Actuality¹⁴⁹

As part of International Women's Rights Day, the Junior Chamber of commerce of Montreal is highlighting inspiring stories in a series of 8 portraits of women (or self-identified women) who volunteer on our various committees.

Portrait 8 - Meet the go-getter Allison Migeon, volunteer co-director of the ideation and content committee.

Allison Migeon is a visionary and committed woman who has broken down barriers and opened up new avenues for diversity in classical music. Her work with Ensemble Obiora has left a lasting impression, not only by providing opportunities for musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds, but also by changing the way the music world looks at inclusion.

“One of the biggest myths about classical music is that it is reserved for an elite or a restricted audience. Classical music belongs to everyone, and it's much more lively and accessible than you might think! It can be a wonderful tool for connecting cultures and a means of expression for everyone.”

Allison is seen within the JCCM, as a fearless go-getter who approaches challenges with quiet confidence and unwavering determination. Her transparency and refreshing candor create a climate of genuine trust.

Her journey inspires others to believe in their potential, and contributes to building a musical future where everyone has their place.

What do you see as the greatest challenge for women in 2025?

Proving their worth and having to do more than men to be taken seriously and respected, especially in leadership positions. Despite advances, women still have to justify their legitimacy and face higher expectations to gain the same recognition.

A woman who inspires you enormously and why?

Miriam Makeba. She was much more than an exceptional artist: she was a committed campaigner against apartheid, a powerful voice for the oppressed and a symbol of African resilience and pride. Her courage and talent transcended music to become a veritable tool for social change.

If you could change one thing in tomorrow's business world, what would it be?

I'd like to see more inclusive leadership models. For too long, we have valued a certain type of success based on competition and performance at all costs. It's time to value models that integrate benevolence, listening and diversity of backgrounds.

One of your character traits that has helped you and one that has challenged you?

Helped: Perseverance. I don't give up easily, even in the face of obstacles.

Challenged: Impatience. I sometimes wish things would move faster, but I'm learning to accept that change takes time.

The best advice you've ever received?

“Trust your intuition and move forward, even if the path seems uncertain.”

In entrepreneurship and the artistic world, there isn't always a model to follow, especially when you want to break the norms. I've learned to listen to my instincts and believe in my vision, even when doubts creep in.

A “wow” moment you're particularly proud of?

Ensemble Obiora's first concert. After months of work, uncertainties and challenges, to see the orchestra on stage, to feel the emotion of the audience, was magic. It was then that I knew our vision was coming to life.

Your favorite Montreal woman-owned business?

Pouvoir des Fleurs, founded by Rachelle Démosthène. After a 19-year career as an executive consultant in a multinational corporation, she chose to reinvent herself by launching her own floral boutique in 2018. Her approach goes far beyond simply selling flowers: she highlights the power of floral language to convey emotions and create connection. A Gala IDEE finalist in 2022, she epitomizes an inspiring entrepreneur, combining creativity, resilience and community involvement.

A book or podcast to recommend?

Book : La Prophétie des Sœurs-Serpents by Isis Labeau-Caberia.

A novel in which sisterhood is at the heart of a fantastic adventure, while tackling profound themes such as colonialism, slavery and cultural annihilation. The Martinique-born author draws on historical traditions of resistance in the Caribbean, and explores Afrofuturism, ecofeminism and spirituality in relation to emancipation struggles.

Podcast: Journal intime du succès by Mavic Bright.

A podcast that helps women break through their limiting thoughts and empower themselves by daring to aim higher. Mavic Bright, mindset coach, accompanies those who want to break through the glass ceiling and turn their ambition into concrete results.

What's your favorite place to work/think in Montreal?

I like to walk in parks to think. Whether it's on Mount Royal, in Parc La Fontaine or in a smaller, quiete r green space, movement and nature help me clarify my ideas and step back from the challenges of the moment.