News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
Webinar Recording & Follow Up Video: The Art of Communication in Challenging Times
In times of frequent change and crisis, clear communication is an essential soft skill for tourism professionals and leaders. With limited staff and resources, every interaction is an opportunity to establish, build, and maintain relationships with guests and team members. Fortunately, communication skills can be developed by business leaders and team members, to minimize conflict and instead build relationships.
Watch the 45 minute webinar recording and follow up video on The Art of Communication Through Challenging Times, hosted by the BC Tourism Resiliency Network and John Singleton, Okanagan College instructor and business consultant.
Okanagan College Expert Business Mentors, including John, are available for free 1-1 coaching sessions for Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency clients.
Wednesday, October 20, 2021, 9:00 AM 10:00 AM
In times of frequent change and crisis, clear communication is an essential soft skill tourism professionals and leaders. With limited staff and resources, every interaction is an opportunity to establish, build, and maintain relationships with guests and team members.
Fortunately, communications is a soft skill that can be a developed as a foundation of success. By understanding expectations and responding decisively, we can avoid disappointment and instead connect in a meaningful way.
Join the BC Tourism Resiliency Network and John Singleton, Okanagan College Expert Business Mentor, for a free 45 minute webinar on The Art of Communication Through Challenging Times. Learn how to develop communications skills for yourself and your team members, in order to minimize conflict and instead capitalize on interactions to build relationships.
John will share insights for tourism professionals, including:
How people communicate in different ways
How to develop soft skills
How to enhance communication with guests and colleagues
The webinar will conclude with 15 minutes for Q&A.
Innovator Skills Initiative Offers Tech Businesses Funding to Hire Employees from Underrepresented Groups
The Innovator Skills Initiative, supported by the Province of BC and Innovate BC, is offering BC businesses up to $10,000 to hire new employees from underrepresented groups. The program was designed to help minority groups enter the tech sector in BC, while supporting businesses facing skills shortages.
The Innovator Skills Initiative, supported by the Province of BC and Innovate BC, is offering BC businesses up to $10,000 to hire new employees from underrepresented groups. The program was designed to help minority groups enter the tech sector in BC, while supporting businesses facing skills shortages.
The Initiative goal is to increase diversity in the tech sector and help B.C.-based businesses fill talent shortages and grow. The program provides grants to employers that are hiring for tech or tech-related roles.
Employers will offer valuable paid work experience to prepare individuals for ongoing employment.
Employers can receive:
A maximum of one grant of up to $10,000 per candidate per company to supplement a new employee’s salary
Up to 10 grants for 10 different employees per year
Innovate BC will provide employers with links to resources to support them in recruiting, retaining, and developing employees who self-identify as under-represented.
Innovator Skills Initiative funding is available to employers through Innovate BC’s program as well as through partner programs including:
Key Dates of Note
Application deadline: March 11, 2022
Earliest hire date: June 1, 2021
Latest hire start date: March 15, 2022
Latest work placement end date: July 15, 2022
Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination Requirements for Federally Regulated Transportation Employees and Travellers
On October 6, the federal government announced that anyone departing from Canadian airports, or taking VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains, will need to be fully vaccinated to travel, as of October 30.
On October 6, the federal government announced that anyone departing from Canadian airports, or taking VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains, will need to be fully vaccinated to travel, as of October 30.
Travellers who are in the process of being vaccinated can temporarily show a valid COVID-19 molecular test within 72 hours of travel, but that transition period will end November 30.
Employees in the federally regulated air, rail and marine transportation sectors will also need to be fully vaccinated.
Transport Canada will use its specific regulatory and oversight authorities related to operations of federally regulated air, rail, and marine transportation service providers to ensure that the transportation system and these workplaces are safe through vaccination mandates. Each organization will be required to implement a rigorous policy, which must:
Include a provision for employee attestation/declaration of their vaccination status;
Include a description of consequences for employees who do not comply or who falsify information; and
Meet standards consistent with the approach taken by the Government of Canada for the Core Public Administration.
