What’s the THREAD that binds you to your creative dreams? Join us on November 22, 2024 at 8:15am at Johnston Group Headquarters (our amazing CreativeMornings WPG partners).

Talk: Creating Empowered Beauty Through Every Thread

Alexis Ojo shares her journey of turning passion into purpose, weaving creativity into every aspect of her business. Through the empowering beauty of her creations, she explores how the threads of culture, resilience, and innovation come together to build a brighter future for her community. Alexis’s story is one of blending tradition and artistry, inspiring others to create with purpose and embrace the beauty that emerges through creativity and empowerment.

Meet our Speaker: Alexis Ojo (she/her)

Upon her arrival in Canada, Alexis noticed the lack of quality hair extensions in her city and decided to address the gap. With under $500, supportive friends, and unwavering faith, Dark Shugar was established.Alexis Ojo, the Founder & Owner, extensively researched reliable hair factories and analyzed the hair market. This effort allowed her to grasp the needs of women seeking top-notch hair extensions. Clearly, her entrepreneurial drive stems from her mother, who successfully operates a boutique in Nigeria.Initially nick named ‘Dark Shugar’ by a school friend, Alexis used the business as a means to support herself financially. However, it has since evolved into something much larger. Today, Dark Shugar Hair and Beauty caters to a wide array of customers locally and globally, boosting the confidence of both men and women with quality products.Alexis believes this venture is her calling and a divine blessing. She is committed to assisting men and women worldwide in defining their beauty by offering ethically sourced hair extensions, professional services, and education through her salon, beauty academy, and partnerships with BIPOC brands.

Alexis also continues to support International students and upcoming hair stylists in pursuing their own dream through spiritual entrepreneurial mentorship and employment opportunities.

Our theme for November is THREAD. It was chosen by our Derby chapter in the United Kingdom, illustrated by Carla Dee, and is presented by our global partner Adobe.

Have you ever pulled on a loose thread in a sweater or sock? Things can unravel quickly. 

The creative process can feel like that. A nagging thought, an imperfect bit, or a big tangled mess. But maybe that thread is trying to tell you something. Follow it and see where it takes you. 

Because thread is both a physical and metaphorical tool of creativity. In film and literature, a “thread” is the progression of a plot line or theme that helps tie the narrative together. While in sewing, weaving, embroidery, and knitting, the “thread” physically embellishes and holds the piece together. 

No wonder a loose thread is so hard to ignore. 

It turns out that all the good and bad in your life is forming a beautiful tapestry.

AGENDA for our event (we try to be respectful of your time and have you out by 9:45am)

8:15am Arrive at Johnston Group and grab yourself a coffee, treat and find a new friend

8:30am Event starts – welcome, introduction to CreativeMornings

8:40am Performer

8:45am Creative engagement activity (introvert approved!)

9:00am Speaker – Alexis Ojo

9:15am Q and A with speaker

9:25am – Performer

9:30am – Wrap up and networking!

Look forward to seeing you there and creating threads of love in our beautiful CreativeMornings community!

Can you envision Future You attending our OCTOBER 25th CreativeMornings Winnipeg event?

We would love to welcome you at 8:15-9:45am at Launch Co-Working in the Exchange District to explore the CreativeMornings global monthly theme of VISION!

** ASL Interpretation is available at CM WPG events!

We will explore the theme of VISION through performance, creative engagement (introvert-approved) and a short talk.

“The Power of a Creative Vision Story” presented by Doug Darling

How do you get people to feel the excitement of where you’re headed? How do you get your team to buy-in to your next big step? How do you get people to get excited about the future? By using the power of Story, you can have people not just understand your Vision, but feel it. This is how you create action.

MEET OUR SPEAKER: Doug Darling

Doug Darling is the founder of Tripwire Media Group, an award-winning video production company that specializes in storytelling. He is skilled in the art and science of story and teaches others how to harness its useful power. From coaching classes of students across the world, to training companies on the Science of Storytelling, to embarking on a new journey in securing legacy stories for those we love most — Doug truly has a passion for storytelling and what it can do for people and organizations.

