Entrepreneurs discover importance of cultural diversity in the workplace

atelierjphuotlowresCHARLOTTETOWN, PEI – March 12, 2014 – Sixteen business people were recently enlightened about « The importance of cultural diversity in the workplace » during sharing sessions in Charlottetown and Summerside.

Organized by RDÉE Prince Edward Island’s LIENS project, the sessions provided an opportunity for Jean-Pierre Huot, senior vice-president of MDS Coating Technologies in Slemon Park, to share his experiences with hiring and working with people from other cultures and countries.

He noted that newcomers often bring with them new perspectives and sometimes new ways of doing things. This can sometimes agitate things in the workplace, but at the end of the day, when everyone involved opens up their minds, everyone realises that the presence and contribution of immigrants is extremely valuable to the business.

The first presentation, in French, was held during the supper hour at the Carrefour in Charlottetown; the second presentation, in English, was given in the board room of the Summerside Chamber of Commerce at noontime on March 11.

Shown here, following the Charlottetown talk, are, from left, French visitors Frédéric Bouts et Jennifer Lings (who are both considering immigrating to PEI), along with speaker Jean-Pierre Huot and LIENS coordinator Catherine Rioux.