With what we’ve been seeing about residential schools, understanding and acknowledging the pain of Indigenous communities is more critical than ever. Manitoba 150 has announced partnerships to deliver Blanket Exercises for 50 acts of reconciliation. I talked with Sky Bridges, a board member of Manitoba 150, about how people can get involved and discuss diversity and reconciliation. Find out more here.  Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

It feels immoral to celebrate and have fireworks when a  majority of your neighbours are holding a funeral for 1,323 undocumented  First Nation's children, especially when the numbers of these horrific discoveries continue to climb rapidly. July 1, on Portage & Main at 1 pm, three individuals are inviting the Winnipeg community not to celebrate the country that tried to remove its Indigenous People but to join together for an Every Child Matters Walk. The mission is to increase awareness of what has and is happening to Indigenous communities and identify the children buried at residential schools, bringing them home, and giving a safe space for survivors. Their truths deserve to be amplified and validated after being silenced for so long. Find out more: https://fb.me/e/1CEYPjvKf

For those who don’t live there, Winnipeg Manitoba’s North End often has a rough reputation. However, For Tara Zajac, there’s no place she’d rather be. She knows her neighbours, those in the community care for their own, and she loves how the region almost feels like a small town. Tara is the Executive Director of North Point Douglas Women’s Centre and shares their work in the community and the amazing people living there.  Visit their website to donate to their Great Canadian Giving Challenge or contribute to the endowment fund. However, the best thing you can give is your time and volunteer. https://www.npdwc.org/ https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/north-point-douglas-womens-centre-inc/?sm=1 https://www.npdwc.org/endowment-fund.html Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Warning: This post contains details some readers may find distressing. Vivian Ketchum is a residential school survivor and has healed enough to share her story. With the news of the 751 discovery of 751 unmarked graves near a former Saskatchewan residential school, awareness of this institution needs to continue to ensure these stories are not forgotten. U Multicultural is sharing the stories of Indigenous people as a part of the "We Stand Together" initiative for residential schools awareness. If you are a residential school survivor, please, share your story and speak freely with us. Contact U Multicultural at [email protected]. For support or assistance, please contact The Indian Residential School Survivors Society toll-free 1 (800) 721-0066 or 24hr Crisis Line 1 (866) 925-4419.

Although COVID-19 has caused uncertainty about events and festivals, the International Reggae Afro Latin Music & Arts Festival has decided to transition to a virtual live performance instead of cancelling its event.  Created to be the catalyst to express the underrepresented talents on a professional platform, the entire event is an opportunity for people to unite. Here is CEO & Founder Neville Hamilton and musician Jayda Charisse to share about this incredible festival and the importance of highlighting culture in music. The IRAL Virtual Party takes place Saturday, July 10, 7:30 PM CST. https://www.iralfest.com/ https://www.jaydacharisse.com/ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

COVID-19 has been a drain on everyone’s mental health. But women are facing higher rates of mental health issues than men. Over the past year, there has been an increase in women in Manitoba reach out for support. On July 4 – July 11, 2021, the 9th annual Run for Women will be held as a virtual event. Rita Chahal and Eileen McDonald of Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba go in-depth about this shared movement supporting women’s mental health. http://www.mooddisordersmanitoba.ca/events/love-you-run/ https://www.runforwomen.ca/Cities/Winnipeg.aspx Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

An exciting project was released in English, French and Anishinaabe of animated vignettes that carry the lessons of the Seven Sacred Laws. U Multicultural talked with Elder Dr. David Courchene and Executive Producer of Kejic Productions Erica Daniels about this amazing project. Although this project was the vision of Dr. Courchene, it takes a creative mind to take that vision and visualize it into a reality. Erica Daniels walks us through her journey into media, telling Indigenous stories, and her involvement in creating the Seven Sacred Laws vignettes. https://www.youtube.com/user/TheTurtleLodgeCanada https://www.kejicproductions.com/ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

An exciting project was released in English, French and Anishinaabe of animated vignettes that carry the lessons of the Seven Sacred Laws.  U Multicultural talked with Elder Dr. David Courchene and Executive Producer of Kejic Productions Erica Daniels about this amazing project.  Dr. Courchene is a respected Elder who has devoted himself to learning the knowledge and traditions of Indigenous people. He says The true identity of the First Peoples is reflected in a foundation of laws and values we know as the Seven Sacred Laws.” https://www.turtlelodge.org/ https://www.youtube.com/user/TheTurtleLodgeCanada Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

