UFCW 1006A is proud to welcome nearly 200 stewards from across Ontario to our spring Stewards’ Training courses.
Our education and training program empowers activists with the knowledge and skills to help their co-workers. 1006A is offering eight different courses for the 2025 spring session, including The Steward Course: An Introduction, Understanding Human Rights and Handling Tough Issues.
Classes run from April 8 to May 21 at the union office Training Centre. Instructors included longtime stewards Lorrie Russell and Penny Patterson.
“I’ve gained knowledge about workers’ rights, handling grievances, and how to support my co-workers effectively,” said Asal Sedighinejad, who works at Loblaws and became a steward to stand up for fairness and to build a better workplace. “Stewards’ Training is essential and helps build a more informed and united workforce. It empowers members and strengthens our union.”
President Wayne Hanley commended members for participating in the training.
“We are proud of our incredible stewards for their hard work and dedication to building fairer workplaces and to making life better for their fellow workers,” said Hanley. “Our dynamic training program provides our steward base with the skills, knowledge and tools to improve and protect our members at work. I want to thank our stewards for volunteering their time and energy to take part in this important training opportunity and for their tireless work on behalf of our membership every day.”
Hira Zeshan, who works at Swiss Chalet, said she developed a better understanding of the union contract through Stewards’ Training.
“I gained more knowledge on communication, problem solving, teamwork and leadership,” she said. “I was inspired to become a steward by a desire to stand up and advocate for workers’ rights and to make sure the work environment was safe and healthy.”
She said it’s very important for the union to offer Stewards’ Training.
“Effective training empowers union stewards to represent members fairly, understand the collective agreement and have the knowledge to handle the complexities of workplace issues.”
Satwinder Singh, who works at Pliteq, noted that Stewards’ Training makes a difference, ensuring member complaints and grievances are reported.
“During training, we learn about responsibilities – what to do and what not to do – but also get a chance to meet experienced stewards and learn about different workplaces.”
Lisa MacLeod, who works at No Frills, said Stewards’ Training taught her about the role and expectations of a steward in the workplace.
“Being given the tools to do the best you can, in any role or job is always valuable – never stop learning,” she said. “I was inspired to be a steward because helping people to understand their rights at work or having a safe person to talk to is important to me.”
Every year, stewards training courses take place in spring and fall. Registration packages will be sent in July for the fall session.
To learn more about Stewards’ Training, please contact Rick Young at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