Exploring the CreativeMornings theme of VISION

Our theme for October is VISION. It was chosen by our Riyadh chapter in Saudi Arabia and illustrated by Razan Alshalan.

You are your own visionary. What do you want to see? How do you see the world? How do you want to change it?

Vision refers both to the sense of sight and our ability to imagine the future. Are you focused on the little details? Can you see the big picture?

Each creative act involves seeing something in your mind’s eye then attempting to make it a reality. A painter, an architect, and every other type of artist or craftsman has a vision for their work. What message, emotion, or impact do you want to convey in yours? 

Join us at 8:15am on Friday, September 27th at Launch Co-Working to explore the global CreativeMornings theme of REFLECTION! Our speaker, Anthony Kowalczyk, will be speaking on “The Power of Reflection in Creative Processes.”

In the fast-paced world we live in, the act of reflection often takes a backseat. However, it is through reflection that we unlock the true potential of our creative minds. This presentation will explore how taking the time to reflect on our experiences, thoughts, and emotions can lead to more innovative ideas and creations. 

We’ll delve into the ways reflection fuels creativity, allowing us to connect with purpose and intention. Join us as we discover how reflecting on our creative journey not only enhances our ability to create but also inspires us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in business and in our lives.

Meet Our Speaker: Anthony Kowalczyk

Anthony Kowalczyk brings over 15 years of experience in advertising and marketing, leading teams in both Canada and the US. He has managed all of Forward Media’s key strategic clients and built the foundations for their digital media practice. 

He is a graduate of the Rotman School of Management, RRC Polytechnic (Business Admin) and, a serial entrepreneur investing time in several projects, including tech start-up The Den (Acting CMO), and co-founder of the nationally recognized music venue (The Good Will Social Club). Anthony also has sat and sits on a few boards including serving as past Chair of The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences/The Juno Awards and current sitting treasurer of the Not for Profit The WRENCH.

Meet Our Musician: John Hørst

John Hørst is a musical artist from Treaty One, born and raised in Winnipeg. John prefers a they/them or a he/him pronoun. Their music combines… their classical singing background; their personal journey exploring identity, purpose, heritage & queerness; and their honest perspective & hopes for our present, 2024 world. After a decade of freelancing for local musical and theatrical companies, John is now working on his debut project as a recording artist. John loves music that feels soothing and stimulating at the same time; and also loves variety and drama. John is a fan of peppermint tea, space & trees, and would be happy to connect with you! You can reach John on instagram @heyjohnhorst :]

CreativeMornings Monthly Global Theme

Our theme for September is REFLECTION. It was chosen by our Oklahoma City chapter in Oklahoma and illustrated by Aditi Heins.

Just like an echo is a reflection of sound… and how a camera lens focuses reflected light to form a photograph… our subconscious reflects on our experiences to form our beliefs.

Without reflection, there can be no personal growth. Learning from our past yields greater wisdom and happiness. But don’t let self-awareness turn into self-absorption. Take heed of the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own handsome reflection in a pool of water. 

Reflecting on difficult moments can be painful but also healing. When our Oklahoma City chapter selected this theme, they mentioned a reflecting pool at the site of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing that was designed to help people reflect on how they were changed by that tragic event. 

Pondering the world around us and following our curiosity adds depth to our creative work. As William Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, the purpose of acting is “to hold as ‘twere the mirror up to nature.” While George Bernard Shaw said, “you use a glass mirror to see your face; you use works of art to see your soul.” (Although Bertolt Brecht countered, “Art is not a mirror held up to reality, but a hammer with which to shape it.”)

Reflection turns our traumas and triumphs into lessons. It’s how we can create a vision for a brighter future.

How can rituals serve us in living a vibrant creative life? Start your Fall transition off right by joining us at CreativeMornings Winnipeg on Friday, August 23, 2024! We will be gathering OUTSIDE at The CUBE stage in the West Exchange District for an inspiring event focused on the monthly theme of RITUAL.

