THE BRANDON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Chamber at a Chamber at a
A Message from Your President
HARVESTINGSUCCESS:CHAMBERTEAMWORK DRIVESAPROMISINGSEASONAHEAD
Autumn has always been my favourite season, and the energy and excitement in the Chamber community only adds to my love of Fall! I think my love of this season comes from growing up on a small family farm working as part of a small but mighty team who worked together to get a huge amount of work done in preparation for winter. Whether it was combining, hauling hay, moving cattle or cutting firewood, my parents, my sister and I worked together to get a multitude of tasks done before the snow fell each year. There is nothing quite like sitting down together to a hot meal, bone tired but thankful for another day of hard work accomplished.
The best part of teamwork is that each person has a job that is well suited to their strengths, and what might be easy for one person is more difficult for another, so you’re able to fill in each other’s gaps and together get a job done that’s bigger than any of you could have completed on your own. That’s how I feel as the Board of Directors, and the Committees of the Board, get organized to dig into the work of the Chamber for the 2024-25 year ahead. Our Board is dynamic and diverse, representing a wide range of businesses that contribute to Brandon’s strong economy. Three Directors will provide leadership to our committees, ensuring that a wide range of voices and perspectives gather around the Chamber board table to inform the work ofourorganizationintheyearahead.
Jennifer Ludwig is the Chair of the Government Relations committee and has engaged with a committee of current board members, past presidents and industry leaders who will collaborate to ensure that Chamber interests are front and centre with all levels of government as well as our local schooldivision.
Emelio Brown will lead the Business Development Committee and has assembled a strong group of business owners, economic development professionals and post-secondary representatives to provide leadership and advocacy to the most pressing issues encountered within the local business landscape. This year, the committee will take a specific focus on all things agriculture, to ensure that the Chamber says well connected to our community’s largest, most diverse industry. Finally, Rob Starkell has agreed to lead a reimagined Workforce Alignment Committee. This group will pay particular attention to creating meaningful connections betweenourbusinessesandeducationalinstitutions,
working hard to ensure that our young people are fully equipped to move into the workforce with the right tools in their toolbox to meet the ever-changing needs of Brandon’s businesses and industries. Each Director and committee member was recruited with special attention to the unique perspective and talents that they could share with others around the boardroom table. Together we will share ideas and build initiatives that will truly make our Chamber, and by extension our community, stronger. Alone no one committee member or Director could complete this important work in isolation, but together I am confident that we will be able to work as a team to create initiatives, position statements and insightful perspectives on a wide variety of business and community initiatives.
So, just like on the farm, where that one person has the knack to back the truck into the grain auger perfectly each time, while another can anticipate which way the cows will break…. the Chamber has a diverse and experienced group of professionals poised to take on the legion of work that awaits us in the year ahead. We will succeed because we will build on each other’s strengths and step in to fill gaps as needed. Together, we will move forward many exciting initiatives, hold our government partners accountable and support Brandon’s business community at every opportunity. Looking forward to a season full of teamwork and success!
Welcoming Olivia Boyce as Chamber GM
EXCITINGTIMESAHEAD!
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the appointment of Olivia Boyce as the new General Manager, effective September 23, 2024. Olivia brings extensive experience from her previous role in our Membership department, where she excelled at building strong relationships and developing a deep understanding of our members' needs. Her transition into the leadership role is a natural progression, and her familiarity with the Chamber and its members sets her up for success as she steps into this new chapter.
In addition to her professional experience within the Chamber, Olivia recently completed her MBA in Community Economic Development, providing her with valuable insights and tools to drive initiatives that promote local business growth and contribute to a thriving economy. Her academic background, combined with her experience, equips her to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing the Brandon business community.
The Chamber is committed to ensuring a smooth transition as Olivia takes the helm. Our current General Manager, Connor Ketchen, will work alongside Olivia during this period to provide support and guidance. This collaborative approach will not only facilitate Olivia’s leadership
transition but also ensure that our members continue to receive the support they need during this exciting time.
Olivia has expressed her enthusiasm for the role and is eager to collaborate with both the Chamber’s members and the wider Brandon community. Her vision is to create a dynamic and supportive environment for local businesses, focusing on economic development and collective growth.
