Business Voice / Spring 2024

SPRING / 2024

A diverse business landscape

MAY 1

Chamber on Tap Series

Big Ideas. Lessons Learned. Advice from those who have startedup and started over. It’s all on tap in this series of social events where our business community comes together over cocktails to hear from our city’s movers and shakers.

APRIL 19

Funny Business YXE

What do you get when you cross a bunch of belly laughing with some serious elbow rubbing? Funny Business. This is a business event like no other. No ties. No speeches. Just an evening of comedy and networking featuring some of the best comics in the biz.

MAY 14

STATE OF THE CITY

This year’s format will be a fireside chat with Mayor Clark on:

• The current state of our city and its future

• What needs to be done to keep Saskatoon prosperous, welcoming and growing

• His advice for our next civic leaders

• His thoughts on his time as Mayor and City Councillor over the last 18 years

MAY 9

Annual General Meeting

Join us for our Annual General Meeting where the 2024-25 Chair, Vice-Chair, and 2nd ViceChair of the Board will be officially sworn in, followed by the induction of the new Board Members.

Airsask 20/20

Private jet charter based in Saskatoon. Serving the city, province, and Western Canada.

Jeff Halstrom

Hangar 9, Thayer Ave, Saskatoon SKYXE Airport, Saskatoon

p: (306) 260-6638

w: www.airsask2020.com

Transportation Industry

Alt Hotel Saskatoon

Ideally located in the heart of downtown on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River. Nearby, you'll find the Remai Modern Art Gallery, a beautiful waterfront park, pathways, restaurants and more ... all for you to enjoy!

Jeet Jani / Mahy Noor

480 2nd Ave S, Saskatoon p: (639) 398-0250

w: www.germainhotels.com

Hotels / Motels AND Restaurants

ATC Management Group Management group.

Matthew Holinaty

1013 8th St E, Saskatoon

p: (306) 668-6699

Business Services

Bayshore Home Health

Whether it's just a little assistance for daily tasks or round-the-clock care, services are extensive, varied and personalized to your needs.

Licia Burghall

10 Crossmount Rd, Saskatoon p: (306) 652-3314

w: www.bayshore.ca/locations/bayshorehome-health-saskatoon-sk

Health Care - Services / Supplies AND Education / Training

Beacon House Care Home

Values center on compassion, respect, integrity, and excellence, guiding us to create a nurturing and supportive environment where every individual is valued, and their unique needs are met with the highest standard of care.

Kashaf Iqbal

1138 Evergreen Blvd, Saskatoon p: (306) 881-8601

w: www.beaconhousepch.ca

Health Care - Services / Supplies

New Members

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024

Brighton Veterinary Clinic

Locally owned, full-service veterinary clinic for dogs and cats. Offering routine and emergency surgical and medical services, including vaccines, spaying and neutering, on-site lab, and imaging.

Stephanie Cory

140-163 Gibson Bend, Saskatoon p: (306) 382-6909

w: www.brightonvet.ca

Veterinarians / Animal Services

Broadway Shoe Repair

A local family owned and operated business in the heart of Saskatoon and strives to offer customers quality footwear and accessories that are durable, repairable, and long-lasting.

Jeff Wickstrom

638 Broadway Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 652-4399

w: www.broadwayshoerepair.com

Retail - Shoes

Catterall & Wright

Providing professional engineering services to municipalities, land developers, government agencies, First Nations, and industries in Saskatchewan.

Michelle Myers

1231 8th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 281-9358

w: www.cwce.ca

Consultants - Engineering

Custom Foundations

Residential foundations and concrete work.

Jennifer Shire

1915 Ontario Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 249-0899

Construction

Evcalaro Application Solutions

Providing technology services for a variety of clients and also working on a few projects for new applications to solve problems.

Rodney Schuler

1654 Shepherd Crt, Saskatoon p: (306) 220-6538

w: www.evcalaro.com

Internet

Fission Uranium Corp.

An award-winning Canadian-based resource company specializing in uranium exploration and development.

Gary Haywood / Bob Hemmerling

108-103 Marquis Crt, Saskatoon p: (250) 868-8140

w: www.fissionuranium.com

Mining & Exploration

GC 24 Convenience Store Ltd.

Convenience store.

Thuy Nguyen

3016A Arlington Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 380-3144

Retail

Global Crime Crushing Ventures Inc.

We have created a platform

(crimecrushing.com) designed to assist law enforcement agencies and Crime Stoppers programs in solving crime and missing person cases.

Todd MacPherson

142 Lamarsh Rd, Saskatoon p: (306) 717-1696

w: www.crimecrushing.com

Technology

Hearth Restaurant

A restaurant, catering company, and event venue utilizing local ingredients to create outstanding food and beverages paired with industry leading hospitality.

Tina Thorsteinson

102 Spadina Cres E, Saskatoon p: (306) 664-6677

w: www.hearth.restaurant

Restaurants

Immigrate Software

An end-to-end managed services platform for immigration helping Canadian employers fill labour shortages by hiring international workers, from recruitment to arrivals.

Dirk Propp / Keli Propp / Michael Watkins

250-15 Innovation Blvd, Saskatoon p: (306) 805-0113

w: www.immigrate.biz

Computers - Custom Software

New Members

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024

Joy Beauchamp Mortgage Matchmaker

Local and licensed boutique-style mortgage matchmaker in Saskatoon. Make a purchase or renew or refinance your existing mortgage with one credit check and access to 30+ mortgage lenders. It's free!

Joy Beauchamp

506 Queen St, Saskatoon p: (306) 280-0054

w: www.joymortgagepro.ca

Real Estate - Services

LB Strategies

Your pilot to navigating the complex and ever-evolving external affairs landscape. Creating personalized strategies that enable clients and their projects to become a priority with decision-makers.

Lindsay Brumwell

612 Avenue M S, Saskatoon p: (306) 518-9538

w: www.lbstrategies.ca

Consultants - Communications

Legacy One

A non-profit organization that uses the Urban Arts (spoken word poetry, music, media and the artist’s stories) to inspire, challenge, and equip students to overcome adversity.

Steven Hawes

733 Broadway Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 713-2076

w: www.legacyone.ca

Non-Profit Organizations

NY Pizza Den Inc.

A quick service pizza outlet to prepare and serve pizza. Has delivery, pick-up and dine-in options.

Aarthi Nair

140-536 2nd Ave N, Saskatoon

p: (639) 384-7799

Restaurants

Odd Couple Restaurant

A family owned and operated restaurant which merges Asian flavours with Saskatchewan and Canadian ingredients, in the heart of Riversdale.

Andy Yuen

228 20th St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 668-8889

w: www.oddcouple.ca

Restaurants

On Purpose Leadership

Two streams 1) coaching and leadership training and 2) special event management. Our mission is to help people, communities and organizations get and stay on purpose.

Kim Ali

301 Ontario Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 220-8077

w: www.onpurpose.ca

Education / Training AND Event Planning

Prairie Pelvic Health

A dedicated pelvic health physiotherapy clinic committed to providing first-in-class care for all ages and genders.

Juliet Sarjeant

105-619 8th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 244-0244

w: www.prairiepelvichealth.com

Health Care - Services / Supplies AND Health & Fitness

SITECH Western Canada Ltd.

Specializing in tailoring construction technology solutions to meet the unique needs of your projects and business.

Brandon Papas

10910 170 St NW, Saskatoon p: (855) 974-8324

w: www.sitech-wc.ca

Construction AND Technology

Studio D

We tell stories that help you grow your business specializing in photography and filmmaking.

Matt Ramage

203-226 20th St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 717-2850

w: www.studiodyxe.com

Video / Film - Productions / Equipment AND Photographers - Sales / Services

Sutherland Automotive Speedway

Providing members with a motor sports and entertainment facility to showcase their talents and abilities, while providing our fans, corporate partners, sponsors, and media a valuable experience.

Jenessa Howlett

219-510 Cynthia St, Saskatoon p: (306) 956-3212

w: www.sutherlandautomotivespeedway.ca

Leisure / Recreation

TEC Canada, The Executive Committee

Over 38 years, bringing together CEOs, executives and business owners into private advisory group to help improve performance and outcomes of their businesses.

Monica Wagner

Site 318 Box 21 RR 3, LCD Main, Saskatoon p: (306) 529-8976

w: www.tec-canada.com/chair-profiles/ monica-wagner

Consultants - Leadership

The Bays on Diefenbaker

Lakefront property you can own.

Imagine your own little Piece of Paradise on The Bays on Diefenbaker. Just 10 km west of Elbow, SK, located on and around “Peterson Bay” is now offering a breath-taking resort development on Diefenbaker.

Al Morhart

PO Box 344, Elbow p: (306) 313-1151

w: www.lakeshorebays.ca

Real Estate - Developer AND Leisure / Recreation

The Ultimate Deck Shop

Deck supplies and services for DIY and pro deck builders in Saskatoon. Composite decking, deck railing, pressure treated lumber, cedar, pergolas, lighting, installation, deck design, deck plans and more.

Shane Chapman

320 68th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 249-3325

w: www.tuds.ca

Retail - Builders Supplies

24 Hour Signs

3D Safety Consulting

3twenty Modular

614225 Saskatchewan Ltd.

617311 Saskatchewan Ltd.

621451 Saskatchewan Ltd.

628495 Saskatchewan Ltd.

A-1 Trailer & Truck Repair Ltd.

ABC Canada Technology Group Ltd.

Abode Crafted Wood Furnishings

Action Mechanical Inc.

Adams Lumber (1982) Ltd.

Advanced Electronic Solutions Ltd.

Advertising ONE

AECOM Canada Ltd.

Aero Delivery Ltd.

Affinity Credit Union

Ag-West Bio Inc.

Al Anderson's Source For Sports

Alliance Energy Ltd.

Anchor Managed Solutions Ltd.

aodbt architecture + interior design

Arbour Crest Tree Services Ltd.

Aspira Hunter Village

Aspire Too

Assante Wealth Management - The Briske Financial Group

Assemblée Communautaire

Fransaskoise

Associated Appraisal Co.

