The circles of discussions<\/h1><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\nDiscussion circles are valuable opportunities for exchange between participants and experienced professionals in their respective fields, who will share their journeys, experiences, and intercultural stories.<\/p>\n
They aim to:<\/p>\n
\n- Create a strong sense of community between participants and the host society;<\/li>\n
- Give a platform to consultants from diverse cultural communities, who will offer personalized advice on creating, engaging with, and showcasing intercultural narratives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The circles take place on Wednesday evenings, and some Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. are mandatory for all participants (except in cases of valid reasons).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The program includes 10 sessions of discussion circles<\/strong>, each lasting 2 hours and led by consultants who cover the themes of art, intercultural narratives, storytelling and identity expression<\/strong>.<\/p>\nThese meetings offer participants the opportunity to:<\/p>\n<\/div>
\n- Explore and refine their own narrative<\/strong>, in connection with their personal journey and integration experiences;<\/li>\n
- Exchange with mentors from various Montreal communities, who share their perspectives on identity, cultural transmission and intercultural dialogue<\/li>\n
- Benefit from a support in the structuring and enhancement of their narratives<\/strong>, in order to convey with accuracy and clarity their experiences and their point of view.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
These circles constitute an essential space for support, recognition and sharing experiences, allowing the participants to strengthen their voice while being part of a collective and intercultural dynamic.<\/p>\n<\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 01<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nWednesday, November 12<\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 11<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Djamilla Tour\u00e9, founder of Sayaspora.<\/strong><\/p>\nTo begin the discussion circles, Djamilla shared her story, describing the migration journey as a powerful source of inspiration. Personal experiences, inspiring women encountered along the way, and inherited values \u200b\u200bhave all nourished their creative practices. For many, creating has become a way to express their story, claim their place, and give voice to often-invisible narratives.<\/p>\n
The circle concluded with powerful messages: trusting one’s journey, allowing oneself to evolve, and not limiting oneself in the face of obstacles. The facilitator encouraged the participants to embrace their stories and share them with pride.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-1.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 02<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\n Wednesday, November 19, 2025<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 17<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Audrey Ndjave.<\/strong><\/p>\nAudrey Ndjave is a clinical nurse specializing in perinatal and pediatric care, with over 20 years of experience supporting families. Between France and Quebec, her migration and professional journey led her to become the founder of the HMB Perinatal Center, the first international center based on an integrative medicine and teleconsultation approach.<\/p>\n
Winner of the Diversity in Business Award, Audrey is recognized for her commitment to accessible, humane, and inclusive healthcare. A published author with Albin Michel and Hachette Marabout, trainer, speaker, and content creator followed by over 300,000 families, her messages reach more than 10 million people worldwide each month.<\/p>\n
Through her migration story, her leadership, and her ability to transform her experience into a mission, Audrey inspires thousands of women to share their stories, assert themselves, and find their place.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-2.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 03<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nWednesday<\/span>November 26<\/span>November<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 12<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Iman Sta-Ali<\/strong><\/p>\nIman Sta-Ali is a doctoral candidate in psychology at the \u201cMulticulturalism, Experiences, Relations, Racism and Identities (MERRI)\u201d laboratory.<\/p>\n
Recently awarded the title of \u201cYoung Leader of Quebec 2025.<\/p>\n
Social Responsibility\u201d as part of the ARISTA competition, she grounds her commitment in a profound approach to social reflection and collective impact.<\/p>\n
Through her research and activism, Iman explores identity dynamics, experiences of racism, interculturality, and the challenges related to social relations in a multicultural context.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 04<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nWednesday, December 10, 2025<\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 10<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Emmeline Michaud (Moule)<\/strong><\/p>\nEmmeline Michaud, known as Moule, is a queer multidisciplinary artist based in Montreal since 2018. Her work explores themes deeply rooted in contemporary realities: feminism, social justice, ecology, and care.<\/p>\n
Her artistic identity is distinguished by a deliberately naive and light touch, a true ode to the freedom to create and to human imperfection. Through her characters, Emmeline draws on a collective imagination linked to childhood, offering works that are touching, playful, and vibrant with humanity.<\/p>\n
Exploring textures and materials, she blends her freehand drawing with organic forms to reveal what is most spontaneous and human, going against the grain of overly smooth, vector-based, or AI-generated aesthetics.<\/p>\n
Her unique and deeply sensitive artistic universe will enrich this discussion circle dedicated to migratory and creative narratives.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-3-1.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 05<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nWednesday, December 17, 2025<\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 8<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Nandia Brice (Branzo)<\/strong><\/p>\nBranzo, whose real name is Nandia Brice, is a self-taught photographer based in Montreal.<\/p>\n
For Nandia, the camera is much more than a tool: it’s a true extension of herself. It accompanies her daily life, allowing her to document her everyday experiences, reveal their nuances, and breathe new life into them.<\/p>\n
Her artistic practice explores a variety of subjects, but certain themes run through all of her work: the relationship to time, space, and others. These are timeless, almost universal themes that take on a very intimate dimension for her, rooted in lived experience and the observation of daily life.<\/p>\n
