Édifice Filion welcomes Ganni to conclude this year's tour.

The 2025–2026 Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour concluded with an inspiring visit by Maryam Ganni at Édifice Filion in Saint-Laurent.

Édifice Filion, an annex of the Centre d’éducation des adultes Outremont, offers social participation and social integration programs for approximately 100 adult students with diverse abilities, supporting them in developing autonomy, confidence and community engagement.

Ganni spoke to an engaged group of approximately 60 students in a bilingual presentation that immediately created a sense of connection. She encouraged students to share their hopes and dreams, follow their passions, and advocate for themselves with confidence.

There was a remarkable twist in the Filion Q & A session after Ganni’s presentation. Rather than asking for more information or clarification about her messages, students gave the messages back to their speaker. They encouraged her to keep speaking, keep following her dreams, and to not let her disability get her down. They thanked her for inspiring them. They just got it!

“This was such a special stop on the tour,” said Ganni. “The energy, the exchange, everyone participating. It was beautiful. I had unforgettable conversations with the students.”

Student Nila shared : « J’ai trouvé ça très inspirant. Dans la vie, il faut toujours avoir des sources d’inspiration autour de soi. Ce que Maryam a dit était très touchant. N’abandonnez jamais vos rêves. Je suis créative, importante et positive. Il faut toujours suivre son cœur et ne jamais abandonner. »

This year’s tour featured presentations by Maryam Ganni, Samara O’Gorman and Sara Levitt, each bringing their own voice, experiences and perspective to conversations about empathy and inclusion.

We thank every school that welcomed the Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour this year, and all the students who participated so openly and thoughtfully. Their reflections, questions and encouragement made every stop unique.

Reflecting on her experience on the tour, Ganni shared: “It has been an exceptional year. Every group was different, and each visit led to a unique and special exchange.”

Check out our video with Maryam Ganni and two Filion students after the event on our Instagram and Facebook pages.

If you are interested in bringing the Jackie Fisher Empathy Tour to your school next year, please contact us at info@inspirationsnews.com