We are confident that Olivia’s leadership will bring fresh ideas and energy to the Chamber. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Olivia Boyce as she begins her new role as General Manager. Exciting times are ahead for the Brandon Chamber of Commerce!
events lineup
CHAMBER101
OCT 3, 2024 | 10:00 - 11:00 AM | 1043 ROSSER AVE FREE EVENT, REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
FIRSTFRIDAYCOFFEE
OCT 4, 2024 | 9:00 - 10:00 AM | 1043 ROSSER AVE NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
BUSINESS NOMINATION KICK-OFF PARTY!
SMALLBUSINESSECONOMICWORKSHOP
OCT 21, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM | CLARION HOTEL FREE EVENT. REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
SMALLBUSINESSCELEBRATIONLUNCHEON
OCT 24, 2024 | 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM | UCT KEYSTONE REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 16TH.
SEPTEMBER LUNCHEON
PATHWAYS TO ECONOMIC RECONCILIATION
EVENT RECAP
On September 19, we hosted our Chamber Luncheon at the Clarion Hotel, where over 230 business leaders and community members came together to discuss pathways to economic reconciliation. Manitoba Métis Federation Housing Minister Will Goodon delivered an impactful keynote address, encouraging the Brandon business community to form partnerships with Métis people to drive both economic growth and reconciliation.
MinisterGoodon’sAddress
Minister Goodon emphasized that partnering with Métis communities is both an ethical and smart business decision. He urged local entrepreneurs to explore collaboration as a means to create opportunities that benefit both the Métis Nation and the wider business community. "Investing in our communities and our nations and our government is not only the right thing to do, but also the smart thing todo,"hestated.
Goodon highlighted the Manitoba Métis Federation’s plans to expand its presence in Brandon through senior housing projects, child care services, and the potential development of a pharmacy. He also shared the success of the Red River Métis Fur Company, which helps Métis trappers and artisans sustain their craft by purchasing furs at a premium and selling them to artisans at discounted rates. This initiative preserves Métis traditions and represents a unique way businesses can engage in meaningful reconciliation efforts.
FromtheChamber
As the voice for business in Brandon, the Chamber is committed to fostering conversations that support economicreconciliation.MinisterGoodon’sspeech
<Investing in our communities and our nations is not only the right thing to do, but also the smart thing to do.= – Minister Will Goodon
reinforced the importance of building strong partnerships between local businesses and Indigenous communities, paving the way for inclusive growth. We believe that collaboration with Métis and other Indigenous communities will be essential in shaping the future of Brandon’s economy.
By supporting initiatives like those led by the Manitoba Métis Federation, businesses can contribute to sustainable, community-driven development while also benefiting from the economic opportunities these partnerships provide.
ThankYou
We extend our sincere thanks to our Host Sponsor, Sunrise Credit Union, for making this luncheon possible. We also wish to thank our Booth Sponsors: Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, SV Benefits, St. John Ambulance, Interprovincial Association on Native Employment (IANE) Westman, and the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples'Council.
Special thanks go out to our AV & Media Team, Trident X, and to our venue, Clarion Hotel & Suites, for their support in ensuring the success of the event.
We look forward to continuing the conversation on economic reconciliation and creating more opportunities for collaboration between our businesscommunityandIndigenouspartners.
2024-2025LeadershipCohort
SONIKILETEMBO City of Brandon
KIMBERLYROODE
Canadian Armed Forces
LESLIEMORDEN Family Visions
DESTINYMALUGA
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
TROYTRIPP City of Brandon
ArchanaKrishnan Assiniboine College
GLENPAGADUAN Westman Immigrant Services
ROXANNEMARTIN City of Brandon
CONNORMORAND
Brandon Fresh Farms
leadershiprecap
The September session of the Leadership Brandon Program officially introduced the 2024-2025 cohort. Now in its second year, the program is a continued partnership between the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and Westman Immigrant Services. This session was facilitated by Olivia Boyce from the Chamber and Kristen Perrott from Westman Immigrant Services.
To kick off the program, participants engaged in a professional development session led by Ryan Quesnel, Certified Executive Coach and CEO of Brilliance Coaching. Ryan facilitated the Everything DiSC® Management assessment, a research-based tool designed to offer participants personalized insights into theirleadershipstyles.
