A Training that Grows Inner Strength 

Launched in 2022, this intensive 5-day program has already welcomed over 100 Indigenous women from various nations and communities across Quebec. Driven by a shared desire to enhance their leadership skills, they forge connections, develop their networks, and find their voice in a supportive environment. 

Day 1 – Introduction to Women Leadership and Icebreaker

Alexandra Ambroise, Innu and Executive Director of the Mitshuap shelter, is a former participant of FNEE programs who has now become a facilitator. Together with Raymonde Lévesque, a lecturer at HEC Montreal, they kicked off the 6th cohort of the Women Leadership program at the HélèneDesmarais building in downtown Montreal. 

The 23 participants, both English and French speakers, started the program with a fun icebreaker.

Day 2 – Building Connections and Shared Experiences 

One of the strengths of the program is the significant emphasis placed on sharing circles. Discussing common realities, sharing challenges, and collectively celebrating successes are all benefits of this open dialogue. Every voice is heard, and conversations flow seamlessly even during breaks and mealtimes, fostering moments of togetherness. 

Day 3 – Diversity and Leadership Identities 

The training brings together Indigenous women of all backgrounds and ages. This rich diversity of profiles, journeys, and experiences provides different perspectives that enrich the participants’ development. 

It is now the turn of Nadia Robertson, Mi’gmaq from Gespeg, and Josée Lortie, a professor at HEC Montreal, to equip the participants with tools to better understand themselves and their communication styles. 

Day 4 – Etuaptmunk and the Art of Storytelling

Victoria LaBillois, Mi’gmaq from Listuguj, a facilitor at FNEE and a recognized entrepreneur, explains how the concept of Etuaptmunk or Two-Eyed Seeing is integrated in her practice and when teaching: “I introduce Indigenous ways of knowing and being into the educational material so that it can be applied in communities and organizations.” Victoria LaBillois and Sandra Chaput-Carrier, a strategist at the firm Perrier Jablonski, introduced the art of powerful storytelling to the cohort. At the end of the day, a group dinner was organized to further enjoy being together.  

Day 5 – Media Experience 

The final day of the program is dedicated to a practical workshop that encourages some participants to step out of their comfort zone while providing a wonderful learning opportunity: media experience. Led by two experienced professionals, this exercise allows participants to become familiar with speaking in front of the camera and to build their confidence in a media environment. 

Graduation Ceremony: November 14 and 15

The facilitators and FNEE’s team are grateful for the commitment of the participants, which contributes greatly to the success of this program.

Looking forward to seeing everyone again on November 14 and 15, 2024, for the presentation of certificates of achievement and to celebrate the 3rd anniversary of FNEE!