Explore Online Language Learning Resources 

• CANAvenue 
  • Discover the free English‑learning and citizenship‑prep activities designed for newcomers to Canada 
    • Bonus: Prepare for your citizenship test 

• Quizlet 
  • Use interactive flashcards, practice tests, and study activities to learn about a variety of topics 
    • Bonus: Check out hundreds of IELTS test prep resources 

• EnglishClub 
  • Explore an extensive assortment of interactive activities and resources 
    • Bonus: Relax with some grammar, spelling, vocabulary and pronunciation games 

• Mauril 
  • Test your listening comprehension skills with audio and video content from CBC and Radio-Canada 
  • Bonus: Use it to learn French too! 

• ReadSpeeder 
  • Develop your reading skills through a series of lessons that focus on reading speed and comprehension 
    • Bonus: Subscribe to the free email lessons for extra help 

• British Council: LearnEnglish 
  • Explore the site to improve your English with bite-sized lessons, quizzes and games on a variety of topics 
    • Bonus: Try out some learning apps to help you learn English at home or on the move 

• BBC Learning English 
  • Lose yourself in an almost endless collection of videos and podcasts on a variety of topics including office English, health, music, etc. 
    • Bonus: Get some speaking tips from the Beating Speaking Anxiety podcast 

• Government of Canada: Learning English – Resources for teaching and self-study 
  • Consult this page to find resources for learning English independently, including games and exercises 
    • Bonus: Check out The Language and Reading Companion: College-level texts to help ESL students improve their reading and listening skills 

• Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Supports and Services (PASS) Program and National Healthcare Language Program – Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia 
  • Explore the resources for IRCC-eligible internationally educated nurses and internationally educated healthcare professionals

Build Connections 

• Volunteer 
  • Volunteer Opportunities | Volunteer Manitoba 

• Join a club / Start a club 
  • Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) Manitoba’s Nature Club 
  • Book Clubs – Winnipeg Public Library – City of Winnipeg 

• Network 
  • Tech Manitoba 
  • Ten Thousand Coffees – RRC Polytech Café 
    • A place for students, alumni & employers to connect for a conversation and build relationships 

Enhance Your Skills 

• Take an English conversation class 
  • Informal Language Resource Guide Winnipeg Winter 2026.docx – Google Docs 

• Improve your tech skills 
  • Computers for Life – Altered Minds 
  • Resource Library – Tech Manitoba 

• Improve your keyboarding skills 
  • Touch Typing Practice Online
  • Typing Lessons – Learn to Type and Improve Typing Speed Free – Typing.com 

Learn Something New  

• Obtain a high school diploma or gain the necessary credits to pursue educational, training, or employment opportunities 
  • Adult Learning Centres 

• Attend various in-person and online workshops 
  • Manitoba Tourism Education Council 

• Try a sport, art or cooking class 
  • Recreation programs | City of Winnipeg 

Take Care of Yourself Along the Way: Nurture Your Well-Being   

• Prioritize your mental health  
  • Staying Mentally Strong During Times of Uncertainty and Change  
  • Coping With Uncertainty and Loss While Working Toward Your Goals 

• Reach out for help if needed 
  • Online Free Video call Psychotherapy and Counselling Canada-wide 
  • Newcomer Collaborative Community Mental Health 

Start with Community and Cultural Organizations in Manitoba 

In Manitoba, many community and cultural organizations offer networking events, job fairs, and workshops to support newcomers. These groups provide a welcoming environment where you can connect with professionals who understand the unique challenges of building a career in Canada. 

• Immigrant Centre Manitoba – This organization offers a variety of services to support newcomers, including job search workshops, networking opportunities, and English language support. They often host events designed to help you build local connections and learn about career resources. 

• Manitoba Start – Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba Start provides career services for newcomers, including job-matching programs, networking events, and training sessions on Canadian workplace expectations. They connect newcomers with employers looking to hire talent in the province. 

• Ethnocultural Organizations – Many cultural organizations in Manitoba hold community events and workshops that allow newcomers to meet others from similar backgrounds and connect with the broader community. Examples include the Filipino-Canadian Association of Manitoba and the India Association of Manitoba, among others. 

• World Trade Centre Winnipeg (WTC Winnipeg) – This organization offers networking opportunities and workshops for individuals interested in business and trade. WTC Winnipeg often hosts events for newcomers looking to start or expand careers in Manitoba’s business community. 

• Newcomer Employment Hub by Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce – The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce has a Newcomer Employment Hub that provides networking events, career fairs, and resources aimed specifically at helping newcomers integrate into Manitoba’s workforce. 

