Rise Manitoba: A Smarter Workforce Strategy for Manitoba Employers

Description:

Across Manitoba, employers are facing ongoing hiring pressures, rising recruitment costs, and retention challenges. At the same time, many capable Manitobans remain outside the workforce, ready for the right opportunity.

Rise Manitoba, delivered by Staffmax in partnership with the Government of Manitoba and Northpine Foundation, is helping bridge that gap by connecting employers with motivated, job-ready talent while creating measurable social and economic impact.

Since launching in May 2025, the program has helped 232 Manitobans off of social assistance. With 139 employers across Winnipeg, the program achieved a 92% retention rate in Q1 2026. Today, 186 participants remain actively employed, with average annual earnings now exceeding $42,000.

Join Jake Gill, Program Manager – Rise Manitoba and Naomi Gichungu, Impact Director – Northpine Foundation for an executive discussion on how innovative organizations are strengthening retention, reducing hiring friction, and building sustainable talent pipelines through inclusive workforce strategies.
 
Attendees will hear:

• What is driving strong retention results in a challenging labour market
• How employers can reduce recruitment workload through outsourced sourcing, screening, and onboarding support
• Why quality, supported talent pipelines can outperform traditional hiring channels
• Lessons learned from partnerships with 139 Winnipeg employers
• How employment-focused social impact initiatives can create value for businesses, individuals, and Manitoba’s economy

Time:

11:30am - 12:15pm - Registration, Networking, & Lunch
12:15pm - 1:15pm - Presentation & Discussion

CPD hours:

1.75

Cost:

FREE (registration is required, space is limited)

About the Presenters:

Jake Gill Recruitment Professional, Staffmax Staffing & Recruiting Jake is a recruitment professional who has helped organizations across Canada, Australia, and the US hire top talent in healthcare, logistics, finance, and more. A graduate of the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) in Accounting and Finance, Jake pairs analytical expertise with years of hands-on hiring experience. He has been featured on CTV News and Global News sharing insights on the Canadian labour market and is passionate about helping job seekers navigate the modern hiring process with confidence and clarity.

Naomi Gichungu Director, Winnipeg Portfolio - The Northpine Foundation At Northpine, Naomi leads investments in Winnipeg that support individuals to transition out of social assistance through sustained employment. She also invests in supports for adult learners with childcare responsibilities to complete Grade 12, strengthen literacy and numeracy skills, and access meaningful employment. Her work is focused on improving long-term economic outcomes for individuals and families while strengthening community-based systems of support.

Event cancellation policy:

While this event is free for members, we would appreciate at least 2 days notice if you are unable to attend. Please email events@cphrmb.ca to notify of cancellation.