The Regina & District Chamber of Commerce gathered April 4, 2025 for the 26th Annual Paragon Awards, an event that honours Regina’s most outstanding businesses.
This year, COR was honoured to be recognized with the Paragon Award for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion – a testament to our commitment to creating a more equitable and welcoming community, both within and beyond our organization.
“The Paragon Awards shine a spotlight on the businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals who have gone above and beyond to make Regina and our surrounding district a vibrant, dynamic, and thriving place to live and work,” said Mike Tate, CEO of the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce.
Awards were presented in eight categories:
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR
Presented by Conexus Credit Union
Winner: Nathan Silljer, Edco Plumbing & Heating
COMMUNITY ALLIANCE
Presented by Scotiabank
Winner: Hospitals of Regina Foundation Cardiac Care
(Cardiac Care Campaign in partnership with Municipal Hail Insurance)
CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE
Presented by Regina Airport Authority
Winner: Hotel Saskatchewan
MARKETING & PROMOTIONAL ACHIEVEMENT
Presented by Saskatchewan Blue Cross
Winner: Canadian Western Agribition
DIVERSITY, EQUALITY & INCLUSION
Presented by Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Winner: Creative Options Regina
ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE
Presented by the City of Regina
Winner: Green Smart Windowns, Doors & Blinds
NEW BUSINESS VENTURE
Presented by WorkSafe Saskatchewan
Winner: Skyline Distillery
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Presented by flexnetworks
Winner: Harvard Western Insurance
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/DSC03053-scaled.jpg14842560Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2025-04-05 10:00:192025-05-11 12:49:08Recipient of the Regina Chamber Paragon Award for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
With job security and a stable economy, Saskatchewan employers offer more than just peace of mind: ‘Saskatchewan’s Top Employers’ for 2025 are announced.
REGINA, February 4, 2025 – With a strong economy that’s resilient in the face of economic headwinds, Saskatchewan has long been an attractive place to work and live. Employers in the province are raising the bar by providing employees with better family-friendly benefits and skills upgrading that will help them succeed as technology advances rapidly. The best of these
initiatives were recognized this morning as Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2025) was announced by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada’s Top 100 Employers project.
“Economies that go through dramatic boom and bust cycles are usually the ones we read about in the news, but it’s places like Saskatchewan — with its reliable and steady economic growth — that provides true peace of mind to employees,” says Richard Yerema, executive editor at the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. “Employees value the security that comes with being able to count on a reliable employer and feeling confident that your livelihood — and the life you’ve built for your family — is secure.”
The employers chosen as this year’s Saskatchewan’s Top Employers distinguish themselves with strong support for family-friendly benefits, as well as ensuring their employees receive the training and development they need to succeed. From tuition subsidies to in-house skills improvement programs, this year’s winners understand that a skilled workforce is essential as
technology advances at an ever-faster rate.
“Economic stability and a long history of steady growth: that’s the story of Saskatchewan,” adds Yerema. “People attracted to the province’s affordability and high standard of living, while building a career at an employer that cares about their family and future. The employers on this year’s list know that job security means income security, where employees can have confidence that the resources they depend upon, and the things they’ve earned through hard work, won’t be taken from them by a sudden economic downturn.”
Now in its 20th year, Saskatchewan’s Top Employers is a special designation that recognizes the employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Editors at Mediacorp review employers on eight criteria, which have remained consistent since the project’s inception:
(1) Workplace; (2) Work Atmosphere & Social; (3) Health, Financial & Family Benefits; (4) Vacation & Time Off; (5) Employee Communications; (6) Performance Management; (7) Training & Skills Development; and (8) Community Involvement. The editors publish detailed ‘reasons for selection’ explaining why the winners were chosen, providing transparency in the selection of winners and a catalogue of best practices for employers and job-seekers alike. The competition is open to any employer, private or public sector, with its head office or principal place of business in Saskatchewan.
Founded in 1992, Mediacorp Canada Inc. is the nation’s largest publisher of employment periodicals. Since 1999, the Toronto-based publisher has managed the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project, which includes 19 regional and special-interest editorial competitions that reach millions of Canadians annually through a variety of magazine and newspaper partners, including The Globe and Mail. Mediacorp also operates Eluta.ca, one of Canada’s largest job search engines, used by millions of job-seekers annually to find new job postings and discover what the nation’s best employers are offering.