Tip: To stay updated on events, follow these organizations on social media or sign up for their newsletters, which often feature upcoming workshops and networking sessions tailored to newcomers. 

Join Professional Associations and Groups in Manitoba 

Professional associations are excellent for building connections within your industry and learning about local job opportunities. Many of these associations offer memberships that grant access to networking events, industry-specific conferences, and exclusive job boards. Manitoba has numerous associations with resources and events tailored for newcomers. 

• Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba – This association offers support to internationally educated engineers and geoscientists, including resources to help newcomers gain their credentials in Canada. They host networking events, mentorship programs, and workshops designed to help you connect with peers and potential employers in the field. 

• Manitoba Nurses Union (MNU) – For newcomers in healthcare, the Manitoba Nurses Union provides resources and information on navigating Manitoba’s healthcare system. They often hold events, conferences, and training sessions that are beneficial for connecting with other nursing professionals and staying informed about job opportunities. 

• CPA Manitoba (Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba) – For those in finance or accounting, CPA Manitoba offers membership benefits such as career resources, networking events, and professional development courses. They also provide guidance on certification pathways for internationally trained accountants. 

• ICTAM (Information and Communication Technologies Association of Manitoba) – For those in tech, ICTAM provides events, webinars, and networking opportunities for Manitoba’s IT community. They offer industry insights, mentorship programs, and access to job fairs for newcomers in IT and tech fields. 

• Life Science Association of Manitoba (LSAM) – LSAM supports professionals in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and health sciences. They offer networking events, mentorship programs, and industry-specific job resources. LSAM is particularly valuable for newcomers aiming to enter Manitoba’s life sciences sector. 

• Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) Manitoba – CME Manitoba provides industry connections, workshops, and training programs tailored for those in manufacturing. They support newcomers looking to enter the manufacturing and exporting sectors in Manitoba, offering valuable industry contacts and knowledge-sharing sessions. 

Tip: Reach out to these associations to inquire about newcomer-friendly events and programs. Many associations offer mentorships, which can be particularly valuable for learning about industry trends and navigating the local job market as a newcomer. 

Volunteer to Demonstrate Canadian Work Values and Build Connections 

While volunteer roles may not always match your professional background, they are still valuable for newcomers. Volunteering is an excellent way to demonstrate qualities that Canadian employers value—such as teamwork, commitment, and a positive work ethic.  

Many volunteer positions, such as assisting with community events, helping in food banks, or supporting local organizations, provide a chance to adapt to the Canadian workplace culture and showcase your character in a real-world setting. Additionally, volunteering allows you to meet people who can expand your network and introduce you to others in your field. 

Manitoba has numerous associations with resources and events tailored for newcomers. 

• Volunteer Manitoba – This organization connects people with volunteering opportunities throughout the province. Their website includes a searchable database where you can filter volunteer roles by sector, making it easier to find positions relevant to your career field. 

• Manitoba Start Volunteer Opportunities – Manitoba Start provides volunteer opportunities tailored to newcomers, giving you the chance to gain relevant experience and make professional connections in a supportive environment. 

• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities – For newcomers in healthcare, volunteering at local hospitals (e.g., Health Sciences Centre or St. Boniface Hospital) or long-term care facilities can be a great way to gain Canadian experience, even if it’s not directly in a clinical role. Many hospitals have volunteer programs where you can get to know the healthcare setting and make valuable connections. 

• Immigrant Centre Manitoba – The Immigrant Centre often seeks volunteers for community support roles. Volunteering here can be a great way to connect with others who work directly with newcomers, giving you insights into the sector and access to additional local connections. 

• Winnipeg Harvest – This food bank and community organization offers volunteer opportunities for those interested in community service. It’s a great place to meet people from different backgrounds and make local connections while contributing to a worthy cause. 

Tip: While volunteer roles may not directly align with your profession, they allow you to demonstrate adaptability, enthusiasm, and a willingness to contribute—traits that can positively impact your job search in Canada. 

Make the Most of Workshops and Training Programs 

As a CNI student, you’re already participating in valuable training that builds your skills and prepares you for the Canadian job market. Beyond gaining expertise, these workshops and courses provide excellent opportunities to expand your network. Engaging with classmates, instructors, and guest speakers during these programs can help you connect with industry professionals who may offer guidance, mentorship, and potential job leads. 

Tips for Networking in Your Training Programs: 

• Ask Questions and Engage Actively – Participating in discussions and asking questions not only deepens your understanding but also helps you connect with others in the program. Showing genuine curiosity can make you memorable to instructors and peers alike. 

