• Peace is every step : the path of mindfulness in everyday life
• College students’ sense of belonging : a key to educational success for all students

Join Ms. J. La’s Fur Babies Cat Café & Adoption Centre. Sign up now as spots fill up fast! If you would like, you are welcome to bring cat food donations. 

Date: November 4, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: NDC – The Cave

No walk-in availability.

Take a moment to unwind with a relaxing 10-minute chair massage, right here on campus.

Licensed Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) will be available to ease your tension, leaving you refreshed and ready to tackle your academic challenges.

Registration required, pick only one slot – sign up for you massage today! Exchange District Campus in P107 from 11:30am to 1:30pm.

The Social Justice Coffee house will be a collaborative event where participants are welcome to attend as audience members and/or as performers.

Participants can sign up to share readings (poetry, fiction, non-fiction), sing songs, engage in discussions, or have cultural exchanges about social justice topics.

The goal is to have a safe space to voice thoughts and feelings on social justice matters, connect with peers, and learn and grow.

Monday, Nov. 4, 2024 from 12-1pm in Prairie Lights at Notre Dame Campus. Light refreshments will be served.

Click on this link to fill out the form to register

Calling all students! Join us for an exciting Mini-Game Competition where fun meets fitness. This event is designed for teams of three, but you can register as an individual, duo, or trio—it’s up to you! You’ll compete in six fun-filled mini-games, including basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, and more.

At each station, teams will earn puzzle pieces after completing a challenge. Collect all the pieces, complete your puzzle, and race to the finish line at the South Gym stage! The first team to finish wins their choice of a club t-shirt or a $15 Tim Hortons gift card.

And it doesn’t stop there! All completers enter a draw for more prizes!

Ready to have fun, make friends, and compete? See you in the library hallway for the start of this unforgettable event!

When: Nov 4, 2024, 3:45 PM to 5:30 PM
Where: Start at the Library Hallway, Finish at the South Gym Stage
Prizes: Club T-shirts, Tim Hortons gift cards, and more!

Don’t miss out—register today!

Come and enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Latin music in this fun, laid-back dance session with Diana Correa. No dance experience is required—just bring your energy and a smile! This class is all about having fun, relaxing, and connecting with the music and each other.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Mondays – 21, 28 and Nov 4, 2024 from 4:30pm to 5:15pm. All welcome to join us for one class or all.

Join Ms. J. La’s Fur Babies Cat Café & Adoption Centre. Sign up now as spots fill up fast! If you would like, you are welcome to bring cat food donations. 

Date: November 5, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: EDC – P107

No walk-in availability.

Feeling overwhelmed with your studies? Take a moment to unwind during Thrive Week with a relaxing 10-minute, chair massage, right here on campus.

Licensed Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) will be available to ease your tension, leaving you refreshed and ready to tackle your academic challenges.

Registration required, pick only one slot – sign up for you massage today! Notre Dame Campus in Prairie Lights from 11:30am to 1:30pm.

This hand’s-on Carpentry/Cabinetry and Woodworking activity teaches participants how to create their very own portable, wooden finger-labyrinth.

You may have seen the large scale labyrinths created in gardens, parks and fields. A spiral-type design that people slowly walk around for meditation and peace. These are mini labyrinths that you can carry around with you, ready for a quick calm down or meditation on the spot.

REGISTER for only ONE of three possible sessions:

• Session one – from 1pm to 1:45pm
• Session two – from 2pm to 2:45pm
• Session three – from 3pm to 3:45pm

Notre Dame Campus in B1-19A. Please wear runners or boots (closed-toed footwear) and long pants. All other materials supplied.

In honour of National Inuit Day on Thursday, November 7, 2024 – Join us in watching Ever Deadly, this movie weaves concert footage with stunning sequences filmed on location in Nunavut, seamlessly bridging landscapes, stories and songs with pain, anger and triumph—all through the expressions of Tanya Tagaq, one of the most innovative musical performers of our time.

This film discusses topics of trauma and abuse. Viewer discretion is advised.

