For the third consecutive year, Westoba, a division of Assiniboine Credit Union (WCU) has been named a Top Manitoba employer by the editors of Canada’s Top Employers. In choosing recipients, Canada’s Top Employers evaluate companies’ physical workplaces, atmosphere, health and other benefits, time off, employee communications, professional development and community involvement. Here’s why the judges selected Westoba. A feature article on the award and Westoba appears in today’s online edition of the Winnipeg Free Press. In the article, two Westoba employees describe why they chose to work for Westoba and how Westoba knows how to keep and care for its people. Manager of virtual services and Employee of the Year in 2024, Danielle Kenler said coaching, mentoring and internal training helped advance her career. “My dad was a Westoba member, and when I was a kid, I used to go with him when he did his banking,” said Kenler. Starting as a Member Services Representative, Kenler set her goals and achieved them quickly. “I wanted to be a financial consultant, and I was promoted within six months. ” Elizabeth Modersohn, chief information and culture officer joined Westoba in 2017, as director of the project management office and continuous improvement. Like Kenler, she has benefited from mentorship and training. “Employee retention is huge for us, and we know that through promotions, we keep our people in our organization long term,” said Modersohn. With the January 1st, 2025, amalgamation with Assiniboine Credit Union and Caisse Financial Group, Modersohn will take on the role of VP of Operations in the new Assiniboine Credit Union/Caisse Assiniboine. Caisse Financial Group is a past recipient of this prestigious designation and Assiniboine Credit Union was also named as a 2025 Top Manitoba Employer. “We knew we had found the right partners in this merger, and this confirms our core values and culture align,” said Modersohn.

Fusion Credit Union has once again been named as a Top Manitoba Employer for 2025.  The annual competition recognizes Manitoba employers that lead their industries in offering an exceptional work environment and employee experience.  The designation marks the sixth consecutive year that Fusion has achieved this status, a recognition that Darwin Johns, CEO of Fusion Credit Union is proud to have achieved. “We are incredibly honored to be recognized as a Top Manitoba Employer for 2025,” states Johns.  “To achieve this status for six consecutive years reaffirms our commitment to building a workplace where our employees can thrive, grow and build meaningful careers.” Manitoba’s Top Employers is an annual competition organized by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers.  Employers must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the designation, some of which include workplace culture, employee training, skills development and community involvement. “We believe that investing in our people is the key to our success,” states Mike Loewen, Chief Risk & People Officer at Fusion Credit Union.  “Being recognized as a Top Manitoba Employer for six consecutive years is a testament to the culture we have built – one where skills are nurtured, growth is encouraged, and contributions are celebrated.”

Westoba, a division of Assiniboine Credit Union, is proud to offer the Westoba Inspire program again for 2025. Applications to the Westoba Inspire program will be accepted for major community infrastructure projects up to $10,000.00 from March 1 – 31, 2025. The Inspire program offers funding opportunities for a variety of projects that meet a wide range of ages and demographics. To be eligible for funding, the request needs to support community infrastructure projects that: • Are initiated locally or have a clear local impact; • Are inclusive and bring people together; • Are long-term or multi-functional; and • Promote staying, participating and engaging in an enriched community. Applications are reviewed by Westoba’s Community Investment Committee which includes employees, active Westoba members, and Board representation. Successful applications are chosen based on their ability to align with Westoba’s goal to support community infrastructure. HOW TO APPLY to Westoba Inspire Applications will be accepted through an online application form available March 1 – 31 at www.westobacom.

What started as a memorable celebration for their second-born daughter’s baptism has now become a small family business bringing joy and sweetness to events across Brandon. Inspired by their childhood memories of cotton candy in the Philippines, where the sweet treat was a staple at parks, churches, and street vendors, this husband-and-wife team saw an opportunity to introduce a nostalgic and fun addition to local celebrations. “Cotton candy has always been a big part of our childhood,” they shared. “Every time we had one, we shared it with our family and siblings. In the Philippines, it was common to have cotton candy, sweets, or ice cream stands at private celebrations, but here in Brandon, we noticed that no one included it in their events. That’s what gave us the idea to start our small business named "Colorful Sweet by JJ.” To balance out the sweetness, they decided to add popcorn to their offerings, catering to both kids and those who are kids at heart. Today, they provide rental services for popcorn and cotton candy machines, ensuring that every event they serve is filled with delicious treats and cherished memories. Currently, their business focuses on popcorn and cotton candy rentals, but they are looking to expand their offerings. “We’re looking forward to adding more sweetness that will cater to everyone’s preferences,” they said. Their rental service is comprehensive, providing not just the machines but also an operator for each booking, ensuring that guests can enjoy freshly made snacks without the hassle. They also offer a wide variety of flavors, giving clients plenty of options to make their events even more special. For popcorn lovers, the available flavors include: White Cheddar Jalapeño Cheese Cheddar Cheese Sour Cream For cotton candy enthusiasts, they offer: Blue Raspberry Green Apple Pink Vanilla Orange Grape Bubblegum The business has already served a variety of clients, catering to events such as business and store openings, birthdays, weddings, baptisms, family days, and graduations. “Whatever gathering you have—if you want to add some sweetness and crunch—we can always be there,” they said. By bringing these nostalgic treats to local events, this family-run business is not just serving snacks but also creating moments of joy, reminiscent of childhood memories. With plans to expand their offerings, they are excited to continue spreading sweetness to even more celebrations in the future.

The newest addition to the local culinary scene, Multi Cook, is now officially open for business, bringing fresh, handmade meals to the community. Located at (155-18th St. Unit B)  this innovative food shop prides itself on offering high-quality, locally made dishes prepared entirely in-store. The business, owned and operated by Oksana Golovka and Kateryna Doboshynska, has created 12 new jobs, providing opportunities for skilled workers and food enthusiasts alike. What sets Multi Cook, a Ukrainian franchise,  apart is its dedication to handcrafted, fresh food. Every meal is prepared on-site by a team of passionate employees who prioritize quality and taste. Unlike mass-produced frozen or pre-packaged meals, Multi Cook’s offerings are made with recipes from the Ukraine & Europe as well as fresh ingredients, guaranteeing a homemade touch in every bite. Visitors to the new location can expect popular dishes like borscht, pierogi, and cabbage rolls, as well as gourmet options inspired by diverse culinary traditions. Delivery service is also available. Stop by today  (155-18th St. Unit B) and experience the difference of locally made, handcrafted meals! a grand opening event has been scheduled for March 22.