Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition August 05 - 20, 2024

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Land is Life shows the colorful tapestry of culture and diversity of the land in which Filipinos in the diaspora call home. It shows the ingenuity and creativity of our people. It is our hope that through this exhibit, people are able to connect to the land where the works here originate. Join us in celebrating Filipino culture and heritage through craft at MCML!

2024 FILCAN Intercity Golf Tournament in Edmonton: A Triumph for Team Winnipeg

The 2024 FILCAN Intercity Golf Tournament was held in Edmonton, Alberta, from July 25 to 27, showcasing the best Filipino golfers from various cities across Canada. The competition spanned three prestigious courses: The Quarry Golf Club, Coal Creek Golf Resort, and Cougar Creek Golf Resort, setting the stage for a thrilling display of skill and camaraderie.

Team Winnipeg emerged as the champions of the tournament, showcasing exceptional talent and teamwork. The roster for Team Winnipeg included:

● Manny Aranez

● Joey Licmo

● Randy Viray

● Ia Bakunawa

● Louie Yago

● Edwin Ronquillo

● Noel Silva

● Mar Alcantara

● Jay Buenafe

● Danny Guevarra

● Aldie Loyola

● Rodell Bautista

● Mark Giron

● John Aaron

● Arnel Maralit

● Romy Lubi

● Romy Alcantara

● Pete Sangalang

● Ron Urbano

● Jimmy Maranan

Individual Highlights

The tournament also featured remarkable individual performances, particularly in the "Closest to the Pin" contests. Noteworthy achievements included:

● Joey Licmo: Winner of the 7th hole at Coal Creek Golf Resort.

● Ia Bakunawa: Winner of the 10th hole at Cougar Creek Golf Resort. Additionally, Noel Silva secured 3rd place in Division C with a low net score of 70, further highlighting Team Winnipeg's dominance.

Standings

The final team standings were as follows:

1. Winnipeg-A: Champion

2. Calgary Flag: 2nd Place

3. United Vancouver: 3rd Place

4. Edmonton Golf Squad: 4th Place

5. Calgary A 6. Coquitlam

7. Winnipeg B 8. Saskatchewan

Looking Ahead to 2025

With this year's success, Team Winnipeg is set to host the 2025 FILCAN Intercity Golf Tournament. The anticipation is already building, and the team is eager to welcome their fellow golfers to what promises to be another exciting and competitive event.

The 2024 tournament was a testament to the spirit and talent of Filipino golfers in Canada, fostering a sense of community and sportsmanship that will undoubtedly continue in the years to come. Congratulations to all the participants, and especially to Team Winnipeg for their outstanding victory!

Joey Licmo, Team Winnipeg - Winner of the "Closest to the Pin" Award on the 7th hole at Coal Creek Golf Resort.
Team Winnipeg A celebrating the championship in Edmonton, Alberta.

Alden Richards and Kathryn Bernardo Begin Filming 'Hello, Love, Again' in Canada

Alden Richards and Kathryn Bernardo have begun filming the muchanticipated sequel "Hello, Love, Again" in Canada. The Asia's Multimedia Star, who left for Canada on July 28, shared behind-the-scenes glimpses on Instagram, delighting fans with scenic and candid shots. Kathryn Bernardo arrived in Canada ahead of their taping. The sequel follows Ethan Del Rosario (Alden) and Joy Marie Fabregas (Kathryn), who reconnect after five years of a long-distance relationship. Fans eagerly await the continuation of their love story from the 2019 blockbuster "Hello, Love, Goodbye." The actors received a warm welcome from local fans, who captured the stars in photos and selfies. The film also includes scenes shot in Hong Kong, with co-actors Joross Gamboa and Jeffrey Tam.

Kim Chiu Wins

Outstanding Asian Star at Seoul International Drama Awards

Kim Chiu has been honored as the Outstanding Asian Star at the Seoul International Drama Awards 2024 for her performance as Juliana Lualhati in the series "Linlang." The actress expressed her gratitude and excitement on Instagram, thanking ABS-CBN and Dreamscape for the opportunity. Chiu was selected from a group of talented Asian stars through a global fan poll conducted via the Idol Champ app. She outshone competitors such as Thai actors Blue Pongtiwat Tangwancharoen and Poompat Iam-samang, Malaysian actress Emily Chan, Singaporean actor Desmond Tan, and Indonesian actress Ochi Rosdiana. The award ceremony is set for September 25 at KBS Hall in Seoul, South Korea.

