New Partner Story: McCain Foods (Canada) “TRIEC aligned with our company values, and provided a unique opportunity that we were excited to share”

We are proud to have McCain Foods (Canada) join TRIEC Mentoring Partnership as an employer partner. McCain Foods (Canada) is the Canadian division of McCain Foods Limited, an international leader in the frozen food industry. In Canada, the company has seven production facilities with approximately 2,400 employees and, in addition to its famous French fries and potato specialties, makes frozen desserts, snacks and appetizers.

Vicky Perez-Bernardy, RVS Program Lead at McCain Foods (Canada) shares why it’s important for them to be involved in TRIEC Mentoring Partnership.

Why did you decide to become an employer partner in TRIEC Mentoring Partnership?

As part of our McCain Chips In volunteering program, we are always exploring new ways to give back to our communities. During COVID, we have been particularly keen on finding virtual volunteering opportunities for our team members to participate in. TRIEC aligned with our company values, and provided a unique opportunity that we were excited to share.

How do you think the program will help you meet your diversity and inclusion/CSR/Community Engagement goals?

McCain is committed to sustainability and we are active members of the communities where our employees live and work. A pillar within our sustainability strategy is Thriving Communities, which is about supporting our communities and encouraging our team members to give back.

Additionally, McCain is a company that values a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. By partnering with TRIEC, we are able to improve the lives of others while supporting immigrants in this next chapter of their life. It is also a unique opportunity for mentors to learn from their mentees and gain more awareness of other cultures and the challenges that others may face.

What benefits do you think your employees will gain from being mentors?

There are multiple benefits for our employees by participating as mentors including professional development, building cultural awareness and inclusive actions, expanding their network, and creating strong connection with members of our community and understanding of their needs.

How will you promote mentoring to your employees?

A comprehensive communication campaign has been created in partnership with TRIEC to ensure all employees understand how the program works, support the enrollment process and make it successful for both mentees and mentors alike. We already hosted our first learning event, which shared details about the TRIEC program and this unique opportunity. We have received strong support from senior leaders and they are excited to see this partnership come to life.