After a short phase-in period, each organization is required to guarantee employees are fully vaccinated or they will be unable to work.
go2HR - COVID-19 Rapid Testing in the Workplace | Resource Guide Updated
go2HR has released an updated COVID-19 Rapid Testing in the Workplace guide. Though access to COVID-19 rapid test kits is becoming increasingly available across Canada, individuals authorized to administer rapid tests differs from one jurisdiction to the next and program eligibility will vary.
The information within this document is accurate as of October 6 and publishing and will be revised as additional programs and/or information becomes available.
go2HR has released an updated COVID-19 Rapid Testing in the Workplace guide. Though access to COVID-19 rapid test kits is becoming increasingly available across Canada, individuals authorized to administer rapid tests differs from one jurisdiction to the next and program eligibility will vary.
Employers are encouraged to ensure that they are aware and follow the required regulations of their province or territory. Tourism and hospitality employers who are considering rapid testing as an option for employees in their workplaces should be aware that doing so requires time, resources and careful consideration in order to ensure that they understand and follow provincial regulations.
Depending on each organization’s situation it may not be an appropriate or cost-effective solution for every employer. This resource guide contains practical information and links to help employers identify and access COVID19 Rapid Response screening tests and program support options.
The information within this document is accurate as of October 6 and publishing will be revised as additional programs and/or information becomes available.
PST Refund Extension Saves Businesses More Money
A StrongerBC program that offers PST rebates on select machinery and equipment will be extended for an additional six months, allowing businesses to further reduce costs and make new investments to adapt to operational changes necessitated by the global pandemic. Businesses will have until March 31, 2022 to purchase qualifying items, including tools, furniture, computers, software, and zero-emission vehicles and charging equipment.
A StrongerBC program that offers PST rebates on select machinery and equipment will be extended for an additional six months, allowing businesses to further reduce costs and make new investments to adapt to operational changes necessitated by the global pandemic.
The rebate period has been extended by six months. You have until March 31, 2022 to pay PST on qualifying items. All rebate applications must be received by September 30, 2022. Businesses will have until March 31, 2022 to purchase qualifying items, including tools, furniture, computers, software, and zero-emission vehicles and charging equipment.
The rebate acts similar to a refund but is separate from the existing PST Refund process. Under this temporary program, corporations can apply to receive an amount equal to the PST they paid between September 17, 2020 and March 31, 2022 on qualifying machinery and equipment. PST invoiced before the deadline but paid after March 31, 2022 does not qualify for the rebate.
Proof of Vaccination for B.C. Public Service to Increase Workplace Confidence, Stop Spread
The B.C. government is supporting the effort to increase vaccination rates throughout the province by making COVID-19 vaccination a requirement for B.C. public service employees.
The BC Public Service Agency, in consultation with the provincial health officer, will require its 30,000 employees to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 22, 2021.
The B.C. government is supporting the effort to increase vaccination rates throughout the province by making COVID-19 vaccination a requirement for B.C. public service employees.
The BC Public Service Agency, in consultation with the provincial health officer, will require its 30,000 employees to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 22, 2021.
As more employees return to their regular workplaces later in the fall, this provides an additional and reassuring layer of protection for workers who are continuing the vital work of serving British Columbians.
Public service employees working in core government or ministries will be required to provide proof of full vaccination using the BC Vaccine Card.
The effective date gives employees who are not yet fully vaccinated the time they need to comply. Details of accommodations that will be made for the few people who are unable to be vaccinated will be released by early November.
To date, more than 80% of British Columbians have been fully vaccinated.
go2HR - Shift Into Winter | Driving Tips & Safety for BC Drivers
go2HR has compiled winter driving resources to support tourism businesses through the changing weather and driving conditions across B.C. and to remind drivers and employers to be prepared and plan ahead.