On May 27, the First Nations community was shaken when the remains of  215 First Nations children were found in unmarked graves on what was once a residential school in Kamloops, B.C. Some of the children were as young as three years old. These are the voices of our First Nations pained by the loss, frustrated by systemic racism and oppression, and the stories of survivors who lived through horrific conditions at these schools. The news of these lost children pained Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Leading Earth Man), Elder Dr. David Courchene of The Turtle Lodge International Centre for Indigenous Education and Wellness in Sagkeeng First Nation. He now turns his thoughts to today's and tomorrow's children and asking what sort of world will we leave for them.  A helpline for residential school survivors can be reached at 1-866-925-4419.

On May 27, the First Nations community was shaken when the remains of   215 First Nations children were found in unmarked graves on what was once a residential school in Kamloops, B.C. Some of the children were as young as three years old. These are the voices of our First Nations pained by the loss,  frustrated by systemic racism and oppression, and the stories of survivors who lived through horrific conditions at these schools. Ray (Coco) Stevenson is a well-known traditional singer and drummer from Manitoba. Ray shared his thoughts and feeling upon hearing the news of the 215 children and the devastating effect Residential Schools had on survivors living in Winnipeg.  A helpline for residential school survivors can be reached at 1-866-925-4419.

On May 27, the First Nations community was shaken when the remains of  215 First Nations children were found in unmarked graves on what was once a residential school in Kamloops, B.C. Some of the children were as young as three years old. These are the voices of our First Nations pained by the loss, frustrated by systemic racism and oppression, and the stories of survivors who lived through horrific conditions at these schools. Gerry (Gramma) Shingoose is a residential school survivor attending Muscowequan Residential School from 1962 to 1971. Gramma Shingoose shares her thoughts on the 215 children found and her traumatic experiences, which were residential school. A helpline for residential school survivors can be reached at 1-866-925-4419.

On May 27, the First Nations community was shaken when the remains of  215 First Nations children were found in unmarked graves on what was once a residential school in Kamloops, B.C. Some of the children were as young as three years old. These are the voices of our First Nations pained by the loss, frustrated by systemic racism and oppression, and the stories of survivors who lived through horrific conditions at these schools. Since Sunday, May 30, Manitoba's First Nations members have been holding a four-day ceremony in front of Manitoba's Legislative building, honouring the lives of the 215 children who were found and honouring the survivors for their truths resiliency, and stories.  Organizer Alayh McIvor shares her thoughts and feelings on this haunting news. A helpline for residential school survivors can be reached at 1-866-925-4419.

Released May 2021. In our ever-changing world, we continue to see the impact humanity has had on our ecosystems, wildlife, and the planet. But there are things we can do to make a difference and reduce our carbon footprint. I had the opportunity to chat with Jessica Correa, CEO of Random Acts of Green. She shares how easy and fun it can be to live a more environmentally conscious lifestyle, build a green community, and having conversations around environmentalism. Wanting to learn more about Random Acts of Green? Visit their website and join their community to create change. https://raog.ca/ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Released May 2021. Finding a job can be a challenge, even more so during a pandemic. When you constantly look for a job but can't find anything, it can be incredibly disheartening. That's where Opportunities for Employment can help.  Lisandra Lopez is a Facilitator & Employment Consultant; at OFE. She took time out of her busy day to talk about how OFE can help job seekers and employers to create long-term, sustainable matches and grow Winnipeg's labour market. https://ofe.ca/ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Released May 2021. Several months ago, we talked with Sweta Rajan with Immigrant and International Women in Science Network, a non-for-profit group born out of similar but independent ideas from women who saw the need to provide support and mentorship for fellow immigrant and international women in the STEM fields. Since our initial conversation, the IWS network has hosted several events with plans for many more in the future. IWS Website: https://www.iwsnetwork.ca/ IWS May 2021 Event: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/bring-out-the-leader-in-you-iws-tickets-152049053813 IWS YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmyGrO5Pmd-k_E5CBfEq3GQ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Released May 2021. Dr. Joss Reimer, Medical lead and official spokesperson for Manitoba Government's COVID-19 vaccine taskforce and Medical Officer of Health for Manitoba Health and Seniors Care, spoke at an online town hall organized by The Newcomer Vaccine Awareness Working Group. She breaks down the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out and eligibility, debunks COVID-19 vaccination myths, and answers questions from various newcomers and newcomer organizations.  Call to make a vaccine appointment: 1-844-626-8222 Click to book an appointment online: https://protectmb.ca/making-your-appointment-is-easy/ COVID-19 resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QL_6Ioqs79b0B5N9Fw-GMyKik3QuN9TBx4TMds67CE8/edit#heading=h.2p71ugl7xy0u