Join us at 7:30am at the CUBE for the “Wild West Exchange Tour” with Christian Robin and/or at 8:15am at the CUBE for our main event, featuring speaker Jane Helbrecht and musician Jerry Sereda. Bring your lawn chair and your curiosity as we gather to explore what it means to live a creative life.

PRE-EVENT TOUR: “The Wild West Exchange Tour” with Christian Robin – meet at the CUBE stage at 7:30am.

Join our intrepid co-host, Christian Robin, for a hootin’ and hollerin’ good time (okay, maybe quiet hooting so we don’t bother the neighbours). Start your morning with a tour of the West Exchange. Hear about the unique history and stories of one of Winnipeg’s oldest neighbourhoods. Meet at the CUBE at 7:30am for the tour and be back in time for the main event at 8:15am.

MAIN EVENT: Creating Rituals to Unleash your Big Work Energy

What rituals help us show up and create our own unique Big Work Energy to our work? What does this look like for individual contributors, collaborators and leaders?

We often think of leadership as a title and rank. But great leaders build strong creative leadership practices and rituals that allow them to be present, experiment and show up in alignment with their values and WHY.

At this event we’ll explore how to grow your Big Work Energy through regular practices and rituals. Your work and the way you lead yourself should be a creative endeavour - let’s explore how rituals can support this endeavour.

OUR SPEAKER: Jane Helbrecht

Jane Helbrecht is a leadership development and people & culture expert with over 15 years of experience in training and HR roles. Jane is a dynamic speaker who shares her insight, energy and ideas to enable people leaders to thrive in their role. She delivers keynotes that inspire mind shifts, providing meaningful tools while helping leaders build habits for change.

Jane speaks and provides training workshops on leadership, organizational culture and flexible work topics that will have an impact on leaders, emerging leaders and HR professionals. Jane is a CPHR and a Certified Leadership Coach.

OUR MUSICIAN: Jerry Sereda

We are very pleased to be joined by Jerry Sereda as our musician! Jerry is an Indigenous Manitoba-based musician, revered in the Country Music landscape. Deeply rooted in his Indigenous heritage, Jerry infuses personal narratives into his infectious melodies. Jerry has graced stages alongside renowned artists such as Johnny Reid, Shane Yellowbird and Jason Blaine. His music has been recognized through nominations in the Manitoba Country Music Awards, the Aboriginal People’s Choice Music Awards, and the Western Canadian Music Awards.

CreativeMornings WPG invites you to join us for a summer celebration! We aren’t hosting a morning event this month. Instead, we are gathering for a fun night of creativity and connection on July 25th from 5:30-7:30 at the Pauline Bistro in the Norwood Hotel (112 Marion).

For this event, we will be exploring the global CreativeMornings theme of TRUST. The activities will involve groups of 4 and allow participants to connect, share and dream a little about what’s next to come. Come alone, come with a friend, come make a friend – everyone is welcome!

We will break the evening up into three sections for all of our groups around Past, Present and Future. Each section will be around 20-minutes in length.

Group members will be invited to share bits of their story and explore what milestones, hardships and adventures have shaped who they are, and who they want to be. Similar to the last Get Social event, we will have prompting questions available.

Since this event is over the supper hour, Pauline’s Bistro will have appetizers, burgers and the full drink menu for purchase and available to anyone who would like to treat themselves while enjoying the event.

There is lots of free parking at the Norwood Hotel at 112 Marion. Pauline’s Bistro is in the hotel.

Join us on July 25th and make your summer memorable!

Join us on June 14, 2024 at Launch Co-Working (8:15am to 9:45am) for our final CreativeMornings WPG event before our summer break. We are pleased to welcome our June speaker: Andrew Boardman.

** Note: ASL interpretation will be available at this event.

The June global CreativeMornings theme is PATTERN. Wear your boldest stripes, playful polka dots, or funky florals. Let’s create a tapestry of creativity together!

June’s global theme was chosen by our Chennai chapter and illustrated by Nishant Saldanha.