Following the assessment, participants debriefed their results through interactive activities, breakout groups, and reflective discussions. The session focused on fostering effective collaboration by helping participants better understand their own leadership preferences, anticipate and reduce potential conflicts,andappreciatethestrengthsofothers.
Thissessionsetastrongfoundationforthecohort’syearahead,asparticipantscontinuetobuildtheir leadership skills and connect with one another. We are excited for the journey that lies ahead for the 2024-2025LeadershipBrandonCohort!
CELEBRATING 5 YEARS
Co/operators
MB Economic Development, Investment & Trade
Muse Bridal Studio
Pinnacle Event Rentals
Grand Valley Restaurant Equipment and Supplies Ltd.
Environmental Consulting Solutions
Vanish Skin Clinic
Friends Fur Life & Duke's Place
Nicole Rice Equipment Leasing
GREY PEARL Interior Design
Corteva Agriscience
MPLocates LTD
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS
OmniLyte Enviro Inc
Waves Leisure
GEM Services
Sand Hills Casino
Celebrating 15 Years
CELEBRATING 15 YEARS
BVT Truck and Trailer
BVT Truck and Trailer
Trident Event Group
Smitten Premium Adult Boutique
Progressive Westman
CELEBRATING 20 YEARS
2693195 Manitoba Ltd.
BDR Services Ltd.
VBJ Developments
Brandon Mobility Health Care
Solutions
Reactive Massage Therapy
Taylor Jackson Financial Services Inc., Sun Life Financial
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
Lakeview Inn & Suites
Hamilton Iron Ltd.
Edward Jones, Perry Doull
Ballingall Bros. Trucking Ltd.
Canyon Contracting Ltd.
Riverheights Terrace
Memories Chapel & Pre/Planning
Centre
Cranberry's Family Restaurant
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
Donald and Kehler Law Office
Tasmanian Gravel Ltd.
Career Planning & Placement Officer, Brandon University
McPhail Travel/Moonlit
Canopy
CPHR Manitoba
Tommy Gun's Original Barbershop
CELEBRATING 35 YEARS
Southern Water Systems
Brandon Literacy Council Inc.
Advantage Auto and Trailer
McMunn & Yates Building
Supplies
Myphone / TELUS & KOODO
Authorized Dealer
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS
Trend Collection & Bailiff
Services Ltd.
Wheat City Diesel East 40 Packers Ltd.
CELEBRATING 45 YEARS
The Real Canadian Superstore/Loblaws Inc.
Brandon Sewing Centre Ltd.
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS
Klydon Farms
Shilo Country Club
West/Man Foot Clinic
Nickel Electric
Manitoba Blue Cross
Brandon School of Dance
CELEBRATING 55 YEARS
Century 21 Westman Realty Ltd.
BEHLEN Industries LP
Benmarks
Western Manitoba Centennial
Auditorium
Brandon University Students Union
CELEBRATING 60 YEARS
John Howard Society
Lindenberg Seeds Ltd.
CELEBRATING 65 YEARS
Farm Credit Canada
Mazergroup
Central Auto Body Shop
Brandon Ltd.
Paul's Hauling Ltd. / KAG
Canada
Brandon School Division
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS
Old Dutch Foods Ltd.
CELEBRATING 75 YEARS
Manitoba Real Estate Association
CELEBRATING 80 YEARS
BDC / Business Development Bank Of Canada
CELEBRATING 95 YEARS
Union Shoe Store
Heritage Co/op
CELEBRATING 105 YEARS
Van Houtte Cafe
CELEBRATING 115 YEARS
Leon's Furniture
Superstore
CELEBRATING 120 YEARS
CAA Manitoba
CELEBRATING 135 YEARS
·Child and Family Services of Western Manitoba
CELEBRATING 160 YEARS
RBC Royal Bank
JoinOurTeamasaMembershipCoordinator!
At the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, we believe in the power of community and the strength of building meaningful business relationships. We’re looking for a driven, outgoing individual to help grow our membership base and strengthen existing connections. As our Membership Coordinator, you’ll play a key role in promoting Chamber programs and services while fostering a vibrant business environment.
If you're passionate about community engagement and building strong networks, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today and be part of a dynamic team making a difference in Brandon’s business community.