Released May 2021. A Winnipeg organization is working with the community to show their love and support for Winnipeg's Nurses and front-line health care workers, who have experienced the trauma and pressure of caring for the sick during three waves of the virus.  Jennifer Chen, President of Women of Colour Community Leadership Initiative, shares about the week of community-driven events to salute our dedicated nurses and health care workers at Health Sciences Centre, Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) during Nursing Week. https://www.facebook.com/WCCLIManitoba Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Released May 2021. We can learn a lot from the past, take historical teachings and lessons, and apply them to modern life. Rena Sector Elbaze is the Director of Engagement and Education at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, the largest conservative synagogue in Winnipeg and potentially Western Canada. She looks over, helping people get involved in Synagogue life or lessons for those not connected to Judaism. Interested in learning more about Congregation Shaarey Zedek and taking part in some lessons, visit their website at https://www.szwinnipeg.ca/ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Released May 2021. What is music? What is it about sound waves played in a specific order, pitch, and tempo, that causes an emotional reaction in a person, and what is it that drives someone to pursue it as a career?  Marco Castillo is a Brazilian-Canadian musician and songwriter based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Entranced by music since he was a child, Marco has a passion for creating and performing and teaching.  http://www.marcocastillo.ca/ Intro and outro music: Mind Games -  Mathew Mcguire.

Released April 2021. The process of moving to a new country can be incredibly confusing. For those looking to come to Canada and are looking to move to a smaller city in the countryside, the Morden Immigration program can help. Known for its MPNP Skilled Worker Support Program, Morden Immigration has been recognized for its program. Shelly Voth is the Immigration Coordinator and walks us through the program and why moving to Morden is an excellent opportunity for newcomers.