• Utilize Group Activities and Breaks to Build Connections – Networking often happens naturally in small group projects or during breaks. Take the initiative to introduce yourself, share insights, and get to know your classmates’ backgrounds and goals. 

• Follow Up After Sessions – If a guest speaker or instructor resonates with you, consider sending a thank-you message or connecting on LinkedIn with a personalized note. Expressing appreciation for their insights and mentioning something specific from their talk can open the door to future conversations. 

CNI’s training environment is designed not only to enhance your skills but also to foster professional connections that can support your career advancement. By being active and engaged in your programs, you’ll strengthen both your knowledge and your network, bringing you closer to your career goals in Canada. 

While mentorship is often thought of as formal—through structured programs or professional associations—it doesn’t always have to be. Informal mentors, such as a colleague, a community member, or even someone you meet at a networking event, can offer just as much value by answering your questions and helping you adapt to new professional environments. 

Whether you prefer an informal or formal approach, mentorship is about learning and growing through guidance and connection. If you’re looking to find a mentor, there are many programs and resources in Manitoba designed to pair newcomers with experienced professionals.  

Steps to Find a Mentor in Manitoba 

Several organizations in Manitoba offer structured mentorship programs specifically designed for newcomers: 

• Immigrant Centre Manitoba – The Immigrant Centre offers a variety of services, including mentorship programs where newcomers are paired with professionals in their fields. 

• Manitoba Start – Manitoba Start’s Career Services program includes mentorship components to help newcomers connect with industry professionals who can guide them through the job market. 

• The Mentorship Program by Economic Development Winnipeg (EDW) – EDW connects newcomers in Winnipeg with local business leaders and professionals. This program focuses on matching mentees with mentors in similar fields. 

• Professional Associations – Many associations, like Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba or CPA Manitoba, offer mentorship programs for new members. These programs pair you with experienced professionals in your field and provide structured guidance. 

• Join Industry Networking Events and Meetups – Networking events hosted by associations like ICTAM for tech or the Life Science Association of Manitoba (LSAM) for life sciences often have opportunities to connect with experienced professionals. Attend these events to build connections and seek mentors informally. 

• Leverage Online Platforms Like LinkedIn – LinkedIn is a valuable tool for finding mentors. Search for professionals in your field in Manitoba and start by engaging with their content or sending a thoughtful connection request. Mention that you’re new to Canada and are interested in learning more about the local industry. 

How to Approach a Potential Mentor 

Once you’ve identified someone who may be a good fit, approach them respectfully and with clear intentions. Here’s how to get started: 

• Send a Thoughtful Message – Begin with a polite introduction that explains who you are, your background, and why you’re reaching out. Be specific about your goals, such as learning more about the industry in Manitoba or gaining advice on a particular career path. 
  
  Example: “Hello [Name], I’m a newcomer to Canada with a background in [Your Field]. I’m currently working on understanding the job market in Manitoba and came across your profile. I admire your work in [Industry/Role], and I’d appreciate any advice or guidance you could share. Would you be open to a brief conversation or coffee chat?” 

• Express Your Willingness to Learn – Mentorship is a two-way relationship. Show appreciation for the mentor’s time, and be open to learning from their experiences. 

• Ask Thoughtful Questions – If the mentor agrees to meet, prepare questions that demonstrate your interest and commitment. Questions might include asking about their career journey, insights on the Canadian workplace, or advice on building skills relevant to your field. 

• Be Respectful of Their Time – Start with a brief meeting, like a coffee chat or a 20-30 minute conversation. Be mindful of their schedule and express your gratitude for their time and insights. 

• Follow Up and Show Appreciation – After your conversation, send a thank-you message and consider following up periodically to share updates on your progress or ask additional questions. Showing genuine appreciation can help maintain the relationship. 

To explore these challenges, let’s look at the experiences of Bradley West. He is the Manager of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion for the City of Winnipeg. Bradley moved to Canada from Australia 31 years ago. Adjusting from Australia’s direct communication style and warm climate to Winnipeg’s different workplace dynamics and cold winters was not easy.

“I assumed Canada would be similar to other Commonwealth countries I’d worked in,” Bradley reflects. “But the differences, though subtle, were significant enough to cause misunderstandings early on. I didn’t expect things like indirect communication, potluck lunches, or even the way conflict is managed to throw me off—but they did.”

Here’s a guide to help newcomers and established professionals alike build meaningful relationships in cross-cultural settings.  

