Actuality¹⁶⁹

Portrait of Léonie St-Martin

HIRING, TRAINING AND RETENTION OF TALENTS

Par

Marie Pelletier

JCCM - Jeune Chambre de commerce de Montréal

Gestionnaire de projet bénévole du comité marketing et création de contenu

As part of our Portraits of March series, the Junior Chamber of Commerce of Montreal highlights committed women who actively contribute to the vitality and innovation of our community.

Portrait – Meeting with Léonie St-Martin, a committed voice at the heart of public affairs

As Public and Government Affairs Coordinator at the Association de la construction du Québec (ACQ), Léonie works in a world where politics, current events, and industry intersect. Her role consists of analyzing issues, monitoring developments, and contributing to strategic thinking that influences the construction sector in Quebec.

She also volunteers on a public affairs committee, true to her desire to actively participate in the discussions that shape our society.

Keeping pace with current events

What fascinates Léonie is following the news and responding accordingly. Every day is unique, marked by constantly evolving issues. She particularly appreciates the dynamic nature of her work and her involvement, which keeps her attentive and proactive.

Female role models who have influenced her career

In her professional career, Léonie highlights the positive and significant influence of her colleague Sara-Maude, with whom she works at the ACQ. Working alongside her, she has deepened her understanding of government relations and developed a strategic understanding of institutional issues.

She also emphasizes the importance of professional solidarity among women, a value she admires and seeks to embody.

The women in her family have also shaped her journey. Her grandmothers, aunts, and mother showed her that it is possible to combine career, family, and personal fulfillment, influencing her vision of balance.

Women's entrepreneurship in Montreal

Among the Montreal-based companies owned by women that she admires, Léonie mentions Maguire Shoes, founded by two sisters in 2017.

Starting in Montreal, the brand has expanded to Toronto, New York, and Brooklyn, while maintaining a strong signature: high-quality, timeless designs.

In a context where fast fashion dominates, Léonie admires their ability to build a sustainable brand without compromising their values.

She also loves other local brands such as Eliza Faulkner, Odelayo et Betina Lou, which contribute to showcasing Montreal women's creativity.

A message of confidence

Her advice to young professional women in Montreal is simple and essential: trust yourself.

“I often feel like I don't belong, but if I'm here, it's for a reason. I have to trust my abilities.” "

She acknowledges that doubt can sometimes creep in and make you feel like you don't belong. Believing in your abilities and daring to take your place remain, in her opinion, key drivers for growth.

A collective challenge: never take equality for granted

For Léonie, one of the biggest challenges facing women today is not taking equality for granted.

Despite significant progress in recent decades, she notes that in Quebec, some voices still question gender equality and observes the rise of masculinist discourse, particularly among younger generations. She also points out that the reality of femicide remains a concern.

In her view, these observations demonstrate that women's rights cannot be taken for granted. It is therefore essential to continue our efforts, remain committed, and continue to work actively for real and lasting equality.

A journey shaped by adaptation and determination

Léonie says she is particularly proud of her journey. Her path was not predetermined, and the pandemic changed some of her plans. By listening to herself and adjusting her trajectory, she was able to find a professional environment in which she can truly thrive.

By stepping outside her comfort zone, she discovered that she was capable of overcoming her fears. Although she still has questions at times, she now understands that if an opportunity arises, it's because she has the skills to seize it. This realization has helped to boost her confidence and self-assurance.

Montreal as a source of balance

When asked about her favorite places in Montreal, Léonie replies that her preferences vary depending on the season. Right now, she particularly likes Café Aube in Hochelaga, where she enjoys working in a friendly atmosphere.

To recharge her batteries, she practices yoga at Club Hippocrate and mentions Spa Escale Santé in the Shops Angus among her favorite places.

As for the habit that helps her stay grounded, she doesn't hesitate: her morning coffee. A simple but essential ritual that sets the tone for each of her days.

Cultural inspirations

Among her recommendations, she mentions the podcast Les Ficelles, which offers a feminist analysis of reality TV.

On the reading front, she suggests Les Déterrées by Katia Belkhodja, La version qui n’intéresse personne by Emmanuelle Pierrot, and La femme qui fuit by Anaïs Barbeau-Lavalette, works that sensitively explore issues of identity, memory, and women's journeys.

Connect with Léonie!