The First Pan-Territorial Symposium on Leadership in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, in French

A Pan-Territorial Symposium on Leadership in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: A First in French, for the Northern Territories

The Association Franco-Yukonnaise (AFY), the Collège Nordique Francophone (CNF) and the Association des francophones du Nunavut (AFN) are joining forces to organize a pan-territorial symposium on leadership in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). This unique event will be held from March 4 to 6, 2025 and will be available in-person and online, to best meet the needs of the Francophone minority communities in the territories, and to support leaders in the adoption of inclusive and equitable practices.

An extensive program for inclusive and engaged leadership 

This symposium offers a rare opportunity for Francophones to learn about essential issues related to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) through nine conferences and workshops, specially designed for Northern realities. From understanding the principles of EDI to the importance of the role of being an ally of Indigenous communities, to fighting against racism and deconstructing gender stereotypes, each session will provide concrete tools to strengthen inclusive leadership. By also exploring themes such as linguistic diversity, resilience and social justice, this event will allow participants to better equip their workplaces and communities to build a more united future.  

Isabelle Salesse, Executive Director of AFY, says: "We understand the fundamental importance of ensuring that each individual feels welcomed, respected and treated fairly, while valuing the richness of human diversity in our three territories. This symposium is a unique opportunity to share innovative tools and practices, making it possible to create inclusive and equitable spaces adapted to the specific realities of Francophone minority communities in the North. » 

Patrick Arsenault, Executive Director of the CNF, adds: "More than ever, it is essential that we rethink our organizations so that they are more inclusive. This pan-territorial symposium fills a critical need for Northerners who are in leadership positions or who aspire to be in them. Indeed, there are still too few opportunities to get training about best practices in inclusive leadership in French, particularly in the territories. » 

Christian Ouaka, Executive Director of the AFN, states: “Today the Canadian Francophonie, and particularly in the territories, is increasingly diverse. It is important that our organizations demonstrate leadership on these issues and are equipped to better collaborate and work with people from all backgrounds and life journeys. In addition, the AFN is pleased to strengthen its collaboration with the Collège Nordique and the Association franco-yukonnaise. » 

An accessible format available across the North 

To maximize accessibility, all conferences will be available online as well in-person, in each of the three territories: 

We look forward to welcoming you to Collège Nordique on Thursday 6 March from 9:15 am to 5:15 pm (MST). Drinks and snacks will be available on site. 

Registration is now open and we look forward to seeing you there!

This project has been made possible thanks to the financial support of Women and Gender Equality Canada, Canadian Heritage, the governments of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, and the Réseau des cégeps et des colleges francophones du Canada (RCCFC).