Amplifying our voices and values

Saint Boniface – Saint Vital

As I continue to grow into my role as your new voice in Ottawa, my first weeks on Parliament Hill have been a whirlwind of meaningful and energizing experiences. In addition to serving as parliamentary secretary to Mandy Gull-Masty, minister of Indigenous services, I’m honoured to be a member of the standing committee on Indigenous and Northern affairs. I also take part in several caucuses, as well as parliamentary associations and interparliamentary groups that help strengthen our connections both within Canada and around the world.

This work is both fascinating and inspiring, and I look forward to expanding on it.

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve also had the privilege of standing in the House of Commons to honour and celebrate the people and values that make our community so special.

One moment that touched me deeply was delivering a statement in memory of Paulette Duguay, a beloved figure in the Franco-Manitoban community whom we lost this past summer. She was a tireless advocate for reconciliation, Métis culture, and the preservation of Métis, francophone, and French-Canadian heritage. I was honoured to bring recognition to her life’s work. Her contributions continue to inspire many of us, and I felt it was important to share her story with my colleagues in Parliament and with Canadians.

I also had the opportunity to mark Gender Equality Week with a statement that was especially personal to me. I paid tribute to my sister, Chantale, who chose a non-traditional path for women by pursuing a career in the trades. In 2006, she completed her outdoor power equipment technician certification at Red River College. After graduating, she faced many challenges — overcoming biases and limitations placed on her by employers — but she persevered. In 2021, she joined StandardAero as a gas turbine repair and overhaul technician, where she continues to excel today.

Her courage and determination are proof that when women have an opportunity to thrive, they can break down barriers and succeed in any field. As I said in my statement:

“As we celebrate Gender Equality Week, let us continue to encourage more women to enter the trades, not only to fill the growing demand for skilled professionals but also to build a strong, more inclusive Canada.”

These moments remind me why I chose public service — to amplify voices, honour the legacies that shaped us, and stand up for the values that unite us. I look forward to continuing this work alongside all of you, both in Parliament and throughout our shared communities of Saint-Boniface and St. Vital.