Valérie Plante
First female mayor of Montreal, Valérie Plante made history by leading Québec’s metropolis for eight years.
Her two consecutive terms ushered in bold public policies aimed at building a more affordable, more resilient, and more people-centered city.
An anthropologist by training with roots in the community sector, her election marked a progressive turning point, inspiring a new generation of local leaders to step onto the political stage.
A seasoned manager, she champions mobilizing leadership to support and empower her teams.
A natural communicator, she has become one of the most prominent and widely covered political figures, recognized for her ability to navigate crises and lead complex change with confidence.
Her concrete actions in affordable housing and environmental policy have earned her international recognition, enabling her to extend her influence beyond borders.
Author of two books, she brings to life the character of Simone Simoneau, through whom she recounts, with humor and clarity, the achievements, challenges, and paradoxes faced by those who seek to transform their communities and venture off the beaten path.
An honorary graduate of the Université de Montréal and recipient of the Jean Paul L’Allier Award, Valérie Plante continues her engagement with curiosity and a deep commitment to social justice.
Writing, speaking engagements, documentarie, she welcomes opportunities that combine relevance, originality, and thoughtfulness.