Recognizing, forming, and breaking patterns are core components of creativity. Visuals, sounds, movements, and the passage of time all form patterns that shape our existence and our work. 

Our Chennai chapter’s selection of this theme was inspired by the art form kōlam; which features patterns of dots that are encircled or connected by straight and curved lines. These intricate, geometric designs are created on the thresholds and floors of houses, temples and businesses using rice flour. The practice is deeply rooted in South Indian culture to welcome guests into the home and bring good fortune and prosperity.

Traditionally created by women, our Chennai chapter shared that these beautiful designs are often created by family members and neighbors as a communal activity. Connections between people form patterns in our lives too. 

Which patterns in your relationships, work, and habits are worth repeating? Which ones should be changed? What new pattern do you want to create?

Meet our June speaker: Andrew Boardman

Andrew is a designer, artist, educator and small press publisher. As a designer and art director, his professional mission is to design a web that is more humane, that is crafted ethically, that is available to all visitors regardless of ability, and that is built using open source technologies. He also runs a small, nascent and indie Riso-powered press, creating and publishing his own and other artists’ books. His research interests include everyday typography,  Jewish visual culture, and the concept of conscious design. He’s also interested in the strange and strained relationship between design and belief.

Andrew is currently creative director at Mangrove Web, a purpose-driven digital agency and Certified B Corp. Previously, he founded and managed his own design studio, Manoverboard, for 20 years. Manoverboard was the first Certified B Corp in Manitoba and served clients across North America. He taught design at Red River College Polytech and the University of Manitoba’s School of Art. He received a B.A, M.F.A., and a Fulbright. 

Talk title: The power and possibility of creative self-expression through print in a world of grey corporate goo

I’ve been self-publishing my own and other people’s work since I was 15 years old when a few friends and I started an alternative newspaper at our high school. This has been a recurring theme throughout my life that I only recently “discovered”: I love seeing weird, unorthodox or otherwise unconventional ideas published — especially in print. Over the past 40 years, I’ve made zines, booklets, newsletters, newspapers, boxes, blogs, books, cards, websites, wikis, posters, pamphlets and postcards. Some people call it ephemera, whether digital or analogue. I call it art. Self-publishing is probably the most important evolution of media in my lifetime. Learn why self-publishing, especially through the medium of paper, remains an expression of wild possibility, a form of deep therapeutic healing, and the clearest affirmation of our rights to freedom and expression of equality. If you’ve ever considered publishing your own work, come ride the wave!

OUR EVENT LOCATION: Launch Co-Working in the Exchange District (500 - 167 Lombard Avenue)

5th Floor, Grain Exchange Building (Turn left off the elevator)

*Located in the Winnipeg Exchange District behind the Fairmont Hotel

*“Bergmann’s” sign on front of building by the door

PARKING 

Street 

Download “PayByPhone Parking” App

* Set your alarm for 8am as that’s when you can pay for parking

Parkades*

Rorie & McDermot

McDermot (between Rorie and Westbrook)

Richardson Centre (Fairmont Hotel)

*More expensive but don’t have to worry about how long you stay

CO-WORKING

By attending the CM WPG event, you are welcome to hang out at Launch Co-Working for the day (in the public spaces). Thanks to Launch for their generosity in offering this opportunity!

Join us on Friday, May 24 at 8:15am at Launch Co-Working Space in the Exchange District for a colourful and energetic exploration of the monthly CreativeMornings theme of VIBRANT. Our guest speaker will be Indigenous entrepreneur, Michelle Cameron!

** ASL Interpretation will be available at this event!

A Vibrant Vision: The Creative Journey of an Indigenous Entrepreneur

At the heart of every Indigenous entrepreneur’s creative journey lies a profound reverence for their cultural roots and a fierce determination to carve out a path of innovation and empowerment. Michelle Cameron is fueled by a deep sense of heritage and a passion for creativity and as an indigenous entrepreneur, she’s embarking on a transformative voyage of self-discovery and cultural revitalization. Michelle draws inspiration from her ancestors, infusing her products at Dreamcatcher Promotions with meaning and significance that reflect the rich tapestry of Indigenous traditions and stories. Along the way, she faced challenges and obstacles but remains resilient and determined to create a vibrant vision for the future. At her CreativeMornings talk, Michelle will share how her creative journey is a testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience of Indigenous peoples.

