On Friday, May 22, 2026, Rosie Benning, Director of Teaching and Training at Collège Nordique, and Érika Cairo-Luce, Director of Operations, had the opportunity to meet with the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Some conversations leave a lasting impression. Not only because of the ideas they inspire, but also because of the energy they transmit and the possibilities they open.

Beyond her career and current responsibilities, what stood out most was Ms. Fortier’s energy, generosity and willingness to reflect with us on the issues shaping the future of Francophone communities.

Very quickly, one thing became clear: for Ms. Fortier, the Francophonie is not just another topic. It is a deeply personal commitment, shaped by her journey, her family history and her conviction that Francophone communities must continue to have the means to grow, thrive and build their future.

Bringing the Francophonie to Life Through Concrete Action

Throughout the conversation, one idea came up repeatedly: if we truly want to protect and strengthen the Francophonie, we must give it the means to exist in concrete ways.

This means investing in structured initiatives, strong partnerships, accessible learning opportunities and projects that create lasting benefits for communities.

This reflection strongly resonated with Collège Nordique’s mission. Every project, collaboration and activity helps create more opportunities to live, learn, work and grow in French in the North.

The conversation also highlighted the importance of continuing to share stories, experiences and initiatives that demonstrate the tangible impact of the Francophonie on people and communities. Behind every initiative are stories, commitments and outcomes that help move communities forward.

Protecting Postsecondary Education in French

One theme that particularly resonated throughout the conversation was the importance of college and postsecondary education in French.

Even when support structures exist earlier in the educational journey, many important decisions about the future are often made during postsecondary studies: career choices, specialization, professional development and engagement within a community.

A particularly meaningful reflection focused on the idea that without access to education in French, it becomes more difficult to train, retain and attract professionals who will later work, provide services and contribute to the development of Francophone communities.

In the North, where each educational opportunity creates tangible impacts across the territory, supporting postsecondary education in French represents much more than access to education: it is an investment in communities’ ability to meet their own needs and shape their future.

Recognizing Northern Realities

Our conversation also highlighted the importance of recognizing Northern realities when thinking about the development of services, training opportunities and communities.

Models that work elsewhere do not always reflect Northern contexts, where proximity to communities, adaptability and support play an essential role.

This reflection echoed many realities experienced at Collège Nordique. Initiatives developed in the North often respond to different needs and require approaches adapted to the territory, learners and communities.

Continuing to document these realities, share lessons learned and demonstrate impact on the ground remains an important way to move conversations forward and highlight what is being built here.

The Role of People Who Choose to Get Involved

Another inspiring aspect of the conversation was the discussion around the importance of people who actively choose to support the causes they believe in.

Beyond positions and institutional responsibilities, some people become allies because they create connections, open doors, speak about projects they find inspiring and contribute to their visibility.

At Collège Nordique, we believe ideas reach their full value when they become concrete opportunities for learners, communities and the territory.

Thank you to Ms. Fortier for this inspiring exchange, for her listening, generosity and commitment to a vibrant, ambitious and forward-looking Francophonie.

Published on May 27th 2026