Empowering the underrepresented: Insights shared at Montreal's Entrepreneurial Conference

Returning to Montreal from March 30th to April 4th 2024 held a special significance for me, as it was a city that had left an indelible mark on my journey as an entrepreneur and creative.

This time, I found myself at the forefront of a conference on African animation, sharing insights and experiences with fellow entrepreneurs while also revisiting cherished memories and connections from my past.

Montreal holds a unique place in my heart, as it was the city where I first ventured at the tender age of 17 for an improv competition.

Improvisational theater, a passion I discovered at the age of 16 in Trappes, a city located in a working-class suburb of Paris.

Improv has been instrumental in my personal growth journey. Through this art form, I have not only honed my performance skills but also conquered my introverted tendencies. The stage became my platform to break free from shyness and embrace confidence. It is through improv that I have learned to think on my feet, trust my instincts, and fearlessly express myself in front of an audience. This transformative experience has not only shaped me as a performer but has also empowered me to navigate social situations with newfound courage and self-assurance.

Coincidentally, during my recent visit on March 30th 2024, the familiar energy of the improv competition lingered in the air, reigniting fond memories of my time with the Trappes team. Supporting the next generation of improv enthusiasts and reconnecting with former teammates allowed me to traverse down memory lane while reaffirming the importance of nurturing talent and fostering community spirit.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the conference, I had the pleasure of catching up with friends who call Montreal home. A delightful dinner in Laval provided the perfect backdrop for laughter, camaraderie, and reminiscing about old times.

Additionally, a visit to the ONF (National Film Board of Canada) offices, where one of my friends is employed, offered a glimpse into the inner workings of Canada’s renowned animation institution—a testament to Montreal’s vibrant creative landscape.

I also had the pleasure of indulging in a delightful rendezvous with a friend at Toon Boom, a leading animation software company based in Montreal. As we savored our cups of coffee (cappuccino for me!), we immersed ourselves in animated conversations sharing anecdotes, discussing the animation market industry.

Following our enjoyable coffee break, I had the privilege of visiting the Toon Boom offices, where I was greeted by a team as kind and energetic as they were passionate about their craft. Engaging in a meeting with them provided me with invaluable insights into the latest developments in animation technology and reinforced the importance of fostering connections within the industry

The warm hospitality extended by the Toon Boom team left a lasting impression on me, serving as a reminder of the power of collaboration in driving innovation and success.

Central to my journey as an entrepreneur has been the value of openness, kindness, and a willingness to explore new horizons. These principles have not only guided me in my personal interactions but have also played a pivotal role in building a diverse and expansive network spanning across continents. My ability to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures, coupled with fluency in multiple languages, has proven to be invaluable in navigating the global entrepreneurial landscape.

During the conference where I was invited by M.É.D.I.A. , I had the privilege of sharing my journey as a woman entrepreneur, complete with its challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. From overcoming barriers to entry in the animation industry to carving out a niche for myself on the international stage, I imparted practical tips and strategies gleaned from years of hands-on experience. Emphasizing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance, I encouraged fellow entrepreneurs to embrace the journey with courage and determination, knowing that each obstacle is an opportunity for growth and learning.

From stepping on stage at the tender age of 17 for an improv competition to now sharing insights on African animation at the forefront of an entrepreneurial conference, Montreal holds a special place in my heart. Despite the challenges and naysayers along the way, I’ve never wavered in my pursuit of happiness and success. My journey has been fueled by hard work, resilience, and a commitment to finding joy in every moment.

Living my dream of traveling the world and being on stage has been both exhilarating and rewarding.

Along the way, I’ve encountered mean-spirited individuals, but I refuse to let their negativity dim my ambition. Instead, I focus on moving forward, embracing my ambitions, and surrounding myself with kind and generous souls who uplift and inspire me.

My network continues to grow, a testament to the power of professionalism, kindness, and generosity.

Reputation is everything in this industry—it’s what sustains you and propels you forward.

As I bid farewell to Montreal once again, I carry with me not only cherished memories but also a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

My journey is far from over, and I remain committed to making a lasting impact in the world of Animation, one inspiring connection at a time.