This event has been changed from in-person at EDC to virtual viewing. Or attend at NDC on Thursday at lunch hour. Thank you!

Join us on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 in The CAVE (NDC) for our a Community Open-Mic: Thrive Week Edition!

Nahuen Music be there with the mics, lyrics and lights. Browse the Karafun Catalogue and decide which songs you’ll be singing.

Drop by – take a break in The Cave student lounge to play some giant games, eat your lunch with some popcorn and drinks provided.

Notre Dame Campus, Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 11am to 1pm, The Cave, DM30

The Coca-Cola Hug Machine will be onsite near the Campus Store. You hug it, it returns the favour with a Coke. Because vending machines have feelings too.

Unfortunately, we had to cancel this session.

Learn about the foundational movements of Breaking, and their connection to Hip Hop culture with instructor, Mooki. Classes will be focused around learning steps, and terminology which will provide students a knowledge base to take the dance into their own hands.

Take some time to unwind and reconnect with your body with yoga instructor Jaimie Bristow. A class for all levels focusing on slow rhythmic movements and long gentle stretching to explore opening all areas of the body. Class begins and ends with varying forms of pranayama (breathwork), and/or mindfulness based stress reduction techniques.

Suitable for all levels, mats are provided for in-person sessions.

• Wednesdays In-Person – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm, Notre Dame Campus, Immersion Room (GM33), near North Gym.
• Wednesdays Virtual and Recording Access – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm *Access to recording for one week post-class.

Learn practical self defense techniques in a friendly and fun atmosphere. Gain confidence and fitness while adding tools and techniques to the martial arts toolkit. While this is the last class of five independent workshops, a person can still attend and gain benefit.

Come to this class and learn something new. Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 4:15pm to 5:15pm, in P107.

REGISTER or find out more class detail.

In honour of National Inuit Day today – Join us in watching Ever Deadly, this movie weaves concert footage with stunning sequences filmed on location in Nunavut, seamlessly bridging landscapes, stories and songs with pain, anger and triumph—all through the expressions of Tanya Tagaq, one of the most innovative musical performers of our time.

This film discusses topics of trauma and abuse. Viewer discretion is advised.

Drop-in, Thursday, November 7, 2024 from 11:30am to 1 pm in the NDC F209.

Join Chaley Martens after school or work for a 45-minute hatha yoga class to unwind from your day. This class will build on mindful movement and breathing to gently challenge the mind and body, but leave you feeling relaxed. No experience is necessary. Suitable for all levels and mats are provided. Registration required.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Thursdays 4:15pm to 5pm

Join us on Thursday, November 7, 2024 in room P107 (EDC/Roblin Campus) for our monthly Community Open-Mic: Thrive Week Edition!

Nahuen Music be there with the mics, lyrics and lights. Browse the Karafun Catalogue and decide which songs you’ll be singing.

Drop by – take a break in to play some giant games, eat your lunch with some popcorn and drinks provided.

Exchange District Campus, Friday, November 8, 2024, 11am to 1pm, in the Dining Hall near Tim Hortons.

The Coca-Cola Hug Machine will be onsite as well. You hug it, it returns the favour with a Coke. Because vending machines have feelings too.

This year mini-golf meets campus-wide scavenger hunt! Explore Notre Dame campus scouting out the different mini-golf holes hosted by RRC Polytech’s support services and executives.

Start your tour in the Library, get your scorecard and complete the first hole! When you’ve completed the course, return to the Library with your filled-out scorecard to enter the prize draw.

Never played before? You’ll still have loads of fun. End your thrive week with a hole-in-one!

Drop-in: Come as a group or on your own.

Notre Dame Campus Library: Friday, November 8, 2024 from 12:00 to 2:00 pm.

A dynamic class adapted for all levels that builds heat moving through postures with more continuous movement. Poses are linked together with the breath in a flowing sequence. Various ideas and themes are explored with instructor Jaimie Bristow.

REGISTER – Virtual: Fridays 12:15 to 12:45pm

Note: Links for virtual sessions will be emailed to registrants separately. Friday classes are not recorded.

