French for the Future is pleased to introduce the new cohort of Bilingual Young Leaders for the 2026-2028 term. Eight young Francophones and Francophiles aged 16 to 22 from different regions across the country will bring their leadership, experiences, and perspectives to the promotion of French and bilingualism. Over the next two years, they will collaborate on national projects while developing their leadership, governance, and project management skills.
The members of the 2026-2028 cohort are:
- Anisa Zangiabadi - Charlottetown, PE
- Artnell Barrett - London, ON
- Dylane Hoang - Regina, SK
- Liam Mailman - Glace Bay, NS
- Sunaina Sharma - Abbotsford, BC
- Sabria Al Jiashy - Edmonton, AB
- Ovia Mano - Corner Brook, NL
- Rose-Ann Nadeau - Orléans, ON
Selected for their commitment to and interest in French and bilingualism, each member will bring a unique experience and linguistic perspective to the committee. Some grew up speaking French, while others learned it at school or through immersion and exchange experiences. Several have also previously participated in French for the Future programs. This diversity will allow the committee to reflect on the realities experienced by Francophone and Francophile youth and contribute to initiatives that resonate with them, while providing an environment that fosters the development of their skills, leadership, and engagement.
Throughout their term, the Bilingual Young Leaders will work together to design and carry out projects aimed at bringing French to life beyond the classroom. The committee will meet virtually throughout its term and will also come together in person in Ottawa. Members will receive training in governance and project management and will participate in every stage of the development of their initiatives. The committee also plays an advisory role with French for the Future, allowing the organization to maintain an ongoing dialogue with youth and incorporate their perspectives into the development of its programs.
Photo of the 2024-2026 cohort
This new committee follows in the footsteps of the eight Bilingual Young Leaders from the 2024-2026 term, who conceived and produced the documentary series "On est ici." Through episodes featuring Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, and New Brunswick, the project highlights the history, diversity, and realities of Francophone communities, as well as the challenges experienced by Francophone and Francophile youth. The members contributed to every stage of the project, from ideation to filming, interviews, and editing, each playing a part in bringing it to life.
"Over the years, successive cohorts of Bilingual Young Leaders have made their mark on Canada's Francophonie through projects that highlight the country's diverse Francophone communities and explore opportunities to contribute to their vitality. We have watched these young people grow, develop new skills, and work together toward a shared vision. We now look forward to discovering the projects the 2026-2028 cohort will undertake, watching them evolve over the next two years, and seeing the impact they will make in turn. Above all, we hope that the lessons, connections, and experiences gained throughout this term will continue to guide them well beyond these two years." Geneviève Gobeil, Interim Executive Director of French for the Future.
French for the Future would like to extend its sincere thanks to the members of the 2024-2026 cohort for their commitment, creativity, and contributions over the past two years. As one chapter comes to a close and another begins, the entire team wishes them continued success and extends its best wishes to the eight new Bilingual Young Leaders taking up the torch for the 2026-2028 term.