The Shift into Winter campaign is designed to raise awareness of the changing weather and driving conditions across B.C. and to remind drivers and employers to be prepared and plan ahead. In the tourism and hospitality industry, some occupations that involve winter driving include:
Delivery drivers (including dropping off rental equipment or providing a restaurant delivery service, for example)
Shuttle bus and taxi drivers
Snow plow and removal
Traffic and grounds management vehicles (parking attendants)
Emergency Transport Vehicles (ETVs) in some remote locations
When planning a work journey, consider the following tips to help keep drivers safe on the job:
Does the worker have to drive? Could the business be conducted online or in a different way?
Ensure drivers are aware of the risks they may be exposed to while driving, are trained, and have the equipment and supervision needed (including regular check ins) to keep themselves safe
Ensure driver checks the route and knows where they are going (avoid driving after dark)
Ensure vehicles are properly maintained and winterized, and have four winter tires that carry the 3-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol
Make sure drivers know when and how to safely and properly install chains or other approved traction devices
Equip vehicles with a winter driving emergency kit and emergency supplies
Train workers on your motor vehicle accident reporting procedure, should something happen
Don’t forget the commute to and from work:
Many workers regularly drive their own vehicles to and from work in varying weather conditions. This includes those who work at ski resorts or in parts of the province that are prone to harsh winter weather. To raise awareness about winter driving, consider the following:
Post signage in the workplace about winter driving tips, what an emergency kit should contain and other useful information
Have a working late policy (if they're one of the last to leave the mountain they should make sure someone knows when they leave and when they get to the bottom of the mountain, in case they get stranded on the way down.)
Promote winter driving resources, including training and other information
Winter driving resources
Visit ShiftIntoWinter.ca for free information and tools associated with this campaign:
Download the Employer and Supervisor Tool Kit.
Register for the Keeping Your Employees Safe During Winter Driving webinar on November 25.
Register for the Winter Driving Safety for Employers and Supervisors course, which takes 90-120 minutes to complete. Everyone who completes the course and an exit survey by December 15 will be entered in a draw for a gift certificate for a set of winter tires (value up to $1,000), donated by Kal Tire. For details, visit: Shift Into Winter.
View go2HR's Winter Driving Resources for further tips, posters and checklists.
Register for Okanagan College Business Expo & Employment Fair: February 2, 2022
Okanagan College/Okanagan School of Business and the Student, Graduate and Co-op Employment Centre is excited to be hosting their 14th Annual Business Expo and Employment Fair on February 2, 2022 at the Okanagan College KLO Kelowna Campus.
Register by November 30 for the early bird discount.
Okanagan College/Okanagan School of Business and the Student, Graduate and Co-op Employment Centre are excited to be hosting their 14th Annual Business Expo and Employment Fair on February 2, 2022 at the Okanagan College KLO Kelowna Campus. Specifically, this event will be taking place in the atrium of the “Centre for Learning” building.
The event will provide the opportunity to promote your organization and to connect with the skilled students from ALL Okanagan College programs (Business, Engineering Technologies, Health, Trades, Office Administration, Computer Information Systems and Arts and Science) – both graduating this year and those continuing with their studies with the business community in hopes of fulfilling job vacancies within your organization.
This event will also provide the opportunity to display information on employment and careers within your organization. Generally there are approximately 1000 students who attend the fair. The fair is also open to job seekers from the public.
Early Bird Registration Discount before November 30
Cultural Grants for Kelowna Non-Profit Organizations | City of Kelowna
The City of Kelowna is offering five categories of arts and culture grants to non-profit organizations on an annual basis. The purpose of these grants is to enrich the art, culture and heritage experience for Kelowna. An organization must be incorporated as a non-profit society and operate primarily in Kelowna to be eligible for a grant.
The City of Kelowna is offering five categories of arts and culture grants to non-profit organizations on an annual basis. The purpose of these grants is to enrich the art, culture and heritage experience for Kelowna residents.
An organization must be incorporated as a non-profit society and operate primarily in Kelowna to be eligible for a grant. Organizations may apply for grants under more than one category in the same calendar year.
