This past September, the Fondation Lise Watier celebrated the achievements of 288 participants in the Let’s Start Up Pathway at the 2025–2026 Graduation Ceremony. These women successfully completed the Unlock My Professional Potential Program and/or the Entrepreneurship Program, two flagship offerings within the Let’s Start Up Pathway.
A celebration worthy of their journey
In Quebec, 259 participants successfully completed the Let’s Start Up Pathway. They received their diplomas at a grand celebration held at Concordia University’s John Molson School of Business, a setting that embodies both academic excellence and entrepreneurial ambition.
In Toronto, the ceremony took place at YWCA Toronto, where 29 women had their accomplishments celebrated in style. Graduates from previous cohorts also joined the festivities, a fitting reminder of the strength and depth of this ever-growing community.
Women ready to take the leap
Today, having completed the Let’s Start Up Pathway, these resilient women walk away with new knowledge and practical skills. They feel equipped and ready to launch their professional ventures. In short, it was a deeply emotional moment — one that marked a milestone both personal and collective, carried by the strength of the community they built together throughout their journey.
Magali Legault: Believing in yourself, embracing the unknown
At the Montreal ceremony, entrepreneur Magali Legault took the stage to inspire the graduates to believe in themselves, embrace uncertainty, and dream big. She spoke to the cyclical nature of personal and professional life, much like the changing of the seasons, and underscored the importance of nurturing a fair and compassionate relationship with oneself. Her message resonated clearly: the value of getting to know yourself, recognizing your needs, and daring to grow through every transition.
Distinguished guests of honour
The Lise Watier Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to Ms. Lise Watier for being present at the ceremony, as well as to Ms. Anne-Marie Croteau, Dean of the John Molson School of Business, and Ms. Claudine Trahan, Sr Director, Strategy & Transformation, Lifelong Learning at Concordia University, for their presence and support at this meaningful celebration.
Congratulations to our graduates
Congratulations to all the graduates of the 2025–2026 cohort! Your perseverance, vision, and determination are an inspiration to all who will follow in your footsteps; and once again prove the power of believing in your own potential.
