GALA RMA 2025:
An Evening of Pride, Light and Recognition
On Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., guests began arriving. Smiles greeted them at the door. Inside, a gentle atmosphere took shape, carried by the music of Émilie Lavoie-Lépine and Lou Dunand-Vincent. The mood grew gradually. This wasn’t just a gala; it was a moment to say: “You did it. We see you. We’re proud.”
A shared stage, a bilingual welcome
Karl Picard opened the evening with his trademark energy. At his side, Marjorie McRae co-hosted and provided live English translation with professionalism and grace. Together, they guided the evening with warmth, care and a strong sense of connection.
A heartfelt tribute to Liam
From the very beginning, emotion filled the room. A tribute honoured Liam John Lewis Larocque, a young graduate who left us too soon. His mother lit a candle in his memory. The silence that followed said it all. A video tribute reminded us of his journey, his spirit, and the importance of remembering those who leave a lasting light behind.
A genuine message from our Director General
Richard Jalbert, Director General of the FNHRDCQ, addressed the graduates with a simple and sincere message: “You are role models. And we’re proud of you.” No lengthy speech. Just heartfelt recognition.
Words of encouragement from Ghislain Picard
Former AFNQL Chief and current Associate Professor at HEC Montréal, Ghislain Picard, shared words filled with wisdom. He spoke of pride in the graduate’s journeys, highlighting their courage, perseverance, and the strength passed on through generations.
Messages from near and far
Video messages of congratulations followed, sent by political and community leaders:
– Ian Lafrenière, Minister Responsible for Relations with First Nations and Inuit
– Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Minister of Employment
– Grand Chief Scott Martin, from the community of Listuguj.
– Grand Chief Pierre Picard, from the community of Wendake.
– Grand Chief Cody Diabo, from the community of Kahnawà:ke.
Each message acknowledged the importance of the graduates’ achievements in their own way.
Support that continues after graduation
Jamie Houle and Fanny St-Pierre from the Urban Services team reminded everyone that support doesn’t stop at graduation. The graduates’ journeys will go on to inspire others and they will never walk alone.
Every graduate in the spotlight
One by one, graduates were honoured. Names, faces, and programs were shown on screen. The room filled with applause. A group photo was taken. Eyes sparkled with pride. Everyone there understood how much it took to get to that moment.
Fueling the future with scholarships
The scholarship ceremony followed, highlighting the support of our valued partners :
– Hydro-Québec, représentée par Marie-Claude Durant
– The Desjardins team, represented by Guilaine Lehoux
– FNHRDCQ, represented by Richard Jalbert and Michael Fortin
– Service Canada, represented by Félix Moffat
We sincerely thank all our partners who make these scholarships possible..
Our generous partners
– Platinum: Hydro-Québec, Desjardins
– Gold: Kina8at, Société du Plan Nord, Autorité des marchés financiers
– Silver: CSSSPNQL, RBA, CCQ
– Bronze: Forage Orbit Garant Inc., Carrefour jeunesse-emploi Duplessis, Brauchaud, Agnico Eagle Mines, CMAC, Ville de Val-d’Or
Stories, laughter and real moments
Dinner was served. Four courses, soft music, and open mics.A brave graduate was the first to take the mic and share his journey. His words were honest, simple, and deeply moving. The applause said it all. Inspired by the moment, Karl then shared his own story, creating a space of connection, pride, and shared experience.
Prizes, surprises, and music
Excitement returned with the door prize draws. Special thanks to Sarah-Jane Bouchard for her generous donation. Then, the band Talk Tone took the stage with a jazz and blues set to wrap up the evening.
A flame, and a final thought
Before closing, the candle for Liam was gently extinguished. One last moment of silence. A tribute. A reminder that every journey matters, even the shortest ones
Thank you to all the graduates.
Thank you to the families, partners, staff and guests.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this evening unforgettable.
See you in 2026.
Tiawenhk !
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