Associated Engineering (Sask) Ltd.

Associated Speech Consultants Ltd.

Basaraba Services

Bath Fitter

BDO Canada LLP

Bench Strength Marketing

Biggsy Enterprises Inc.

Bit Service Company Ltd.

Black Fox Farm & Distillery

Blair Morin

BLOK Dental Studio

BN Steel & Metals Inc.

BNT Sales Agency Ltd

Boardwalk REIT

BOMA Saskatchewan

Braid Flooring and Window Fashions Ltd.

Brainsport The Running Store

Breathe Better Indoor Air Quality Specialists

Bridges Health

Brightwater Pools & Construction

Broadway Business Improvement District

Brunskill Pharmacy

Buckwold - Western

Build Doctor Technologies Ltd.

Burnt Orange Solutions Ltd.

Business Development Bank of Canada

Business Furnishings (Sask) Ltd.

Butler Byers Insurance Ltd.

Cadence

Canadian Blood Services

Canadian Corps of Commissionaires

Canadian Indoor Air Quality Investigators

Canadian Light Source Inc.

Canadian Tire Associate Store (Confederation)

Canadian Western Bank and Trust

CandorBuild Construction Corp.

Canpotex Limited

Member Renewals

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024

Carnivora™

CCA Consulting

CFCR Radio

Chem-Dry of Saskatoon

Chess Club Agency

Chicken Farmers of Saskatchewan

Choice Nutrition

Choice Payment Solutions

CIBC Wood Gundy

Circle West Ultrasound Diagnostics Inc.

Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Ltd.

Commerce Holdings Limited

Con-Tech General Contractors Ltd.

Concept3 Business Interior Ltd.

Concorde Group of Companies

Cornerstone Maintenance Services

Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd.

Costco Wholesale Inc.

Cowan Imaging Group

CPA Saskatchewan

CPHR Saskatchewan

Cravings Maternity Clothing and Baby Accessories, Inc.

Credit Bureau Collections

Crosby Hanna & Associates

Culligan

Custom Courier

Custom Labels Inc.

Custom Trenching Ltd.

Dakota Dunes Casino

DCG Philanthropic Services Inc.

DDJ Accounting Services

Della's Music House

dentalcorp

Derrick Stretch Realty Inc.

Des Nedhe Development LP

Destinate Group

Discover Saskatoon

Don Morgan - Minister of Labour Relations and Work Place Safety

Doug Finnie

Downtown Dental

Dr. K. Walker Dermatology

Dr. M. Gurgul Podiatrist Prof. Corp.

Dr. Naomi Whelan, ND

Dream Development / Homes by Dream

Dutch Growers Garden Centre Ltd.

Dylan Pearson

Edge Immigration

Ehrenburg Homes Ltd.

Electronic Products Recycling Association Saskatchewan

Ens Auto

Enzogroup Realty Corp.

Evident - Corporate Investigations & Security Consulting

Excelsior Mechanical Inc.

EY

F5 Holdings Ltd.

Filosophi Wise Cuisine

Fire Sand Glass Ltd.

First Nations University of Canada

Five Star Excavating Ltd.

Food Centre

Forvest Investments Inc.

Foundations Learning & Skills

Saskatchewan

Fresh Living

Furbaby Pet Care Inc.

GFG Resources Inc.

Glenwood Auto Service

Global Infobrokers Inc.

Globex Management Corp.

Golden Opportunities Fund Inc.

GoodDoors Property Management

Gordon Tootoosis Nikaniwin Theatre Inc.

Government of Saskatchewan - Ministry of Trade and Export Development

Graham Construction and Engineering

Grant Thornton LLP

Great Western Brewing Company Limited

Greenbryre Golf and Country Club

Greenline Electric Inc.

Guardian Dental Care

Hard Knox Talks

Harvard Media

High Arc Electric

Hopewell Real Estate Services (River Centre)

Horizon

Hughes Recruitment Inc.

Humboldt Electric Ltd.

Hunter's Eastview Bowl

Imagery

InfraReady Products Ltd.

Ingredion Plant Based Protein Specialties (Canada), Inc.

Inland Audio Visual

Innovation Saskatchewan

International Road Dynamics

Invisible Fence Brand of Saskatchewan

IsoEnergy Ltd.

J & T Income Tax Service Inc.

Jade Development Corp.

JDS Building Supply Ltd.

Jet Electric 2014 Ltd.

K. M. Paulson Goldsmith Ltd.

KatrinaGerman.com

Kennedy Eye Clinic

Kinzel Cadrin & Associates Consulting Inc.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada) LTD.

KPMG MSLP

Lane Mechanical Inc.

Laser Impressions Inc.

Lawson Heights Mall

LB Distillers Inc.

LCD Productions Corp.

Lewis M. Carter Manufacturing (Canada) Ltd.

Liberty Ventures

Listowel Trophies Ltd.

Local Flooring Group

Loraas Disposal North Ltd.

Love Zone Daycare Ltd.

Mac & Sons Plumbing & Heating

macbeeners business goods

MacDermid Lamarsh

Mackie Physiotherapy

March's Fire Safety Ltd.

Marei Therapeutics Inc.

Market Mall Inc.

Martensville Plumbing & Heating Ltd.

Maximum Gymnastics

McCabe Insurance

McClelland Debusschere CPA

McClure Place Association Inc.

McDougall

McKercher LLP

MCP Talent Entertainment & Speakers Bureau

Medicine Shoppe #203/#421

Meewasin Valley Authority

Merit Contractors Association of Saskatchewan

Michael Rogalski

Mid-West Railcar Services (2001) Ltd.

Midtown Plaza Shopping Centre

Midwest Laser Centre

MisterPrint - PrintWest

MLCN Investment Management Corp.

MLT Aikins LLP

MNP LLP

Montana's BBQ & Bar

MOTIF Marketing Ltd.

Neesh Dental

NexGen Energy Ltd.

Nordic Industries (1979) Ltd.

North 49 Physical Therapy Prof. Corp.

NSBA

Nu Vu Auto Glass & Repair

Nu-Fab Building Products - Kitchen

Craft Cabinetry

NumaCorp

Nutrien

OBASA Corporate Suites Inc.

One Stop Property Maintenance

OPA! of Greece

Orano Canada Inc.

Outtabounds

Paramount Day Spa & Salon

Pattison Media

Pawlovich Chiropractic

Payworks

Peace Hills Trust Company

Pelican Media

Pembrook Capital Advisors Inc.

Performance Plus Distributors Inc.

Persephone Theatre

Peter Lucas

PIC Investment Group Inc.

PINTER & Associates Ltd.

Polar Refrigeration Service Ltd.

Popeye's Supplements Saskatoon

Prairie Harm Reduction

Prairie Office Moving & Installation

Prairie Proud Prairie Roots Dental Studio

Prairie Wild Consulting Co.

Prairies Economic Development Canada

Prism Coffee Corp.

Pritchard & Associates

PWP Holdings Inc.

Quadrant Newmedia Corp.

Quality Sheet Metal Inc.

Radius Community Centre for Education & Employment Training

Radouga Distilleries Inc.

Rainbow International Restoration

Rawlco Radio

RBC Royal Bank

Refresh Inn and Suites

Remai Modern

Remai Property Group Inc.

Riide Taxi

Riverside Country Club

Rob Friesen Real Estate P.C. Inc.

Rooterman

Rosler Construction

Rumley Periodontics

Member Renewals

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2024

Ryan Miller

S & E Trusted Online Directories

Sabtronic Systems Inc.

Sabtronics Telecommunications Corporation

Samaritan Place Corp.

Sandbox Mutual Insurance

SARC

Sask Pork

Saskatchewan Abilities Council

Saskatchewan Association of Immigrant Settlement and Integration Agencies

Saskatchewan Blue Cross

Saskatchewan Construction Association

Saskatchewan Health Authority

Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation Inc.

Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority

Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists

Saskatchewan Intercultural Association

Saskatchewan Jazz Festival Inc.

Saskatchewan Media Production Industry Association

Saskatchewan REALTORS® Association

Saskatchewan Soccer Association

Saskatoon Agri-Auto Parts Inc.

Saskatoon Airport Authority

Saskatoon Auto Connection Inc.

Saskatoon Boiler Mfg. Co. Ltd.

Saskatoon Business College

Saskatoon Cabinet Office

Saskatoon Co-operative Association Limited

Saskatoon Community Foundation

Saskatoon Construction Association

Saskatoon Dermatology Centre

Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre

Saskatoon Fire Protection (1983) Ltd.

Saskatoon Folkfest Incorporated

Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre

Saskatoon Funeral Home Co. - Prairie View Crematorium

Saskatoon Housing Initiatives Partnership

Saskatoon Import Auto Service

Saskatoon Industry Education Council

Saskatoon Metal Mfg.

Saskatoon Prairieland Park Corporation

Saskatoon Public Library

Saskatoon Public Schools

Saskatoon Sexual Assault & Information Centre

Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra

Saskatoon Transit

Saskatoon Tribal Council-Economic Development & Investments

SaskPower

SaskTel

SaskTel Centre

SaskTel Scotia Centre Retail Store

Scotiabank

Secrets Hair & Esthetics Studio

SGI West Claims Centre

Shiron Holdings

Small Group of Companies Ltd.

Smokerbroker Holdings Ltd.

SMT Business Strategies

Soccer Locker

Soul Paper

SPARTAN Advisory Services Inc.

Speech Language Network Ltd.

SREDA Inc.

SST Trucking Ltd.

St. Paul's Hospital

St. Volodymyr Villa Corporation

Star Egg Company

Steel-Craft Door Sales

SUCCESS Office Systems

Sundawg Solar Inc.

Super 8 Motel

Susan Walker Realty PC

Sutherland Beer & Wine Store

Sutherland Business Improvement District

Sutton Benefits & Pension

Sylvia Fedoruk Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovations

TCU Place

Ten-X Management & Engineering Consulting

Terminal Systems International

Text2Car

The AIM Program

The Barrister Group

The James Hotel

The Lemon Tree Salon & Studio Ltd.

