Young workers build skills and solidarity at Prairie YIP session

Saskatoon, Sask. – July 3, 2025 – The latest session of the UFCW Canada Young-Workers Internship Program (YIP) recently took place in Saskatoon, bringing together participants from across Saskatchewan and Manitoba for a week of dynamic learning, skill-building, and empowerment.

The Saskatoon stop on the YIP tour welcomed members from UFCW Canada Locals 1400, 649, 832, and 248P, providing them with the opportunity to build new skills and strengthen their roles as activists in their workplaces and communities.

“YIP is a fantastic opportunity, especially if you don’t know much about the union,” says UFCW 1400 member Ireland Brown. “I came in with very little knowledge, and it inspired me to get more involved. It’s such an amazing environment to meet like-minded people who share your passion for workers’ rights, better benefits, safety, and overall well-being in the workplace. It’s truly a privilege to be invited to take part in this program.”

Throughout the program, participants explored diverse topics such as labour history, gaining a richer understanding of Canada’s worker movement. A highlight of the week was an engaging simulated bargaining session, where participants took on dual roles as employers and union members, negotiating toward a collective agreement.

The group also had the opportunity to tour Star Egg, learning more about this vital part of the egg processing supply chain and seeing firsthand how UFCW members help bring eggs from farm to table.

Each year, YIP empowers dozens of young member-activists from across Canada. The next session of this groundbreaking program will take place in Ontario. To learn more about YIP, click here. You can also follow the program on Facebook and Instagram.