Q & A Saskatchewan
Conversation with Anique Therrien
Conseil économique et coopératif de la Saskatchewan is the host of the Connector Program in Regina and Saskatoon, as well as rural areas of Saskatchewan. They support the economic development and growth of the Fransaskois (Francophone Saskatchewan) community by promoting partnerships, networks, and cooperatives. The Connector Program works with both French and English speaking Connectees and Connectors, benefitting the newcomer and graduate population in Saskatchewan. Anique Therrien, Coordinator of the Connector Program spoke with us about her experiences with the National Connector Program.
Alida:
As an economic development organization, you strive to support the growth of your community – how does the Connector Program fit into this mission?
Anique:
The overall goal of CECS is the economic development of the province. It’s a no-brainer that this includes integrating newcomers and their perspectives and ideas to the province to help improve what we already do well. For CECS, the Connector Program offers a different way to connect with employers. Sometimes, when we reach out to employers, it is to get our clients jobs, but the Connector program enriches the relationship we can have with them and with professionals in the community, as we are offering a chance to meet great talent with no expectations.
Alida:
The organization serves the Francophone community in Saskatchewan, but the Connector Program focuses on all newcomers. How are you seeing this program impact the community as a whole?
Anique:
It helps people establish themselves in a community and build a life. To see someone who has chosen to come to Saskatchewan and build a life they are proud of, who can have a family here, and who can contribute to their community, there’s no downside to that. When people can get involved in a community on a personal and professional level, that’s a game changer for the community. We are just beginning to see the benefits of a community where people can come together and really see, appreciate, and understand the differences between its members, and know it makes the community stronger.
Alida:
Anique, you do this work every day, and see the benefits in the community. What does the Connector program mean to you personally?
Anique:
I grew up in a family focused on giving back to community in your personal and professional life. When I made the decision to get an education in business, I knew the end goal was to work in a non-profit so I could dedicate my career to helping better my community. When I saw the opportunity to get involved with the Connector Program, it just felt right. It presented itself as a challenge for me to broaden my horizons, as well as a privilege to help people build a life in a community that I love. What we do really well is pride in our community, and I can help newcomers call this place home too. I don’t want to be anywhere else in my professional life.
Alida:
Thank you for sharing that – We’re so happy you are a part of the program too, thanks for taking the time to speak to us today, to share how the Connector Program is impacting the province of Saskatchewan!