General operating grants are available to arts, culture and heritage organizations that carry out most of their work in Kelowna. These grants support the operations of the organization, but are not to be used for start-up, events or capital projects. This grant acknowledges the work these organizations do and how they positively contribute to Kelowna's quality of life, identity and economy. Grants are extended to recipients who demonstrate vision, accountability and a spirit of community service in their operations.
The 2022 General Operating program opened on October 1, 2021.
Please apply through the online application system.
The application deadline is November 30, 2021 at 3pm PST.
For more information, view the program guidelines.
Project grants are available to community organizations that provide a festival, event or project that feature arts, culture and/or heritage for the benefit of Kelowna residents. Eligible organizations are not required to be from the arts, culture or heritage sector.
All festivals, events and projects must be accessible to the public, offer a unique experience and prominently feature arts, culture or heritage content. Funding is provided for up to a maximum of three years on a matching 50/50 basis.
The 2022 Project program opened on October 1, 2021. Please apply through the online application system.
The application deadline is November 30, 2021 at 3pm PST.
For more information, view the program guidelines.
Organization development grants aim to assist non-profit organizations in undertaking activities or initiatives that will develop the organization’s capacity and sustainability. Funding can be used to cover 100% of the consulting or tuition/registration costs, to a maximum of $5,000. Two or more organizations may partner on an organization development project and undertake joint planning or training.
Deadline: Open in-take for 2021
More information, including contact information, program guidelines and the screening tool is available on the main grants page.
Please apply through the online application system.
Community art is a collaborative, collective creative process between a professional artist and the community. It encourages the creation of publicly accessible artworks, fosters community pride and identity, and reflects the diversity of the community. One or more projects will be considered each year based on the applications received and reviewed by the Public Art Committee. Funding is provided on a matching 50/50 basis. We welcome proposals for projects using either traditional or new art practices.
It’s advised that applicants should connect with Cultural Services Staff at culture@kelowna.ca prior to completing an application to determine eligibility.
Professional operating grants are here to provide consistent and reliable annual support to professional, established non-profit arts and cultural organizations which provide impactful, quality programs and services, demonstrate sustainable operations and contribute to the realization of the cultural vision, principals and goals as outlined in the Cultural Plan. Funding assists these organizations with operational sustainability and enables them to develop and deliver their wonderful programs and services to the community.
For more information about the program, view the program guidelines.
Summer 2021 Kettle Valley Rail Trail Upgrades Complete
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in coordination with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) have completed trail improvements along the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, in the Central Okanagan.
Upgrades were implemented to improve the trail users experience
Before
After
Kelowna, B.C. - The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in coordination with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) and Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) have completed trail improvements along the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail, in the Central Okanagan. TOTA's involvement was primarily the 16 km section between Bellevue Trestle (above Kelowna) and Chute Lake, two very popular sections of the KVR.
The improvements included raising the tread (trail surface) of selected sections that saw annual flooding, followed by capping of the repaired sub base with 1.91 cm minus aggregate to create a rideable trail tread and prevent any drainage issues. Locations were identified by a professional Geotechnical Engineer and the project was completed using heavy machinery and hauling up the proper aggregate.
The work upgrades were undertaken to improve the worst segments of the approximately 16 km subsection of trail. Altogether, approximately 20 segments were repaired making up about 3 km of accumulated trail surface. These improvements are necessary to enhance the overall user experience along the KVR. TOTA will continue to work with partners to evaluate future areas of need, working to develop a world class cycling experience, which will encourage sustainable and responsible tourism to the Thompson Okanagan region.
The KVR is a remote trail that has ongoing maintenance challenges, and users should prepare accordingly for differing trail conditions dependent on the season.
TOTA is pleased to have undertaken this work to create a better KVR experience through the support of Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) and the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure (CERIP) program funding, received through the Ministry of Forest Lands Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development to enable TOTA to contribute to this project and implement these changes along the trail. We also appreciate the work that many have undertaken to improve the trail over the past many months, including the RDOS, RSTBC, Chute Lake Lodge and others.