The full list of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2025) was announced today in a special magazine published online in the Regina Leader-Post and Saskatoon StarPhoenix, as well as on Eluta.ca. Detailed ‘reasons for selection’ for each of this year’s winners, including dozens of stories and photos about their initiatives, were released today by the editors and are accessible via the competition homepage.
Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority / SIGA, Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation, Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board, Regina
Saskatoon, City of, Saskatoon
SaskEnergy Incorporated, Regina
SaskPower, Regina
SaskTel, Regina
Synergy Credit Union Ltd., Lloydminster
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
Vaderstad Industries Inc., Langbank
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025TopEmployer_SocialPost_FB-e1737337618586.png10582500Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2025-02-04 16:00:372025-02-04 19:21:18Proud to be Recognized as a Saskatchewan Top Employer (2025) for an 8th Year!
COR is proud to be named a 2024 Canada’s Healthy Workplace Month Great Employer, by Excellence Canada.
In a letter from Sean Slater, President, Excellence Canada, COR was commended for our efforts to nurture a physically and psychologically safe workplace:
Congratulations on prioritizing the vital work of nurturing a physically and psychologically safe and healthy workplace and for the commendable actions you are taking as an employer to achieve it. Our adjudication team was impressed with your work in the following key areas of focus:
Physical Health
Mental Health
Social Health
Community
Excerpt from Excellence Canada’s Official Announcement:
We’re excited to celebrate this year’s amazing organizations that have gone the extra mile to make their workplaces healthy, safe, and welcoming for everyone. These award winners have shown real leadership in creating environments where both physical and mental well-being are top priorities. Their efforts stand out accross the four pillars of workplace wellness, and it’s inspiring to see how they’re making a difference for their teams everyday.
Kudos to all the recipients– you’re setting an awesome example for workplaces across Canada!
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Great-Employer2024_social_Facebook-LinkedIn.png13132500Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-12-04 09:00:172025-01-22 16:16:28Recognized by Excellence Canada as a Healthy Workplace Month Great Employer
The Canadian Positive Psychology Association (CPPA) and Workplace Strategies for Mental Health with Mary Ann Baynton are thrilled to announce the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Awards winners.
This award program recognizes and celebrates outstanding achievements in Canadian organizations that strengthen workplace well-being, employee mental health and psychological safety. The CPPA encourages organizations to integrate the principles and evidence-based practices of positive psychology into their HR strategy to support employee engagement, employee satisfaction and retention.
“The judging panel of ten experts in positive psychology and well-being were extremely impressed with the innovative programs, resources and support networks created by the 2024 winning organizations to foster employee mental health, well-being and sense of belonging”, says Louisa Jewell, President and Founder of the Canadian Positivity Association. “What is striking is the deep level of commitment to support employees to feel heard and understood when it comes to their well-being at work”, Jewell adds.
Some key patterns emerged amongst the winning organizations. Here are a few standouts:
They take a strategic approach where well-being and psychological safety is part of their organizational HR Strategy;
They invest in providing supports, enhanced mental health benefits and resources to help employees proactively manage their psychological health; and
They are intentional about creating a culture where there is trust, and employees feel heard, cared for, valued, and have a sense of belonging.
Here are the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Winners: (CWWA Awards)
Nonprofit/Charity Sector
Canuck Place Children’s Hospice (Vancouver, BC)
Creative Options Regina (Regina, SK)
Kids Help Phone (Toronto, ON)
Small Private/Public Sector
Sklar Wilton and Associates (Toronto, ON)
Large Private/Public Sector
Best Buy (Vancouver, BC)
First West Credit Union (Langley, BC)
Metrolinx (Toronto, ON)
TransLink (Vancouver, BC)
The panel of expert judges for the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Awards included:
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CWWA-Winner-e1737334743374.png10381290Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-11-20 18:00:592025-01-19 19:06:55Recipient of the 2024 Canadian Workplace Well-Being Award
On April 18, 2024, COR received Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures Award – Broader Public Sector (2023) at an event held in Toronto. Award winners were recognized in five categories including: Enterprise, Mid-Market, Growth, Emerging, and the Non-Profit and Broader Public Sector.