Submityourresumeandcoverlettertogm@brandonchamber.catoday!
meet a member:
bluemoon waterinc.
HowdidyougetinvolvedwithBlueMoonWater?
While I was taking my plumbing certification at Red River College in the early 2000’s, one of my instructors shared that water quality would be a thing of the future. Growing up in a small town with issues like well contamination, this insight really struck a chord with me and inspired me to transition into the bottled water business.
Canyoutellusmoreabouttheservicesyouprovide?
We offer a range of services including bottled water, ice, and water treatment solutions serving communities within a two-hour radius, including Boissevain, Glenboro, Cypress, and Virden. Every bottle we handle is pre-treated and sterilized to ensure topnotch quality. We provide water softeners for both commercial and residential needs, and we also provide gourmet coffee services with bean to cup options.
Whatdoesatypicaldaylooklikeforyourteam?
During the summer, our days typically start around 7 am and finish around 7 pm, in the winter we slow down a bit and work from about 8 am to 5:30 or 6 pm. Our team is constantly on the move, whether we’re traveling for well water treatment or working with local construction projects to ensure their water is potable.
How many people are on your team, and what is the dynamiclike?
We have a dedicated team of 9 staff members, including my family—my parents, two nephews, and my sister, who manages our bookkeeping. I truly value working closely with my employees. They’re skilled, great with our customers, and their dedication is a key part of our success.
WhatareyourfuturegoalsforBlueMoonWater?
We’re exploring automation for ice and bottled water production to improve efficiency and increase our overall total output. We often have a waitlist for our bags of ice as they are so popular, but quite labour intensive. Automating these processes will help us meet the demand.
Can you share any memorable experiences or achievementswithBlueMoonWater?
One of my highlights has been winning international awards for our water, including gold and silver medals. We’ve consistently placed in these competitions, which is something we’re very proud of.
Congratulations on your awards! A water tastingcompetitionsoundsfun!Doyouthinkwe couldhostsomethinglikethatinBrandon?
Thank you! We do have several companies and fill stations in the area. A water tasting competition could certainly be a fun and exciting way to celebrate the quality of our local water.
PHILDURWARD
BLUEMOONWATER
SEATOFTRUTH
KEYSTONE CENTRE UNVEILS <SEAT OF TRUTH= TO PROMOTE TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION IN WESTOBA PLACE
Brandon, MB 3 The Keystone Centre unveiled a significant new addition to Westoba Place, Sept 20, at the Brandon Wheat Kings home opener game against the Moose Jaw Warriors: the <Seat of Truth.= This installation is described as a deliberate effort to foster awareness, understanding, and dialogue surrounding issues of truth and reconciliation. Located on Treaty 2 territory4home to the Dakota, Ojibway, and Métis peoples4this initiative reflects the Keystone Centre9s commitment to recognizing and honoring the rich Indigenous heritage of the area.
The Seat of Truth, located in Section 112, Seat 2 in Row K, is easily visible to all guests entering the arena, and the placement serves as a deliberate acknowledgement of Treaty 2, signed in 1871 at Manitoba House, present day Kinosota, MB. This seat will remain intentionally empty to serve as a commemorative action for the spirits and lives of those lost to historical violence, including Residential Schools,andwhosememoriesmustbehonored.
Connie Lawrence, CEO & General Manager of the Keystone Centre, emphasizes the importance of this space: <The 8Seat of Truth9 is more than just a physical installation; it represents the Keystone Centre9s ongoing commitment to helping our region9s shared history remain visible in a highly public space. It serves as a powerful reminder for everyone who enters the arena that understanding and respect are crucialforbuildingaunifiedcommunity.
The initiative has also been supported by local Indigenous leaders who champion the significance of truth and reconciliation.
Jason Gobeil, Outreach Coordinator with the Province of Manitoba, notes, <creating opportunities of awareness and education are pathways to learning about a history untold; the Seat of Truth reminds us of the importance we all play in reconciliation locally and within our province,= highlighting the importance of creating awareness in public spaces.
The Keystone Centre invites all community members to engage with the <Seat of Truth= as a space not only for reflection but also for action. As events and gatherings take place within Westoba Place, visitors are encouraged to take a moment to acknowledge the histories that shape our collective identity and to participate in conversations that can lead to deeper understanding. For more information on the <Seat of Truth= and upcoming events at the Keystone Centre, please visit www.keystonecentre.com or reach out directly.
