Mélissa Gélinas LJI Reporter

On Tuesday, January 21, the second edition of the Atypical Summit, organized by Option Femmes, took place at the Maison du Citoyen. The event was to promote and propel forward non-traditional women’s professions.

For the occasion, more than 40 exhibitor booths, with training experts, business employers, ambassadors, educational institutions and more, were on-site to present their services.

“Events like this encourage us to build a society where every woman can choose her path and fully flourish,” said Mariana Mefleh, political advisor in the office of Suzanne Tremblay, MNA for Hull.

Many guests, participants and several high school students were present to discover captivating careers through enriching discussions and interactive workshops.

“It’s not just about politics,” said Catherine Pellerin, a city councillor in Bowman. “Whether it’s construction, engineering, technology or any other sector traditionally dominated by men, every woman in these sectors is a voice for future generations and contributes to building a more equitable world,” she added.

“Today, we are highlighting pioneering women who inspire and pave the way for others,” said Gatineau Mayor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette. “Let’s celebrate their place, their talent and their success,” she continued. “Many thanks to the organizing committee, which is headed by Option Femmes, but which also includes vocational training in Outaouais, Services Québec, Construction Miric, the Cégep de l’Outaouais, the Carrefour Jeunesse-Emploi and the Association des professionnels de la construction et de l’habitation du Québec (APCHQ).”

Photo: Maude Marquis-Bissonnette, Mayor of Gatineau, during her speech at the Atypical Summit (January 21, 2025) (MG) Photo: Mélissa Gélinas