COR is honoured to have received this award and for the recognition of our vibrant, nurturing culture. From our experience, embracing a Culture of Gentleness will support an organization to reach new levels of performance — driving human, organizational, societal, and economic successes that exceed even your own expectations! A sincere thank you to our entire COR family — people supported, employees, families, partners, stakeholders, and volunteer board of directors! Thank you for having the courage to care.
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-10-21-at-3.44.10 PM.png18263678Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-04-19 11:00:462024-10-21 15:46:13Proud Recipient of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures – Broader Public Sector Award (2023)
We are incredibly proud to have received our HSLC Level 4 Certification, a national standard for health and safety leadership! A HUGE thank you to Service Hospitality for their guidance throughout this journey. We are incredibly grateful for your support in strengthening our safety management system!
Read the below article published by Service Hospitality:
Crossing the Finish Line by Achieving HSLC Levels 3 & 4!
It is with great pleasure that we announce Creative Options Regina’s remarkable achievement inHSLC Levels 3 and 4! It is no small feat to achieve one HSLC level, and this organization completed two levels simultaneously—talk about something to celebrate!
Through determination, dedication, and wholehearted commitment, Creative Options Regina successfully completed a Health and Safety Scored Audit and established a comprehensive Health and Safety Management System. This system protects workers from physical and psychological hazards. Safety is not just a part of their organization; it is ingrained in their business operations.
Creative Options Regina leads by example in championing psychological health and safety, seamlessly embedding these values into its organizational culture. Understanding the direct link between employee well-being and the quality of care it provides, CEO Michael Lavis has placed a strong emphasis on promoting the health and wellness of its employees.
Service Hospitality is proud to have contributed to enhancing Creative Options Regina’s Safety Management System. We look forward to supporting their continued growth and retaining all levels of HSLC going forward.
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/HSLC.jpeg9601280Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-04-18 11:00:052024-06-25 10:38:36COR Receives HSLC Level 4 Certification – A National Standard For Health and Safety
COR team leader MacKenzie, together with the young man she supports. PHOTO BY CREATIVE OPTIONS REGINA
When Amanda Clarke joined Creative Options Regina (COR) to take on the new role of director of people and culture in 2019, she knew there was something special about the organization. “I discovered I can go to work, have fun, and know at the end of the day know that I am working on something more meaningful,” says Clarke, who is now chief culture officer. COR is a winner in the Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures Awards’ Non-Profit and Broader Public Sector category.
Launched in Regina in 2009, COR serves a distinct role in the non-profit sector. It develops personalized support services for people experiencing disability. Rather than running group homes or placing individuals into programs, COR supports people living in their own homes, where they can discover their own talents and interests, live according to their own values, and strive to reach their personal goals.
What stood out for Clarke from the outset is the culture, she says. “The biggest change for me is the support of the people we work alongside day to day. That makes a huge difference in today’s workplace. While I am not on the front lines, our culture is also about serving our employees, bringing people together in a meaningful way, and building future leaders.”
Since its inception, the organization has embraced the philosophy of gentle teaching as an alternative approach to supporting people with disabilities. This culture of gentleness — which focuses on nurturing, teaching and sustaining the experience of connectedness, companionship and community — is woven into all aspects of the organization, from the people it hires and mentors, to the people supported and their family members.
“Gentle teaching is not just for the people we support, but for everybody,” says Clarke. “At the heart of it all is the connections with people. Our team is making a difference for each other and the lives of the people we support. That’s why we are all very passionate about what we do.”
COR also prides itself on its diversity. Currently, its employees represent upwards of 50 nationalities, many of whom recommend friends and family members to apply. “We have never had to advertise a position,” says Casey Sakires, employee experience advisor. “Our hires have all been by word of mouth. In fact, COR has never posted a frontline caregiver position. In the past year alone, we have received more that 450 applications.”
Diversity is recognized and nurtured in the form of panel discussions, special luncheons and celebrations of festivals near and dear to employees, such as Ramadan, Diwali and Indigenous rituals. As Dhwani Purohit, a team leader, noted, “I was never able to share or experience Diwali in Canada. The way COR has celebrated Diwali — including support with lights, decorations, food and, most amazingly, all the guests participating in traditional dance from my (Gujarat side Garba) — was an experience which I would never be able to share without COR.”