Meet our Speaker: Michelle Cameron

My name is Michelle Cameron, I was born and was raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With strong pride, I am a treaty status woman, a band member of Peguis First Nation, and a mother of five beautiful children. I am the owner and founder of Dreamcatcher Promotions, INAC and Dreamcatcher Executive Offices.

In 2011, I started my first business Dreamcatcher Embroidery as a home-based business. In 2013, Dreamcatcher Embroidery was changed to Dreamcatcher Promotions to better establish and describe Dreamcatcher Promotions as a business which offered much more services beyond embroidery. We broadened our services’ which included a variety of printed promotional products and apparel for businesses, agencies, and organizations.   

The first five years of business were difficult, and we were met with many struggles, and many days were often filled with self-doubt. There were times of financial strain, long hours, self and family sacrifices and feelings of wanting to give up. Thankfully we persevered throughout the hardships and put in the hard work and stayed committed to keep growing and turn into the successful company I knew we could become.

In 2018, Dreamcatcher Promotions was gaining strong brand awareness, and increasing its client base and became well recognized within the Indigenous and non-Indigenous business community.  We launched our Dreamcatcher Promotions website for online ordering and were focused on advertising and promoting our products and services through social media. 

To date, Dreamcatcher Promotions continues to be successful.  I continue to be the sole proprietor and manage the day-to-day operations, with 56 staff members. Dreamcatcher Promotions has evolved into becoming the largest Indigenous owned promotional company in Canada and is one of the largest promotional companies in Winnipeg.

CreativeMornings theme for May: VIBRANT

The theme was chosen by our San Antonio chapter and illustrated by 

Isabel Ann Castro

When was the last time you experienced something that made you feel more alive? 

Heard a melody pulsing with a beat that made your body move. Taken in the view of a lush landscape or sparkling city skyline bursting with light and shadows. Locked eyes with a striking stranger. Poured yourself into prose that crackles off the page with electricity. Lost track of time in a conversation punctuated by spirited laughter. Stopped in your tracks in front of a canvas in a museum or a mural on the street with colors so bold and bright it popped from the paint straight into your synapses. 

It might not happen every day. But you can live a life full of energy and enthusiasm. You can strive to bring brightness into every interaction. 

Because our world is full of all kinds of vibrant masterpieces. And you are one of them.

OUR EVENT LOCATION: Launch Co-Working in the Exchange District (500 - 167 Lombard Avenue)

5th Floor, Grain Exchange Building (Turn left off the elevator)

*Located in the Winnipeg Exchange District behind the Fairmont Hotel

*“Bergmann’s” sign on front of building by the door

PARKING 

Street 

Download “PayByPhone Parking” App

* Set your alarm for 8am as that’s when you can pay for parking

Parkades*

Rorie & McDermot

McDermot (between Rorie and Westbrook)

Richardson Centre (Fairmont Hotel)

*More expensive but don’t have to worry about how long you stay

CO-WORKING

By attending the CM WPG event, you are welcome to hang out at Launch Co-Working for the day (in the public spaces). Thanks to Launch for their generosity in offering this opportunity!

Join us on Friday, April 26, 2024 for a SPICY CreativeMornings Winnipeg Event at RRC Polytech’s Jane’s Restaurant.

This is a bonus event – we are offering a pre-event “behind the scenes” exclusive tour of RRC Polytech’s Culinary and Baking Labs at 7:30am followed by our usual amazing fare featuring speaker Jackie Wild at 8:15am. **ASL Interpretation is offered at both the pre-event and the main event.

