Innovator of the Year

Histoire cachée In Plain Sight is an innovative GPS-based augmented reality (AR) tour that reimagines the visitor experience in St. Boniface. Developed by ZenFri Inc. in partnership with TiBert Inc., this immersive app blends cutting-edge technology with authentic Indigenous and Métis storytelling, providing a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Manitoba’s history.

Through AR, visitors engage with layered narratives that challenge colonial perspectives and highlight Indigenous and Métis heritage. At La Vérendrye Park, for example, the app reinterprets the statue of La Vérendrye from an Indigenous viewpoint, encouraging reflection on underrepresented histories. The experience unfolds across 12 locations, bringing historical figures, cultural landmarks and untold stories to life.

Community collaboration drives every aspect of Histoire cachée In Plain Sight. Indigenous Elders, Métis historians and local contributors shape the storytelling, ensuring historical accuracy and cultural integrity. Offered in French, Michif and English, the app prioritizes accessibility and language preservation. Recognized with a bronze award from Interpretation Canada and integrated into educational curricula, Histoire cachée In Plain Sight strengthens cultural tourism in Manitoba while fostering reconciliation and historical awareness.

The Winnipeg Art Gallery-Qaumajuq’s self-guided in-person and virtual tours offer an immersive way to explore the Gallery’s spaces while learning about the Indigenous names gifted to them. The Indigenous Language Sovereignty: Article 13 Experience highlights names shared by Language Keepers and Learners, preserving and celebrating Indigenous languages. The Architectural Elements Experience features insights from Anishinaabe architect David Thomas and WAG-Qaumajuq CEO Dr. Stephen Borys, showcasing the cultural inspirations behind the Gallery’s design.

Visitors can hear stories directly from Language Keepers, view digital portraits created by Inuit artist Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona and experience these narratives in French, Inuktitut, Inuttitut, Inuvialuktun, Anishinaabemowin, Nêhiyawêwin, Anishininimowin, Dakota, Dene and Michif. A multi-channel marketing strategy expanded reach, with high engagement through social media and partnerships.

By blending Indigenous storytelling with technology, these tours break barriers in accessibility and education. WAG-Qaumajuq continues to set a precedent for cultural preservation and immersive visitor experiences.

The reintroduction of the water bus service has revitalized Winnipeg’s historic rivers, offering visitors and residents a scenic and practical way to explore the city. After a seven-year hiatus, the service returned with major improvements, including real-time online tracking, expanded commuter hours and flexible pass options. These enhancements increased accessibility and convenience, driving strong demand throughout the season.

Operating across seven public docks—including two that reopened for the first time in 20 years—the water bus seamlessly connects key locations, encouraging exploration and strengthening Winnipeg’s tourism appeal. A strategic marketing campaign combined social media engagement, travel partnerships and community input to refine the service and maximize reach.

With support from key partners like the City of Winnipeg and The Forks, the water bus has transformed the city’s rivers into an engaging, functional and memorable way to experience Winnipeg. By blending transportation with tourism, it enhances mobility while celebrating the city’s heritage and natural beauty.