About
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA):
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association is a non-profit society, governed by an elected Board of Directors, which represents business and community tourism interests throughout the region, and is supported by and representative of Destination British Columbia British Columbia Ministry of Tourism, Arts, & Culture. It is an industry-led organization that represents and supports all business and community tourism interests in the region, while also helping to implement provincial tourism policies. For more information, visit TOTABC.org. For more information about the KVR Trail visit bcrailtrails.com.
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure
Ministry of Forest Lands Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development
BC Liquor Conference | ABLE BC
Hosted by ABLE BC, the #1 advocate for BC’s pubs and liquor stores, this year’s conference will take place online and in-person on Monday, October 25, 2021.
No matter where you are in the province – tune in and get the liquor industry data, trends, and policy updates you can’t get anywhere else.
Hosted by ABLE BC, the #1 advocate for BC’s pubs and liquor stores, this year’s conference will take place online and in-person on Monday, October 25, 2021. No matter where you are in the province – tune in and get the liquor industry data, trends, and policy updates you can’t get anywhere else.
BC’s hospitality industry was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The liquor industry has been forced to adapt and drastically change in this new normal, while complying with stringent new regulations that have limited your ability to operate profitably.
Join ABLE BC at the 2021 Hybrid BC Liquor Conference and get the actionable steps and knowledge you need to rebuild after COVID-19.
TIAC Tourism Congress
The tourism industry’s must-attend annual event, the 2021 Tourism Congress, is an opportunity to network, connect and learn alongside delegates from coast to coast to coast. You’ll gain access to national and global industry insights, get relevant updates from your region and sector, and experience practical sessions that give you the tools you need to move forward.
Tuesday Nov 30 - Wednesday Dec 1
The TIAC Tourism Congress brings tourism operators together. As Canada’s visitor economy continued to struggle under the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism operators have been incredibly resilient.
The tourism industry’s must-attend annual event, the 2021 Tourism Congress, is an opportunity to network, connect and learn alongside delegates from coast to coast to coast. You’ll gain access to national and global industry insights, get relevant updates from your region and sector, and experience practical sessions that give you the tools you need to move forward.
This year, the 2021 TIAC Tourism Congress will have thought-provoking content to inform and inspire, and practical tools and solutions for the way forward. Join us in person at the Westin Ottawa or connect through our user-friendly virtual platform
Tuesday Nov 30 - Wednesday Dec 1
New Business Supports Now Available for Thompson Okanagan Tourism Businesses
The TOTA and BC Tourism Resiliency Network teams have prepared several new business support programs to assist tourism businesses. The programs are available free of charge for Thompson Okanagan tourism companies.
We encourage you and your team members to register as soon as possible, to take advantage of these programs while they are available.
Supports include:
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable this Tuesday, October 5
Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism - Apply by Friday, October 8
Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors
BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 - November 3 & 4
Hospitality Professional Program - Apply by November 28
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises
Happy autumn and welcome to October. With the changing of the seasons, the TOTA and BC Tourism Resiliency Network teams have prepared several new business support programs to assist tourism businesses. The programs are available free of charge for Thompson Okanagan tourism companies.
We encourage you and your team members to register as soon as possible, to take advantage of these programs while they are available.
Supports include:
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable this Tuesday
Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism - Apply by October 8
Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors
BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 - November 3 & 4
Hospitality Professional Program - Apply by October 29
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises
Read on to learn the details of the support programs and how to register your company. Feel free to forward this email to anyone who may benefit from these services.
- The TOTA Team
Upcoming Opportunities
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable
Virtual | October 5, 10 AM - 11 AM
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a virtual Wildfire Resilience Roundtable for the Thompson Okanagan region on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM. The session will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of the region.