For over three years, the city of Montreal has occupied a central place in her approach, both personally and artistically. It nourishes her reflections, shapes her explorations, and constitutes the heart of her current work. Time and space become both subjects of observation and levers of creation, revealing a sensitive and inhabited reading of the urban territory.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-4.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 06<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nWednesday, January 21, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 9<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Dana Kassem<\/strong><\/p>\nFounded by producer Dana Kassem, Lumos Montr\u00e9al has established itself as a key player in the independent music scene. For several years, the agency has distinguished itself with original concepts that showcase Montreal’s creativity, such as Freshman Triumph, a three-round freestyle competition, and the annual Once in a Blue Moon festival, which has become a must-attend event for emerging artists.<\/p>\n
In addition to the shows, Dana acts as executive producer and initiates an exclusive single each year featuring artists from the Once in a Blue Moon lineup.<\/p>\n
To mark the 5th anniversary of Once in a Blue Moon, she is launching an independent project: OIABM: GEMINI. Conceived during an intensive nine-day seminar, this collaborative project brought together 15 artists and 7 producers to create a 10-track EP, reflecting the diversity and emerging scene in Montreal.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-5.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 07<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nThursday, January 22, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 9<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Laouratou (StyledByLaou)<\/strong><\/p>\nMy name is Laouratou, but everyone calls me Laou. I’m 28 years old and I was born in Conakry, Guinea. I arrived in Montreal in 1999, so I’ve survived quite a few winters. From a very young age, as far as I can remember, I’ve always loved creativity. I loved dressing up, taking a peek in my mother’s closet, and even sewing clothes for my dolls. I started getting interested in styling in 2021, and it was purely online. That’s when I launched my Instagram page, “Styled by Laou.” I was determined to invest my time in creating looks to inspire others. As time went by, my subscriber count grew, and I realized I loved helping people find what suited them, all without feeling like I was working. That’s when I decided I needed to explore the possibilities. One of my goals was to work at SSENSE, and I had the opportunity to be an e-commerce stylist for three years (still life and ready-to-wear). I met so many people and learned so many tips and tricks that have allowed me to do what I love as a freelancer today.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-6.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 08<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>\nWednesday, January 28, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\nNumber of participants: 09<\/strong><\/p>\nWith Kezna Dalz<\/strong><\/p>\nKezna Dalz is a multidisciplinary a<\/strong>rtist based in Montreal. His work is characterized by rough lines and bright colors. Its recurring themes are feminism, the fight against racism, popular culture and the relationship to sexuality.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-7.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
Discussion circles are valuable opportunities for exchange between participants and experienced professionals in their respective fields, who will share their journeys, experiences, and intercultural stories.<\/p>\n
They aim to:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Create a strong sense of community between participants and the host society;<\/li>\n
- Give a platform to consultants from diverse cultural communities, who will offer personalized advice on creating, engaging with, and showcasing intercultural narratives.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The circles take place on Wednesday evenings, and some Thursday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. are mandatory for all participants (except in cases of valid reasons).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>
The program includes 10 sessions of discussion circles<\/strong>, each lasting 2 hours and led by consultants who cover the themes of art, intercultural narratives, storytelling and identity expression<\/strong>.<\/p>\n
These meetings offer participants the opportunity to:<\/p>\n<\/div>
- \n
- Explore and refine their own narrative<\/strong>, in connection with their personal journey and integration experiences;<\/li>\n
- Exchange with mentors from various Montreal communities, who share their perspectives on identity, cultural transmission and intercultural dialogue<\/li>\n
- Benefit from a support in the structuring and enhancement of their narratives<\/strong>, in order to convey with accuracy and clarity their experiences and their point of view.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
These circles constitute an essential space for support, recognition and sharing experiences, allowing the participants to strengthen their voice while being part of a collective and intercultural dynamic.<\/p>\n<\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 01<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday, November 12<\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 11<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Djamilla Tour\u00e9, founder of Sayaspora.<\/strong><\/p>\n
To begin the discussion circles, Djamilla shared her story, describing the migration journey as a powerful source of inspiration. Personal experiences, inspiring women encountered along the way, and inherited values \u200b\u200bhave all nourished their creative practices. For many, creating has become a way to express their story, claim their place, and give voice to often-invisible narratives.<\/p>\n
The circle concluded with powerful messages: trusting one’s journey, allowing oneself to evolve, and not limiting oneself in the face of obstacles. The facilitator encouraged the participants to embrace their stories and share them with pride.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 02<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday, November 19, 2025<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 17<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Audrey Ndjave.<\/strong><\/p>\n
Audrey Ndjave is a clinical nurse specializing in perinatal and pediatric care, with over 20 years of experience supporting families. Between France and Quebec, her migration and professional journey led her to become the founder of the HMB Perinatal Center, the first international center based on an integrative medicine and teleconsultation approach.<\/p>\n
Winner of the Diversity in Business Award, Audrey is recognized for her commitment to accessible, humane, and inclusive healthcare. A published author with Albin Michel and Hachette Marabout, trainer, speaker, and content creator followed by over 300,000 families, her messages reach more than 10 million people worldwide each month.<\/p>\n