Spend some time in nature – join fellow students and staff for a guided walk through the Chickadee Trail at Birds Hill Park. We will spend some time bird watching and walking through the trails.

Session Details:
Saturday, Nov 9, 2024: Chartered Bus (Limited Seating) OR Meet at Chickadee Trail.

Roundtrip Chartered Bus – 9:45am to 1pm
Registration is CLOSED – Thank you!

Round trip transportation to Birds Hill Park is provided free of charge.

Meet at the Notre Dame Campus bus loop at 9:45am where we will be transported together by chartered bus. You may also register family members to attend (space permitting).

The bus will also stop at the Exchange District Campus after NDC. Please be ready outside the Manitou a bi Bii daziigae front doors for pick up around 10 am.

We will drop off in reverse order, EDC then NDC and should return to the NDC bus loop by 1pm.

OR

Meet at Chickadee Trailhead at 10:40am in Birds Hill Provincial Park.

Dress appropriately for the weather. The walk will be cancelled in the event of heavy winds, rain or hail.

Invisible mental illnesses are conditions that don’t have outward physical symptoms. These include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and others. Unlike a broken arm or a visible injury, these illnesses often go unnoticed by others, making it harder for individuals to seek or receive help.  

Research indicates that mental illnesses like major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are among the most prevalent invisible conditions, affecting millions worldwide. Statistics Canada reports, in 2022, more than 5 million people in Canada met the diagnostic criteria for a mood, anxiety, or substance use disorder, with the prevalence of mood and anxiety disorders increasing substantially over the previous 10 years.

Post-secondary students are particularly vulnerable to invisible mental illnesses. The transition to post-secondary education brings new academic challenges, social dynamics, and often a loss of familiar support systems. These pressures can exacerbate pre-existing conditions or trigger new mental health challenges. 

A 2023 survey conducted by The Canadian Alliance of Student Associations found that 70% of post-secondary students reported feelings of anxiety, and over 40% reported symptoms of depression. Invisible mental illnesses can make it difficult for students to concentrate on their studies, attend classes, or participate in social activities. Yet, because the signs aren’t always visible, others—including instructors, and peers — may not realize what they are going through, leading to further isolation. 

One of the greatest challenges for those with invisible mental illnesses is overcoming the stigma attached to mental health. While mental health awareness has grown in recent years, students with conditions like depression or PTSD might hesitate to reach out for help, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. 

The stigma is often rooted in the misconception that mental illness is a weakness or something that can simply be “snapped out of.” A study from The Journal of Psychiatric Services highlights that this stigma often prevents students from accessing the mental health services they need, resulting in untreated or worsening symptoms. 

• Educate Yourself
  • Understanding that mental illness isn’t always visible is the first step toward reducing stigma. Educating yourself about the realities of conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD can make you more empathic and supportive to those around you.  
• Check In on Your Friends  
  • If a friend or peer seems distant or isn’t acting like themselves, take the time to check in. Sometimes, students with invisible mental illnesses need someone to listen without judgment. A simple conversation can make a world of difference. 
  • If you don’t know how to approach the conversation or don’t feel comfortable doing so, you are welcome to make an Early Assist Referral
• Prioritize Self-Care  
  • If you’re living with an invisible mental illness, it’s important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally. Research shows that regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can positively impact mental health. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and support groups can also be effective tools for managing symptoms. 
• Know the Resources Available
  • RRC Polytech has mental health resources available to you. Click here to learn more about them.
  • Click here to access community crisis, health, counselling, and mental health resources.
  • Knowing where and how to access these resources can be life changing. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, early intervention through counseling or therapy can significantly improve outcomes for those living with mental illness. 

Invisible mental illnesses are real, valid, and deserve attention. These conditions can present unique challenges, but with proper support and understanding, it is possible to thrive. Whether you are living with an invisible mental illness or supporting someone who is, education, empathy, and access to resources are key to making a difference!  

