In a festive atmosphere, delegates from parents’ associations joined representatives from a dozen Francophone community partners to gather at a reception inaugurating the annual conference. This year’s theme was: “Ensemble en mouvement, depuis 40 ans“ (Moving Together for 40 years!)

The foyer of l’école Jules-Verne, the sole Francophone-only secondary school in the province, had been decorated for the occasion, and it offered a warm and friendly environment for the evening of meetings and information exchange. The conference is always an ideal time for participants to network with each other, and this year it allowed parents from 31 communities to discuss their respective realities, challenges, and successes.

A "Carousel" of the Francophone Community in British Columbia

The President of the Fédération des parents, Suzana Straus, officially welcomed everyone, before announcing an original presentation called the “Carrousel de la Francophonie”. It was an activity designed to introduce parents to the variety and richness of resources and programs in Francophone organizations in British Columbia..

Several community partners responded to the Fédération's invitation with enthusiasm. Energetically and concisely, they presented the ways in which their organizations could support parents by helping them experience French with their families, no matter what part of the province they live in.

We’d like to thank the following organizations for their participation in this very informative “Carousel”: Bureau des affaires francophones et francophiles de l’Université Simon Fraser, Théâtre la Seizième, Association des juristes d’expression française de la C.-B., Collège Éducacentre, Conseil jeunesse francophone de la C.-B., Réseau-Femmes C.-B., Conseil culturel et artistique francophone de la C.-B., Visions Ouest Productions, RésoSanté C.-B., Jeux de la francophonie canadienne Victoria 2020 et Société historique francophone de la C.-B.

Then it was time to present two prestigious annual awards: the Recognition Award from the Commission nationale des parents francophones, presented to the Parents’ Association of the Year, and the Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education in B.C. 

Additionally, a special tribute was presented to a pioneer in Francophone education in our province, who received a national award for her exceptional contribution   (see our articles on these topics).

Moreover, in accordance with tradition, certificates of recognition were on display throughout the conference to highlight the commitment and achievements of parents who have been named Volunteers of the Year in their respective communities.

In short, this evening of celebration was a great kickoff to a conference dedicated to partnership and networking!

(Photo Credits - Gaëtan Nerincx)