The Mosaic Company

The Neighbourhood Church

The Optimist Club of Saskatoon Inc.

The Print Baron

The Rent-It Store

The Saskatoon Club

Thomson Jaspar & Associates

Three Farmers

Thurber Engineering Ltd.

Thurston Engineering Services

Tucker Cleaning Inc.

Twisted Goods Inc.

Two Twenty Riversdale Holdings Ltd.

Uniglobe Carefree Travel Group

unINK Internet Marketing Corp.

United Way of Saskatoon and Area

Universal Immigration Consultancy Ltd.

University of Regina - Centre for Continuing Education

Valerin Technologies Ltd.

VB Strategic Planning Solutions

Veeman Law

Verb Media - Parity Publishing Inc.

Verdesian Life Sciences

Vern's Place Husky

Victory Majors Investments Corporation

Voce Developments Corporation

Welldone Mechanical Services Inc.

Western Premium Property

Management Inc.

Westwood Funeral Chapel

Whitecap Development Corporation

William Joseph Communications Inc.

Wine 4 You

WMB Management Ltd.

Wright Construction Western Inc.

Yield10 Oilseeds Inc.

YMCA of Saskatoon

YWCA

Saskatoon

Hometown Homes

Congratulations to Brittany McQueen, a Hometown Homes designer who received a Top Thirty Under 30 Design Award from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA). Every year, the NKBA selects 30 exceptional young professionals from across the kitchen and bath industry in Canada and the US to join its prestigious Thirty Under 30 program. The Thirty Under 30 program is designed to celebrate the future rockstars of kitchen and bath and shine the spotlight on some of the brightest talent currently making their mark in design.

Members In The News

Boost Strategic Coaching

Boost Strategic Coaching, founded by Daria Malin in 2016, has transformed from a private coaching firm into a prominent player in corporate training. With a recent brand refresh to reflect its expanded services, Boost remains dedicated to current and innovative sales and marketing training. Its offerings extend beyond corporate teams to include entrepreneurial groups and franchisees, delivering actionable training that builds their brands and promotes more competent, empowered, and successful professionals. What distinguishes Boost is its unique integration of sales and marketing training, recognizing their intertwined significance in business success. With a diverse team of facilitators from various backgrounds, Boost ensures expert guidance informed by over a century of combined experience in business development.

The company's growth catalyzed the success of its inaugural online course, "Rethink Marketing," prompting a strategic shift towards teambased business growth strategy training.

Hometown Homes was in Las Vegas during Design & Construction Week, during which more than 76,000 people visited over 1,700 vendors for the International Builder Show (IBS) and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), where the Thirty Under 30 awards took place.

Hometown Homes is proud to be one of the few design-build companies in Saskatoon that provides design services in-house, making the design and construction process seamless and stress-free for its clients.

www.hometownhomes.ca

Learning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan

We are thrilled to announce Graham Snell as the new Executive Director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan. With extensive experience in both the private and non-profit sectors, Graham brings a unique perspective to the role, having served on both sides of the board table, which includes Past-Chair of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce. Graham is a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan and is proud to have called Saskatoon home for the past 25 years. His record in leadership and strategic

This evolution enables Boost to provide customized coaching for both corporate and entrepreneurial groups. Expanding its reach across North America, Boost now offers training in English and French.

For Daria Malin, the visionary force behind Boost, this journey began in her family's DQ franchise in Saskatoon. Armed with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing, Daria worked for 16 years in media advertising sales before establishing Boost Strategic Coaching. Her diverse experience, including creating four successful brands and co-founding an international non-profit organization (UkrainianPatriot.org), showcases her dedication to fostering success.

Boost Strategic Coaching aims to lead the market in holistic sales and marketing training in North America. This vision is guided by Daria's goal to empower entrepreneurs and sales professionals through innovative training methods, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to maximize their potential.

www.boostcoaching.ca

planning makes him the ideal candidate to lead our organization to new heights. Graham's passion for supporting individuals who need it and his commitment to create a more inclusive society make him a valuable asset to our team. We look forward to the innovative ideas and positive impact Graham will bring to our community. “It is a huge honour to be given the trust to lead this organization and to work together with the incredible team and a supportive board of directors that have a genuine care in LDAS to continue to succeed and help the people of Saskatchewan for another 50 years and beyond”, says Graham. www.ldas.or

Jack Brodsky

Earlier this year, Jack Brodsky was named CTV Saskatoon’s 2023 Citizen of the Year for his decades of work as a community builder who made a difference in the lives of countless youths.

Brodsky, who has lived in Saskatoon since the age of twelve, is an Aden Bowman Collegiate Institute graduate. In 1978, he became a certified engineering technologist through SIAST, now known as Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

In the years that followed, Brodsky learned

The Alt Hotel Saskatoon

We’ve perfected the art of the meeting place. Gather your favourite people and join us at BOKEH on the plaza!

Our venue can accommodate private or semi-private events with a maximum of 54 guests. Additionally, during the season, our patio is available for groups.

Whether you celebrate a special achievement with your team or just an informal happy hour, let our team make your event truly special!

From our curated cocktails to generous boards or a customized food offering, we proudly highlight Saskatoon's local flavours. We’re conveniently located in the Alt Hotel Saskatoon, part of Germain Hotels, a Canadian

Members In The News

the family construction business while also learning, through his parents, the importance of giving back to the community.

Brodsky was a co-owner of the Saskatoon Blades since 1976 and was instrumental in developing a scholarship program for graduating Western Hockey League (WHL) players before selling the team in 2013. Over the years, Brodsky has volunteered with many organizations and served on the Restorative Action Program (RAP) board since its inception in 2011, only recently choosing to step aside.

RAP has become a multifaceted program at 11 high schools in Saskatoon, supporting some of the city’s most vulnerable youth. “Jack’s contributions to the industries he worked with and to the community are vast,” a letter of nomination said.

“His natural leadership abilities come from his sincere desire to improve our community and the lives of those within, especially our youth,” the letter included.

Those in Saskatoon speak of Brodsky as a team builder with commitment and endless energy to serve his community, with no expectation of anything in return.

Jack served as Saskatoon Chamber Of Commerce President from 2005 to 2006.

Congratulations Jack!

family-owned hotel group. Come by and experience our unique hospitality.

See you soon!

www.germainhotels.com

NY Pizza Den

Embark on a culinary adventure with NY Pizza Den Inc., located at 536 2nd Ave N #150, Saskatoon, SK S7K 2C5. As a small family-owned business, we pour our heart and soul into crafting pizzas from scratch, infused with our passion for exceptional food. Our mission is to bring the true taste of New York pizza to Saskatoon, with a focus on authenticity and quality. We aim to be one of the best destinations for New York-

Momentum Strategies

Just over a year since opening in Saskatoon, Momentum Strategies has quickly become renowned for propelling clients toward success, both locally and nationally. At the helm, Samantha Yaholnitsky champions a unique approach that blends strategic insight with a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Samantha brings a perspective that cuts through complexity to the table: “I can zoom out to 30,000 feet to sort through the noise and pinpoint a strategy that really moves the needle. PR and strategic communications, including government relations, often end up as afterthoughts on the edges of executive desks. That’s precisely where the value of my work shines through,” she says.

Her firm doesn’t just connect clients with audiences; it creates meaningful engagements that lead to action. By emphasizing strategic partnerships and advocating for diverse voices, Momentum Strategies ensures that every client’s message resonates widely and effectively.

In essence, Momentum Strategies stands as a beacon of innovation and purposeful strategy, offering clear, focused action where it’s most needed, transforming overlooked corners of executive planning into centers of impactful decision-making.

www.momentumstrategies.ca

style pizza in Saskatoon, committed to sharing our love for great food with the community and expanding our presence in the future. Whether you prefer a takeout or delivery, we guarantee an unforgettable pizza experience. Visit NY Pizza Den today and savor the perfect blend of taste, tradition, and flavor, where every slice transports you to the vibrant streets of the Big Apple.

www.nypizzaden.com

PCL Construction

The agreement between the Government of Saskatchewan and PCL Construction Management Inc. for the Victoria Hospital encompasses designing and constructing a new acute care tower adjacent to the existing facility. This new tower, situated directly north of the current structure, features several enhancements, including a rooftop heliport, expanded emergency department, larger operating rooms, facilities for pediatrics, maternity, and NICU, new medical imaging services, and a dedicated space for First Nations and Métis Cultural activities, among

YMCA of Saskatoon

The CEO Selection Committee and the YMCA Board of Directors are thrilled to announce the appointment of DeeAnn Mercier to the position of CEO of the YMCA of Saskatoon. DeeAnn is a visionary community builder who brings non-profit management, fundraising, program development, and public relations experience to this role. DeeAnn has a

The Flats

The Flats in Saskatoon is more than just a restaurant; it's a dynamic social hub where happy hour transcends expectations. Beyond the sumptuous steaks and crafted cocktails, The Flats offers a calendar of events that transform casual dining into unforgettable experiences. From magic shows to live music, the restaurant becomes a stage for entertainment, creating an atmosphere that keeps patrons returning for more. The commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of The Flats experience. Whether indulging in the rich flavours of their

Members In The News

other essential services. The combined capacity of Victoria Hospital, including the new tower and existing facilities, will surge by 40 percent, rising from 173 to 242 beds.

The Victoria Hospital project represents a substantial investment in Prince Albert and its neighbouring communities, addressing the increasing demands of the northern regions it serves. The construction contract encompasses the Design and Early Works agreement, awarded to PCL through a public procurement process in December 2022. This project marks a historic investment in the Prince Albert area by the Government of Saskatchewan and marks a notable economic impact on Northern Saskatchewan communities.

Construction is expected to begin in Spring 2024 and be completed in 2028. The construction of a new parking lot, included in the early works, is scheduled to be paved this spring. www.pcl.com

heart for people, community, and meeting basic needs. With her vast experience and community connections, the Board is very excited about the future of the YMCA with her leadership. She most recently served as the Executive Director at the Broadway Business Improvement District (BBID), where she integrated community, culture, and commerce to build a vibrant future for the district.

