Statement made on 08 October 2009 by Senator Lucie Pépin (retired)
Hon. Lucie Pépin:
Honourable senators, the Women of Distinction awards ceremony was held in Montreal on September 21. The 16th edition of the benefit gala organized by the Montreal YWCA is one of that organization's principal fundraisers.
This year, $300,000 was raised for the YWCA's housing, literacy, leadership, employability and entrepreneurship programs. This money is needed more than ever in the current economic context as many women look to these programs for help in overcoming their difficulties.
I would like to sincerely congratulate the YWCA. Since it was founded in 1875, it has helped Quebec women of all ages and social conditions become more independent economically, professionally, socially and personally.
The gala event is more than a fundraiser; it is also an opportunity to highlight the outstanding contributions of 11 Quebec women. The 11 women chosen this year enrich Quebec society by their daily actions and their personalities. Allow me to briefly describe each of the winners.
Lise Payette, former politician, writer and host, won the Pioneer award.
The Advancement of Women award went to professor and sociologist Louise Vandelac.
Christiane Bergevin, vice-president of the Desjardins Group, won the Business and Professions award.
The Arts and Culture award went to film-maker Marquise Lepage.
Journalist Michèle Boisvert received the Communications award.
Professor Arpi Hamalian won the Education award.
The Entrepreneurship award went to designer Johanne Boivin.
The Health and Science award was given to Rima Rozen of McGill University.
Iris Almeida-Côté of Canada World Youth won the Community Service award.
The Sports and Wellness award went to Thérèse Cadrin Petit.
This year's Young Woman of Distinction is Mae Jane Nam, a founding member of the Philippine Women Centre of Quebec.
Because of their commitment, courage and determination and their remarkable journeys, these Montreal women have advanced the cause of women and society as a whole. They are brilliant women who invite us all to be the best we can be and who serve as role models to the next generation.
Honourable senators, please join me in paying tribute to these 11 exceptional women.