“The events highlighting people’s journeys are eye-opening and educational for everyone,” notes Clarke. “We can see the joy in them being able to share their stories with an audience. It’s the culture that makes it possible. Hiring for fit is integral to sustaining COR’s culture, says Sakires. “A culture that makes people feel safe is so important in building relationships.”Understanding individual personal values and how they align with COR’s values is the primary focus of the first interview, he explains. “We are looking for that value set — in essence people who want to make a difference in someone’s life and be that consistent person for the people we support and serve. Most of the people we do hire don’t have care experience but do have the heart and the values that make COR a success.”
Every new hire’s journey starts with 30 hours of shadowing and up to three months of mandatory training in the fundamentals of gentle teaching, working with people with complex health needs, and learning about critical areas such as mental health support and suicide prevention.
Within the first three months, employees also participate in a full-day orientation led by the CEO and COO to deepen their understanding of the history of COR, and the culture in which it embraces. During onboarding, employees are registered for training programs emphasizing health and safety, including mental health, stress management and coping skills. COR’s train-the-trainer approach delivers over 20 nationally recognized trainings offered in-house to all employees on paid time. COR also offers incentives throughout the year, from bonuses and swag to personalized notes and appreciation days.
In 2023, the organization launched the COR Academy, an initiative that focuses on COR’s renewed vision to influence care more broadly. Through the COR Academy, training and development programs are offered to the broader community, alongside COR employees. The initiative also focuses on individual and organizational mentorship, offering both internal and external mentorship from experienced leaders. “People feel valued when we invest in developing their potential,” says Clarke.
“We are just at the initial stage of developing the academy,” she adds. “There is a lot of potential to reach a lot of people doing a lot of great things. We have an opportunity to influence others in a different way of thinking about care.”
Another critical element of its culture is the health and wellness support. “Psychological support in our field is important,” says Clarke. “Because caregiving is an emotionally demanding role, sometimes they may need to reduce hours or have additional access to mental health resources. We understand that if we treat our caregivers well, we know the people we serve will be well cared for.”
The numbers tell a compelling story. COR’s yearly annual turnover rate has remained between four and 10 per cent since its inception — an impressive feat considering the average for the sector exceeds 35 per cent annually.
COR is also a consistent presence in the community at large. “A great deal of the team’s efforts are spent connecting with community,” says Sakires. He stresses that all charitable programs are employee-driven and based on interest, which drives strong participation and engagement. In the past year alone, COR employees have supported over 20 different non-profit/community organizations.
Community relationships include COR’s 4to40 inclusive employment initiative that works with businesses to champion the inclusion of people experiencing intellectual disability, a joint venture with the University of Regina in supporting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB) strategies of fellow Saskatchewan businesses.
In 2020, COR launched a “Short Breaks” initiative with Inclusion Regina and the City of Regina to address the need for quality programming in a safe, supportive environment for family care providers. The organization also partners with Indigenous educational programs, band offices and cultural groups. In 2021, COR developed an Indigenous culture advisor position, and all employees are enrolled in both Indigenous awareness and diversity training.
“All of these efforts strengthen our diversity and enrich our community connections,” says Sakires. Tara Osipoff, vice chair of the Creative Options Regina board, notes “I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact of the gentle teaching practice at COR. It’s a practice that illuminates the culture with compassion and understanding, fostering an environment where both the people we serve and our dedicated employees feel valued, respected and loved. This nurturing atmosphere not only supports growth and healing but also empowers everyone involved to reach their full potential. It’s truly heartwarming to see the difference the gentle teaching philosophy makes through kindness and patience, reinforcing our belief that caring for one another with gentleness is the most powerful tool we have.”
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/National-Post-1.png5511140Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-04-15 12:00:272024-06-07 21:21:33National Post: Championing a gentle approach to culture
The Regina & District Chamber of Commerce (RDCC) marked an important milestone on April 12, 2024 with the 25th Annual Paragon Awards, a celebration of Regina’s most outstanding businesses.
“For the past 25 years the Chamber has recognized exceptional members in our business community and this year’s winners are prime examples of local leaders and innovators who have displayed determination and impressive character in challenging economic times,” said Tony Playter, CEO of the Regina & District Chamber of Commerce.
COR proud to be named a Finalist in the Diversity and Inclusion category.