Rhian Ramos Trends Opposite Celine Dion After Netflix Series Premiere

Kapuso actress Rhian Ramos was surprised to find herself trending on social media alongside Canadian singer Celine Dion following the premiere of her new Netflix series "Pulang Araw." The actress began trending on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday night after the pilot episode aired and continued to trend into Saturday. Rhian expressed her gratitude and astonishment at a media conference for her upcoming movie, "When the World Met Miss Probinsyana," at Robinsons Ortigas. She mentioned the meticulous planning with the director to perfect her character's delivery in "Pulang Araw," and the extensive two-hour daily transformation for her role. Rhian joked about Celine Dion's concurrent trend, humorously noting the timing with the singer's musical comeback at the Olympics opening ceremony. She was flattered by the organic trending of her name, noting the rarity of such an occurrence without an official hashtag.

Photo source: Kim Chiu Instagram @chinitaprincess

Marcos Urged to Form Cabinet Cluster for Unified Education Policy

Acongressional body has recommended the creation of a cabinet cluster to streamline the fragmented implementation of education policies in the Philippines. Senators from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) filed Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 21, urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to unify the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) under a single cluster. This cluster aims to improve coordination and decision-making, addressing inefficiencies and overlapping functions that have hampered educational reforms. The proposed cluster would also include the Department

of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to ensure cohesive policy implementation and effective resource allocation.

Palawan Enhances Disaster Preparedness as Earthquake Risks Revealed

Palawan is stepping up its disaster preparedness efforts following recent revelations that the province is not immune to earthquakes, shattering the long-held belief of it being quake-free. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) has

Suspended Tarlac Mayor Alice

been directed to enhance earthquake risk reduction and response measures after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported several tremors in waters near the province since June. During a recent session, Board Member Ryan Maminta introduced a resolution to bolster Palawan's readiness for potential seismic events and associated hazards such as tsunamis and landslides. Phivolcs experts, including geologist Jeffrey Perez, emphasized that active faults near Palawan and surrounding regions could trigger significant earthquakes. The resolution calls for cooperation among local disaster agencies and regional civil defense offices to improve disaster preparedness in response to this newfound risk.

Guo Remains in Philippines Amid Legal Issues

Suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo is still in the Philippines, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ). DOJ Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty confirmed that information from various agencies indicates Guo's presence in the country. Guo faces multiple allegations, including involvement with an illegal Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO)

and questions regarding her nationality. The mayor is also under a Senate arrest order for contempt after missing hearings. The next hearing for a trafficking complaint against her is scheduled for August 6. Guo’s citizenship is being challenged, with the Office of the Solicitor General seeking to cancel her birth certificate and remove her from office. Additionally, Guo is subject

to an immigration lookout bulletin order, restricting her travel. Meanwhile, all POGO workers are expected to leave the Philippines within 60 days following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s order banning POGOs. The DOJ is coordinating with the Bureau of Immigration to ensure proper enforcement of this policy.

Photo from Risa Hontiveros Facebook page
Photo credit Miguel de Guzman
EDCOM 2 highlighted that the current setup lacks coherent policy execution, despite previous attempts to align agency efforts.

THANKS FOR BEING A PART OF HISTORY, WINNIPEG

Thanks for making our last regular-season home game so special, Sea Bears Nation. You were members of a franchise record-setting crowd. Your support tonight and throughout this regular season means the world to us. And as we continue Fan Appreciation Night, enjoy an exclusive price on tickets to see Ludacris on August 1!

2025 SEASON TICKETS

2025 season tickets are on sale now! Get in on the best available seats for the best prices when we host Championship Weekend next summer.

You can purchase seats with or without a Championship Weekend 2025 bundle. The bundle comes with the best discount and selection on Championship Weekend seats, where you'll catch your Sea Bears in the Western Conference Final, witness the CEBL Championship game AND earn chances to win exclusive prizes. Read through the benefits of bundling below.

**The EARLY BIRD SALE is now on. Buy before Sept. 15 to take advantage of extra savings.**

Community Celebrates Grand Opening of Adsum Park's New Accessible Spray Pad

Adsum Park in The Maples was filled with excitement as the community gathered to celebrate the opening of a new 3,000-square-foot accessible spray pad, playground, and other park features. The event, marked by a strong sense of community spirit, saw the participation of the governments of Canada, Manitoba, and the City of Winnipeg.

Local MP Kevin Lamoureux emphasized the importance of such projects, stating, “Local playgrounds play a vital role in connecting families and friends. This state-ofthe-art spray pad will benefit the people of the Maples community by providing new and improved recreational infrastructure.”