Through her migration story, her leadership, and her ability to transform her experience into a mission, Audrey inspires thousands of women to share their stories, assert themselves, and find their place.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 03<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday<\/span>November 26<\/span>November<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 12<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Iman Sta-Ali<\/strong><\/p>\n
Iman Sta-Ali is a doctoral candidate in psychology at the \u201cMulticulturalism, Experiences, Relations, Racism and Identities (MERRI)\u201d laboratory.<\/p>\n
Recently awarded the title of \u201cYoung Leader of Quebec 2025.<\/p>\n
Social Responsibility\u201d as part of the ARISTA competition, she grounds her commitment in a profound approach to social reflection and collective impact.<\/p>\n
Through her research and activism, Iman explores identity dynamics, experiences of racism, interculturality, and the challenges related to social relations in a multicultural context.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
<\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 04<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday, December 10, 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 10<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Emmeline Michaud (Moule)<\/strong><\/p>\n
Emmeline Michaud, known as Moule, is a queer multidisciplinary artist based in Montreal since 2018. Her work explores themes deeply rooted in contemporary realities: feminism, social justice, ecology, and care.<\/p>\n
Her artistic identity is distinguished by a deliberately naive and light touch, a true ode to the freedom to create and to human imperfection. Through her characters, Emmeline draws on a collective imagination linked to childhood, offering works that are touching, playful, and vibrant with humanity.<\/p>\n
Exploring textures and materials, she blends her freehand drawing with organic forms to reveal what is most spontaneous and human, going against the grain of overly smooth, vector-based, or AI-generated aesthetics.<\/p>\n
Her unique and deeply sensitive artistic universe will enrich this discussion circle dedicated to migratory and creative narratives.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 05<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday, December 17, 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 8<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Nandia Brice (Branzo)<\/strong><\/p>\n
Branzo, whose real name is Nandia Brice, is a self-taught photographer based in Montreal.<\/p>\n
For Nandia, the camera is much more than a tool: it’s a true extension of herself. It accompanies her daily life, allowing her to document her everyday experiences, reveal their nuances, and breathe new life into them.<\/p>\n
Her artistic practice explores a variety of subjects, but certain themes run through all of her work: the relationship to time, space, and others. These are timeless, almost universal themes that take on a very intimate dimension for her, rooted in lived experience and the observation of daily life.<\/p>\n
For over three years, the city of Montreal has occupied a central place in her approach, both personally and artistically. It nourishes her reflections, shapes her explorations, and constitutes the heart of her current work. Time and space become both subjects of observation and levers of creation, revealing a sensitive and inhabited reading of the urban territory.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 06<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday, January 21, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 9<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Dana Kassem<\/strong><\/p>\n
Founded by producer Dana Kassem, Lumos Montr\u00e9al has established itself as a key player in the independent music scene. For several years, the agency has distinguished itself with original concepts that showcase Montreal’s creativity, such as Freshman Triumph, a three-round freestyle competition, and the annual Once in a Blue Moon festival, which has become a must-attend event for emerging artists.<\/p>\n
In addition to the shows, Dana acts as executive producer and initiates an exclusive single each year featuring artists from the Once in a Blue Moon lineup.<\/p>\n
To mark the 5th anniversary of Once in a Blue Moon, she is launching an independent project: OIABM: GEMINI. Conceived during an intensive nine-day seminar, this collaborative project brought together 15 artists and 7 producers to create a 10-track EP, reflecting the diversity and emerging scene in Montreal.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 07<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nThursday, January 22, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 9<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Laouratou (StyledByLaou)<\/strong><\/p>\n
My name is Laouratou, but everyone calls me Laou. I’m 28 years old and I was born in Conakry, Guinea. I arrived in Montreal in 1999, so I’ve survived quite a few winters. From a very young age, as far as I can remember, I’ve always loved creativity. I loved dressing up, taking a peek in my mother’s closet, and even sewing clothes for my dolls. I started getting interested in styling in 2021, and it was purely online. That’s when I launched my Instagram page, “Styled by Laou.” I was determined to invest my time in creating looks to inspire others. As time went by, my subscriber count grew, and I realized I loved helping people find what suited them, all without feeling like I was working. That’s when I decided I needed to explore the possibilities. One of my goals was to work at SSENSE, and I had the opportunity to be an e-commerce stylist for three years (still life and ready-to-wear). I met so many people and learned so many tips and tricks that have allowed me to do what I love as a freelancer today.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/i><\/i><\/span>Discussion Circle 08<\/span><\/a><\/h4><\/div>
\nWednesday, January 28, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n
Number of participants: 09<\/strong><\/p>\n
With Kezna Dalz<\/strong><\/p>\n
Kezna Dalz is a multidisciplinary a<\/strong>rtist based in Montreal. His work is characterized by rough lines and bright colors. Its recurring themes are feminism, the fight against racism, popular culture and the relationship to sexuality.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>
- Explore and refine their own narrative<\/strong>, in connection with their personal journey and integration experiences;<\/li>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-8.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/sayaspora.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Cercle-de-discussion-annexe-rapport-VDM-9.webp\")
<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":16,"featured_media":114591,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"100-width.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"class_list":["post-114598","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n