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/2024ParagonFinal_Social_LI-e1717820553621.png6281200Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-04-13 09:00:282024-06-07 23:12:13Proud to be named a Finalist in the 2024 Paragon Awards: Diversity and Inclusion
Big city benefits, an affordable cost of living and time for life beyond the workplace: ‘Saskatchewan’s Top Employers’ for 2024 are announced
REGINA, March 12, 2024 – With its young and dynamic workforce, affordable cost of living and strong economy, Saskatchewan is increasingly identified as an ideal place to build a career with a healthy work-life balance. Employers in the province are responding by taking notice of the leading workplace initiatives and benefits from across the country to entice more people to province’s attractive labour market. The best of these stories were recognized today as Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2024) were announced by Mediacorp Canada Inc., organizers of the annual Canada’s Top 100 Employers project.
“Saskatchewan has seen a steady increase in new residents, who are attracted to an affordable place where they can put down roots and improve their quality of life,” says Richard Yerema, executive editor at the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project. “Increasingly, your workplace is not limited by geography and Saskatchewan offers the perfect middle ground – literally and figuratively – between both ends of the country. It’s no surprise that people from across the country have identified Saskatchewan as an ideal place to have a satisfying career with a high quality of life.”
Saskatchewan is renowned for offering residents a healthy work-life balance, while providing the advantages of a growing economy. Employers in Saskatchewan have taken notice of the benefits and workplace programs offered elsewhere in Canada to ensure they are competitive nationally. This combination of top-notch benefits and workplace programs along with enviable lifestyle options beyond the workplace has helped this year’s winners attract and retain the talented employees they need to thrive.
“Feeling connected to others and experiencing a true sense of community is a huge part of the draw for Saskatchewan,” adds Yerema. “So many Canadians are searching for a place to live that’s affordable, while still offering the ability to build a fulfilling life outside the workplace. Winning employers in Saskatchewan understand these challenges and are focused on helping their employees achieve those dreams.”
Now in its 19th year, Saskatchewan’s Top Employers is a special designation that recognizes Saskatchewan employers that lead their industries in offering exceptional places to work. Editors at Mediacorp review employers on eight criteria, which have remained consistent since the2 project’s inception: (1) Workplace; (2) Work Atmosphere & Social; (3) Health, Financial & Family Benefits; (4) Vacation & Time Off; (5) Employee Communications; (6) Performance Management; (7) Training & Skills Development; and (8) Community Involvement. The editors publish detailed ‘reasons for selection’ for these criteria, providing transparency in the selection of winners and a catalogue of best practices for employers and job-seekers alike. The competition is open to any employer with its head office or principal place of business located within the province of Saskatchewan.
Founded in 1992, Mediacorp Canada Inc. is the nation’s largest publisher of employment periodicals. Since 1999, the Toronto-based publisher has managed the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project, which includes 19 regional and special-interest editorial competitions that reach millions of Canadians annually through a variety of magazine and newspaper partners, including The Globe and Mail. Mediacorp also operates Eluta.ca, one of Canada’s largest job search engines, used by millions of job-seekers annually to find new job postings and discover what the nation’s best employers are offering.
The full list of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2024) was announced today in a special magazine co-published with the Saskatoon StarPhoenix and the Regina-Leader Post. Detailed ‘reasons for selection’ for each of this year’s winners, as well as stories and photos about their initiatives, were released today by the editors and are accessible via the competition homepage.
Saskatchewan’s Top Employers 2024 Winners
3sHealth / Health Shared Services Saskatchewan, Regina
Access Communications Co-operative Ltd., Regina
Andgo Systems, Saskatoon
Bourgault Industries Ltd., St. Brieux
Canpotex Limited, Saskatoon
Cornerstone Credit Union Financial Group Ltd., Yorkton
Creative Options Regina, Inc., Regina
eHealth Saskatchewan, Regina
First Nations Bank of Canada, Saskatoon3
Group Medical Services / GMS Insurance Inc., Regina
Information Services Corporation / ISC, Regina
ISM, Regina
Lakefield LLP, Saskatoon
Legal Aid Saskatchewan, Saskatoon
MLT Aikins LLP, Regina
Nutrien Ltd., Saskatoon
Ranch Ehrlo Society, Regina
Saskatchewan Apprenticeshipand Trade Certification Commission, Regina
Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority / SIGA, Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation, Saskatoon
Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board, Regina
Saskatoon Police Service, Saskatoon
SaskEnergy Incorporated, Regina
SaskPower, Regina
SaskTel, Regina
Synergy Credit Union Ltd., Lloydminster
Vendasta Technologies Inc., Saskatoon
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/2024SKTopEmployer_BannerAds-e1711930950901.png356950Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-03-12 11:00:252024-03-31 18:38:48COR recognized as one of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers (2024)
Michael Madugba is from a family of five from the eastern part of Nigeria. Nigeria is an African country on the Gulf of Guinea well known for its many natural landmarks and wildlife reserves.
