Multicultural centre holds grand opening
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 22/12/2023 (1001 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Westman Immigrant Services opened the doors of its multicultural centre at 403 13th St. on Thursday to herald unity and inclusivity in Brandon.
The grand opening marked a significant milestone in the provision of a dedicated space for cultural exchange and community building, and included the announcement of plans for a daycare facility within the premises.
WIS executive director Enver Naidoo told the Sun that the idea of the centre came from demands voiced by numerous multicultural groups over time, noting the necessity for a communal space fostering volunteer engagement and community gatherings.
Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett speaks during the grand opening of the Westman Immigrant Services Multicultural Centre at 403 13th St. on Thursday. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)
While acknowledging the availability of several excellent venues throughout Brandon, Naidoo said financial constraints hinder some communities from securing regular rental spaces. He also pointed out the challenge of city-run facilities often not aligning with the specific requirements of their programs or other entities seeking to broaden their activities.
“Over 20 per cent of Brandon’s population comprises immigrants, and this number is expected to rise in the coming years,” he said. “It’s crucial to establish infrastructure to support both current and future immigrants.”
Expanding on the centre’s vision, Naidoo revealed plans for a daycare facility to address the shortage in the area. “We are looking at developing a daycare utilizing the space because over 400 families are on the waiting list in the city for such a facility.”
Manitoba Westman regional outreach co-ordinator Jason Gobeil emphasized the community’s growth and the pivotal role of WIS in fostering unity.
“The programming implemented by WIS has been instrumental in bringing our community together over the past two decades,” he said. “The opening of this centre signifies an opportunity for growth, acceptance, and learning from each other.”
Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett commended the initiative, adding that it would not only enhance the sustainability of St. Matthew’s Cathedral, which is beside it and owns the property, but also significantly contribute to the welfare of diverse user groups within the community. “This establishment stands as a remarkable testament to collaborative efforts fostering inclusivity and communal support in Brandon,” he said.
The WIS Multicultural Centre, Naidoo said, stands as a beacon of cultural exchange and community cohesion, and a promising space for future initiatives, exemplifying a concerted effort to bridge gaps and foster inclusivity in Brandon.
» aodutola@brandonsun.com
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