A major recognition highlights the outstanding work of Margarita Sánchez Ovando, instructor at Collège Nordique, who has been named the recipient of the 2025–2026 Northwest Territories French as a Second Language Educator Award.

Presented by Canadian Parents for French, this award recognizes an educator who stands out through excellence in teaching, leadership, and the ability to inspire learners to embrace the French language.

A meaningful moment for the team

On the morning of May 11, the Collège Nordique team gathered to officially share the news with Margarita. It was a simple yet meaningful moment, during which she received this recognition with great emotion, surrounded by her colleagues.

This recognition reflects the genuine commitment that defines her work on a daily basis.

A distinction that highlights excellence in teaching

Each year, these awards celebrate educators across Canada who make a significant contribution to French as a Second Language learning and to the vitality of bilingualism.

In the Northwest Territories, this distinction recognizes an educator who demonstrates an innovative, inclusive, and engaging approach, while fostering a strong sense of belonging and confidence among learners.

As Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director of Collège Nordique, explains:

“Margarita embodies an approach to teaching that is deeply rooted in the reality of our territory. Through her commitment, she builds bridges between education, community, and learners’ individual journeys.”

This is precisely the combination that Margarita represents.

An approach rooted in the Northern context

What sets Margarita apart is her ability to transform everyday spaces into opportunities for learning.

In response to a lack of opportunities to practice French during the summer, she developed an innovative initiative in collaboration with the Yellowknife Farmers Market. By engaging directly with the public, she created an informal environment where French becomes a living, accessible language.

This initiative allowed her to:

• create authentic opportunities for communication in French
• build learners’ confidence
• establish a concrete link between learning and everyday life
• engage the community as a pedagogical driver

By aligning this initiative with courses offered at Collège Nordique, she also ensured continuity between formal learning and real-world practice.

Supporting learners in reaching their full potential

Beyond teaching methods, Margarita stands out through the quality of her support.

She combines rigour, structure, and strong listening skills to create safe and stimulating learning environments. She adapts her approach to individual realities and supports each learner in their journey.

As Rosie Benning, Director of Teaching and Training, notes:

“Margarita creates learning environments where students can truly find their place, build confidence, and progress at their own pace. Her approach fully reflects the values of Collège Nordique.”

Her impact is also reflected in comments shared by learners in recent months.

“I really like Margarita. I learned French from her last year.” — Cathy (free translation from English)

Another shared:

“Thank you very much for your dedication, Margarita.” — Yvonne (free translation from Spanish)

These testimonials illustrate the trust and appreciation she builds with the people she supports.

A vibrant, inclusive, and diverse Francophonie

Originally from Mexico, Margarita enriches French language teaching with an open and global perspective.

She has notably contributed to the pan-Canadian initiative Cuisine ton quartier, a podcast series highlighting the diversity of Francophone communities across the country, including those in the North.

Through her teaching and community engagement, she helps make French a language of connection, dialogue, and everyday life.

A strong commitment to the community

Margarita’s engagement goes far beyond the classroom.

Actively involved in the welcoming Francophone community, she supports the integration of newcomers and helps build lasting connections within the community.

Through her involvement in various initiatives, she contributes to strengthening Francophone spaces and fostering a sense of belonging.

A recognition of meaningful impact

This award recognizes a sustained commitment, an innovative approach, and a tangible impact on learners and the community.

At Collège Nordique, Margarita’s work aligns directly with key priorities: supporting learner integration, promoting real-world learning, contributing to the vitality of the Northern Francophonie, and strengthening the connection between education and community.

A collective source of pride

This distinction is a source of great pride for Collège Nordique and for the Francophone community of the Northwest Territories.

Congratulations to Margarita on this well-deserved recognition.

Published on May 12 2026