A decade of building together! The 2024 NexGen Builders Annual Retreat

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“TCBN and our pre-apprenticeship training delivery partners are thrilled that you will be joining us at our NexGen Builders Annual Retreat at Polonia Park in Niagara-on-the-Lake.”

I was thrilled to receive this email from Dwayne Rutherford, trusted advisor in strategic event planning at Debonair Corporate Events, your premier destination for excellence in event planning and management services. With over two decades of management expertise, and armed with industry-leading certifications, he has a deep understanding of the intricacies required to satisfy the highest levels of corporate leadership. Specializing in; elite conferences, AGM’s, award ceremonies, and gala events, Debonair Corporate Events offer both virtual and in-person solutions designed to cultivate impactful brand experiences and meaningful connections with your target audience.

Alongside Rosemarie Powell (Executive Director, Toronto Community Benefits Network), he assisted in curating the NexGen Builders Annual Retreat that was held on August 24^th, 2024, at 7:00am – 8:30pm Polonia Park, Niagara on the Lake. The day started off with a pickup of attendees at: Toronto Community Benefits Network (TCBN), The Neighbourhood Organization (TNO), and The Learning Enrichment Foundation (LEF). The attendees were going to spend an informative, and unforgettable day at Niagara On The Lake and participate in “A Decade of Building Together!” Rain or shine, the hosts ensured that the day consisted of education, networking, and entertainment.

Organizations like the Toronto Community Benefits Network (TCBN) have been instrumental in building a legacy for the next generation of construction trades workers and professionals. Through initiatives like NexGen, TCBN provides valuable: training, mentorship, and networking opportunities that empower young people, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen trades.

By championing African Caribbean leaders and investing in the growth of young tradespeople, TCBN ensures a more inclusive and dynamic future for the construction industry, paving the way for economic growth and community development.

Supporting African Caribbean leaders in the construction and skilled trades industry is crucial for fostering: diversity, inclusion, and equitable opportunities within the sector. These leaders bring unique perspectives, experiences, and skills that enrich the industry and serve as role models for young people beginning their careers in skilled trades.

Participants at the NexGen Builders Retreat were involved in a mentorship program that was formulated to foster the next generation of construction trades workers and professionals. TCBN has: 16 online mentee training sessions, six online peer mentor/ mentor training sessions, 11 construction unions participating, and over 250 mentees and mentors participating. Many of them are currently working in the construction sector, have completed a construction apprenticeship, or are experienced professionals in the industry.

The Peer Mentors, which were an important part of the day’s activities, had at least a 2nd year apprentice and were recognized as leaders in their field. They had committed at least one year with the program, and understand the challenges underrepresented groups face and want to see them succeed in the construction industry

On Saturday, you’re not going to believe this! I was stuck in the worst traffic on the QEW. It was completely ridiculous. I swear, it was like the universe didn’t want me to make it to this retreat on time!  I thought I had left early enough to avoid all that!  I did, but then there was this huge accident, and it was just bumper-to-bumper. I was annoyed, because I was really looking forward to the first part of the retreat, but I guess it was out of my hands now.

I got there just in time for lunch and some of the group activities (volleyball, soccer – scorekeeper, masseuse, crafting/building). In the afternoon, I was invited to accompany the mentors and mentees to their afternoon activities that included: a visit to Niagara Falls for the Maid of the Mist, Beer tastings, and the one that I chose, which was a wine tour at Peller Estates.

Another incredible community building aspect of this retreat was the fact that the organizers were able to connect with the owner of Falcon Inn, a now African owned hotel located in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Falcon Inn is ranked among the best and cheapest hotels Niagara Falls, Canada, offering you the most enchanting opportunity to unwind and succumb to the unmatched grandeur of Niagara Falls. The hotel is conveniently located on the historic Lundy’s Lane of Niagara Falls and tourist area, only two miles from: the Guarantee Stampworld – famous Niagara Falls, Casino Niagara, Canada’s No. 1 factory outlet and other attractions such as: Marineland Niagara Falls, Niagara Go-Karts and Niagara Square Shopping Mall of Niagara Falls.

Even though I had to leave early to attend another event, I was pleased to have an opportunity to network with mentors and mentees at the event. Exciting news! New mentees and mentors registered to TCBN programs were eligible for a full refund of the ticket price following their attendance at the retreat. That’s right, attendees got their money back. How amazing is that?

Thank you TCBN and Debonair Corporate Events for making this day a special one. Looking forward to NEXGEN 2025.