In this roundtable session, you'll learn more about:
Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests
How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety
Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators
Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism
Virtual | Apply by October 8, 2021
The Decade of Action Program: Building a Sustainable Future for BC Tourism through the UN Sustainable Development Goals is a virtual capacity-building program to support businesses across B.C. to create a Sustainable Development Goal Strategy and Decade of Action Plan.
Decade of Action Seminar (Tuesday, October 19, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)
Business Action Planning and One-on-One Coaching Calls (October - December)
Decade of Action Showcase (Thursday, November 18, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM PST)
Learn how to align your sustainability efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, set targets for the future, and drive meaningful results for your guests, company, and community.
Free Business Mentorship Sessions with Okanagan College Instructors
Virtual | One on one
Okanagan College instructors are available to deliver virtual, one-hour individually tailored business counselling sessions based on expressed areas of need.
This service is offered free of charge through the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, for a limited time. Mentors can provide support on a variety of leadership soft skills, business administration, and hospitality topics.
To access the service, register for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program and schedule a Discovery Call with a TOTA Advisor.
If you have already registered for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Resiliency Program, you can sign up for Expert Business Mentorship and schedule your first meeting with an Okanagan College mentor.
BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021
Virtual | November 3 & 4, 2021
On November 3 and 4, come together as a tourism community to learn from everything we've been through and think differently about how we can co-create a vibrant and resilient tourism industry in BC. The BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 is a joint virtual event, in collaboration with the five regional destination management organizations of the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
The BCRTS Tourism Summit 2021 is open to all tourism stakeholders and GSTC members at no cost.
Hospitality Professional Program - Fully Funded Training for New & Underemployed Tourism Professionals Hosted by TOTA & Okanagan College
Virtual | Winter 2021/2022
Application Deadline: November 28, 2021
Do you know current hospitality professionals looking to build on their hospitality management career by further developing their skills, knowledge and connections? Someone eager to develop the tools and resources necessary to thrive in the evolving world of hospitality?
TOTA, in partnership with Okanagan College, is offering the fully funded Hospitality Professional Program to unemployed, seasonal, part-time, and casual workers.
This 28-week LIVE online learning program pairs practical, unique and intensive hospitality skills training with key industry certifications so participants can jump into a supervisory position in 2022.
Ongoing Opportunities
Tourism Resiliency Business Support Services
The TOTA team is here to help with the challenges your business is facing. As part of TOTA's Tourism Resiliency Program tourism companies can access the following free supports:
Register for 1:1 Business Support with a TOTA Resiliency Advisor.
Submit a Voice Your Concerns form so TOTA can share the impacts on the tourism industry with government.
Email Recovery@TOTABC.com for quick questions or to share challenges faced by your business.
TOTA Complimentary Energy Assessments & FortisBC Equipment Rebate Support
TOTA is offering complimentary virtual energy assessments and free one-on-one equipment rebate consultations to Thompson Okanagan tourism companies that are serviced by FortisBC. The goal is to help businesses reduce their energy-related operating and capital expenses, energy consumption, and carbon footprint.
TOTA’s Energy Analyst can assist in choosing the right equipment eligible for rebates, submitting a rebate application to FortisBC, and guide you throughout the process.
To book your complimentary virtual energy assessment or to find out if your business is eligible for rebates, book a free appointment with TOTA's Energy Analyst.
Accommodation Accessibility Features Survey
Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.
Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Change Management Webinar Recording & Skill Building Exercises
COVID-19 and climate change have caused frequent disruptions and major changes to the workplace for tourism and hospitality businesses. As this trend of change will likely continue, business leaders can prepare by developing a dynamic and resilient team.
Watch the webinar recording by Angela Pomeroy, Engagement and Leadership Development Consultant and Okanagan College professor, for insights on the principles of Change Management, followed by a pre-recorded video with exercises to develop change management skills for individuals or teams.
Introduction to Sustainable Tourism Presentation
TOTA’s Destination Stewardship team offers 30-minute virtual presentations to share how tourism businesses can work towards sustainable tourism through TOTA's Biosphere Commitment Program.