Michael shared that his parents prioritized education while they were growing up (because of their teaching and banking background). Following his first degree in Public Administration, he pursued a diploma course in Health and Social Care in the United Kingdom. During his practicum, Michael developed a keen interest in supporting vulnerable adults. He engaged in hands-on work with individuals with learning disabilities and dedicated his time as a volunteer mentor for those struggling with drug addiction. On his return to Nigeria, he worked with the government as a legislative aide before deciding to pursue a post-graduate degree with the University of Saskatchewan (UofS). His interest to come and pursue his education in Canada was greatly influenced by his friends and cousins who were already in Canada.
Michael shared that he arrived in Canada with a study permit, and upon completing his studies, he successfully applied for and received an open work permit. The application process for the study and work permit went smoothly. However, the application for the immigration of his family didn’t happen as smoothly as his. There was a significant delay in the visa processing for his family when they applied to join him in Canada.
Since moving to Canada, Michael shared that he has fostered meaningful relationships that have influenced his life. “I even have an adopted family in Saskatoon. My journey has been marked by memorable and positive encounters, contrary to the common fear of racism that newcomers face,” said Michael.
While attending the University of Saskatchewan, Michael developed a passion for working with vulnerable adults which prompted him to assume a part-time support worker position with Saskatchewan Alternative Initiative (SAI). Later that year, when he had to move from Saskatoon to Regina for a Co-op assignment with a government agency, SAI recommended him for a support role with COR, as both organizations share the same support philosophy of Gentle Teaching.
Following the conclusion of his co-op posting, Michael accepted a term position with the Government of Saskatchewan as a policy advisor. Despite his new responsibilities, he remains devoted to actively contributing to his team’s effort of fostering a wholesome, safe, and loving environment for the poeple he supports. “My interactions with the individuals, fellow team members, and the COR family have been incredibly positive,” mentioned Michael.
Asked about cultural shock in his country of adoption, Michael shared that a notable observation of him was the widespread popularity of camping in the country. It often surprises his Canadian friends that he has never gone camping before. “My adventurous and open-minded nature played a crucial role in my ability to adapt and integrate successfully. Additionally, my extensive international travel experience has fostered a genuine enthusiasm for meeting people, embracing diverse cultures, and understanding various perspectives” shared Michael.
Michael’s integration to life in Canada wasn’t challenging for him, as he had a comprehensive understanding of what to expect upon arrival. Prior to coming to Canada, his cousins and childhood friend shared their daily life experiences with him. Further, he completed an online course on Canadian people and culture, gaining valuable insights. “I was well-prepared for the weather, understanding that -35°C could be exceptionally cold, and I made sure to dress for the weather” shared Michael. However, the one unexpected piece of information he learned about Canada was the extent of the drug addiction challenges Canada faces, and this was a shock for him, considering Canada is a developed country with a high quality of life.
“After residing in Canada for three years, my expectations have been met and even exceeded. If given the opportunity to go back in time, would I choose Canada once more? Absolutely, YES!” said Michael. “My role as a Key Support Worker has evolved into an integral aspect of my daily life, as I consistently apply the principles of Gentle Teaching in my daily interactions and relationships. I would recommend COR to anyone, especially newcomers that are passionate about human services. Beyond the support you provide, the organization is dedicated to the well-being and personal development of its team members,” shared Michael.
Thank you, Michael, for choosing COR, we are grateful to have you as an integral part of our family and we are grateful for your contribution.
Written by Joana Valamootoo
https://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Michael-Madugba.jpg13501350Michaelhttps://creativeoptionsregina.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/COR-LOGO-2021-1030x515.pngMichael2024-02-21 09:00:452024-01-29 18:40:32COR Stories: Michael Madugba’s journey to Canada and COR