Mondays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Fridays 4:00-5:30 (North Gym)

Tuesdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Thursdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Tuesdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Thursdays 4:00-5:30pm (North Gym)

Join us for a lively collaborative sport event between International Education and Campus Well-Being. This is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in some sports and forge new connections in a safe and supportive environment. Gameplay will be kept to a lower intensity to intentionally include those who are new to sport or who haven’t played in some time. 

To save time during your entry, kindly sign the gym waiver form here. Remember your Student or Staff ID and indoor shoes for swift entry! 

All students and staff welcome – Come check out the gym, learn some basic skills and play a casual game guided by our knowledgeable staff. 

Participants may choose to play the following sports: 

• Badminton 
• Volleyball  
• Basketball 

Light snacks and drinks will be provided after the event. Looking forward to seeing you there for a day of fun, fitness, and community!

Drop In – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Friday October 18th, 2024, 12:00 – 1:00pm.

Learn practical self defense techniques in a friendly and fun atmosphere. Gain confidence and fitness while adding tools and techniques to the martial arts toolkit. Taught over five independent workshops, a person can attend all or any single class, and gain benefit.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus: Wednesdays Oct 9 to Nov 6, 2024, 4:15pm to 5:15pm, in P107.

Find out more class details here.

Join Coach Brinold to build strength, flexibility, and training knowledge in this self-paced class that focuses on movement quality over quantity. All fitness levels are welcome & exercise progressions and modifications will be provided throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Mondays and Wednesdays 12:10 – 12:50pm

Classes start September 16

These fun and high energy sessions utilize bodyweight exercises, kettlebells, dumbbells, medicine balls, bands and more for a compete total-body workout. Coach MG welcomes all fitness levels, providing exercise progressions and modifications to accommodate everyone.

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:10 – 12:50pm

Classes start September 17

Come and enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Latin music in this fun, laid-back dance session with Diana Correa. No dance experience is required—just bring your energy and a smile! This class is all about having fun, relaxing, and connecting with the music and each other.

Get ready to experience the vibrant beats of salsa, bachata, and merengue while enjoying positive vibes and sharing in rich Latin culture.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Mondays – October 7, 21, 28 and Nov 4, 2024 from 4:30pm to 5:15pm.

Take some time to unwind and reconnect with your body with yoga instructor Jaimie Bristow. A class for all levels focusing on slow rhythmic movements and long gentle stretching to explore opening all areas of the body. Class begins and ends with varying forms of pranayama (breathwork), and/or mindfulness based stress reduction techniques.

Suitable for all levels, mats are provided for in-person sessions.

• Wednesdays In-Person – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm, Notre Dame Campus, Immersion Room (GM33), near North Gym.

• Wednesdays Virtual and Recording Access – REGISTER – 12:10 to 12:50pm *Access to recording for one week post-class.

Join Chaley Martens after school or work for a 45-minute hatha yoga class to unwind from your day. This class will build on mindful movement and breathing to gently challenge the mind and body, but leave you feeling relaxed. No experience is necessary. Suitable for all levels and mats are provided. Registration required.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, P107: Thursdays 4:15pm to 5pm

A dynamic class adapted for all levels that builds heat moving through postures with more continuous movement. Poses are linked together with the breath in a flowing sequence. Various ideas and themes are explored with instructor Jaimie Bristow.

REGISTER – Virtual: Fridays 12:15 to 12:45pm

Note: Links for virtual sessions will be emailed to registrants separately. Friday classes are not recorded.

Borrow a bike to go for lunch, run an errand or cruise around the area. Our four bikes include Moose and Bear (large), Eagle (medium) and Goose (small).  Come to the NDC North Gym customer service desk during regular gym hours, fill out a waiver and pick your bike – daytime borrowing only by students and staff.

Wearing a helmet is mandatory. Bring your own or borrow one from us; bike locks are available too. Each user receiving a bike will be responsible for:

• Keeping it secure
• Riding safely and lawfully
• Returning it in a timely manner

Join Campus Well-Being, the Students’ Association and instructor Kisa MacIsaac, for an evening of painting and creative discovery. Participants follow a step-by-step process to create a unique painted canvas.

