After five weeks of immersion, the very first Explore cohort in the Northwest Territories celebrated the completion of its journey during a closing ceremony held at the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories.

This inaugural edition marks an important milestone for both Collège Nordique and the Explore program, which crossed the 60th parallel for the first time in more than 55 years of history, bringing French-language immersion to Canada’s North.

Beyond language learning, the program gave students the opportunity to build lasting friendships, strengthen their confidence in French, and develop meaningful connections with Northern communities. The stories shared during the closing ceremony made it clear that the impact of this immersion will extend far beyond the five weeks spent in Yellowknife.

An immersion lived every day

Throughout the program, students developed their French through Collège Nordique's educational approach, which combines formal, non-formal, and informal learning.

French classes were complemented by a diverse program of artistic workshops, cultural activities, community outings, a cultural camp, community events, and opportunities to connect with people from a wide range of backgrounds. Beading, tufting, photography, cooking, Francophone music, book and debate clubs, hikes, cultural visits, and the many activities organized with host families gave students countless opportunities to use French in authentic, real-life situations.

As the weeks went by, French naturally became the language of everyday conversations, activities, and friendships. Several students shared that this immersion helped them develop a level of confidence in speaking French that they had never experienced before, despite having studied the language for many years.

During his opening remarks, Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director of Collège Nordique, shared a message that resonated throughout the students' testimonials:

“Don't wait until you speak perfect French before you speak French. Perfection isn't necessary to build relationships, join a conversation, or seize an opportunity. Curiosity, openness, and courage matter far more.”

A unique experience in the heart of the North

Rosie Benning, Director of Training and Education, moderated the student panel, which became one of the most memorable moments of the ceremony.

Ahrreby Anandakumar, Shea Melenka, and Destiny Lang reflected on the lessons they will carry forward from this first edition. Two of the panelists had previously participated in other Explore programs across Canada, yet all three described their experience in the Northwest Territories as truly one of a kind.

“I chose Yellowknife because I wanted to better understand Northern realities and Indigenous perspectives. What stood out most was that these lessons weren't limited to a few workshops. Over five weeks, we built genuine relationships with the people we met. Every activity was part of something much bigger.”

Beyond the activities themselves, students highlighted the importance of connecting with local communities, learning about Indigenous cultures and knowledge, and gaining a deeper understanding of life in the North.

Several also explained that the small size of the cohort made the experience especially meaningful.

“Many Explore programs have hundreds of students. Here, there were only about twenty of us. We got to know each other quickly, built genuine friendships, and kept speaking French even after the activities ended. That closeness completely transformed our experience.”

Despite French being a minority language in Yellowknife, students explained that they had many opportunities to use it every day, thanks to their host families, community activities, and the close-knit relationships formed within the cohort.

An experience that transforms lives

The student panel also demonstrated that the impact of Explore will continue long after the program has ended.

Several students shared that they now hope to pursue further studies or careers in French. One plans to become an Explore promotional ambassador to encourage other young people to take part in the program. Another hopes to teach languages in French, while a third said they could one day see themselves returning to Yellowknife if the right professional opportunity arose.

One particularly moving moment came when a student admitted experiencing impostor syndrome at the thought of one day teaching in French, since it is not their first language.

Rosie Benning responded by sharing her own journey. A second-generation immigrant, she first participated in the Explore program before continuing her French-language immersion in France. Today, she leads the Training and Education department at Collège Nordique.

This connection between two generations of Explore participants served as a powerful reminder that an immersion experience can shape far more than language skills—it can transform both personal and professional journeys.

The moment held special meaning for Patrick Arsenault as well, who also participated in the Explore program nearly twenty years ago. Today, he and Rosie Benning had the privilege of supporting the very first Explore cohort to experience French immersion in the Northwest Territories.

A community at the heart of the experience

A success made possible through a collective effort

Before concluding, Collège Nordique would like to recognize everyone who helped make this first edition possible. This acknowledgement section is a little longer than usual, but it reflects the tremendous collective effort required to bring the Explore program to the Northwest Territories. Over nearly three years, many individuals dedicated their time, energy, and expertise to creating a unique French-language immersion experience with the resources available to the College. The success of this first cohort is thanks to each and every one of them.