Embrace Open Communication 

Open communication is key to building trust and understanding across cultures. Clear and direct communication is valued in Canadian workplaces, yet it’s often paired with politeness and sensitivity. When expressing opinions or offering feedback, it’s common to use gentle language that shows respect for others’ perspectives. 

Use phrases like “In my opinion…” or “I believe…” to share your thoughts without sounding too assertive. When receiving feedback, ask clarifying questions to ensure you understand the message fully.  

Advice from Bradley: “In Australia, communication was direct—my boss would say, ‘Do X, Y, and Z.’ Here, it was, ‘If you have time, you might want to look at this.’ I didn’t realize it was a polite way of giving an instruction. I ignored it, thinking it was optional, and got into trouble for not following through. It took time to understand the indirect communication style.”

Show Interest in Cultural Differences  

One of the best ways to build cross-cultural connections is to take an interest in others’ backgrounds and traditions. Acknowledging and respecting cultural differences shows curiosity and openness, which can strengthen relationships. Many workplaces celebrate cultural diversity through events, workshops, and holiday observances—participating in these activities is a great way to learn and engage. 

Ask open-ended questions like, “What are some traditions from your culture that you enjoy?” or “How do you celebrate holidays?” Small gestures of curiosity go a long way in building connections.  

Advice from Bradley: “Manitoba’s ‘socials’ baffled me at first—fundraising for weddings by selling tickets to strangers? It seemed so odd. I didn’t understand why people would ask others to pay for their wedding through events like this. But once someone explained that these socials have roots in community support—like barn-raisings in the past—I started to see the value in them. It was about people coming together to help others celebrate an important milestone.”

Adapt to Canadian Workplace Etiquette  

Understanding Canadian workplace norms can help newcomers integrate smoothly. For example, Canadian workplaces often value punctuality, collaborative decision-making, and respect for personal space. Managers may encourage employees to address them by their first names, reflecting a less rigid hierarchy. 

Observe your colleagues to understand common practices, such as how they address each other, communicate in meetings, and balance formality with friendliness. Following these cues can help you adjust to the workplace environment.  

Advice from Bradley: “I learned quickly that workplace norms here include unspoken rules. For example, I didn’t know that if you finished the coffee pot, you were expected to refill it. Where I came from, that was someone else’s job. I would just turn off the burner and go back to work. It wasn’t until someone explained it to me that I understood why colleagues seemed annoyed—what I saw as normal was seen as inconsiderate here.”

Practice Active Listening  

Active listening is crucial for building connections and reducing misunderstandings. It involves fully focusing on the speaker, acknowledging their points, and asking questions to confirm understanding. This skill is especially important in cross-cultural settings, where language barriers or different communication styles may exist.  

Use verbal and non-verbal cues to show your engagement, such as nodding, summarizing what was said, or asking follow-up questions. This approach helps show respect and build trust among team members.  

Advice from Bradley: “In Australia, brainstorming meetings were lively, with everyone talking over each other. Here, I learned that interrupting or finishing someone’s sentence was seen as rude, or controlling. Adjusting to this slower, more deliberate communication style took time.”

Seek Mentorship

Finding a mentor can be one of the most effective ways to navigate cultural differences, adapt to workplace norms, and build confidence in a new professional environment. A mentor can offer guidance, explain unspoken rules, and help you understand the broader context of your workplace.

Advice from Bradley: “Finding a mentor saved me. I asked someone to help me ‘decode’ Winnipeg’s culture. They explained everything from socials to workplace communication styles. Their guidance helped me adapt and succeed. It wasn’t just about professional growth—it was about understanding how things worked here. Having someone to answer questions like, ‘Why do we do this?’ or ‘What does this mean?’ made all the difference.”

Bradley’s story highlights the value of mentorship in bridging cultural gaps. His mentor provided insight into workplace practices and helped him navigate the broader cultural expectations that shaped those practices.

Look for someone in your workplace or community who is willing to share their experiences and answer your questions. It doesn’t have to be a formal relationship; even casual conversations with someone who understands the local culture can be incredibly helpful. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask, “Can you help me understand how things work here?” Mentorship is as much about mutual learning as it is about guidance.

November is Career and Workforce Development Month in Manitoba, a province-wide initiative to support career planning and workforce growth. It’s the perfect time to explore how to gain Canadian work experience. This article will provide practical tips to help you gain experience, grow your skills, and move closer to your career goals. 