About The Keystone Centre The Keystone Centre is a premier multi-purpose facility located in Brandon, Manitoba. It hosts a wide range of events, including concerts, sports, and conferences, and is committed to providing an exceptional experience for all attendees.
For more information, contact Jared McKenzie, director of marketing at jared@keystonecentre.com or 204-726-3534
2024-2025 EVENTS
LAST CALL FOR SEASON SEATS
SeasonSeats
Season seats are now available for purchase, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your business experience with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. As a Season Seat holder, you'll unlock exclusive benefits and access to our premier luncheons and events, designed to propel your business forward and foster meaningful connections within our community.
Get Your Season Seats for the Brandon Chamber Luncheons!
With our first luncheon successfully completed, we’re excited to announce that there are still nine more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow through our premier events! Season Seats for the remainder of the year are now available for purchase, but act fast—thedeadlineisOctober7th!
SeasonSeats
Season Seats offer an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your business experience with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. As a Season Seat holder, you’ll unlock exclusive benefits, including access to our upcoming luncheons and events tailored to help propel your business forward. These gatherings are not just about networking; they are about fostering meaningful connections within our community.
SecureYourSeatsToday
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to elevate your business experience. Individual seats for the yeararepricedat$324.00plustax,whileafulltableofeightcanbepurchasedfor$2,440. Investing in a Season Seat is an investment in your business's success, providing hassle-free registration and early bird pricing.
Secure your Season Seats today and join us for an enriching year of collaboration, learning, and growth. Together, we can make a difference in our community and support the businesses that drive our economy forward!
2024 - 2025 LUNCHEON DATES
ECONOMICRECONCILIATION:SEPTEMBER19
Clarion Hotel & Suites
SMALLBUSINESS:OCTOBER24
Keystone Centre: UCT Hall
ECONOMICINSIGHTS:NOVEMBER21
Keystone Centre UCT Hall
HOLIDAYHAPPYHOUR:DECEMBER11
Keystone Centre (5:00 - 7:00 PM)
AGRICULTURE:JANUARY16
Victoria Inn Hotel & Conference Centre
YOUTHRETENTION:FEBRUARY20
Clarion Hotel & Suites
BUILDINGBRIDGES&COMMUNITY:MARCH20
TBA
STATEOFTHECITY:APRIL17
Keystone Centre UCT Hall
STATEOFTHEPROVINCE:MAY15
Keystone Centre UCT Hall
STATEOFTHECHAMBER:JUNE5
VictoriaInnHotel&ConferenceCentre
EMAIL EVENTS@BRANDONCHAMBER.CA OR CALL 204 - 571- 5340 TO BUY YOURS TODAY!
BoardofDirectors
LOISRUSTON|PRESIDENT
YWCA Westman
JENNIFERLUDWIG|VICEPRESIDENT
Super Thrifty Drugs Canada Ltd.
EMELIOBROWN |SECRETARY-TREASURER
Intritech Marketing
MATTBERG
Livingstone Outdoor & Livingstone
Landscaping Ltd.
TILDAFORTIER
Greenstone Building Products
MEREDYTHLEECH
Leech Group
BRENTMILLER
Victoria Inn
ChamberStaff
ROBSTARKELL
West-Can HR Solutions
CHRISFINLEY
Mazergroup
KARINGRIFFIN
Alternative Group
AMBERWHITE
Anytime Fitness
CHARLESTWEED
Tweedia Social Media Agency
ENVERNAIDOO
Westman Immigrant Services
Acknowledgments
DESIGN,EDITING,WRITING&COMPILATION
DESTINY MALUGA
MOSTPHOTOGRAPHY,INCLUDINGEVENTPHOTOGRAPHY
TRIDENT EVENT GROUP
We acknowledge that Brandon is located on Treaty 2 territory, traditional lands of the Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Anishinaabe/Ojibwe peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis Nation. We honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples to our community.
SETTING
THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an independent, membership funded, non-profit organization that represents Brandon business from the grassroots level.
Our mission is to encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business environment, favourable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.