Students and host families

Collège Nordique would first like to thank the 20 Explore students, as well as the six members of the Northwest Territories community who participated in the intensive French program. Through their curiosity, openness, and commitment, they helped create a dynamic, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment throughout the five-week program.

The College also extends its sincere gratitude to the host families, who generously opened their homes and provided students with an authentic immersion into Francophone life in the North. Their hospitality, generosity, and the relationships they built with the students were at the heart of this experience. Several members of the Collège Nordique team also welcomed students into their own homes, once again demonstrating their commitment to the program's success.

A dedicated team

This first edition would not have been possible without the exceptional work of the entire Collège Nordique team.

Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director; Rosie Benning, Director of Training and Education; Mounir Barry, Director of Student Experience and Quality Assurance; Érika Cairo-Luce, Director of Operations; and Natacha St-Vignes, Director of Marketing and Communications all played key roles in bringing this first edition to life. Together, the leadership team guided the strategic development of the program, fostered relationships with the Government of the Northwest Territories and community partners, oversaw operations, led promotional efforts, and provided the support needed to make the program a reality.

Collège Nordique would also like to recognize the essential contribution of Christine Nguini, Project Manager, who led the coordination of this first edition over many months. From planning the program and recruiting host families to organizing activities, managing logistics, and supporting students throughout their journey, she was a driving force behind the project. Alongside her, Yakshini Bootoo, Executive Assistant and Student Services Coordinator, quickly became an indispensable collaborator. Together, they supported students and host families every step of the way. Their availability, kindness, professionalism, and remarkable adaptability were instrumental in the success of this inaugural edition.

Instructors Margarita Sánchez Ovando, Ph.D., and Ernesto Pardo delivered more than 60 hours of French-language instruction while accompanying students during many of the program's activities. Their dedication, passion for teaching, and ongoing support played a vital role in fostering both language development and the confidence needed to fully embrace the immersion experience.

The program was also enriched by the contributions of many other team members. Leanne Robinson and Marilou Pilote designed and facilitated several workshops and sociocultural activities while accompanying students during many of the outings throughout the five weeks. More broadly, the entire Collège Nordique staff came together to lead workshops, support activities, accompany students, and help create a warm, welcoming, and memorable experience.

A community that shared its passion for the North

Collège Nordique would also like to warmly thank Angela James and Scott McQueen for generously welcoming students into their home on several occasions throughout the program. By opening their doors, they gave students the opportunity to experience authentic moments on the land, share traditional meals, participate in meaningful workshops, and build genuine connections with the community.

The College also extends its gratitude to Francis Giguère for his valuable contribution to the program. By accompanying students during several workshops and activities, he generously shared his knowledge, his passion for the North, and his contagious curiosity. His enthusiasm, kindness, and ability to spark meaningful conversations greatly enriched the students' experience.

An indispensable ally

Special thanks go to Leah Simonot, Official Languages Programs Promotion Officer. A true pillar of this first edition, Leah went far beyond the scope of her role to support students throughout their stay. Always present, approachable, and deeply committed, she took part in many activities, provided constant encouragement to the cohort, and helped create an experience that was welcoming, inclusive, and profoundly human. Her energy, kindness, and dedication made her an indispensable part of this inaugural edition.

Collège Nordique also thanks the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC), whose support made Leah's participation possible, as well as the Government of the Northwest Territories for its collaboration and flexibility throughout the program.

Thank you to our partners

Collège Nordique sincerely thanks the Government of the Northwest Territories, the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC), Canadian Heritage, and all of the community partners who contributed to the success of this first edition.

A first edition that paves the way

Together, the students, host families, partners, volunteers, and the entire Collège Nordique team demonstrated that it is possible to offer, in the heart of Northern Canada, a deeply human French-language immersion experience rooted in its territory and one whose impact will extend far beyond these five weeks.

See you next year, Explore!