As one of the largest charitable organizations in the city, the YMCA impacts hundreds of people daily. Their footprint in our community is large. They are Saskatoon’s largest childcare (Early Childhood Education) provider, operating six sites, with a seventh site planned for Aspen Ridge. The YMCA operates Before and After School Care programs at fifteen elementary schools. The YMCA is also the community operator of the Family Resource Centres in Fairhaven and Brighten, with a third to open in Martensville this year. www.ymcasaskatoon.org

signature steaks or enjoying the creativity of the mixologists, each visit is an exploration of culinary artistry. The cozy yet modern setting provides the perfect backdrop for intimate dinners and lively gatherings.

As a cornerstone of Saskatoon's culinary scene, The Flats has become synonymous with not just good food, but an elevated lifestyle. It's a place where happy hour isn't just about discounted drinks; it's about embracing the joy of shared moments, exceptional cuisine, and a vibrant community that makes dining at The Flats a truly enriching experience. www.theflatseatery.com

The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre

The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre (SFBLC) has an ambitious vision for the future, and they’re inviting you to be a part of this groundbreaking journey. Project Evolve, initiated by SFBLC, is a bold and transformative effort to reimagine the role of a food bank within our community. At the heart of Project Evolve is constructing a new, purpose-designed facility in Saskatoon's Pleasant Hill neighbourhood. This centre will feature sustainable design, innovative new programming, and serve as a vibrant and inclusive community hub accessible to all. The construction of the new facility will significantly enhance SFBLC, paving the way for an expansion of learning programs and substantially strengthening the organization's capacity to support and uplift the community. It strategically places SFBLC in an ideal position to tackle not only the community's current needs but also anticipate and prepare for future challenges. This proactive approach provides a solid and supportive foundation to benefit the community for generations. To get involved or learn more about Project Evolve, don't hesitate to contact Alison Robertson, Project Lead, at alison.r@saskatoonfoodbank.ca or visit www.saskatoonfoodbank.org/plantpossibility

Members In The News

St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation

St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation is pleased to introduce Trish Cheveldayoff and Sandra Miller as our new Major Giving Team; we look forward to a bright future for this duo! Trish spent 35 years in radio and television news before launching a career in consulting and fundraising, receiving a Centennial Medal for volunteerism in 2005 and The Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022. She was also named one of the top 10 “Influential Women” in Saskatchewan in 2013 by SaskBusiness Magazine. Trish has worked as a Major Gifts Officer for our Foundation since 2020, bringing phenomenal experience and enthusiasm to her new position as Manager of Major Giving. We are very pleased to welcome Sandra Miller as our new Major Gifts Officer. Sandra has been a relationship builder for over 20 years in the corporate sector and looks forward to growing new connections. She especially looks forward to connecting and engaging with the community and working with others to align their values and the Foundation’s focus areas.

If you’d like to contact Trish or Sandra to book a coffee, don’t hesitate to reach out to them at Trish.Cheveldayoff@sphfoundation.org and Sandra.Miller2@sphfoundation.org.

www.sphfoundation.org

RYDE YXE’s Shaina Lynden

Shaina Lynden is a mother of 5 and a proud Yellow Quill First Nation member who describes herself as a lifelong learner committed to personal, professional, and community growth. As a Saskatoon Police Officer since 2005, Shaina has worked in patrol, school resources, hit and run, and the equity and cultural engagement unit. In 2016, Shaina sought to utilize her experience in community service to co-create Saskatoon’s first indoor cycling studio, Ryde YXE, known for its philanthropic efforts, innovative partnerships, and dynamic classes for the mind and body.

In 2022, after supporting her mom through a terminal cancer diagnosis, Shaina pursued higher education with fervor, earning a master's degree in organizational leadership with distinction from Arizona State University. This academic achievement not only bolstered her entrepreneurial acumen but also equipped her with strategic insights essential for navigating a challenging career in law enforcement. Shaina’s journey exemplifies resilience, balancing the responsibilities of parenting, entrepreneurship, law enforcement, and academic pursuits with grace and determination. Her unwavering dedication to her professional endeavors and community upliftment inspires all who encounter her. rydeyxe.ca

Peter Lucas

On May 13, at the annual Canadian Institute of Mining (CIM) black-tie Awards Gala in Vancouver, Keira Sawatzky, P.Eng. will be recognized for the work she has accomplished as the 2024 recipient of the CIM Bedford Canadian Young Leaders Award. Not even 10 years out of university, Keira is the Lead Technical Manager of Peter Lucas Project Management and a professional Electrical Engineer registered in the province of Saskatchewan. Keira started with Peter Lucas as a client-embedded Project Manager and now manages their largest client portfolio, providing support and leadership to employees and clients to ensure they have what they need to succeed. She has developed Peter Lucas’ internal mentorship program, focusing on women in non-traditional roles. She provides formal mentorship through WiM/WIN-SK and the University of Saskatchewan College of Engineering. Keira excels at supporting others by developing relationships, applying her technical skills, and challenging the status quo.

Peter Lucas, Mechanical Project Engineer at Elnaz Etminan, shares, “Her (Keira’s) guidance has led to the development of high-performing, cohesive individuals that consistently deliver outstanding results. She is a young mining leader who excels in executing goals, engaging others, and championing social responsibility.” www.peterlucas.ca

The Family Business Association Saskatoon (FBAS) is affiliated with the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce with a mandate to promote the well-being, understanding and success of families in business. FBAS provides services, resources and support to those involved in family enterprise, including both extended business families and the advisors that counsel them.

By participating in peer groups, seminars and workshops, FBAS provides a forum for families and their advisors to share ideas, learn best practices and build collective skills. We offer an outsider’s perspective with an insider understanding of family business.

Every year, FBAS and the Saskatoon Chamber recognize an outstanding family enterprise at the SABEX Awards, Saskatoon’s premier business awards program.

Our mission is to promote the sustainability and growth of Saskatoon and area business families by providing education and support through community and shared experience.

We are an engaged and supportive community of vibrant Saskatoon and area business families and advisers who connect, share ideas and learn from each others’ unique experiences.

www.familybusinesssaskatoon.ca

TOUR SERIES

Whether you are a seasoned event-goer or a first-time explorer, The Family Business Association Saskatoon events are designed to cater to your needs. Discover, explore, and engage with a network of like-minded family business members.

We had the opportunity to tour Acara Glass and Aluminum's facility where we learned about their production process and their management as a family business.

A Diverse Business Landscape

Just as Saskatchewan and Saskatoon’s populations are growing fast and evolving with increasing immigration from around the globe, this is a reality across the nation.

Although it is no surprise that the business landscape is also changing to reflect the influx of immigrants, do we know to what extent and understand the drivers of the increased number of self-employment and small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) owners among immigrant and racialized groups?

So, how noteworthy is the impact of immigrant and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) business ownership? Are our anecdotal and preconceived notions accurate? Before diving into the complex data, here are a few “did you know” statements from a socio-economic report by Statistic Canada to provide you with an overview of diversity and inclusion in the entrepreneurial sector:

• The percentage of business owners who are science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) graduates is considerably higher among immigrant entrepreneurs than among business owners from the second-generation and third-plus generations of born Canadians.

• Economic class (skilled worker category and provincial nominees) immigrants are the largest distinct group of immigrant business owners, accounting for over 40% of all immigrant-owned businesses. They are about twice as likely as the Canadian-born population to own a company in the knowledge-based industries, notably in architecture and engineering services, computer systems design, and management and scientific consulting.

• Refugees are more likely to be unincorporated selfemployed than the economic class and the Canadian-born population, perhaps related to labour market difficulties. Most often, refugee entrepreneurs are concentrated in ground transportation (e.g., trucking, taxi services), retail trade, food services and services to dwellings (e.g., janitors).

• Roughly 80% of immigrant owners of private companies were still in business two years after becoming owners and 58% after seven years. The survival rates were similar for Canadian-born owners. However, recent immigrants (those in Canada for less than ten years) had higher exit rates from ownership and shorter durations than the Canadian-born population or longer-term immigrants.

• A marginally higher percentage of immigrant-owned SMEs implemented a product innovation over a threeyear period: 29%, compared with 27% among Canadianborn SME owners. The corresponding rates for process innovation were 21% and 17%.

• Recent immigrants were less likely to turn to a formal

financial institution, such as a bank, for start-up financing.

• Immigrant men are about twice as likely to own a business as immigrant women.

Digging deeper into the data, the latest Government of Canada statistics show that small (1-99 employees, including micro-businesses (1 to 4 employees)) and medium-sized (100-499 employees) enterprises continue to account for 88.3% of the private sector labour force. In addition, a recent small business study by Marwa Abdou, Senior Research Director at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, indicates that proportionally, there are more SMEs in Western Canada than in Canada. In Saskatchewan, small businesses represent 35% per capita, after 37% in Alberta and 39% in British Columbia, compared to 33% across Canada.

Returning to diversity and inclusion within small and mediumsized businesses, while immigrants represent 23% of the population, they own 25.5% of private sector businesses (incorporated and non-incorporated), including 30% of all micro-businesses. These statistics are proportionately reflected in Saskatchewan’s business landscape, where immigrants represent 31.3% of the total population and 31.2% in Saskatoon. We also see that immigrant owners of private incorporated companies contribute approximately 55% of employment in the private sector. Further, self-employed immigrants, whose earnings from self-employment exceed those from paid work, represent about 50% of all unincorporated self-employed individuals. Yet, immigrant-owned enterprises are generally smaller than those owned by their Canadian-born counterparts. The overrepresentation of immigrant owners amongst micro-businesses is frequently attributed to the difficulty securing living wages commensurate with the experience and education they acquired in their country of origin.

Meanwhile, the picture amongst specific equity-seeking groups (racialized people, people with disabilities, Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit and Métis), women and lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer and 2-Spirit (LGBTQ2S*) is not as optimistic.

