Celebrating the Diversity and Cultural Richness of Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month

Throughout the month of June, we recognized both Pride Month and National Indigenous History Month as we honoured the diversity and cultural richness that these two celebrations contribute to our vibrant community. Associates in our offices and units across the country took part in fun activities, learning events and got to enjoy some yummy, themed treats – we are in the food business after all!

Let’s kick it off with Pride Month. We know that finding the right partners is key to the recipe for success! That’s why, earlier in 2024, we announced our partnership with Pride at Work – an organization that supports Canadian employers in their mission to build diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces through dialogue, education and thought leadership. In partnership with Pride at Work we hosted a workshop entitled,  Making Meaningful Connections where we discussed the importance of using inclusive language in the workplace and how to act in allyship with 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. Plus, our in-person attendees got to enjoy some sweet treats from Craigs Cookies!

We were proud to share toolkits with our in-unit managers to support fun and respectful celebrations throughout the month that also include employee spotlights, e-learning opportunities and recognizing LGBTQS+ artists, chefs and authors!

To end-off the month of celebrations, our very own Gourmet Cuisine team partnered with our client Fasken, to host a festive brunch with delicious culinary offerings to fuel attendees as they headed out to celebrate the Pride Parade festivities in Toronto.

Next up, we celebrated National Indigenous History Month with Chef Steph Baryluk, Sous Chef with Compass Group Canada by doing what we do best and hosted three Indigenous culinary teaching events for our teams!

Chefs from across the country joined Chef Steph to learn traditional indigenous recipes and culinary techniques on June 20 in Burnaby, BC, June 25 in Calgary, Alberta and virtually for all 25,000+ associates on June 21.

The goal of these teaching events is for our chefs to take their learnings and integrate them into their menus across the country.

Chef Steph believes that by offering indigenous menu items we are opening the door to, not only indigenous cuisine, but the teachings of indigenous history and culture and creating an opportunity for important conversations. She also shines a light on the importance of how Indigenous students will feel when they see their traditional cuisine being served.

“We talk about reconciliation a lot in Canada; however, when Indigenous cuisine is offered it’s not just talk, it’s action. Connection through food is so powerful and it is inspiring to know that Indigenous students will connect to the food and stories we are serving,” said Chef Steph Baryluk, Sous Chef with Compass Group Canada.

“I am so proud to play a role in showing our Indigenous Community our cuisine should be shared and we should be proud to be Indigenous. I have so much gratitude that I get to share my culture that I make sure it’s done in a good and respectful way.”

As a special treat, event attendees got to try some of Chef Steph’s very own jerky from her small business, Mrs. B’s Jerky. Chef Steph prepares and sells beef, moose and caribou jerky using the same hunting and harvesting processes her father taught her as a child – learn more and try some today!

Chef Steph is Teetl’it Gwich’in and is from Teetl’it Zheh (Fort McPherson), Treaty 11 Territory located in the Northwest Territories. She recognizes the freedom she has to practice her culture and traditions and takes pride in showcasing her heritage.

At Compass Group Canada, the diversity of our people is interwoven in everything we do. We are committed to making sure every associate feels safe, welcomed and encouraged to be their authentic self at work.

We invite you to visit our Stronger Together website to learn more about our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion journey as together, we work towards a future where everyone can thrive.