Our People

You will find that the residents of rural Manitoba are very welcoming and friendly.  Smaller communities like to help in any way they can. There are many community groups that work together in maintaining the amenities of each community. This includes the success of retaining immigrant families.  Everyone wants their community and its residents to be successful, healthy and safe. There is a wide range of culture in the area.  This makes it easy to find companionship and religious facilities.

Multiculturalism

• Manitoba including the Southwest region is very multicultural.  We have such diversity in our people that everyone has a place in our communities.  Your beliefs, religion and traditions will be accepted among your neighbours.  There are many organizations and churches throughout the area that will be sure to help you succeed in each community.  Click here to find out more about our province's multiculturalism.
  
• This Multicultural guide (PDF file download) will introduce you to Manitoba from the cultural aspect.  Here you will find information regarding greetings, language, social tips, values and much more!
  

Language

• Although Canada is diverse and has many languages, we are known as a bilingual country with two national languages English and French.
• Linguistic diversity is considered a valuable resource as it enhances ties with trading partners. Varied languages strengthen our shared multicultural heritage.  This multitude of language can be heard in German, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, Korean, Ukrainian, Arabic only naming a few. (info from Immigration Facts 2007)
• Even if you know the English language some words used in your home country may not be used in Canada. These may be everyday words that you use in work or in leisure time.  Certain tools, clothing, housing, furniture and others may have slightly different meanings or alternative words that are used. An example of this: in the United Kingdom the word football may be used where in Canada the word would be soccer.
• If you or a family members will require assistance with learning English there are many programs available to newly landed immigrants.

Religion

There are many religions that are activity participated in all over the province.  Most communities offer multiple sanctuaries for different religious beliefs.  If you are unable to find your place of worship you may be able to find a location within close proximity to your community.  You can look on the community websites to find out what each community has to offer as places of worship.  Some of the religions that are active in the Southwest are: Catholic, Protestant, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, and many more.