THE VENUE: RRC POLYTECH PATERSON GLOBAL FOODS INSTITUTE (PGI)

Join us at RRC Polytech’s Paterson Global Foods Institute (504 Main Street – corner of Main and William in the Exchange District). There is plenty of street parking on King Street (behind the building by The CUBE) or a parking lot just south of the building (McKim Building on Hang Tag). You can enter by the front door on Main Street or at the back door off Bijou Park.

PRE-EVENT TOUR

Meet us at 7:30am at the security desk at the entrance to Jane’s Restaurant for an exclusive “behind the scenes” tour of RRC Polytech’s Culinary and Baking Labs. Explore your inner chef and imagine yourself as a professional baker on this special CM WPG tour!

MAIN EVENT

The Secret Sauce: Spice Up Your Life With Creativity, Culture and Community

Join us at 8:15am at Jane’s Restaurant to explore the CreativeMornings global theme of SPICY, featuring speaker Jackie Wild.

As a young boy growing up in the rural farmlands of Southern Leyte, Jackie’s father spent countless hours in the kitchen alongside his mother, cooking up tasty traditional Philippine dishes. Since immigrating to Canada in the 1980s, he dreamed of opening a restaurant where he could serve the same nostalgic meals from his homeland and childhood.
 
 Over four decades later, Jackie turned this pipe dream into a reality by penning a business plan while on maternity leave from her career in the corporate sector. Taking a collective leap of faith, this father-daughter duo opened Tito Boy Restaurant’s doors to their kababayan (fellow country people) and the broader community in October 2022.
 
 As the first Philippine eatery in the south end of Winnipeg, Tito Boy’s offers a safe, welcoming space for building intergenerational and intercultural connections. The purpose of this communal gathering place is not only about serving delicious food—it’s about sharing and celebrating the lived experiences of our Philippine-Canadian diaspora.
 
 Join us for engaging conversation and delightful bites with Jackie at the upcoming CreativeMornings session. During this talk, she will unpack the unconventional path that enabled her to unlock her creative potential and launch her own business.

About our Speaker: Jackie Wild

Jackie Wild | Founder, Tito Boy Restaurant & Founder, Delight Digital
 
Jackie Wild is a seasoned communications and marketing professional with over a decade of experience managing successful community-focused initiatives within the public, private and non-profit sectors. As a racialized woman in business, she understands the critical role anti-racism advocacy plays in advancing equitable outcomes for her kababayan (fellow country people) and the broader business community.
 
In 2022, Jackie launched Tito Boy Restaurant, Winnipeg’s first south-end Philippine eatery, offering traditional and fusion culinary creations. The business, named after her father, Agustin “Tito Boy” Doming, represents the intersectionality of different generations and what it means to be a Philippine-Canadian in the modern era.
 
A champion of community building, Jackie serves as president of the Manitoba Filipino Business Council, leading their vision to serve as the prime community resource hub for Philippine business people and professionals. Jackie also volunteers as board secretary with the Manitoba Museum, small business advisory council co-chair with The Winnipeg Chamber, interview chair with the Loran Scholars Foundation and board member with the Health Sciences Centre Foundation.
 
In 2020, Jackie was named one of CBC Manitoba’s Future 40 recipients and featured in the Filipino Journal’s 20 Filipinos to Watch list.

APRIL CREATIVEMORNINGS THEME: SPICY

April’s Theme is SPICY.

When you’re cooking, spices add flavor, depth, and complexity to an otherwise plain culinary dish. Spicy foods interact with receptors in our mouth and can trigger sensations of heat and even pain. Can you handle it? Being open to trying new and bold tastes is a good lesson for bringing daring and originality into all of our creative endeavors. As they say, “variety is the spice of life.” 

Our Tucson chapter chose this month’s exploration of SPICY and Sophie McTear illustrated the theme.

RISE AND SHINE TO GET SOME CREATIVE PERSPECTIVE!

Join us at 8:15am on Friday, March 22, 2024 at Launch Co-Working in the Exchange District for an exploration of the CreativeMornings monthly theme of PERSPECTIVE with our guest speaker Joseph Pilapil (The Travelling Sign Painters).

