French for the Future forum in Charlottetown focuses on fun, learning

Three-hundred francophone and francophile students in Grades 10 and 11 were in Charlottetown on Wednesday for the French for the Future forum.

Taking place on the Collège de l’Île and Holland College campus in Charlottetown, the gathering focused on the French language during a day of fun and learning about the advantages of bilingualism in Canada.

The event presented an opportunity for students to overcome their apprehension about expressing themselves in French.

Through interactive, recreational and educational activities, the students practised their French outside of the school environment and discovered both professional and personal opportunities that their bilingualism will open up for them. They also met students from other French first language and French immersion schools.

The guest speaker was Hughie Batherson from the University of Sainte Anne. His presentation was entitled “To Dare: The Key to Success in Bilingualism.” The comedy troupe, Entrepôt du rire, presented its S.I.M. show. Inspired by the spontaneity of improv and by the fluidity of comedy shows, the S.I.M. show was created by humourist and host Samuel Chiasson.

Participants also participated in their choice of workshops on themes such as official languages and the Canadian identity, law enforcement facial recognition, post-secondary studies in French, journalism, health, hip-hop dancing, acting, improv, painting, “Let’s Talk,” learning to affirm oneself, Playing Is Not just for Kids, public speaking and social innovation.

Several organizations and institutions brought their kiosks to give students an opportunity to learn more about their educational programs or about possible future careers.

For more information, visit http://french-future.org/.