The Steinbach Chamber of Commerce and Eastman Immigrant Services welcomed Minister Malaya Marcelino to discuss immigration challenges and solutions for the growing community.
Chamber emphasizes collaboration
Tessa Masi, executive director at the Steinbach Chamber of Commerce, says direct engagement with provincial leaders is helping strengthen immigration support in the region.
“Minister Marcelino came out. She’s the Minister of Immigration and Labour and heard some of our concerns and spoke to what is happening behind the scenes with those concerns,” Masi says. “That is really helpful for us as we continue to move forward and serve newcomers in our community.”
Masi adds that having ministers visit Steinbach makes a difference in ensuring the region’s needs are recognized.
Regional needs often overlooked
While Steinbach continues to grow as a destination for newcomers, Masi says communities like Steinbach risk being overlooked when it comes to provincial priorities.
“Cities like us, because we’re self-sufficient and we’ve got great things going on, maybe they’re looking at us and saying they don’t need help. We don’t need to have them top of mind, but we are important,” she says.
Masi notes that seeing ministers take the time to meet with chamber representatives is a sign that Steinbach’s needs are being heard.
“When they say yes, we will come out and see you and spend time with you, it shows us that there is value here, shows us that they understand our value and also is encouraging them to look outside just the perimeter,” she says.
Looking ahead
The chamber has said it will continue to focus on collaboration and long-term solutions to help Steinbach attract and retain newcomers while supporting the local business community.