Meet our Speaker: Joseph Pilapil

Joseph Pilapil is a sign painter, designer, and artist. He’s a graduate of RRC Polytech's Digital Multimedia Technology Program. Owner of The Travelling Sign Painters, he creates hand painted signs for all situations in Winnipeg. He also is a part owner of an artist collective and small shop called Bear Face General Store and is also a part owner of a dance company called Rivercity Swing. Joseph aims to make a living of all aspects of his creative life.

You can find Joseph’s work on Instagram @thetravellingsignpainters

CreativeMornings Monthly Theme: PERSPECTIVE

March’s Theme is PERSPECTIVE.

Every creative act is an attempt to share a unique perspective on some slice of the world. What you see — and how you see it — shapes your beliefs. So, what’s your point of view?

Remember, looking at a problem from multiple angles generates more possible solutions. So, change your perspective and you can change your world. 

Our Fargo chapter chose this month’s exploration of PERSPECTIVE and Fred Gaye Wremo illustrated the theme.

LOCATION OF OUR MARCH EVENT

We are meeting at Launch Co-Working in the Exchange District this month.

LOCATION

Launch Co-Working: 500 - 167 Lombard Avenue

5th Floor, Grain Exchange Building (Turn left off the elevator)

*Located in the Winnipeg Exchange District behind the Fairmont Hotel. “Bergmann’s” sign on front of building by the door

PARKING 

Street 

Download “PayByPhone Parking” App

* Set your alarm for 8am as that’s when you can pay for parking

Parkades

Rorie & McDermot

McDermot (between Rorie and Westbrook)

Richardson Centre (Fairmont Hotel)

*More expensive but don’t have to worry about how long you stay

CO-WORKING

By attending the CM WPG event, you are welcome to hang out at Launch Co-Working for the day (in the public spaces). Thanks to Launch for their generosity in offering this opportunity!

Join us on February 23rd at CreativeMornings Winnipeg! We will be meeting at 8:15am at Launch Co-Working in the East Exchange District for a wonderful morning of music, laughter and creative connection.

**ASL interpretation is offered at all CreativeMornings Winnipeg events.**

The Art of Adaptation: Lessons from Native Plants for Creative Living

Join us on February 23 for an enlightening talk by Lourdes Still at CreativeMornings Winnipeg. Lourdes, the visionary behind Masagana Flower Farm & Studio, will share her transformative journey of creative living rooted in the lessons learned from native plants and the prairie ecosystem.

In this talk, Lourdes explores the overlooked beauty of the prairies and the resilience embedded in tall grass prairies’ deep roots. From uprooting herself from the Philippines to nurturing a small farm in Manitoba, Lourdes illustrates how adapting to the environment not only enriched her personal life but also became a powerful metaphor for creative living. Discover the interconnectedness of resilience, collaboration with nature, and the vibrant tapestry of creativity that unfolds when we learn from the native plants around us.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired by Lourdes’ unique perspective on adaptation and creativity on February 23 at CreativeMornings Winnipeg!

Meet our Speaker: Lourdes Still

Lourdes Still is the creative behind Masagana Flower Farm & Studio, a seasonal flower farm, natural dye studio and experiential tourism destination near La Broquerie, Manitoba. In this Filipina-led small business, Lourdes emphasizes eco-friendly growing practices after turning lawns into garden beds. She grows seasonal blooms specializing in plants and flowers that can be used as natural dye sources. 

She started as a self-taught flower grower, natural dyer, and tourism operator but has since learned and trained from industry leaders. Her farm is seasonal, but her floral-dyed projects are year-round. Hosting people for her experiential tourism called Tinta Experience is her favourite role. It’s a half-day engagement at the farm where guests participate in a multi-faceted experience on flower farming, dye plant cultivation, flower u-pick and natural dyeing combined.  She believes that growing joy (through flowers) and creating magic (through dye plants) is right at our fingertips and our gardens present opportunities to respond positively to the climate emergency. She hopes to inspire people to find that joy in their life and if that’s flowers, great!

New boost