Travel Manitoba Bilingual Guide Pilot Program

Here's your opportunity to join a new adventure and share a few stories along the way! Travel Manitoba's Bilingual Tour Guide pilot program offers free training for the next generation of tourism professionals and opportunities to hone your French and English guiding skills.

The new pilot program is looking for eight individuals who are:

  • Bilingual or are actively developing their French and English communication skills.
  • Interested in tourism, cultural interpretation, visitor services, community engagement or storytelling.
  • Seeking to build professional skills, gain industry knowledge and explore employment or entrepreneurial opportunities.
  • Searching for hands-on learning, networking opportunities and mentorship within the tourism sector.

If you are interested, complete your application and questionnaire by 5 p.m. on Friday, October 2.

Application form

Bilingual Guide Program key dates

  • October 13 (6:00-8:30 p.m.): Introduction to Guiding online session
  • October 27 (6:00-8:30 p.m.): Onboarding online session
  • November 6-8 (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.): In-person workshop
  • November 15 (12:30-5 p.m.): In-person capstone presentations

Frequently Asked Questions

How bilingual do I need to be in order to be accepted into this program?

You must be actively working on your language skills. If you are unsure, complete the questionnaire and registration form and you will be contacted for more information if you are a potential candidate. An optional offer of self-guided learning combined with coaching will be available for those who wish to learn more about starting their own guiding business at a future date.

How will the training be delivered?

The introduction and onboarding classes will be taught online with self-directed learning components. There will also be a 3.5-day in-person workshop and in-person presentations.

If travelling to Winnipeg is a concern or you are uncertain of your schedule, you can apply and we'll confirm your availability or make arrangements should you be accepted into the program.

Here's the schedule:

  • October 13 (6:00-8:30 p.m.): Introduction to Guiding online session
  • October 27 (6:00-8:30 p.m.): Onboarding online session
  • November 6-8 (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.): In-person workshop
  • November 15 (12:30-5 p.m.): In-person capstone presentations

Where is the in-person training taking place?

Training will occur in Winnipeg at several locations in St. Boniface and The Forks.

How do I register for the Bilingual Guide Program?

You must complete a questionnaire and a registration application intake form. If your application is successful, you will receive details on how to access the online sessions and attend the in-person activities.

Is there a certificate?

Yes, a certificate of completion will be issued to candidates who have completed all stages of the training course.

Is attendance mandatory for sessions to receive the certificate?

Yes, participants must attend all sessions to obtain their certificate of completion.

Where is the funding coming from for this program, who is administering it?

Travel Manitoba is working with consultants to create the Bilingual Tourism Guide program with funding from Canadian Heritage.