Indigenous people, who represent 5% of Canada’s population, are underrepresented in business ownership, with only 2.2%. Among equity-seeking groups, the LGBTQ2+ population (4% of Canada’s total population) is also slightly underrepresented, accounting for 3.3% of business owners.

Visible minorities (non-white in colour or non-Caucasian in race, including South Asian, Chinese, Black, Filipino, Latin American, Arab, Southeast Asian, West Asian, Korean, and Japanese) are also underrepresented. While they account for 26.5% of Canada’s population, they only represent 19.2% of business owners. Focusing specifically on Black business owners, in 2020, they represented about 2.4% of all businesses in Canada and 1.2% of those in Saskatchewan,

Economic class (skilled worker category and provincial nominees) immigrants are the largest distinct group of immigrant business owners, accounting for over 40% of all immigrant-owned businesses.

with the majority in Ontario (53.9%), Quebec (24.2%) and Alberta (12.6%) in third position. And 69.5% of Black-owned businesses were sole proprietorships (self-employment). Indeed, many studies show higher business ownership rates among immigrants than Canadian-born individuals. However, historical practices, such as the lack of recognition of foreign post-secondary education and experience and difficulties in being hired at their just level, are most certainly contributing factors to immigrants and equity-seeking groups choosing to self-employ and start micro-business ventures. In addition, the choice of business ownership by immigrants could also be partly explained by the fact that immigrants often form their networks and help each other to start businesses to serve the needs of their and other immigrant communities. Some research also points out that the fact that immigrants were willing to take the risk to immigrate may translate into a higher business risk tolerance for some.

In the case of Indigenous business ownership, past Indigenous affairs policies and laws hindered Indigenous self-employment and likely explain Indigenous people’s business ownership lag. The situation is in the midst of a change for these equity groups. There is a concerted effort to evaluate and recognize foreign education and experience at their just value. Recruitment specialists and business leadership teams increasingly recognize and appreciate the value of diverse backgrounds and cultures and their positive impact on productivity and revenues. Similarly, Truth and Reconciliation Canada’s Call to Action #92 encourages the business community to engage positively with Indigenous people. It also recognizes the need to create meaningful

inclusion of Indigenous people in the Canadian economy and take steps towards economic reconciliation.

Realizing the considerable share of immigrants and BIPOC individuals in the entrepreneurial sector, one can’t help but wonder what can be done to ensure that they thrive and continue contributing to the local economy. Barring the barriers mentioned earlier, most of their issues are similar to those of other Canadian business owners. They are confronted with the rise of the digital economy (online purchasing, advanced technology and artificial intelligence) for those involved in brick-and-mortar SMEs, the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased debt load for some, difficulty accessing financing for others, and workforce hiring and retention challenges to name some of the most substantial challenges. To ensure that our diverse, inclusive and overall sustainable economy continues to grow, we must address these aspects by advocating for and promoting business-friendly policies and programs (such as business scaling and technology adoption assistance) while supporting our SMEs by sourcing locally made and retailed products and services.

Sources:

• StateOfSmallBusiness_EN_Final.pdf (chamber.ca)

• Immigrant entrepreneurs in Canada: Highlights from recent studies (statcan.gc.ca)

• Small and medium businesses: driving a large-sized economyStatistics Canada (statcan.gc.ca)

• SME Profile: Ownership demographics statistics 2022 (canada.ca)

• Key Small Business Statistics 2022 (canada.ca)

Diverse Entrepreneurs Shaping

Saskatoon's Marketplace

Whether they grew up in Saskatchewan or across oceans in the Caribbean or the Middle East, being an entrepreneur is not an easy path. It demands hard work, dedication and resilience. For new immigrants and people of diverse backgrounds, the path to sustainable business ownership is often harder to navigate. Regardless of their origins and backgrounds, the business owners and programs featured in the following pages all enhance Saskatoon’s marketplace and contribute to making the community a welcoming environment in which to work, raise a family, and thrive.

Women Business Hub: Supporting immigrant women to achieve their entrepreneurial aspirations

An offshoot of the Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS), the Women Business Hub (WBH), was launched in 2019 by Ashraf Mirmontahai, SODS’ Director of Employment Services, after securing funding specific to this initiative. Anyone who’s tried their hand at starting a business will know how difficult it can be to navigate the systems and requirements depending on the type of business and industry. The road to entrepreneurship is even more challenging to navigate if you’re an immigrant and a woman, not familiar with the business landscape, the rules and regulations to start and operate a business, employment laws, the banking system, the real estate and rental market, and so much more. The Women Business Hub was born when Ashraf and other staff at SODS realized there was a gap in services to address the needs of immigrants, particularly women who were interested in starting their own businesses.

“We understand that entrepreneurship comes with its own set of challenges, irrespective of one’s nationality. However, we are deeply aware that immigrant women encounter additional barriers when starting and managing businesses. In response, the WBH has positioned itself as a vital resource to assist immigrant women entrepreneurs in overcoming these obstacles. The WBH is dedicated to providing comprehensive support tailored to the unique needs of these women. We offer a supportive and inclusive environment and aim to empower immigrant women to realize their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute positively to the local economy,” says Frances Meyer, WBH Program Coordinator.

In only four years, the WBH has already accepted over 100 participants in its program and is currently supporting 25 women in its latest cohort. However, Frances points out that there’s always room to accept more women in various stages of their business development. “Whether they are at the initial stages of developing a business idea or seeking

to expand an existing venture, WBH’s programs are finely tuned to address their diverse needs at every step of their entrepreneurial journey,” adds Frances.

Frances explains WBH’s concept by saying, “At its core, WBH serves as a nurturing ground for the aspirations of women who have chosen Canada as their home. We equip them with the knowledge, skills and connections necessary to thrive in the business world. We empower them to fully contribute to developing a more vibrant, diverse and culturally enriched community.”

Although WBH has already made great strides with all its participants, it continues to improve and expand its services with limited resources. One area that they recognize that they must address is digital accessibility. “We plan to improve WBH’s online platform to provide a more user-friendly and interactive experience. It may involve redesigning the website, optimizing navigation features, and incorporating multimedia content to engage and inform users effectively,” explains Frances.

They have been able to operate effectively, thanks to their grant. However, they continue to seek more support and partnerships to sustain and expand their programs. For example, securing expertise and mentors to help the women navigate unfamiliar business environments, finding networking opportunities to build connections, and advancing advocacy efforts to address systemic barriers and promote supportive policies are constant priorities for Frances and her team. She concludes, “Collaboration with businesses is essential to providing the necessary resources and creating a supportive ecosystem for immigrant women entrepreneurs to thrive. I encourage established business people to share their knowledge, mentor these women and contribute to WBH in any way possible.”

www.sods.sk.ca

Express Employment Professionals and Hemani Management Group: Matching Organizations and People for Better Outcomes

Growing up a “Brown” person in the Prairies, Hanif Hemani, Managing Director at Express Employment Professional and President of Hemani Management Group, understands all too well the struggles BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Colour) individuals can have when seeking employment. After a successful 20-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, Hanif joined the world of management consulting, only to realize that assisting management teams was only one part of the solution to some of their challenges. “Helping them find good employees and leveraging staffing options was another part of the solution, and I wanted to help them with that. So, I added Express Employment Professionals to my services,” Hanif explains.

“At Express Employment Professionals, we are the only staffing and recruitment agency that can claim all three of the following attributes to be true: First, we are locally owned and operated. Our net profits stay here in Saskatoon. Second, we offer contract, temporary and “interim” employee staffing solutions to our clients for office-based roles, technical and general labour positions. And third, we also provide professional recruitment and search options for professional and managerial roles,” Hanif says with a smile.

Express Employment typically counts 30 to 45 contracted employee placements at any given time. Beyond the

success of these placements, Hanif takes pride in the fact that at least 50 percent, and often up to 75 percent, of these individuals represent BIPOC equity groups. Hanif sees this as a win-win situation. The employees secure meaningful employment, and the organizations can make strides in pursuing increased Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). “We see many people with diverse backgrounds, and some amazing talent arrives here daily. Sadly, our business community is still not quite ready to accept many of them. Unfortunately, many leave for other provinces or go back home. Yet, I can see a change. There’s a trend for many businesses to include DEI as part of their values. However, adding inclusion into the corporate values and truly demonstrating acceptance are sometimes two different things. But there’s hope as many of our clients are now beginning to recognize this talent, and in some cases, they even ask us specifically for it,” remarks Hanif.

This positive trend bodes well for Hanif’s business. He currently employs three staff and will add a couple more shortly to handle the growing demand for his placement services. Hanif adds, “With the projects already announced for the next few years, Saskatchewan is bound to see some tremendous economic growth, and with the already stretched workforce landscape, the demand for work placements and professional searches will continue to increase. So, by expanding my operation now, I’m trying to get in front of the issue with and for my clients. I’m building a recruitment division dedicated to the Industrial sector to tackle the challenges ahead.”

When asked what he considers one of the biggest challenges he observes amongst his clients these days, Hanif quickly points out that the most severe challenge for businesses is keeping great employees. “Many small to medium businesses with small human resources teams aren’t focusing enough on retention strategies. Finding talent takes time, but that can be done through an external agency like mine, particularly if they are open to welcoming BIPOC people and new immigrants. However, keeping talent can only be done internally. You can’t outsource engagement, shared values, employee wellness, organizational culture and all those things that contribute to people staying. These types of components must be incubated internally. My suggestion to management teams is that 95% of their human resources team’s focus should be on culture - including DEI, retention, and engagement strategies. This will help them insulate from the growing turnover trend.”

www.expresspros.com

Jamaica Food Basket: A Taste of Caribbean Heat in the Prairies

If you’re new to the Saskatchewan prairies, homesick and craving the flavours of your Jamaican homeland, one way to ensure you’ll get the authentic taste you crave is to open your own restaurant and specialty store. That’s precisely what Sandra Mills and her husband did shortly after arriving in Saskatoon. “Despite searching extensively, we could not find a restaurant that offered the warm, authentic Jamaican cuisine we craved. We also noticed that the retail items available in stores did not meet the standards of quality we were accustomed to,” says Sandra.

