“Sunrise” Woman Nominated as Rising Star for Economic Development

By Angelique Forest

The success of the economic development effort in the southeast corner of Manitoba is getting the recognition it deserves as the Economic Developers Association of Manitoba (EDAM) has accepted the nomination of the woman who is considered key to putting the RMs of Piney and Stuartburn on the map over the past few years.

Monique Chenier, the Economic Development and Tourism Manager for Sunrise Corner has been nominated for the Rising Star Award. The category celebrates an individual in the field of economic development whose accomplish- ments have made a significant contribution in the field of economic development and demonstrates exceptional best practices.

She found out about her nomination at the end of April.

“I was nominated for the Rising Star Award by Ken Prociw, a councillor in the RM of Piney who is also the chair of the Piney Stuartburn Economic Development Board that provides oversight and guidance to Sunrise Corner Economic Development,” explained Chenier.

“Ken and I are both members of EDAM,” she added.

“It seems strange to be nominated for a Rising Star Award this far into my career,” she said. “Just over three years ago, I took my 25 plus years of experience in communications and marketing and leapt into economic development.”

Chenier moved back to her hometown to take on the position.

“It’s been exciting to build on the momentum and effect change in the region around where I grew up,” she added.

Chenier is quick to highlight others when asked about her personal qualifications.

“I believe that partnerships are a big part of a successful economic development strategy,” she deflected.

She is credited with establishing partnerships with the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Piney Regional Chamber of Commerce, Eastman Tourism, Eastman Region Immigration Partnership Council, and regularly collaborates with other Eastman region economic development officers to keep on top of new ideas and promote a knowledge exchange.

“While I may be the face of

Sunrise Corner Tourism & Economic Development, I’m backed by amazing municipal councils and staff, supportive board members, local business leaders, innovative partners, and countless dedicated community volunteers,” she said about the experience of being nominated and insisting that the credit had to be shared.

EDAM will host their 7th Annual Manitoba Economic Development Awards on May 11.