Ian Bushie, Minister of Municipal and Northern Relations, echoed this sentiment. “The Province of Manitoba is excited to partner on neighborhood improvement projects like this one. Making communities more livable is great for families and encourages economic growth.”

Vivian Santos, Chairperson of the Standing Policy Committee on

Community Services, celebrated the community-focused development.

Photo of elected officials and children pressing the button to start up the water features. resource for The Maples. Families rely on free recreational activities, especially in the summer. This new spray pad and playground will bring lasting memories to families for years to come.”

“The new spray pad and playground at Adsum Park provide a safe and accessible space for families to gather and children to play. This project showcases the power of collaboration between governments and community organizations.”

Councillor Devi Sharma of Old Kildonan expressed her delight and shared photos from the event.

“I’m thrilled that all levels of government were able to come together to deliver a much-needed

Bhagwant Muker, Chair of the Maples Recreation Association Board of Directors, extended his gratitude. “I would like to thank Councillor Sharma, the funding partners, and the community members who made this new spray pad and playground a reality.”

The project included new

asphalt pathways, seating areas, fencing, benches, picnic tables, a bike rack, shade structures, and upgraded landscaping, providing a comprehensive upgrade to Adsum Park.

The Council-approved budget for the project was $1.718 million, with funding from multiple sources: $400,000 from the federal Canada

Community Building Fund, $545,000 from the provincial Building Sustainable Communities Program, $723,000 from the City of Winnipeg, and $50,000 from Maples Recreation Association Inc.

Sea Bears Report & Photos By Mark Godilano and Jay Del Rosario
Photo supplied by City of Wininpeg Councillor Devi Sharma of Old Kildonan

This interactive exhibit features creatures that use some of nature’s strangest methods of self-defense. Meet a two-toed sloth, a three-banded armadillo, a four-toed hedgehog, and more incredible animal species! Open daily 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

Whether it’s the splash of the waves that draw you in or the long stretches of sandy beaches, the magic of Manitoba’s many lakes await. Picture the joy of a sun-soaked day, the feel of soft sand beneath your feet and the tranquility of a beachside sunset. Manitoba’s beaches are perfect for families, where every visit is a new adventure filled with unforgettable memories.

WALT DISNEY WORLD, The Most Magical Place on Earth

Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida could have been the answer to the quest by Juan Ponce De Leon for the "Fountain of Youth". Ponce de Leon, a Spanish soldier and explorer, led an expedition to the coast of Florida in 1513 in pursuit of a rumored fountain of youth located on an island known as Bimini. Ponce de Leon never found the fountain but he named the site "Florida" because they landed during the time of Easter (Pascua Florida) in Spanish, also because of the lush, florid vegetation of the region. However, Ponce de Leon never found the Fountain of Youth!

Opened on 01 October 1971 in Orlando, Florida, Walt Disney World Resort is considered as the most magical place and the theme park capital of the world. The resort is also the largest single-site employer in the United States. In 2018, Disney World was the most visited vacation resort on the globe with an average annual attendance of

more than 58 million which included ourselves.

Aside from Disneyland in Anaheim, California and Disney World in Florida, more Disney destinations around the world were openedTokyo Disneyland opened in 1983, Disneyland Paris in 1992, Hong Kong Disneyland in 2005, continued on page 11 ►

& Lita at EPCOT Gem at Disney World

and Shanghai Disneyland in Chuansha New Town, Pudong, Shanghai on 16 June 2016.

Attractions in Disney World, Florida, include the various theme parks such as the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom; water parks - typhoon lagoon and blizzard blvd; mini-golf courses - fantasia gardens and winter summerland; and of course, shopping, dining and entertainment areas - Disney Springs, Disney's Boardwalk and Flamingo Crossings.

The first in our bucket list is the EPCOT. The EPCOT acronym coined by Walt Disney in 1966 means Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow opened on 01 October 1982 to showcase world modern innovations. EPCOT symbolizes a celebration of life- the five outer rings linked to form the shape of a flower. The Earth is the heart of the EPCOT logo, embraced by a star as symbol of hope - "the hope that with imagination, commitment, and dedication, we can create from page 10

a better tomorrow". Near Epcot's entrance is the 18-story-tall geodesic sphere, the park's symbol called "Spaceship Earth". that houses an attraction that will take visitors on a 15-minute time-travel-themed dark ride by using Disney's "OmniMover" System.