Recognizing a gap in the market, they seized the opportunity to offer access to high-quality Jamaican products and respond to a need also expressed by others in search of authentic Jamaican taste in Saskatoon. Today, the restaurant and specialty store responds to the demand from those experienced with Jamaican cuisine and also introduces many to the Caribbean island’s cuisine and products. Sandra explains, “We embrace diversity by welcoming individuals from various backgrounds, including the Caribbean, African, Asian, European, Canadian, American, and beyond. Our doors are open to everyone, inviting them to come together, mingle, and experience the richness of cultural interactions.”

Interestingly, Jamaica Food Basket isn’t just a restaurant and a store; it’s a gathering place. The owners organize and participate in events and activities regularly to help foster a strong sense of community and belonging in their neighbourhood. To expand their circle, they also offer catering and meal preparation options to allow other communities to experience their Jamaican-inspired cuisine

using the finest seasonings and spices and Caribbean imported refreshments.

Over the years, the couple has employed a diverse workforce, including Indigenous people, immigrants from African nations and others from the Caribbean. Sadly, like many businesses in the food industry, the Jamaica Food Basket has been deeply affected by the recent pandemic and is still trying to regain its market share. This means that today, they can only employ one part-time employee – who is also Jamaican - to help during busy weekends. But the couple is not giving up; they are branching out. “In response to the growing demand for locally made products, we have begun diversifying our offerings by producing items in-house, utilizing local ingredients whenever possible. Our current product lineup includes jerk seasoning, jerk sauce, pepper sauce, drinks, and frozen patties, with additional items such as frozen meals and a wide range of retail goods slated for future release. To ensure the security of our products, we have collaborated with the Food Centre in Saskatoon to authenticate them according to the standards set by relevant food and health inspection agencies through rigorous testing and labelling processes,” explains Sandra. Although Sandra says that, at times, as immigrant business owners, they were treated unfairly and encountered many roadblocks and setbacks during their entrepreneurial journey, they are not dwelling on the negative instances. Instead, they have learned to be resilient and found ways to expand their knowledge and skills.

Sandra states, “In the past year, we have participated in several programs that have equipped us with a comprehensive toolkit and crucial knowledge to navigate the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship. Programs such as the BIPOC Accelerator Program, the YWCA PowerUp program, the Female Entrepreneur in Agri-Food Development (FEAD) Accelerator program and the Inner-City Capital Connections (ICCC) Canada 2023 national program, which have empowered us to refine our strategies, to position ourselves for sustainable growth and success in a competitive landscape, all the while fostering valuable collaborations with other small businesses across Canada.”

At the recent Saskatoon Black Business Expo, an event copresented by NobleLinks Consulting and The Chamber, Jamaica Food Basket’s booth made for many happy visitors with their tasty selection of products and meals. Sandra attributes their success to their perseverance and unwavering commitment to creating authentic, mouthwatering meals and goods, whether at their restaurant, specialty store or event booth.

www.jamaicafoodbasket.com

Filosophi: Bringing Greece’s Meraki to Every Plate

In Greek, “Meraki” means, “the love and enjoyment one has for what they do, and by extension, the great result their work produces. It’s a word hard to translate because it also means doing something with soul, creativity and much love. It’s about putting a bit of yourself into what you do, in the food you make,” explains Bill Barlas one of the owners of Filosophi restaurant.

Bill has spent over three decades as a restaurant owner and entrepreneur and his passion for the industry remains steadfast. Inspired by the West Cost, at Filosophi, Bill and his family wanted to introduce Saskatoon to an unparalleled local and authentic food experience with

Meraki in mind. “What we do, we do with passion. At Filosophi, we draw inspiration from the diversity of fresh ingredients, the tradition of humble family feasts, and our Greek heritage to create an unforgettable authentic wise cuisine experience. We believe in crafting the best culinary experience and creating an atmosphere people love, where good conversations thrive,” Bill says.

Opening Filosophi during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, some people questioned their decision to start this new venture. Yet, Bill and his family persevered through the uncertainty and saw an opportunity to innovate and create something special. Today, they employ approximately 50 people. Bill is proud to say, “We hire individuals from all backgrounds. We are constantly hiring people local to Saskatchewan, as well as immigrants from Greece, Italy, Ukraine, Mexico, Morocco, Bangladesh, India. Myself, my business partner Angelo, our head chef, and our sous chef, all immigrated to Canada from Greece, and our Greek heritage is what has influenced the unique recipes and family culture that is Filosophi.”

Bill immigrated to Canada when he was only 18 years old. He had to learn English, embrace a new culture, navigate a completely different way of life. This experience all those years ago, is helping him understand his staff today. Bill remarks, “I encountered many hardships, but those hardships shaped my character and who I am as a person, and more specifically as an entrepreneur, so I am grateful for those experiences that led me to where I am today.”

With a diverse workforce and influences, Filosophi is balancing the old with the new, time-honoured favourites and new recipes with fresh prairie ingredients.

For Bill, the best part about being a business owner in Saskatoon is the people and the community, “Although the community in Saskatoon may be small, the people I meet every day and whom I build connections with are part of what make being a local restaurant owner such a rewarding experience.”

With its cool and contemporary vibe, Bill is proud to say that Filosophi isn’t like most restaurants, “When you come sit at our tables, our leadership team isn’t tucked away behind closed doors or sitting in a boardroom. We’ll be at your table asking about the food, shaking hands, and sharing stories. We do everything with meraki to create a culinary experience that is unforgettable and that you’ll want to experience over and over again.”

www.filosophi.ca

Momentum: The power of business mentorship and entrepreneurial spirit

Asif Moola, owner of Momentum Clothing, grew up in Prince Albert with his parents who emigrated there from Ireland, where his South African father had met his mother while in medical school. Asif came to Saskatoon to attend the University of Saskatchewan and could not have predicted then that his entrepreneurial journey would start while finishing his marketing and economics degree.

“My boss at the time, Kent Code, was planning on opening Momentum. The timing and a strong relationship were key factors in opening the door to his mentorship and my ability to buy the business, with the opportunity to stay in the province when many of my peers in the late 1990s were leaving for Alberta and British Columbia at the time,” recalls Asif.

Since starting the store in 2000 in Saskatoon, Momentum has grown with an in-house office to handle marketing, purchasing, and warehousing, as well as a new retail location in Calgary. They currently employ 23 people with diverse backgrounds, both professionally and personally. Asif says, “Some of our employees were born in Canada, some are Indigenous, and others were born in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Depending on the day, numerous languages are spoken in the stores, from French to Mandarin, Taiwanese, Korean, and more. At Momentum, we believe staff representation from various countries creates an interesting and exciting workplace.”

Saskatoon. For example, they attend showrooms at Paris Fashion Week twice a year, providing access to products that would otherwise not be available here.

The key for Asif and his employees is telling an authentic story about their retail products. He explains that the retail landscape changes quickly, and global trends and social media are making cycles shorter than ever. However, for nearly 24 years, Asif and Momentum have built a reputation as trendsetters in Canada and internationally. “Thanks to many people working collectively to keep us levelling up. We stock rare footwear and have access to some of the world’s most coveted brands, from limited sneakers from Nike and Addidas to Dr Martens, Birkenstock and more. We bring specialty apparel with limited global distribution

and Canadian staples such as Reigning Champ, Canada Goose and Arc’teryx. And the influence of art, music, sport and travel are key to our authentic storytelling and create strong bonds among our staff, supplier and customers.”

Asif and Momentum’s story is similar to that of other entrepreneurs. They encountered challenges along the way and worked 80-hour weeks for two decades to get to today’s success. Asif explains that one of the challenges is that their industry pre-books goods months in advance, forcing them to be on point with their product decisions and marketing strategies. Beyond their physical locations, they run a web store and have developed in-house marketing, social media, photography, and design capacity. One of the ways they remain relevant and elevate their customers’ retail experience is through their collaborations with brands like Obey, New Era, Taikan and others, as well as with diverse artists over the years. “Retail has advanced rapidly in the last ten years, and we are known internationally within our industry. We sell domestic goods and imports from the USA, Amsterdam, Denmark, Japan, Hong Kong, Australia and more. We’re growing our online business while staying relevant and connected to our local community. We’ve booked some exciting brands for 2024 to keep things exciting for our customers,” says Asif.

Being connected to the local community is precisely what prompted Momentum to launch the Momentum Scholarship for Indigenous Excellence in 2021. In Asif’s words, “We made a five-year commitment. It took a while to arrange the scholarship, and we started small, but it is an important way for us to give back.”

www.momentumshop.ca

Symmetry Public Relations: A collaborative Approach to Communications

Symmetry Public Relations started as a leap of faith amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Co-founder Ben Borne had been laid off from a startup due to the economic downturn at the height of the pandemic and Melody Lynch, the other co-founder, decided it was time for a change from her corporate job, when they both decided to jump right into entrepreneurship and start Symmetry. At a time when relationships were strained, mistrust was prevalent and communities were less than cohesive, they were determined to create a public relations and communications firm committed to build trust and relationships among people, organizations and their communities. “We don’t believe so much in competition, but rather in collaboration with other communicators, agencies and suppliers toward delivering high quality work to our clients every day,” says Melody Lynch, a self-professed nerd and grammar queen with a passion for editing and proofreading.

Aside from their accessible storytelling, communications strategy, branding, creative ideas and media training program, the pair brings to their work an inclusive lens with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by diverse members of the population. Ben Borne explains, “When we think about what sets us apart – it’s our worldview. We are a 2SLGBTQIA+, Indigenous, and womanowned, as well as an internationally award-winning firm. Our hope is that with every project closed our clients have gained new insights, and we have also grown our own intellectual capital.”