Released April 2021. On March 27, A stop Asian Hate Rally took place here in Winnipeg. I spoke with Jennifer Chen and Ting Fang from the Women of Colour Community Leadership Initiative about the rally and the organization.  As a women’s organization, WCCLI  is a community where women of colour’s unique experiences, leadership, and contributions are valued and celebrated to empower women and create positive change. They oppose racism, sexism, and gender-based violence. Their goals are to foster and promote equality, opportunity, leadership, access to services, and inclusion through unique grassroots programs designed by women of colour and encourage civic engagement. https://www.facebook.com/WCCLIManitoba/ Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released April 2021. Festival du Voyageur is a highlight in the Manitoban winter. Although people couldn't attend in person and celebrate with others in large crowds, the festival did host online programming this year. Darrel Nadeau is Executive Director, which means he oversees the organization year-round and with ten full-time staff. I asked Darrel how this year's event went, French Canadian culture and what people can look forward to next year. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released April 2021. In Canada, we often hear politicians and individuals talking about reconciliation, but what does that really mean. According to RAVEN, a registered charity, reconciliation needs to recognize the land our indigenous nations have been living on for centuries and recognize their rights. Susan Smitten tells us more about RAVEN and their mission to raise funds for Indigenous People's access to justice. Want to check out RAVEN's funds, projects, and ongoing mission? https://raventrust.com/ Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released April 2021. Art has been an integral part of civilization since humanity's genesis share massive epics of heroes, capturing the essence of life around us or telling a story about our world or personal journey. However, if some don’t have access to the supplies or resources they need, we may never see the world’s next great prodigies. Art for Aid is a not-for-profit organization that does just that, put art supplies in the hands of those who have none. Colleen Gray is both an artist and the founder of Art For Aid. She discusses the importance of sending resources to remote schools in indigenous communities. https://www.artforaid.ca/ Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released April 2021. Secondary School can be a challenge, finding your work-life balance, staying focused on your studies. But it’s also an exciting experience, learning new things and meeting people from all over the world. Tolani is pursuing a STEM career and was recently elected as the International Student's representative for the upcoming school year at the University of Manitoba. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released April 2021. Moving to Canada can be an exciting experience, and there are numerous elements that one needs to learn when settling in their new home.  One thing people may not realize is essential when moving is water safety. Canada has many sources of open water, with some provinces experiencing severe flooding during spring.  Dr. Christopher Love is the Water Smart® & Safety Management Coordinator for Lifesaving Society Manitoba. Their mandate is to educate on safe water practices and reduce the number of fatal drownings.  Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released April 2021. Over the pandemic's duration, we've seen multiple human rights violations. Discrimination and racism have surfaced, but many communities have come together to stand against hatred. There was the Black Lives Matter movement after George Floyd's death, rallies have begun to stand against the increase of anti-Asian racism.  The Canadian Museum for Human Rights tells the stories of human tragedy and triumph, bringing the conversation of humanity's rights to the forefront.  Maureen Fitzhenry is the media relations person at the museum. We discuss how they dealt with COVID-19 restrictions and the importance of uniting communities and speaking out against injustice.  Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released March 2021. With the ongoing pandemic, we’ve seen an increase in racism and hate crimes against Asians. Since the onset of COVID-19 during 2019 and 2020, over 600 anti-Asian racism incidents were reported to the elimin8hate.org and covidracisim.ca.  On March 27, a Stop Asian Hate Rally took place in Winnipeg, Manitoba, organized by the Women of Colour Community Leadership Initiative Manitoba and Manitoba Chinese Family Centre. I spoke with Asian Heritage Society of Manitoba board member Jié Yang about the rally and the increase in anti-Asian racism.  Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released March 2021. Science, technology, and match are miraculous tools, and many who enter the field of STEM are driven to figure out how our universe works.  Lambert Wilson is a Research And Teaching Assistant at The University of Winnipeg and has studied in Ghana, Italy, and Canada. Lambert is a Strong professional with a Master's degree focused on Molecular Diagnostics and Biotechnology. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society.

Released March 2021. Schooling in different countries can have diverse experiences, with drastically different teaching principles. Studying in both Ghana and Canada, Gloria Makafui Dovoh has an in-depth perspective from both countries and has utilized that knowledge in her studies.  She is an Experienced Outreach Coordinator with a demonstrated history of working in the civic & social organization industry.  Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released March 2021. A little good added to the world can go a long way. Monika Feist has dedicated her life to helping others.  Monika’s life's passion and activities have been a recognized workforce development advocate and change leader for equity and employment access issues regarding immigrants, women, other abled individuals, indigenous peoples, and youth. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released March 2021. You don’t have to hide your background or culture to succeed, as they can be valuable tools in giving a new perspective and outlook on situations.   For the Manitoba New Democratic Party leader, Wab Kinew, his experiences and indigenous background are strengths.  Before his political career, Kinew was a writer, journalist and even dabbled in music. He feels incredibly blessed and honoured for his current role as the representative of Fort Rouge. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released March 2021. It is never a bad idea to diversify yourself through your passions, hobbies, or career.  Yevgeniya Tatarenko is one of those individuals who could be considered a jack of all trades, always excited to add another feather into her cap.  Starting a Ukrainian School in Morden, Manitoba, teaching fire dance, marketing, journalism, and history passions, Yevgeniya is always on the move.  Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released March 2021. Merchandise trade between Canada and Brazil totalled $7.7 billion in 2019.  With so much money involved, many work to establish the connections between businesses in Canada and Brazil. Paola Saad is one of those individuals. A member of the Brazilian community herself, Paola travels between her office in Toronto and Brazil to establish these partnerships and help government organizations along the way. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released March 2021. If you identify as part of the, LGBTQ+ community it can be incredibly nerve-wracking when expressing who you are to society. The decision to come out of the closet can be even more challenging if your coming out may not be accepted by your family or community. Pinoy Pride Vancouver is a Social and Support Group for the Filipino-Canadian LGBTQ+ community, their families, friends and supporters.  They work with a community steeped in traditional values towards understanding and acceptance. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released March. 2021. What is our purpose in life? For many, including myself, we go years without finding what we’re passionate about and what we wish to bring into the world.  For Alex Sangha, he knew he wanted to help others, either through social work, writing, or directing through Sher Films  Coming out later this year, Sher Films' Emergence, Out of the Shadows, explores the taboo topic of being gay and lesbian in the South Asian community of Metro Vancouver and abroad. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released February 2021. There’s a vast amount of information that one needs when immigrating to Canada. However, through all the information around banking, getting a job, a learning English, information on our indigenous population is light. That’s where Jamie Banias comes in. As the Indigenous Engagement Coordinator at Immigration Partnership Winnipeg, she and others work at improving knowledge and awareness of our indigenous peoples to newcomers. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

