French for the Future held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Ottawa on September 22, 2025, marking 28 years of supporting Canadian youth on their path to bilingualism.
On this occasion, Ania Kolodziej was re-elected unopposed as chair of the board for a new term. Michel Samson and Gillian Blackmore were also reappointed as directors. In addition, Nicolette Belliveau was appointed secretary, succeeding Alec Boudreau.
French for the Future expresses its gratitude to Alec Boudreau and Denis Fontaine, who are leaving the board after eight and twelve years of dedicated and outstanding service, respectively. At the same time, three new members are joining the board: Krysta Cook (Ontario), Catherine McDonald (Quebec), and Patrick Arsenault (Northwest Territories). Their commitment, expertise, and passion for the mission of French for the Future are assets that will strengthen the board's work.
The meeting was marked in particular by contributions from the organization's founders: Lisa Balfour Bowen, who attended in person to lend her unwavering support to the board and team, and John Ralston Saul, who opened the meeting with an inspiring video message.
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The organization has reviewed its 2024–2025 fiscal year, marked by notable successes in programs for youth and teachers. A significant increase in participation has been observed, a sign that the initiatives are meeting the needs of 12- to 18-year-olds who want to improve and experience French.
Renowned for its flagship programs such as the Franconnexion Sessions, the National Writing Contest, and the National Youth Ambassadors Forum (FNJA), the organization reached more than 55,000 young people in 2024-2025, an increase of 37.5% over the previous year. Building on this growth and guided by its 2024–2028 strategic plan, French for the Future enters the 2025–2026 fiscal year with confidence and ambition, with the goal of raising awareness of the Canadian Francophonie among an ever-growing number of young people and strengthening their linguistic pride.
Upcoming programs include:
United Bilingual Correspondent (registration open until October 3);
The Lance ton balado contest, in collaboration with the Salon du livre de l’Outaouais and the French Embassy;
For more information on French for the Future and to view the 2024-2025 annual report, visit french-future.org.
Together, let's inspire a passion for bilingualism.