Exploring the EPCOT is exploring the eleven (11) pavilions representing countries from around the world - Canada, Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Italy, USA, Japan, Morocco, France, and the United Kingdom.

What is the Canada pavilion in Epcot?

The Canadian pavilion glorifies the Rocky Mountains, beautiful Victorian Gardens, a 30-foot cascading waterfalls, the nativeCanadian village, the totem poles, and Hotel du Canada with its mansard-roofed Victorian-style inspired by the Chateau Laurier, a historic hotel in Ottawa.

Till next time. Keep on traveling - we'll see you at the Morocco Pavilion and at the Magic Kingdom!

UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF MB INC.

is now accepting applications for its

2024 USTAAM SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

APPLICANTS MUST BE:

• Of Filipino descent

• Have attended grade 11 & 12 in Manitoba

• Have a minimum gr. 12 average of 85%

• Accepted and entering first year in any post-secondary schools in Manitoba on September 2024

• Have community and volunteer work

2024 USTAAM BURSARY AWARDS

• Available to members of the USTAAMI who are currently upgrading their profession and to children of USTAAMI members.

DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2024

FOR OTHER REQUIREMENTS AND COPIES OF APPLICATION FORMS

PLEASE VISIT THE UST ALUMNI ASSOCIATIONS OF MANITOBA FACEBOOK PAGE: www.facebook.com/groups/USTAAMI/

FOR INQUIRIES EMAIL ustaami@gmail.com

Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 66

By the early '80s, New Wave was on its way to its peak, with a sound that had become more melodic and ornate, derived from '70s Art Pop/Rock--and synthesizer-heavy, from late-'60s and early-'70s Krautrock. From this fusion did the subgenre of New Wave known as Synthpop arise.

This set consists of albums, all released in 1983, that befit this kind of New Wave.

* O.M.D. - Dazzle Ships

* ABC - Beauty Stab

* Yaz [a.k.a. Yazoo] - You and Me Both

* Yello - You Gotta Say Yes to Another Excess

Sa Úgoy ng Músika

* The Cure - Japanese Whispers

* Depeche Mode - Construction Time Again

* Eurythmics - Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)

* Trans-X - Living on Video

Note:

The Cure's early records may be associated more with the distinctively angular and slightly abrasive sound of Post-Punk; but as the 1980s progressed, the band began to use synthesizers more lavishly.

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

Take advantage of the summer heat when by channeling your passions into your creative talents during the Leo new moon on Sunday. This is a great day to start new projects to help you express your true self. Be the star of you own show and have fun, Aries!

You’ve had a fun summer, but it’s time to get serious about your finances when the Leo new moon is in your value zone on Sunday. With autumn on the horizon, it’s time to start making a budget and getting your life together. Don’t forget to pay your bills.

You’re starting August ready for a reinvention when the new moon is in your sign on Sunday. As you enter your season, don’t be afraid to change everything about your life so you can move forward. Be brave and be bold, Lion!

The start of August gives you the opportunity to plant the seeds of ideas when the Leo new moon is in your communication zone on Sunday. The start of the lunar cycle can bring passionate discussions as you feel the fire of your words. Get it off your chest before the retrograde later today.

You’re starting August on a social note when the Leo new moon is in your friendship zone on Sunday. This is a great time to meet people who can elevate you in every way. Start making wishes, Libra, because you can come into windfalls with ease. Do it now, because things could get a little messy later.

August starts on an ambitious note when the Leo new moon is in your career zone on Sunday. Reach for the sky and come up with some big goals to tackle for the rest of the year. However, don’t expect to achieve them all right now, Scorpio. It’s a marathon, not a race.

Adventure is out there, Sagittarius. That’s what you’ll discover when the Leo new moon is in your expansion zone on Sunday. This is a great time to go on one more trip before the end of summer. Use this time to explore new places and follow your own path. The start of August brings some major changes to your life when the Leo new moon enters your transformation zone on Sunday. This moon can make you feel empowered to take the wheel

DISCOVER THE WORLD AT WINNIPEG'S 53rd FOLKLORAMA FESTIVAL

Winnipeg is once again ready to welcome the world as the eagerly anticipated 53rd Folklorama Festival kicks off this Sunday, August 4th, and runs through Saturday, August 17th. This annual celebration of cultural diversity is a beloved tradition that brings communities together through shared ethnocultural experiences and education.

The festivities began with the Casinos of Winnipeg Folklorama Kick-Off Day last weekend, a FREE event made possible by Casinos of Winnipeg, the Sponsor Saturday feature. The event featured an exciting array of live performances by Pavilion entertainers, a Pavilion Expo, the Winnipeg150 Kid’s Zone, and food trucks offering a taste of what Folklorama has to offer. The fun event at the Assiniboine Park Lyric Theatre set the perfect tone for the weeks ahead.

Over the next two weeks, 38 Pavilions will open their doors to festival-goers, each offering a unique glimpse into their culture's traditions, arts, and cuisine.

Week 1: August 4 – August 10

Explore the rich heritage of the following Pavilions:

● Africa/Caribbean Pavilion

● Belgian Pavilion

● Casa do Minho Portuguese Pavilion

● Cuban Pavilion

● First Nations Pavilion

● German Pavilion

● Ghana Pavilion

● Irish Pavilion

● Israel Pavilion – Shalom Square

● Japanese Pavilion

● Mexican Pavilion

● Pavilion of Scotland

● Pearl of the Orient Philippine Pavilion

● Polish Pavilion

● Punjab Pavilion

● Romanian Pavilion

● Scandinavian Pavilion

● South Sudanese Pavilion

● Ukraine Kyiv Pavilion

Week 2: August 11 – August 17

Continue your cultural journey with these Pavilions:

● Brazilian Pavilion

● British Isles Pavilion

● Caribbean Pavilion

● Celtic Ireland Pavilion

● Chile Lindo Pavilion

● Chinese Pavilion

● Egyptian Pavilion

● El Salvador Pavilion

● Ethiopian Pavilion

● Greek Pavilion

● Hungary-Pannonia Pavilion

● India Pavilion

● Italian Pavilion

● Korean Pavilion

● Latin American Pavilion

● Pavilion of Portugal

● Slovenija Pavilion

● Spirit of Ukraine Pavilion

● Tamil Pavilion

New Additions and Special Features

This year, Folklorama is excited to welcome two new Pavilions: the Ghana and Latin American Pavilions. These additions promise to enrich the festival's already diverse tapestry of cultures.

A new feature for this year is the late-night party combo pack available at participating Pavilions. Additionally, children aged 12 and under can continue to enjoy complimentary admission when accompanied by an adult, with free child tickets available online in advance.

The Heart of Folklorama: Volunteers

"At the core of Folklorama lies its dedicated family of volunteers," says Kim Ly, President of the Folklorama Board of Directors. "Their unwavering commitment brings Folklorama to life annually, with over 16,000 volunteers contributing more than 300,000 hours each year. Join us in extending our heartfelt gratitude for their continued dedication."

Supporting Ethno-Cultural Communities

Proceeds generated within each Pavilion are reinvested into their respective ethno-cultural communities, fostering connections, preserving traditions, and supporting newcomers.

Plan Your Visit The 53rd edition of the Folklorama

Festival runs from August 4th to 17th, 2024. For further details and to plan your visit, please visit Folklorama.ca.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the world without leaving Winnipeg.

Whether you're a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, Folklorama promises a magical journey through the rich cultural tapestry of our community. Embrace the journey and create unforgettable memories at this year's festival!

Ambassador Generals
From left to right: Dailia Martin, 2024 Youth Ambassador General Carson Mellon, 2024 Adult Ambassador General
Tanvir Kanwal, 2024 Youth Ambassador General
Judy Gravito Forbes, 2024 Adult Ambassador General
Pearl of the Orient - Ambassadors Left to right: Anne Oserin-Pinnock, Josiah Dalayoan, Yasmin Reyes, Maribel Abrenica
Photos by Joseph Orobia

Summer Travel Series x Travel Manitoba Biyahe na Tayo

The Red River Goldeye bite was amazing, with bites on almost every other cast. I personally caught over 10 fish during this trip! While I threw most of them back, I did end up sharing some with a Filipino family beside me. I also had the chance to meet and talk with a few new Ukrainian refugees and immigrants who were fishing. I shared a few extra lures I had with both families. Overall, it was a day filled with lots of smiles and new friendships.

Another great meeting at Trans Canada Brewing Company with the Filipino-Canadian Anglers Association of Manitoba (FAAM)! A huge thanks to Dustin, Russell, and all of the fantastic staff for their warm hospitality. The incredible pizza and refreshing beer made the evening even more enjoyable. It was wonderful to connect with everyone, share

and enjoy the

atmosphere. Looking forward to many more fantastic gatherings like this! Cheers to building community and making memories.

