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End of mandate for the Bilingual Young Leaders: a look back and a look forward to a new cohort

Written by Mona Ansari | Aug 1, 2024 4:00:00 AM

In August 2024, the Bilingual Young Leaders (JLB) conclude a two-year mandate marked by inspiring initiatives and challenges met with flying colors. What is the JLB program, and what have they achieved?

What is the JLB program?

The JLB program, orchestrated by French for the Future, aims to engage students in the promotion of the French-speaking world beyond the classroom. Selecting 7 to 8 young people each cycle, the program trains them in project management and supports them in identifying, ideating and implementing one or more projects that are close to their hearts. With committee members scattered across Canada, they learn to organize, take responsibility, work as a group despite the distance, and develop their governance skills. This program brings together young people who want to make an impact, but also to create links, develop friendships in French and deepen their connection with the French-speaking world.

The 2022-2024 cohort: remarkable achievements

Made up of young people from across Canada:

  • Lilia Hessabi – Vancouver, BC
  • Seerat Waraich – Abbotsford, BC
  • JiYu Park – Moncton, NB
  • Andréane Gagnon – Pointe-de-l’église, NS
  • Bruce Yu – Newmarket, ON
  • Alisha Aslam – Toronto, ON
  • Alexandra Snider – Minesing, ON
  • Tony Wu – St. Catharines, ON

The 2022-2024 cohort worked brilliantly on its “Le coin Canadien” project, exploring the French-speaking world and francophone communities across the country. This theme has resulted in a series of captivating magazines and podcasts, highlighting the diversity and richness of Canada’s francophone culture. Find the magazines and podcasts here.

A highlight of their mandate was their training trip to Ottawa. There, they visited the French for the Future offices, explored the nation’s capital, exchanged views with a Senator, and strengthened the bonds within their group, laying a solid foundation for their ambitious projects.

A call to the next generation of leaders

After two years of adventure and discovery, it’s time for this cohort to pass the torch. Registration for the 2024-2026 cohort is now open, until August 30, 2024. This new edition has a surprise in store: the team will benefit from the mentorship of a former member, ensuring optimal coaching and an enriched experience.

Join us to be part of this unique adventure and form the next youth committee, ready to make the Canadian Francophonie shine through its projects!

For more details and to apply, visit the program’s page by clicking here.