Southern Manitoba was well represented as a national organization recognized the work of people here working in the field of human resources.
At a recent awards ceremony, Kroeker Farms based in Winkler received the award for business excellence from the Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) organization in Manitoba.
In addition, Jenna Book of Red River Mutual based in Altona won the human resources executive award, while Terra Friesen from Meridian Manufacturing was a nominee for the leadership award.
It speaks well to the level of commitment and dedication to best serving human resources in the region here, and it is a very important aspect of any business, observed Book.
“I think it’s definitely gotten to be more widely appreciated and recognized … the world is changing very rapidly and how we work and where we work,” she said, suggesting things have been at “a pivotal turning point” for people.
“There’s a real impact on people as human beings, and being in HR and understanding the people and culture and the role that you can play and that they play in the success of your business is more important,” she said. “I think it’s making the HR role a little more recognized as a value and the support that it can offer.”
Book was cited for an award that recognizes HR leaders in upper management levels that drive change within their organizations
Red River Mutual has just over 200 employees across western Canada. That workforce has almost quadrupled in the 10 years Book has been with the company.
“It’s really been remarkable growth … and we are working really hard as an organization to continue to grow our business,” she said. “We work really hard to earn a reputation for being a good employer and employer of choice … so that people want to come work for us but also create an environment where they want to stay working for us.
“I’m just really honoured for the recognition,” she said. “I’ve been working in HR for Red River Mutual over the last ten years … and we have really grown, so to be recognized by my peers in my professional organization for the work that I’ve done is just such an honour and compliment.”
Friesen likewise appreciated the recognition of the nomination.
“I was humbled and honoured to be recognized as a finalist for the 2026 CPHR Manitoba HR leader of the year award,” she said. “The team I work with deserves credit though, as the nomination reflects their dedication and the trust placed in me by the organization. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to meaningful workplace change and growth and to be recognized alongside such respected HR leaders.”
A representative of Kroeker Farms could not be reached for comment at press time. The company received the Thrive Award for making work more meaningful and engaging.
