Speaking in French or speaking in English, a Canmore francophone student wants to spread her passion of bilingualism throughout the Bow Valley.
École Notre-Dame des Monts’ (NDM) Jordan Olsthoorn was selected to participate in the 2017 National Ambassador Youth Forum, Aug. 21-25 in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
Organized by French for the Future, 24 francophone students from across the Great White North participate in workshops, activities and discuss challenges and advantages of speaking Canada’s two official languages.
As youth ambassadors for bilingualism, the students learn the fundamentals of leadership and event planning to take back to their respected communities.
Growing up in an English speaking home, Olsthoorn has been enrolled at NDM since pre-school, and developed an admiration for the French language.
So, being selected to participate in the National Ambassador Youth Forum will give her an opportunity to return with the skills to spread her passion throughout the mountain community.
“Even though we live in a minority community, it’s still possible to have our voice heard and be present among them and be proud of who we are,” said Olsthoorn.
Following the event, Olsthoorn plans to pass along her knowledge to other students. Already an active leader as a member of the student council, Olsthoorn said it’s important to her to promote bilingualism in the Bow Valley.
“I would love to see activities between French immersion programs and our school,” said Olsthoorn. “I’m proud of our language and it would give a chance of greater exposure to the French language.”
Since 2004, the National Ambassador Youth Forum has brought together bilingual high school students.
It offers a unique experience to learn and be active in French language and its culture, cuisine and travels from different communities in Canada.
