Embracing new tools and ideas: Pilot programs build capacity
Cultural organizations across Saskatchewan are navigating change and finding ways to connect and share their work. In response, SaskCulture launched two pilot projects in 2025 to support these evolving needs.
One of these was the Communications Mentorship Pilot Program, developed in response to member survey feedback that identified a need for more communications support. The six-month pilot matched four SaskCulture member organizations with two experienced communications professionals, offering tailored, one-on-one mentorship.
Busayo Osobade, communications manager, SaskCulture, says the need for the program was clear. “We were hearing repeatedly that groups needed more support in this area, so we decided to try something new by introducing a mentorship program. This one-on-one approach allowed groups to receive support tailored to their specific needs.”
Jennifer Jungwirth, executive director, Saskatchewan Music Educators Association, was one of the mentees for the pilot program, and found the experience rewarding. With support from a mentor who understood their day-to-day work, mentees were able to build confidence and feel supported when navigating communications.
"Having the opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss current issues with someone who truly understood the role was both validating and valuable,"- Jennifer Jungwirth
SaskCulture covered all program costs to ensure participants could fully engage and benefit from the experience and is now exploring ways to continue the mentorship program, with adjustments based on what was learned through the pilot.
In early 2026, SaskCulture also launched the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Learning Network to help organizations use AI in practical, ethical and safe ways.
Catherine Folstad, supervisor of granting and technology, SaskCulture, says that the idea came after hearing from the cultural community that many were feeling overwhelmed by AI. The Network consists of representatives from various cultural organizations, who are connecting online to share ideas and resources.
“I hope the network builds confidence and practical insight that can be shared with the wider sector. From there, those learnings can guide future support based on community-identified needs, helping organizations strengthen digital skills and capacity in a rapidly changing environment,” Folstad says.
In addition to these new programs, SaskCulture continued to offer its free, monthly virtual lunch-and-learn webinars. The sessions covered a range of topics, helping organizations access resources and build skills.