They are a nimble team of four with employee, Matthew Hildebrandt, a graduate from the University of Saskatchewan’s Edward School of Business fascinated by the power of words to mobilize hearts and minds and promote social good. Recently, Elizabeth Bunney has also joined the team to support their relationship building with clients across Canada. Elizabeth is a proud third-generation Cree-Métis citizen with Polish/Irish roots, who resides in Treaty 6

Territory, amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton, Alberta), and hails from The Pas, Manitoba. Ben, Matthew and Melody are all residents of Saskatoon in Treaty 6 Territory and the homeland of Métis people. “

“We have grown our business organically during our first three years – often taking on whatever work was coming our way. Since then, we’ve prioritized taking on projects and clients who align with our core values and who see our worldview paired with our advisory, creative, training, and services as vital to their own reconciliation, diversity, and inclusion efforts. For us, this means that reconciliation, diversity, and inclusion are not just the future of our business, but rather our business every day. This means expanding our services beyond our provincial borders from time to time and, in turn, growing our own knowledge and skills to bring back home,” states Melody.

Although they may still be considered a small firm by some standards, they punch above their weight when it comes to their commitment to community. They sponsor community initiatives and provide pro-bono consulting to many non-profit and charitable organizations that align with their values. Their commitment to community is woven into their service offerings, ensuring that the projects they deliver not only achieve the clients’ goals, but also contribute to a larger purpose.

“Saskatoon is a smaller market with a big heart. We’ve had a couple bumps in the road here and there when it’s come to managing growth, but we are grateful for the Saskatoon business community and our clients who are supportive and provide us with good advice to help us grow and improve our business. As our work extends beyond our provincial borders, we wear our prairie roots with pride everywhere we go,” Ben concludes.

www.symmetry-pr.com

Mike’s Hydraulics and Hydraulitechs: Bringing innovation to a small business and growing internationally

In 2014, Mike’s Hydraulics was a small hydraulics shop providing services to agricultural and small businesses in and around Saskatoon. However, its new owners, Abe Eazadi and Abes Eslami, and their respective wives, Laleh and Ladan, had a vision for growth. Over the past ten years, they have grown the business, expanding its reach throughout Saskatchewan and Canada, and they have even exported some of their innovative machines worldwide.

Today, Mike’s Hydraulics offers a complete package of custom design, maintenance, and parts for a wide range of hydraulic components and equipment at its newly acquired 25,000-square-foot facility in 2023. In 2019, it launched a new branch, Hydraulitechs, dedicated to manufacturing unique hydraulic equipment. So far, it has exported 150

machines to over 30 countries on all five continents. Although Mike’s Hydraulics roots started in the agricultural industry, today, they serve a wide range of industries, including the mining industry. Abe notes, “We custom design machines to solve industrial problems or develop new machines to meet specific needs, such as lifts, crushers, grapples and much more.”

Beyond the business' growth, there is also a story of personal development. In the early 2010s, the province was offering a flexible immigration program for entrepreneurs through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program, and the two couples took advantage of it. “We moved to Saskatoon in 2013 from Tehran, Iran. We had a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, ten years of experience as business owners, and the idea of starting a business in Canada. A year after arriving in the Prairies, we purchased Mike’s Hydraulics, and the rest is history,” says Abe.

They quickly applied what they had learned in their home country to expand an existing business, now employing 24 people, including several immigrants. Abe attributes part of its success to its diverse workforce and its employees, who bring different skill sets and backgrounds. “We work in a friendly environment; we collaborate. The collaboration doesn’t just stop in our shop. We also help other hydraulic shops across the province, all over the country and around the world whenever we can. This collaborative problemsolving approach helps us stand out in the marketplace, and of course, the high quality of our machines and service, as well as our competitive pricing, help too,” Abe explains.

Mike’s Hydraulics is a success story of the benefits of entrepreneurial immigration, and they believe that their story doesn’t have to be one of a few. “I believe that the province and the city should develop closer relationships with entrepreneurs to support them better and engage with them to ensure that they can attract and retain many more businesses in the province in the future. It’s good to focus on attracting multinational companies with billions of investments. Still, this strategy should combined with attracting entrepreneurs who will come and start new ventures here and employ local people and new immigrants to benefit our communities across the province,” he concludes.

www.mikeshydraulics.ca

Highlighting Saskatchewan’s Labour Market Strategy

Interview with Ministry of Immigration and Career Training

1. What inspired the creation of Saskatchewan's new Labour Market Strategy?

In 2023, Saskatchewan grew by more than 30,000 people, the largest single year population increase since 1914. The province is leading the country in economic growth, driven by private investment. That growth must be supported by a strong labour force to capitalize opportunities now and into the future.

We are forecasting over 112,300 job openings over the next five years. It’s critical Saskatchewan has the workforce employers need and that labour or skill shortages are not a constraint to growth. The Labour Market Strategy is the province’s roadmap to building and growing the workforce we need to ensure Saskatchewan people benefit from the opportunities our economy is creating.

The strategy also supports Saskatchewan’s Investment Strategy, which outlines the province’s priorities to build opportunities in new and emerging sectors, grow existing sectors to further strengthen the economy and connect Saskatchewan to the world through international engagement.

2. Can you provide an overview of the key objectives outlined in the Labour Market Strategy?

The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy outlines the programs and services the province is investing in to connect people to jobs, recognize skills and streamline credential recognition, enable international recruitment, and address labour needs for emerging sectors. The strategy also includes targeted programing designed to increase Indigenous engagement in the workforce and increase opportunities for persons with disabilities to find employment. The strategy highlights the investments the province is making to ensure Saskatchewan people have the skills and knowledge they need for jobs available in the province. By connecting people to the skills training and supports they need to enter the workforce, the province is ensuring Saskatchewan people

have the first opportunity to benefit from our growing economy. Ensuring people can use their education and skills in the fields they were trained for is a priority for the province. It’s unacceptable to have people in Saskatchewan with credentials obtained elsewhere in Canada or internationally who can’t get them recognized in a timely fashion. The new Saskatchewan Credential Recognition Service will help to reduce barriers to credential recognition and provide one-on-one navigational supports. The province is also working with regulators to reduce red tape related to credential recognition.

International recruitment plays an essential role in filling critical vacancies in Saskatchewan’s labour market and contributes to Saskatchewan’s population growth. The Labour Market Strategy outlines how the province will undertake six recruitment missions in 2024-25 to support employers who need to look beyond Saskatchewan to fill their workforce needs. In addition, on these missions, the province will provide pre-arrival supports to individuals looking to live and work in Saskatchewan. Lastly, the strategy looks to the future needs of emerging industries to ensure Saskatchewan’s labour force can keep pace with the opportunities created by investment and Saskatchewan’s economic strength.

3. How will the government ensure that the Strategy is inclusive and beneficial for all residents of the province?

The Labour Market Strategy recognizes that for Saskatchewan to successfully grow, all Saskatchewan people need to benefit from the opportunities our growing economy is creating.

For example, the strategy acknowledges that removing barriers to Indigenous participation in the workforce is essential. The strategy outlines several examples of innovative programming that connects people to the workforce, such as the Mobile Career Centres pilot with Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology. These temporary centers will be conveniently located to support the transition to employment, while simultaneously supporting the workforce needs of infrastructure and other community projects. The first pop-up site opened in La Loche in the fall of 2023.

The province invests in three world-class indigenous led postsecondary institutions: the First Nations University of Canada, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies and the Gabriel Dumont Institute/Dumont Technical Institute. These institutions provide opportunities for students to pursue programming from an Indigenous-led perspective while providing them with skills and training to facilitate connections to Saskatchewan’s labour market.

The strategy also recognizes how the province is taking steps to reduce barriers for individuals with disabilities to ensure the labour market is accessible to everyone. This also aligns with Saskatchewan’s Disability Strategy, which includes increasing economic inclusion. The strategy points to programs, partnerships and services that specifically support people with disabilities with getting a job. For example, the 4to40 Program connects individuals with intellectual disabilities to employers who offer a flexible work week ranging from four to 40 hours.

ADVOCACY

The plan outlines investments that support everyone in the labour market, including in education, training and apprenticeship, pre-employment and work prep programs and programs for employers.

4. How will the government collaborate with industry stakeholders to ensure the success of the Strategy?

Building and growing Saskatchewan’s labour force requires collaboration from government, industry and our training institutions. It’s essential for the government to hear directly from stakeholders to understand their current and future needs, and tailor our programming to provide Saskatchewan people the first opportunity to benefit from our growing economy. The province has responded to industry demand increasing funding to the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission to add 350 apprentice training seats for construction-related trades, bringing the total number of trainings seats available in the province to 4,850.

The labour market strategy is also closely aligned to the investment attraction strategy, as the Government of Saskatchewan recognizes the importance of a skilled labour force in attracting and supporting new investment. BHP recently highlighted Saskatchewan’s highly skilled talent pipeline as one of the driving factors behind its $6.5 billion investment for “stage two” of its Jansen potash project. This is a key example of how government can collaborate with industry to support job creation.

5. How will the government measure the success of this Labour Market Strategy, and what benchmarks or indicators will be used to assess its impact over time?

The success of this plan will benefit Saskatchewan residents, businesses and communities through increased graduation rates, employment rates and improvements in the economy overall.

The Ministry of Immigration and Career Training tracks several performance measures to ensure it is delivering on its mission to train, recruit and retain a skilled workforce that supports investment and economic growth in Saskatchewan, including:

• Indigenous employment, labour force participation and the number of Indigenous clients completing programs;

• The number of clients completing programs and securing employment post-training; and

• Net in-migration, immigrant retention and immigrant labour force participation.

6. Can you explain the intent of the one-on-one support that will be provided to individuals who need help navigating the credential recognition process? How will this work, and how will this change expediate the process?

The pathway to get credentials recognized in Saskatchewan varies by industry and occupation and can be a complicated process. As part of the newly launched Saskatchewan Credential Recognition Service, the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training has hired a team of navigators who are available to provide oneon-one pathfinding support to individuals looking to get their out-of-province credentials recognized in Saskatchewan. This can involve providing information on the credential recognition process for any occupation, helping individuals to better understand regulatory registration requirements, and connecting individuals with relevant supports. Helping individuals to better understand the credential recognition process can save them time and money, as navigators can identify the most efficient

pathways to licensure and help them avoid unnecessary training, examinations and assessments.

