What does inclusion mean to you?
Inclusion, to me, means embracing diversity and providing equitable access to opportunities. It means creating an environment where each and everyone, regardless of their background, gender or abilities feels accepted, respected, and valued. Where everyone can fully participate and contribute with their unique talents and personalities. Inclusion means breaking down barriers and advocating for equality.
Where do you live? Tell us about your family.
I am originally from Montréal and moved to Shediac, with my two amazing daughters and our dog in April 2022. We are grateful to be able to live peacefully beside the ocean surrounded by nature and stunning landscapes. New Brunswick is such a beautiful province.
What path did you pursue? Did you attend school, have a career outside your home, support a family, work or volunteer in community? Any notable achievements, promotions, projects you would like to highlight?
I was one of the few and probably one of the first women to studies in finances (accounting) while pregnant. I got my Baccalaureate in Accounting from UQÀM University in 2013, although I was a single mother of two toddlers. I got my CPA designation in 2015 and I have been working as an analyst for over a decade.
What values or principles guide your life? Are there any specific leadership or teamwork experiences that have left an impact on you?
Respect, family, honesty and generosity are values that always guided my life.
Education has been a cornerstone of my journey, empowering me and giving me knowledge. It helped me to develop new skills and brought new opportunities. Therefore, I believe that equal access to education to individuals with mental disabilities can help them unlock their full potential and empower them to contribute to a better and more meaningful society.
What are your interests and hobbies? Do you have any unique talents or skills you’d like to share?
Cross country and downhill skiing energize me, drawing allows for creative expression, walking on the beach relaxes me, while hiking reconnects me with nature’s wonders. Traveling nourishes my curiosity by learning about diverse cultures and landscapes.
In my community, I volunteer my time to teach financial literacy to newcomers to Canada and engage in French /English conversations with them. Last summer, I had the fantastic opportunity to foster five puppies and their mom for about six weeks.
What’s something about you most people wouldn’t know? Any quirky habits or interesting anecdotes? Is there a favourite quote or saying that resonates with you?
My favorite quotes are :
“C’est le temps que tu as perdu pour ta rose qui fait ta rose si importante.”
– Antoine de Saint-Exupery, The Little Prince
“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
– Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist