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Looking back at the Communication Immersion Camp 

As part of our Continuing Education Program, we are committed to providing women enrolled in the Let’s Startup Pathway with meaningful opportunities to develop their skills through interactive workshops and targeted training sessions. 

It is in this spirit that the Communication Immersion Camp was created, a unique cohort that brought together 20 determined women eager to strengthen their public speaking impact, present their projects with confidence, and grow professionally with greater assurance. 

After more than four months of learning, experimentation, and pushing beyond their limits, this first cohort concluded last June, marking an important milestone for each participant. 

Throughout the program, participants benefited from a comprehensive support approach combining training sessions, coaching, and hands-on workshops. One of the highlights of this immersive experience was the intensive weekend at Jouvence, a powerful moment that allowed them to step away from their daily routines, build meaningful connections, and take bold steps in a stimulating and supportive environment. 

As Cindy Turmel, one of the participants, shared: 

The setting truly allowed us to disconnect from daily life and fully engage in the activities, learning, and exchanges, free from constraints and distractions. This mental availability greatly fostered reflection, creativity, and meaningful connections.” 

Over the course of the workshops, participants explored several key dimensions of effective communication. 

With Julie Dionne, coach, public speaking trainer, TEDx speaker, and host, they worked on public speaking skills, confidence, and structuring impactful messages. They also learned how to manage stress and captivate an audience. One key takeaway stood out: “We are not inspiring when we are in survival mode.” 

This transformation is reflected in the words of Mélissa Lebel

I gained clarity about my project and confidence in myself. I learned how to create connection, use pauses, tone, and storytelling to communicate my ideas more effectively.” 

With Céline Chopin, a specialist in supporting managers and employees in the workplace, participants discovered a practical and accessible approach to negotiation. They realized that negotiation is already part of their daily lives and that they can better advocate for themselves using concrete tools. 

Finally, with André Hamilton, coach in public speaking, storytelling, and networking, TED Talk speaker, and speaker coach, they developed their networking skills by focusing on authenticity, nonverbal communication, and the ability to seize opportunities. 

For many, this immersion was much more than a training program; it was a true springboard. As Sabrina Gauthier expressed: 

It’s an incredibly enriching immersion, perfectly aligned with the reality of women entrepreneurs; a springboard toward independence, self-confidence, and clarity in how we communicate.” 

The cohort concluded with an inspiring pitch evening, during which participants presented their projects to the Let’s Startup Community. It was a powerful moment, both a celebration of their progress and a showcase of their transformation. 

The Communication Immersion Camp leaves behind women who are equipped, confident, and ready to make their voices heard with impact, authenticity, and ambition. 

MARIE-ÈVE

Graduate of the Entrepreneurship Program

The Lise Watier Foundation offers the Let’s Start Up Pathway in Montreal, Drummondville, Gatineau, the Laurentians, Montérégie, Quebec City and Sherbrooke. More than 400 women a year are committed to taking action through the Let’s Start Up Pathway. They graduate with a better understanding of their strengths and skills, as well as the knowledge and tools to implement their professional project. Women thus begin a new journey towards financial independence through entrepreneurship, a return to school or a more fulfilling job.

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