Start with Volunteering 

Volunteering is one of the quickest ways to gain Canadian experience, expand your network, and develop skills that are valued by employers. Many organizations, including non-profits and community groups, welcome volunteers, and these positions often provide an excellent opportunity to learn about Canadian workplace culture in a low-pressure setting. Highlighting volunteer roles on your resume demonstrates your commitment, adaptability, and willingness to contribute

When listing volunteer roles on your resume, emphasize specific achievements and skills gained. For instance, if you volunteered in a healthcare setting, mention the interpersonal and communication skills you developed and any hands-on experience with tasks relevant to your field. 

Look for Temporary, Part-Time, or Entry-Level Positions 

Temporary, part-time, or entry-level roles can be excellent starting points for newcomers, providing valuable Canadian work experience and helping you transition into your desired field. For tradespeople working toward Red Seal certification, positions like general labourer or apprentice can offer practical workplace exposure. Similarly, internationally educated nurses may begin as health-care aides while pursuing Canadian licensing. These roles demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to future career goals. 

Temporary (or term) work is common in Canada and often involves short-term projects or seasonal roles. These opportunities can help you gain relevant skills, expand your network, and create pathways to permanent employment. Even part-time or entry-level jobs outside your field can build transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and customer service. 

On your resume, focus on how these roles align with your long-term goals. Highlight specific skills and accomplishments, such as safety protocols learned in a trades role or organizational skills applied in a clerical position. By showcasing these experiences, you’ll demonstrate your readiness for more advanced roles in the Canadian workplace. 

Pursue Internships or Co-Op Programs 

Internships and co-op programs provide hands-on experience in specific industries, making them ideal for newcomers looking to gain relevant experience. Often, these are offered while attending education programs in universities and colleges, but there are few offered elsewhere. While internships are sometimes unpaid, they often lead to valuable job opportunities and professional relationships. RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration (CNI) offers programs that include work placements, allowing students to gain valueable experience directly related to their career goals. 

On your resume, describe your contributions during your internships or work placements, such as any projects you completed, skills you applied, or recognition you received from supervisors. Highlighting these achievements can make your resume more appealing to potential employers. 

Take on Contract or Freelance Work 

Contract and freelance roles are increasingly common in Canada and can provide valuable experience, particularly in fields like technology, writing, design, and consulting. Freelance work allows you to build a portfolio of projects that showcase your expertise, even if you’re new to the Canadian market. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr or Freelancer, can be great places to start. Industry job boards are a better option.  

When adding freelance work to your resume, list specific clients (if possible) or describe the scope of projects completed. For example, a freelance graphic designer might highlight branding projects for small businesses, showing employers the range of their skills and experience. 

Network with Professionals in Your Field 

Networking is essential for finding job opportunities in Canada. Attending local industry events, joining professional associations, and participating in community activities can introduce you to professionals who might refer you for job openings or provide guidance. Building a LinkedIn profile and connecting with others in your field is also a great way to expand your network. 

When networking, aim to make genuine connections rather than asking for job opportunities immediately. Many professionals are happy to offer advice and may introduce you to others who can help with your job search. Including a “Professional Affiliations” section on your resume can demonstrate your active engagement in the industry. 

Tailor Your Resume to Canadian Standards 

In Canada, resumes are typically one or two pages and focus on skills and accomplishments rather than personal details. Remove any personal information like your age, marital status, or photograph, as these aren’t customary on Canadian resumes. Instead, focus on describing your achievements and the specific skills you bring to the role. 

Use action-oriented language and quantifiable achievements where possible. For instance, instead of saying, “Worked as an administrative assistant,” say, “Supported daily office operations for a team of 10, managing scheduling, communications, and record-keeping to improve efficiency by 20%.”  

For more information about writing a resume, watch out for the How to Write a Standout Resume and LinkedIn Profile for the Canadian Job Market, blog article.  

Take Advantage of CNI’s Career Services 

RRC Polytech’s Centre for Newcomer Integration offers programs specifically designed to support newcomers in gaining Canadian work experience and navigating the job market. CNI provides resume-building workshops, interview preparation, and networking sessions, helping you develop the skills you need to present yourself confidently to Canadian employers. With CNI’s guidance, you’ll be better equipped to showcase your strengths and build a resume that aligns with Canadian standards. 

Building Your Career, One Step at a Time 

Gaining Canadian experience takes time and patience, but each opportunity—whether volunteering, part-time work, or freelancing—adds value to your resume and brings you closer to your career goals. By following these tips and actively seeking opportunities to build Canadian work experience, you’ll boost your resume, grow your network, and gain the skills needed to succeed in the Canadian job market. 

Stay tuned for more articles as we explore practical ways to boost your career and connect with opportunities across Manitoba. Whether you’re starting your career journey or advancing to the next stage, the insights shared here will help you navigate the path to success.