Uniting the Y Winnipeg Team
The YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg’s decision to relocate its corporate offices to the revitalized Downtown Y marks a transformative commitment to Downtown Winnipeg and the people who call it home. For Joana Bersamina, Vice President of People and Culture, the move is about much more than geography—it’s about amplifying impact and fostering connection.
“This heartfelt move strengthens the bond between the Y’s leadership and the downtown community by placing us at the centre of where our impact truly matters,” Joana shares. “By being present and accessible, we can nurture deeper relationships, listen and learn the community’s needs, and work hand in hand with businesses, partners, and community members.”
Having lived and worked in Downtown Winnipeg for years, Joana is excited to return to the area. “Watching this space evolve into a vibrant hub of collaboration—where our teams join forces with program participants, partners, and community members—fills me with excitement for the countless opportunities to celebrate, create, and grow together.”
The move aligns with the Y’s commitment to foster inclusivity, collaboration, and innovation. With its leadership team based in the heart of downtown, the organization is better positioned to address critical community needs through expanded programming. “This relocation reflects our belief that belonging is the heart of equity,” Joana explains. “It’s about creating a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered, while uniting people and ideas to
achieve transformative change.”
Cordella Friesen, President and CEO of the YMCA-YWCA of Winnipeg, emphasizes how this decision underscores the Y’s dedication to downtown revitalization. “We’re not just relocating offices; we’re making an investment in the future of Downtown Winnipeg,” she says. “This move reaffirms our role as a catalyst for growth and community renewal. By being here, we’re demonstrating our commitment to creating a vibrant, thriving downtown that benefits everyone.”
The Y’s relocation is more than a symbolic gesture—it’s a strategic step toward building stronger connections and addressing the needs of the downtown community. From supporting newcomer families to providing resources for youth and fostering wellness for all, the Y’s leadership team will be at the heart of the action, driving change and building a legacy of opportunity for future generations.
Y Winnipeg's corporate relocation supports the goals of the Heart of the City Campaign and the development of a vibrant downtown. You can help by donating to support the campaign.