Released February 23, 2021 As technology develops the world is becoming more interconnected, and business is becoming increasingly international dependent. There is no better source to learn from those pursuing education in international business than Leslie Wilder, who has both the knowledge and experience. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 20 - Casimiro Nhussi." Released February 2021 Our culture is in everything we do. It influences our foods, music, and our dancing. Casimiro Nhussi embraces that principle but gives it a personal flair. Musician, choreographer, and artistic director of Nafro Dance Productions, Casimiro is heavily involved in art and has been since he was a young boy. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 19 - Sharan Tappia." Released February 2021 To recognize what women do in society and for each of us, each day was why Asian Women in Winnipeg was started. Sharan Tappia is one of the founding members. She shares a little about her life and how her experiences led her to help create the organization. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 18 - Keisha Paul." Released February 2021 International business is fascinating, working with others to overcome cultural and language barriers to achieve success. Keisha Paul seems to have figured out the code. Owner of Keisha R. Paul Consulting, and has worked in countries around the world. Keisha knows the value of formal education and practical experience. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 17 - Xavier Mutshipayi." Released February 2021 Xavier Nkunda Mutshipayi is a painter living in Winnipeg, Manitoba, who shares his journey moving from the Democratic Republic of Congo, his inspirations, and some of his secrets to finding success as an artist. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society,

 U Talk Ep 16 - "John Allan." Released January 2021 For new Canadians wanting to learn settlement skills or English, learning from home has many challenges, including a quiet space to focus or a lack of technology.  John Allan is a Trainer, educator, writer, presenter. A dedicated education specialist with diverse experience-driven to learn, teach and innovate. John touches on the shift to online learning during the pandemic and services for educators and students. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 15 - Ally Nazarie Gonzalo." Released January 2021 Representation in media is important. However, many people never get to see someone like themselves in movies, magazines, or on the Internet. When people of colour or other minority groups are showcased in media it’s often in the form of tokenism. Ally Nazarie Gonzalo, an immigrant from the Philippines and a member of the FillipnX community, wanted to change that through his photography. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 14 - Tatjana Brkic." Released January 2021 Tatjana Brkic has an impressive resume, say the least, Mentor HEC Paris, Consultant UNEP, Red River Applied Business Research & International Business Faculty, and Participant TEDx Active. She also helped create Square Metre for Peace, an inspirer and facilitator of a grassroots movement working together for positive peace locally, nationally and internationally. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 13 - Taiwo Luro." Released January 2021 Taiwo Luro is a massive proprietor of technology and believes if you don't get on board with it, you'll fall behind. A Career Consultant/E-Learning Specialist, Taiwo has applied his personal and professional experiences to help newcomers find and succeed in their careers. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 12 - Kelly Bado." Released January 2021 Music has always been a part of bilingual singer-songwriter Kelly Bado's life. She combines her African heritage, la chanson française, and American gospel to create a unique sound. Coming from West Africa, she never expected her style would come across as enjoyable here in Canada. Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society

"U Talk Ep 11 - Andrew Unger." Released December 2020 What is a Mennonite? Andrew Unger is the creator of The Daily Bonnet, a satirical website that breaks down Mennonite culture and life. He recently had a book published, called “Once removed, a humorous book about Mennonites which explores the real costs of "progress." Andrew shares The Plautdietsch Code: Knacking the Mystery of Mennonites. (A little bit of Mennonite wordplay.) Music: Sergey Borovkov - Space Battlestar Galaxy by Tunguska Electronic Music Society