The Government of Canada has singled out an Altona-based company for its work with newcomers. 

Since 2001, Friesens has participated in 5 recruitment mission trips to places like Germany and the Philippines. File photo

Nominated by Regional Connections, Friesens Corporation is one of three businesses in the country to be recognized, snagging the 2019 Employer Award for Newcomer Employment in the medium-sized business category. 

A government release noted the book manufacturer for its exemplary work in helping newcomers to Canada find and retain jobs, and enhancing their employment skills by offering on-the-job skills and language training.

For more than 15 years, Friesens Corp. has also co-funded English at Work in partnership with Regional Connections to provide on-the-job English training for newcomer employees.

"We are especially honoured to receive this award as it reflects the importance we place on developing great people," said Chad Friesen, CEO of Friesens Corporation.

In his statement, Friesen added that as a large employer located in a small rural community with near-0% unemployment, Friesens' newcomer employment strategy is critical to company success. 

"Given our location, we are not only involved in recruitment and onboarding, but also in community integration initiatives related to housing, education, banking, grocery and transportation. These efforts are led by a dedicated human resources team that shows great care for each individual as they pursue success both in the workplace and the community."

Friesen added all of this work is made possible through partners like the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, Regional Connections Immigration Services, Opportunities for Improvement, and many other local services. "We are thankful for these partners," he said. 

Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said he is impressed by the initiative that Friesens has taken to ensure that its newcomer employees feel welcome and have the supports they need to integrate into their life in Canada. 

"Their training programs, coupled with initiatives like working with a local financial institution to develop a mortgage program for newcomer employees, help people make connections in their local community, which is so critical to the integration journey," he added. 

According to the government release, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada collaborates with Hire Immigrants Ottawa annually to recognize local businesses' innovative efforts to improve the integration of newcomers into the labour market across Canada. 

Award winners were announced at the 2019 Employer Council of Champions Summit and Awards, organized by Hire Immigrants Ottawa.

 

Related Article:

Altona Company Looking To The Philippines To Grow Company

Altona Manufacturer Enjoying Relationship With Manitoba Nominee Program