Personalities of the year
Nicolas Leblanc during the finale of the show.
To overcome his illiteracy, Charlois Nicolas Leblanc worked hard in 2024, not only by participating in workshops at his literacy center, but also in the show The test of words. For his determination, perseverance and dedication to wanting to help people in his situation, L’Action has decided to award him the title of Personality of the Year 2024 for the Community section.
Despite an initial hesitation to visit the Popular Literacy Center of Matawinie Est (CAPME), Nicolas Leblanc recognizes that the support he gave him, as well as the learning he acquired during the show, greatly improved his understanding of things. “It’s helped me with everything I’m capable of doing.” When speaking or writing, I can now write complete sentences! “, he rejoices.
Mr. Leblanc has come a long way and has experienced his share of ordeals when, following a serious head injury, he had to be absent from school from the age of 7 to 14. Now in his sixties, he decided to follow the advice of those around him and took courses to overcome the difficulties that his illiteracy posed to him on a daily basis. According to him, this decision was of the greatest importance: “We really have to put the embarrassment aside. It made me see that if you have a project, you have to go for it and get the necessary help. »
Go beyond your limits
While Charlois demonstrated considerable progress during his courses, according to the observations of his trainers and those around him, he agreed to raise the bar by participating in The test of words. During the show, Nicolas Leblanc and four other participants had to take on challenges that tested their notions of literacy and their resourcefulness. Whether it was practicing his reading by preparing a recipe or finding his way in a city by relying only on a map, this experience really forced Mr. Leblanc to go beyond his limits. Today he sees how it was all worth it: “Now I don’t need anyone anymore! »
Although his work has kept him particularly busy for the rest of the year, he still wants to continue visiting CAPME to improve his skills. His real goal, however, is to help and tell his story to others to motivate them to persevere. He imagines giving talks in schools to tell students about the importance of education. He would also like to support the people who attend his literacy center, but also anyone who needs it. Since his participation in the show, Mr. Leblanc has in fact been contacted by certain people who were made aware of his journey and who asked him for advice. He therefore discovered a passion for giving a helping hand to those who wish it and says he wants to take the time to do the same during the year 2025. “Sometimes, we can be stubborn, we don’t notice that we need help, but the only person who is capable of taking this first step and seeking support is us,” concluded Charlois.
You can also discover the Personalities of the Year 2024 in News, Culture and Sports!
finalists
The beautiful collaborations that the school ofYouth Space The implementations this year have made it possible to offer wonderful moments to its students. First, with the Motus Theater, which presented a play specially designed according to the sensory needs of children with an autism spectrum disorder or an intellectual disability. Another partnership with the Lanaudière Regional Leisure Association for Disabled People also provided access to adapted equipment so that young people can enjoy outdoor outings.
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The Espace-Jeunesse school worked hard this year for its students.
©(Photo Médialo- Mélissa Blouin)
Jennifer Brazeau and Luk Parlavecchio from CAAL.
In June, the Lanaudière Native Friendship Center (CAAL) launched Mikinakw, the first mobile clinic for Aboriginal people. The latter travels the region to meet members of the First Nations, especially those who do not often attend the CAAL. In addition to performing health exams, blood tests and screenings, the mobile clinic offers educational services from speech therapists, specialized educators, remedial teachers and occupational therapists.
At the age of 31, Jason Rivestfrom Saint-Jacques, has already accumulated 10,000 hours of volunteer work. To highlight his commitment, this year he won the Canada Volunteer Award in the Emerging Leader category. Le Jacobin is involved in numerous non-profit organizations and cooperatives, notably the Crabtree Youth Center and Citoyenneté jeunesse. Volunteering is of great importance to him because it provides him with knowledge about the communities and the issues surrounding him.
Volunteer Jason Rivest.
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