Toys & Ties Recap

This Wednesday, December 10th, the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC) hosted its annual Toys & Ties event at the Local Public Eatery in downtown Winnipeg. The event served as both an opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of the Chamber over the 2025 calendar year, but also as a fundraising opportunity for featured local non-profit Zoongizi Ode.

Annual Event Supports Local Youth and Family Services

According to Zoongizi Ode, its mission is “to [empower] youth and families in Manitoba impacted by complex systems, through advocacy, education, and support.” Mary Burton, executive director of the organization, spoke to the crowd, saying that the organization is about helping people “navigate complex systems, including welfare, EI, and more. Attendees were encouraged to bring toys, clothing, and other items to aid Zoongizi Ode in its mission to assist vulnerable community members during the cold holiday season.

Christopher Henry, interim-CEO of the ICC, also spoke to the crowd, highlighting the achievements throughout the year and the growth in the Chamber’s community. “None of this would have been possible without your participation. That includes our sponsors, and most importantly, our members,” said Henry.

Community Celebration Features Holiday Traditions and Competitions

Apart from the holiday toy-drive, attendees were invited to participate in the annual ugliest sweater and ugliest tie competition, with both winners receiving a special prize from the ICC.

This year’s mixer was another success for the ICC, and we look forward to the many upcoming events in the coming months. We would like to thank all our sponsors and members who have supported our mission throughout the year; our mission would not have been possible without your support.

On behalf of the ICC, we wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy new year.