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Marie-Lise Andrade, winner of the Prix des Femmes d’affaires du Québec 

Marie-Lise Andrade honoured at the Prix des femmes d’affaires du Québec: A distinction celebrating purpose-driven leadership 

The Lise Watier Foundation is proud to announce that Marie-Lise Andrade, President and Co-Founder, has been awarded the Prix des femmes d’affaires du Québec in the Leaders of Influence – Social Enterprise or Nonprofit category, presented by the Réseau des Femmes d’affaires du Québec. 

This honour shines a spotlight on the remarkable journey of a woman who has dedicated more than 15 years of her career to creating meaningful, lasting change in the lives of women. Guided by her deep conviction that every woman carries untapped potential, Marie-Lise brings together expertise, leadership, and vision to build concrete solutions to the economic inequalities that continue to limit women’s financial independence. 

Under her leadership, the Foundation has experienced exceptional growth—expanding from two employees to over twenty and increasing its annual revenue eightfold. Today, the Foundation stands as a key player in Québec’s social and economic transformation. 

The Let’s Start Up Pathway, launched in 2017 and certified by Concordia University, reflects this commitment to doing things differently. Free, inclusive, and flexible, the Let’s Start Up Pathway has already supported nearly 1,500 women on their journey toward employment, returning to school, or launching a business. Through these innovative programs, Marie-Lise has built an ecosystem where training, personalized guidance, and a strong, caring community open the door to lasting financial independence for women. 

Congratulations to Marie-Lise on this truly well-deserved recognition! 

A heartfelt thank-you as well to the Réseau des Femmes d’affaires du Québec for championing women’s leadership—and warm congratulations to all the inspiring award recipients. 

MARIE-ÈVE

Graduate of the Entrepreneurship Program

The Lise Watier Foundation offers the Let’s Start Up Pathway in Montreal, Quebec City, the Laurentians, Montérégie, Sherbrooke, Drummondville and Toronto. More than 350 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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