Aïcha Bastien-N’Diaye, from the Huron-Wendat Nation, was introduced to movement through Guinean traditional dance while growing up in Wendake. Naturally blending her strong cultural influences, her passion for the physicality and expressiveness of dance quickly led her to pursue professional training at L’École de danse de Québec.

‍

Using her voice to inspire her communities, both on social media and on stage, Aïcha sees movement as a powerful tool for change and innovation.

‍

A multidisciplinary artist, she showcased her work "Dance Your Anxiety Away" in an installation by Slow Factory at MoMA PS1 in New York. She has also performed in Émilie Monnet’s play Marguerite, Le Feu. More recently, she opened for Caroline Monnet at the Indigenous Futurism fashion show at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles, co-hosted seasons 2 and 3 of Décoloniser l’histoire, a web series produced by Picbois Productions, and co-directed the show YAHWATSIRA’, presented at the Carrefour International de Théâtre.As co-founder and artistic director of Studio Le Feu, she is currently focused on directing and creating visuals within the artistic and commercial industries.

‍

Dédy Bilamba is a high-level marketing manager with a rich and diverse background spanning three continents, known for his unique career path.

‍

Throughout his journey, Dédy has demonstrated his versatility and creativity in diverse roles, including Partnership Manager at Stade de France, Communications Advisor at the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec, and Brand Manager for KFC Côte d’Ivoire. His ability to thrive in different environments is driven by a consistent thread—his creative approach to tackling challenges.

‍

A passionate advocate for culture, Dédy is also the author of three books and has written short film scripts.

‍

For the past five years, he has worked in television and cinema in Quebec, contributing to prestigious institutions such as the Vues d'Afrique International Film Festival and the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television (Quebec section).

‍

Dédy also serves on the Board of Directors of the Dynastie Foundation, further showcasing his commitment to cultural advocacy and community impact.

‍

Despite having lived in the diaspora from a young age, Dédy maintains a deep connection to Africa. In 2022, alongside his partner Éric M'boua, he co-founded Afro VFX, a groundbreaking initiative with the mission of revolutionizing African cinema and television. 

‍

Afro VFX aims to develop a competitive ecosystem for VFX (Visual Effects) on the continent, helping amplify African stories and bring them to a global audience.

‍

Martine St-Victor is a communications strategist and the General Manager of Edelman in Montréal, one of its 60 offices worldwide, making it the world's most important communication firm.

‍

Martine is a monthly columnist at the Montreal Gazette and La Presse and can be seen and heard regularly on Radio-Canada television and radio. During federal and provincial elections, Martine analyzes political communication on CTV News.

‍

Martine is a Trustee on various Boards, a founding member of the Black Opportunity Fund, and Vice-Chair of the Québec section of IWF (International Women’s Forum).

‍