Peter’s Your Independent Grocer Honored for Supporting Newcomers to Canada
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News Release Overview
Peter’s Your Independent Grocer (YIG) in Kelowna, British Columbia, has been acknowledged by the Canadian government for its commitment to helping newcomers. Through innovative hiring practices, the store helps newcomers feel at home and overcome employment challenges in Canada.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Ahmed Hussen praised Peter’s YIG for winning the 2017 Employer Awards for Newcomer Employment. This recognition highlights the store’s efforts in assisting newcomers to secure jobs and enhance their skills.
These awards, presented by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), honor businesses that excel in integrating newcomers into the Canadian labor market. The winners are celebrated at the Employer Council of Champions Summit, hosted by Hire Immigrants Ottawa, which brings together leaders to discuss effective immigrant integration.
Notable Quotes
“I am both grateful for and impressed by the leadership role that Peter’s YIG has played to support the successful settlement and integration of newcomers to Canada. Through its unique hiring and training practices, Peter’s YIG truly recognizes and breaks down the barriers that many newcomers experience when trying to find jobs, which makes a significant difference in the lives of newcomers to Canada.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Every day I feel happy to go to work. Opening my mind and doors to people of all backgrounds has allowed me to grow, my team to grow and our store to be known as a place of welcoming neighbours.”
– Peter Boyd, Store Owner, Peter’s Your Independent Grocer
Key Facts
- IRCC collaborates with Hire Immigrants Ottawa to honor businesses aiding newcomers’ integration into the workforce.
- Awards are based on nominations from service provider organizations.
- Peter’s YIG employs around 200 staff, with over 22% being immigrants, reflecting the community’s diversity.
Associated Links
Contact Information
For media inquiries:
Camielle Edwards
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
FAQ
What is the Employer Awards for Newcomer Employment?
The awards recognize businesses that excel in helping newcomers integrate into the Canadian labor market.
How does Peter’s YIG support newcomers?
Peter’s YIG employs inclusive hiring practices and provides training to help newcomers overcome employment barriers.
Who organizes the Employer Council of Champions Summit?
Hire Immigrants Ottawa hosts the summit to foster dialogue on immigrant integration and celebrate employer excellence.
For more information about newcomer employment, read our immigration guide.