Westbank First Nation Launches Online Language Program
On September 30, 2021, The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Westbank First Nation (WFN) launched an online language tutorial series in effort to revitalize nsyilxcən language learning within the community. WFN received $100,000 from the First People’s Cultural Council through their Pathways to Language Vitality Program that helped to support developing materials, immersion programming, planning and community collaboration.
On September 30, 2021, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Westbank First Nation (WFN) launched an online language tutorial series in effort to revitalize nsyilxcən language learning within the community. WFN received $100,000 from the First People’s Cultural Council through their Pathways to Language Vitality Program that helped to support developing materials, immersion programming, planning and community collaboration.
Initially, the program was intended to have in person teachings, but as a pandemic precaution the curriculum was reworked into online modules.
Over 45 video tutorials were created featuring WFN Councillor Jordan Coble and ONA Member Levi Bent, utilizing Book 1 of the Paul Creek nsyilxcən curriculum and making it the first language series of its kind. The program would not have been possible without the support and hard work of language speakers, past and present who champion the nsyilxcən language in the community.
The program is entirely online and can be completed at any pace. Students can work through there lessons on their own schedule and will always have access to the lessons and resources. The tutorial series is open to everyone with a goal to revitalize nsyilxcən language for the syilx nation and guests who visit the website.
Winter Tire Regulations Now in Effect
As of Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles until spring on most British Columbia highways, including all highways in the Interior.
With cold-weather season approaching, drivers and vehicle owners are reminded that B.C.’s annual winter tire requirements are in effect.
As of Friday, Oct. 1, 2021, winter tires are mandatory for all vehicles on most British Columbia highways to increase travel safety until spring.
Winter tires are required for travel on:
all highways in the North;
all highways in the Interior;
sections of some highways on the South Coast, including the Sea to Sky Highway; and
sections of some highways on Vancouver Island, including the Malahat and highways 4, 14 and 28.
In B.C., appropriate winter tires are defined as those with either the M+S (mud and snow) or mountain/snowflake symbol, in good condition with a minimum tread depth of 3.5 millimetres.
Tires marked with a mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall offer the best traction on snow and ice and in cold weather. Tires marked with M+S offer better traction than summer tires, but are less effective than mountain/snowflake tires in severe winter conditions. Drivers are encouraged to choose their tires based on the region and conditions in which they regularly drive.
Digital Jumpstart - Digital Skills for People With Disabilities | Neil Squire Society
Do you have an employee with a disability who would like to upgrade their digital skills? Neil Squire’s Digital Jumpstart is an online program that helps people with disabilities improve their digital literacy. The goal of the program is to tutor individuals one-on-one so that they can feel more confident in their computer readiness.
Do you have an employee with a disability who would like to upgrade their digital skills?
Neil Squire’s Digital Jumpstart is an online program that helps people with disabilities improve their digital literacy. The goal of the program is to tutor individuals one-on-one so that they can feel more confident in their computer readiness.
How Does It Work?
Participants will work one-on-one with an instructor in a virtual, private classroom from the comfort of their own homes. The program covers topics based on the needs of each individual and may include the basics of:
Email
Word processing (Microsoft Office)
The internet
Virtual platforms (Zoom and Microsoft Teams)
Social media
Online safety
The program taps into Neil Squire’s nearly 20 years of experience providing support to people with disabilities using remote technology. The participant and instructor will be able to talk and see each other’s screens, allowing active learning to occur regardless of where they are located in Canada.
“I felt stranded and alone and scared. People throw around the word isolated when talking about COVID. I was truly isolated and Neil Squire was a lifeline to me.”
— Hayley
“I want people to realize if I can do it, anybody can do it. [Neil Squire] helped me beyond what I thought. They actually have me thinking my goals might be possible. And that’s a big plus for me.”
— Jaycee
Digital Jumpstart is available in all regions across Canada. Please contact the office location nearest you to get started.
British Columbia
Patty Lavakittichaiyant
T 604 473 9363
Toll Free 1 877 673 4636
info@neilsquire.ca
Accommodation Accessibility Features Survey
Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.
Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.
TOTA is committed to becoming a world-renowned accessible destination and the goal is to promote “Access & Inclusion” in all aspects of community and tourism experiences, products, and services in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Accommodators (resorts, hotels, motels, B&B) in the Thompson Okanagan region are invited to share information about the accessibility features of their venue.
Please take a few moments to fill out this survey to better help us identify the accessible accommodations available in the Thompson Okanagan region.
Join as a Member of the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC)
Joining as a member enables TIABC to support important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy. Due to the difficulties the tourism industry has faced since early 2020, TIABC has extended various payment options to members if required.
Membership in TIABC has never been more important. The impacts of COVID-19 have been widespread in the tourism industry and coordination with industry partners to share concerns with government is critical.
To assist in recovery for BC’s visitor economy and generate incremental revenues for operators and government, TIABC needs the right mix of marketing investment, infrastructure and product development, access to labour, and policies that facilitate and enable success. That’s where TIABC comes in.
TIABC remains steadfast in its objective to create a policy and regulatory environment that allows tourism operators to grow and prosper, that provides job opportunities for all ages and skills, that generates economic impact in regions throughout British Columbia, and that helps communities develop in manageable and sustainable ways.
Joining as a member enables TIABC to support important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.
Due to the difficulties the tourism industry has faced since early 2020, TIABC has extended various payment options to members if required.
Destination Canada Attracting U.S. Market by Matching Travel Perks on Air Canada
Destination Canada, has partnered with Air Canada and StatusMatch to launch a new status match program to encourage frequent American travellers to visit Canada. Destination Canada is offering to match the tier of Air Canada's Aeroplan members that are US residents and have a tier with an eligible US airline listed.
Canada is using the lure of travel perks to convince America’s frequent flying elite to fly north on Air Canada as the country steps up efforts to revive crucial traffic from the United States.
Destination Canada, has partnered with Air Canada and StatusMatch to launch a new status match program to encourage frequent American travellers to visit Canada. Destination Canada is offering to match the tier of Air Canada's Aeroplan members that are US residents and have a tier with an eligible US airline listed.
This limited-time offer marks the first time a tourism organization has used status-matching to entice visitors to travel to their destination.
COVID-19 has battered travel from Canada’s largest tourism market. During the first half of 2021, Canada had about 178,000 overnight arrivals from the United States, compared with 6.8 million during the same period in 2019, according to government data.
To help reverse that decline, government tourism body, Destination Canada has rolled out its first campaign targeting U.S. frequent fliers.
It is part of broader $14 million effort by the tourism commission to boost traffic after Canada recently opened its borders to vaccinated travellers. It comes as countries ease restrictions on international travel, with the United States set to reopen in November to vaccinated air travellers from 33 countries.
Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable | BC Tourism Resiliency Network
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a virtual Wildfire Resilience Roundtable for the Thompson Okanagan region on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM. Each Wildfire Resilience Roundtable will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of the region.
In this roundtable session, learn more about:
Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests
How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety
Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators
The British Columbia Tourism Resiliency Network is hosting a series of Wildfire Resilience Roundtables throughout October, one for each of the five B.C. regions, led by emergency management experts from Calian Group.
The Thompson Okanagan Wildfire Resilience Roundtable is being held virtually on Tuesday, October 5 from 2 PM to 3 PM.
Each Wildfire Resilience Roundtable will begin with a wildfire scenario developed from the guest perspective, tailored to reflect the realistic and relevant needs of each region.
Breakout groups will then be guided by a facilitator and designed to explore a specific question with real solutions. All discussions will be conducted with a Trauma Informed Approach (TIA) to ensure the cultural and emotional safety of all participants.
In this roundtable session, you will learn more about:
Developing a shared understanding of the impacts a wildfire may have on guests
How messaging can influence guest confidence and safety
Generating a repository of solutions or resources that either currently exist or could be developed to support guests and tourism operators