Nature, friends, and fun! The Ormocanons of Winnipeg enjoyed their first summer camp at Kings Park Road, Carman, Manitoba, on July 26-27, 2024. This spontaneous gathering was all about making memories. Photo credit: Nathalie Suarez
ideas,
vibrant
Photos submitted by Eric Lapauba
Photo submitted by Leon Belandiuk
Melanie Camacho achieved her personal best catch at Hecla Gull Harbour in early June 2024, reeling in an impressive 27-inch fish! This memorable fishing trip was one for the books.

New Country, New Career: Building Supply Industry Opportunities

Making a career move is significant, but adding emigration to a new country makes it life changing.

For Mike Bernardino and Neil Aguilar, and Jotham Benedicto, their journey from the Philippines to Winnipeg marked the beginning of new careers.

Neil Aguilar arrived in Canada in 2012, transitioning from working in the Governor's Office in the Philippines to working various jobs in Winnipeg, including positions at a local grocery store and Wal-Mart. Last year, Neil joined the team at Quik-Therm Insulation and has been enjoying the work ever since. His main task is operating the stateof-the-art CNC Hot-Wire Foam Cutting Equipment that produces the core of the company’s engineered insulation product.

“It doesn’t feel like this is a warehouse,” says Neil. “It feels like this is a family.”

Mike Bernardino, formerly an emergency nurse in the Philippines, came to Canada as a skilled healthcare worker; however, the process to get accredited in his new country was more challenging than expected. Ever adaptable, Mike got qualified as a certified Healthcare Aide. A lack of full-time placements led

Mike to take a warehouse job at Pratts. Mike was later recruited to Quik-Therm by a former Pratt employee, where he met Director of Operations Ryan Cullen. They hit it off and Mike’s been with his new company ever since. Currently, he is the Warehouse Manager at the Sargeant Avenue plant.

Jotham Benedicto arrived in Canada in 2017, taking a job at Club Regent Casino. The unpredictable hours led him to seek more stable employment, which he found at Quik-Therm, thanks to Mike's recommendation. Jotham is now thriving in his new role, enjoying the learning opportunities and supportive environment as he oversees and operates the laminating and packaging machinery.

“It may not have been my line,” he says, “but it’s been really great. The Quik-Therm team has given us lots of opportunities to learn and grow in our jobs.”

That focus on company culture is key, says Cullen, adding that a welcoming environment creates an engaged team that is committed to the company’s success – and it’s just way more fun. “We work most of our life, might as well enjoy it.”

These three individuals found promising careers in the building

supply industry, a sector that includes everything from flooring and trims to insulation and retail stores like RONA and Home Hardware. The industry offers diverse career paths, such as machine operators, store managers, and sales representatives.

The Western Retail Lumber Association (WRLA) supports the industry , addressing labor and staffing issues for member businesses like Quik-Therm. For more information on career opportunities in the building materials industry, the “Let’s Go Build” program at www.letsgobuild.ca. The WRLA team will also be at the Filipino Street Festival on August 24-25 in Winnipeg.

P.S. You can learn more about Neil, Mike, and Jotham on CityTV’s in-depth special about employment opportunities for New Canadians in the Building Supply Sector! (Link: Can newcomers to Canada solve the construction industry's labour problems? (citynews.ca)

"Let's Go Build" Campaign Launched to Revitalize the Lumber and Building Materials Industry

The Western Retail Lumber Association (WRLA) has unveiled its dynamic "Let's Go Build" campaign to revitalize the Lumber and Building Materials Industry by attracting new talent and highlighting diverse career opportunities. With a significant portion of the current workforce nearing retirement, the campaign addresses the impending skills gap by targeting underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous communities, and Canadian newcomers.

"Let's Go Build" emphasizes the industry's inclusive nature, offering a plethora of career paths from engineering and project management to customer-facing roles. The campaign leverages a multi-channel promotional strategy, incorporating online and traditional advertising mediums, complete with eye-catching visuals and a fresh logo.

A dedicated website features member profiles, engaging videos, and an interactive job board, fostering a sense of community and shared

purpose. WRLA members play a pivotal role, sharing their personal stories to inspire and inform potential recruits.

This initiative not only aims to sustain the industry's growth but also to empower individuals with meaningful career opportunities.

By shining a spotlight on the industry's contributions to community development and prosperity, "Let's Go Build" sets a new benchmark for inclusive and impactful industry campaigns.

L-R, Mike Bernardino, Joanne Roberts (CityTV), Jotham Benedicto, Neil Aguilar)
Photo credit CityTV News

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