A Message from Your

What an experience it has been to be a part of the Chamber for the past few years I will say I did not realize the extent of what the Chamber did for the business community, and I can not say how many times I have heard that the Chamber is just events. I will be loud and clear when I say that the Chamber is so much more then events. The advocacy work that goes on behind the scenes is incredible to push for what our businesses need.

The Chamber has worked to foster relationships with all the different groups in the city so that we can push on as one voice, the voice of Brandon when we need to be heard

After my involvement so far, I can truly say that the events are a small piece of what the Chamber does for the business community The staff work nonstop to ensure that the members needs are being met From answering texts at 9pm on a weekend or missing a lunch to ensure everything goes smoothly at an event, the level of care is outstanding

The mission of the Chamber is to encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business environment, favorable to enhancing existing and attracting new business This mission statement is alive every day with the staff, the Board, and the Executive. It is not always visible to the membership, but it is happening.

The continuation of building relationships with all levels of government has ensured that Brandon is not forgotten when allocating funds. Working with the post secondary institutions helps ensure that our workforce demands are being met. Also working with the government on immigration has ensured that Brandon is a place of interest to come and start a new life. This also helps with our employment needs

We say that Brandon is the second largest city in Manitoba, but we are so much more then that We must continue to work with our government and fine tune our plan to ensure that we are not only heard but recognized for this

I am so thankful for all of those that have come before me and for the staff and Board members that give so much of their time to ensure that we are a voice at the table and are moving in the right direction

When starting this journey a few years ago we decided that we would try to each work together so that the goals of the Board are not a one-year plan, but a continuing and growing plan and the Chamber is set up to do this.

Our advocacy work needs to be directed and strategic and in line with our goals as a business community. I look forward to hearing the things that are important to each of you and we will work to ensure that we are moving in the right direction for our city.

I am excited to work with all members to keep pushing forward and to meeting those of you that I have not yet had the chance to Our voice is so valuable and to use it as a group in a direct message will allow us to continue to grow, get the needed funding and flourish as a city 2023 is going to be a great year!