The province also has credential recognition grants available to help internationally trained healthcare workers with the costs of assessments or additional training needed to receive recognition of their international credential.

Saskatchewan is working directly with regulatory bodies to enable supportive, simplified and timely credential recognition processes for individuals to practice in Saskatchewan. The province has put legislation in place that ensures regulators respond to credential recognition applications in a timely manner, helping individuals with credentials from elsewhere in Canada or abroad to get to work faster in the field in which they are trained.

7. What sets this Strategy apart from our neighbouring jurisdictions?

The Saskatchewan Labour Market Strategy is a comprehensive approach to building the labour supply for existing and emerging jobs. Saskatchewan boasts responsive and robust labour market programs to connect employers and job seekers, and a suite of workforce development programs that remove barriers to employment.

The Saskatchewan Credential Recognition Service is a first of its kind in Canada. In no other province or territory is there a team of navigators available to support individuals with their credential recognition in any occupation. Saskatchewan’s Labour Mobility and Fair Registration Practices legislation also is the most comprehensive of its kind by covering all regulated occupations and has the shortest registration decision timelines for labour mobility and internationally trained applicants.

In terms of international recruitment, the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) was already regarded as one of the best Provincial Nominee Programs in the country. With the Immigration Services Act, Saskatchewan will again be leading the nation with the strongest integrity framework for its immigration system. This will ensure that the SINP is addressing legitimate labour market needs while supporting improved retention by addressing any misuse of the system.

PowerHouse Series: From Awareness to Action

In this PowerHouse Series we discovered actionable strategies by understanding how awareness can convert to practical steps by helping businesses integrate Indigenous perspectives, cultivate genuine inclusion and lay the foundation for generational change and economic stability.

PowerHouse: Provincial Budget Debrief with Deputy Premier & Finance Minister Donna Harpauer

The Saskatoon Chamber, STEP and the Saskatchewan Chamber partnered to host an overview of the 2024-25 Provincial Budget, with Deputy Premier & Finance Minister, Donna Harpauer

Chamber Happenings

Chamber on Tap (FEBRUARY) With special guest Daniel Hearn - Hard Knox Talks

Chamber on Tap (MARCH) With special guest The Prairie Grazer

Chamber on Tap (MARCH) With special guest Jaret Waddell - Globex Management

Chamber Pins & Pints Bowling

Tourney Presented By Saskatchewan Blue Cross

Once again Saskatoon got to roll and rub elbows with businesses across the city at the Chamber's 2nd Annual Pins & Pints Bowling Tourney.

Black Business Expo 2024

The Saskatoon Black Business Expo showcased Black-owned businesses. The event provided a platform for entrepreneurs to connect with other businesses, prospects, investors, and procurement officers from government and corporate organizations.

An Initiative of Noblelinks Consulting in partnership with The Saskatoon Chamber.

Itching to be an entrepreneur

After a long battle with dry skin after arriving in Canada from Ghana in 2003, numerous visits to her doctor for prescription creams and experimenting with different laundry detergents, Theresa Amanie remembered the local Shea butter that she had used as a child.

“I thought the Shea butter would benefit others who might be facing dry skin issues as l do due to the dry winter

weather,” explains Theresa. “Then, the idea popped up in my mind that l could also support the local women in my community where l grew up, and who are the producers of this Shea butter through a Fair Trade.”

After returning from a trip to Ghana in April of 2019, Theresa brought a sample of her local Shea better to Dad’s Organic Market who expressed real interest in carrying the product on their shelves. That’s all the encouragement she needed to get rolling.

“l started my research on companies available in northern Ghana that l could work with, and how to get the items here, from Ghana to Canada and to Saskatoon,” explains Theresa, who had family members helping research potential partners back home. “We finally settled on "Mal ti ti A Enterprise” – a woman-owned factory in Northern Ghana. A small order of 50kg started my journey into business and Dad's Organic Market received their first order on September 19, 2019.”

Today, Theresa's Body Care Products is in its fifth year of operation and supplying eight shops within the city of Saskatoon, two shops in Regina, one shop in Moose Jaw, and one shop in Kamloops BC. Theresa is still working from home, with a little help from her two sons who are both attending University. She is currently in talks with Independent grocery stores as well as Sobeys who have shown interest in her products and would like to carry them.

Theresa Amanie Founder and Owner of Theresa's Body Care Products www.theresasproducts.com

Straight Talk

VIDO, A Diverse Workforce At The Forefront Of Scientific Innovation

The Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research, is located right here at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon. It is a world leader at the forefront of innovation in infectious disease research and vaccine development for humans and animals.

Established in 1975, it has evolved from a small agricultural-focused research organization to a source of pride for Saskatchewan and across Canada. It is a world-class research institute boasting one of the world’s largest highly controlled biocontainment laboratories, known as a containment level 3 facility with a capacity for large animals.

Although workforce diversity might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of VIDO,

Q: What makes VIDO the perfect organization for a diverse workforce that includes people from various parts of the world?

A: VIDO has world-class facilities and continues to grow its reputation in infectious disease research and vaccine development on a global scale. Our mission—‘to protect the world from infectious diseases’—attracts interest from trainees and prospective employees from around the world. Our team members have a common desire to make an impact by developing solutions to pathogens that affect animal and human health—this also resonates with people interested in coming to work and train at VIDO. In addition, we partner with other world-class organizations, including the International Vaccine Institute (South Korea) and The Pirbright Institute (United Kingdom), to enhance training opportunities through talent exchange.

Q: What policies and best practices does VIDO use to recruit across Canada and internationally and retain a diverse workforce?

A: VIDO believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation, and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environment. Every phase of the recruitment process considers how to include

it is an area that is top of mind for its leadership. VIDO presently counts 184 staff and trainees, representing 34 countries.

The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce recently asked Jordan Hamel, VIDO’s director of human resources, a few questions. Here is what she had to say about VIDO’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion practices.

diversity initiatives and strategies. One of our core values is respect—we strive for inclusivity, exhibit respectful regard for all manners of diversity, and value the talents and beliefs of our clients, partners, and colleagues. VIDO holds regular all-staff meetings and social events and conducts employee engagement surveys to promote communication and drive organizational culture. People are the most valuable asset at VIDO. Our leaders are instrumental in creating a supportive, safe, and inclusive environment where our people can function at their highest potential to advance VIDO’s mission and achieve our strategic priorities. In 2023, VIDO launched a leadership development program for current and emerging leaders to support individuals in a people management role and to encourage the development of potential future leaders. In addition, VIDO offers regular wellness sessions to help support our team's wellness and personal development.

Importantly, VIDO has an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Advisory Committee that includes a range of VIDO representatives. This committee provides feedback and recommendations to our senior leadership team for improvements related to EDI. This includes fostering, promoting, and raising awareness of EDI within VIDO and assisting with creating and implementing EDI initiatives.

Q: What are some benefits of having a diverse workforce at VIDO?

A: VIDO believes EDI strengthens and enhances our team’s excellence, innovation, and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. Research shows that teams that include people from different backgrounds, genders, training, and experience generate more innovative ideas and solutions.

Q: VIDO employs a diverse workforce; is its supply chain as diverse?

A: As part of the University of Saskatchewan (USask), VIDO follows their procurement guidelines. USask aims to ensure that procurement activities are conducted using fair, open, and transparent processes. Procurement activities involve identifying and removing barriers to ensure that historically excluded groups, including Indigenous businesses, are given the opportunity to participate in procurement processes meaningfully.

In addition, USask has specific measures to address economic reconciliation with the Indigenous community. These are:

• Incorporating Indigenous business community benefit considerations into award criteria for major university contracts

• Providing education and training to members of the university community relating to this strategy, their involvement, and how they can contribute

• Continually monitor and report procurement activity with Indigenous businesses to the university's Senior Leadership every quarter and will publish a report annually

• Sourcing goods and services for Indigenous students or Indigenous purposes and initiatives from Indigenous suppliers

• Creating a directory of Indigenous businesses and will promote this directory to the campus community. USask also partners with the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business to enhance relationships with Indigenous business owners.

Q: Is there Anything else you’d like to add?

A: VIDO is committed to supporting trainees who represent the future of scientific discovery and innovation. In 2023, we had 97 trainees at VIDO in various positions, including summer students, honours students, intern/practicum students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows.

VIDO is home to some of the world's most advanced highcontainment research capacity. To strengthen Canada’s preparedness for emerging infectious diseases, we are expanding our capabilities as Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research. This includes:

• Opening the Vaccine Development Centre, a containment level 3 capable biomanufacturing facility that meets good manufacturing practice requirements—one of only a few in the world.

• Adding containment level 4 capacity that will allow us to work with any pathogen.

• Building a new animal facility capable of housing a more comprehensive range of animals that will expand our preclinical research and development capacity.

• Attracting new talent to expand our expertise and providing training opportunities to develop the next generation of scientists.

Jordan Hamel’s answers truly demonstrate why VIDO deserves to be top of mind, not only when we think of the infrastructure to conduct and support world-class research and vaccine development but also when we refer to diverse workplaces. Dr. Jenny Wachter, a research scientist at VIDO, supports Jordan’s remarks, saying, “I was drawn to the vision and mission of VIDO. I appreciate the collaborative approach to science and the emphasis placed on teamwork to create vaccines and therapeutics.”

Shaina Lynden Director Ryde YXE Cycle Studio

Stephanie Clovechok Director Discover Saskatoon

Louis Aussant Director aodbt architechture + interior design

Claire Marentette Director PCL Construction Management Inc.

Jessica Yachyshen Director Stantec Consulting Ltd.

Wanda Waldner Secretary National Bank of Canada

Tammy Sweeney Director TCU Place

Todd Antill Director Cameco

Trevor Jacek Director Mid-West Group of Companies

Joseph Gill First Vice-Chair McKercher LLP

Tanis Taylor Chair CCA Consulting

Colton Wiegers Past-Chair Wiegers Financial & Benefits

Joel Pedersen Second Vice-Chair Fitness 2J2