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus:  Thursday, Oct 3, 2024, 4:15pm to 6:30pm, in The Cave, DM30

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 4:15 to 6:30pm in the Dining Hall in The Roblin Centre near Tim Hortons.

Take a break to create! Activities and supplies provided include – bookmark, bracelet and button making, rock painting, colouring and drawing, knitting and crocheting. We’ll also have some board games available.

Or bring your own project to work on while connecting and socializing with others.

Open from 12:00pm to 1:00pm. You can register for a calendar reminder or just drop in.

• Notre Dame Campus: Oct 7, 2024 in Prairie Lights – REGISTER
• Exchange District Campus: Nov 14, 2024 in P107 – REGISTER

Gain tips, strategies and access to free online tools to help you take control of your spending.

Marcey has been teaching family finance for 20 years throughout the Interlake and now at RRC Polytechnic. You’ll find her at the Adult Learning Centre on weekdays and in her kayak on weekends. Join her for an interactive and beneficial lunch hour.

REGISTER – In-Person and Virtual – Notre Dame Campus: Monday, October 28, 2024 – 12:00 to 1pm, Connected Classroom in EMP – G139, near North Gym.

Unable to attend at that time? Register for the virtual option to receive recording after the session.

Join us for a film screening and discussion in honor of Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW). Enjoy some snacks, beverages, and good company!

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, Orange Lecture Theatre: Wednesday, October 9, noon-1:00pm

Come and spend time with our furry friends from St. John Ambulance! Take some time during the lunch hour to relax and de-stress and spend time with some therapy dogs.

Steinbach– October 10th, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:00pm

Portage La Prairie – October 16th, 2024
Location & Time: Student Lounge – 11:30am to 1:00pm

EDC – October 28th, 2024
Location & Time: Atrium (Roblin Centre) – 11:30am to 1:00pm

NDC – October 28th, 2024
Location & Time: Campus Store Hallway – 11:30am to 1:00pm

As per your request, we have made our Pop-Up Cat Café a regular event!

Join Ms. J. La’s Fur Babies Cat Café & Adoption Centre. Sign up now as spots fill up fast! If you would like, you are welcome to bring cat food donations. 

Date: October 22nd, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: NDC – The Cave

Date: October 23rd, 2024
Time: 11:30am to 1:30pm (sign up here for a 30-minute slot) 
Location: EDC – P107

No walk-in availability.

Play board games and giant games like Jenga, Chess or Connect 4, join some peers in a friendly cornhole or card game, take some time to socialize while working on a puzzle or colouring.

DROP-IN – Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, October 1, 2024 – 10am to 2pm. Dining Hall near Tim Hortons in The Roblin Centre.

Do you love treasure hunting, exploring new places, and having fun outdoors? If so, you might want to try geocaching, the world’s largest treasure hunting game!

Join this Introduction to Geocaching Workshop, hosted by Jo-Ann Johnson, Vice President of the Manitoba Geocaching Association.

REGISTER – In-Person and Virtual – Notre Dame Campus: Wednesday, October 9, 2024 – 12:00 to 1pm, Connected Classroom in EMP – G139, near North Gym.

Unable to attend at that time? Register for the virtual option to receive recording after the session.

Bring yourself, your friends or family for an “all welcome” board game night.

Contact Kristi if you’d like to reserve a specific game for your group of friends, classmates or staff team.

DROP-IN – Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, Oct 15, 2024, 4 to 7pm, in the Dining Hall in The Roblin Centre near Tim Hortons.

DROP-IN – Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, Oct 17, 2024, 4 to 7pm, in The Cave, DM30.

Unleash your inner DIY enthusiast at our series of Home Maintenance Workshop. This month, gain hands-on experience as you learn about the art of breaker checks, light switch and plug replacements, and unravel the mysteries of 3-way circuits. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your home maintenance skills. Sign up today and electrify your knowledge!

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, October 24, 2024, 4:30pm to 6:30pm, in B1-29.