Province opens awards nominations for newcomers, immigrants, refugees

The provincial government has created a new provincial recognition program aimed at honouring the contributions of newcomers, immigrants, and refugees who help shape a stronger more inclusive Manitoba.

“Newcomers play an essential role in the success of our province,” said Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino. “Through leadership, service and innovation, they enrich our workplaces, communities and culture. The Manitoba Mosaic Awards are our way of saying thank you and of celebrating their impact.”

Eastman Immigrant Services program director Olesja Schwabauer said immigrants make up one in five people in Steinbach adding to the growth of the city. Economically, she said 50 percent of immigrants in Manitoba have university degrees filling a vital role in the workforce by “filling jobs that help us grow and innovate and adapt.”

“They also enrich our culture in ways that go beyond numbers. Whether it’s a new language that we hear, or a new grocery store that opens up, or a restaurant that opens up, the flavours that are shared in potlucks, and friendships formed. Don’t forget our youth who are bringing new life into our schools as well. They’re helping sustain rural education and bring new energy into classrooms,” said Schwabauer.

Manitobans are invited to nominate individuals, groups or businesses whose actions have built bridges, inspired change and made communities more welcoming for everyone.

The awards will be presented as part of Welcoming Week from Sept. 14 to 20. This annual international campaign celebrates the values of inclusion and belonging, and the important work being done in communities to become more welcoming to immigrants and refugees.

“I’m really appreciating the fact that we have that and then we can show the accomplishments and nominate people that we appreciate what they’re doing for the community. Successful integration is vital for a successful community. We should acknowledge people who are helping with that,” said Schwabauer.

The awards will honour 10 recipients in the following five categories: Community Spark Award honouring newcomers who lead with vision and heart to uplift their communities; Young Bridge Builder Award celebrating youth aged 14 to 29 who bring people together across cultures, generations or experiences; Newcomer Trailblazer Award recognizing bold changemakers who create new opportunities for themselves and others; Welcoming Community Champion Award highlighting individuals, groups or employers who foster belonging and inclusion; Heart of the Community Award paying tribute to heroes who offer empathy, service and support in everyday ways.

To be eligible, nominees must reside in Manitoba and identify as a newcomer, immigrant, or refugee. Some award categories are open to organizations and businesses that demonstrate a strong commitment to inclusion and newcomer support.

Nominations are open until Aug. 29 and can be submitted online at manitoba.ca/mosaicawards.