Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Three stories that inspire
At Le Groupe Maurice, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) aren’t just part of our vocabulary: they’re at the heart of everything we do!
“Inclusion is why we exist. It’s also our business model,” shares Denis Desaulniers, Vice President – Talent and Culture. “Our employees and residents live in the same ecosystem. The most important value we hold is kindness – it’s our bedrock.”
This vision comes to life through people like André, Simon and Louis. As part of our DEI Month, take a moment to meet these inspiring individuals and see how their dedication, authenticity and resilience shape the communities around them.
André Carrière-Desjardins : Driven to doing it right
André Carrière-Desjardins has served as a kitchen assistant at VÜ residence for the past three years. A young transgender man, he works with dedication and heart. Reserved by nature, he ensures the well-being of residents by performing each of his tasks with meticulous care.
Behind André’s smile and diligence lie genuine challenges, as he lives with dysphasia and a mild intellectual disability. These realities undoubtedly shape his personality and influence his communication style. Nevertheless, they do not hinder his progress. For instance, he has learned to ask questions, express his feelings and articulate what causes him pain.
A while back, André faced a difficult phase related to his transition, necessitating a brief absence from his internship to prioritize self-care. When he returned, he was met with the compassion of his team, who supported him without prejudice. “I feel well-accepted here. The people are kind,” he notes.
“When André is in the kitchen, the atmosphere is uplifting. What touches me is his determination to excel. He is remarkably considerate and approaches life with great resilience,” notes Paul Leclerc, General Manager of VÜ and himself a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Evidently proud to include the young transgender man in his team, he adds: “Highlighting individuals like André underscores that there is a place for everyone. To us, he is a member of our family!”
With the support of his colleagues and supervisors, André has built greater self-worth and assurance. He feels equally comfortable with older people, whom he describes as kind and easy to connect with. “They don’t complain, and they’re not constantly on their phones, like people my age,” he observes.
Undoubtedly, André embodies an inspiring quiet courage. He demonstrates that in an open and supportive environment, every individual can flourish at their own pace and in their own way. Through him, minds and hearts become more receptive to diversity.
Simon Maurer: Passion in action
In 15 years, Simon Maurer has organized thousands of activities across various Le Groupe Maurice residences as Living Environment Manager at Elogia. “This company is etched into my heart – its values of kindness, collaboration, leadership, integrity and conviction resonate with me deeply.”
From a young age, Simon knew he wanted a career in leisure and recreation. Diagnosed with dyslexia and dysorthography at age 12, he nevertheless faced multiple challenges before achieving his dream.
“Writing is the toughest part for me. Even today, I still revise my texts. I have them proofread by other people first.” Yet his difficulties never slowed him down. In fact, they pushed him to become exceptionally organized. “I make sure everything is done properly. I always have a Plan A, a Plan B – sometimes even a Plan C!”
Fortunately, he has the support of compassionate colleagues.
“It’s never judgmental, only constructive,” Simon affirms. With this kind of attentive mentorship, he’s able to continually exceed his own expectations. By the way, people who interact with Simon often say that he’s truly “in his element” in his role as Living Environment Manager.
As he reflects on his journey, Simon realizes his challenges have strengthened both his adaptability and resilience. His experiences have also taught him active listening and empathy – invaluable qualities in his field.
“My limitations make me more attuned to others’,” he states. Indeed, they help him better understand residents. “They’re like open books, filled with wisdom to share,” he continues, convinced that we all grow through human connection.
Over the past few years, Simon has also contributed – with pride! – to the professional growth of many peers. Some of them now hold positions in recreation, and even leadership roles.
Guided by his professional passion, Simon plans to continue his career path with Le Groupe Maurice. “I still have the fire in me, and I want to keep making a difference here!”
Louis Côté: Consistency at work
Louis Côté has been working as a kitchen assistant at the Sevä residence for six years. Diligent, punctual and always smiling, the young man, who lives with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), approaches his work with seriousness, following his routine precisely. “I like it when things stay the same. That way, I know what to do,” he explains.
Louis encountered numerous challenges in school. Because he was different from his peers, he was bullied. Compounded by an incorrect diagnosis and learning struggles, he relied on his family’s unwavering kindness and support. Pushing ahead demanded remarkable resilience from him.
Unlike his school years, Louis feels accepted, valued and supported at Le Groupe Maurice. “I’m happy working here because everyone is kind to me,” he says simply.
“To us, Louis isn’t different at all,” says Sylvain Lambert, Sevä’s General Manager. The whole staff views him as a dependable, endearing and detail-oriented team member. “He shows up, gives his all,” remarks kitchen chef Pierre Charette. “He’s absolutely part of the family here.”
Outside of work, Louis is a huge fan of the Montreal Canadien. To support his dedication, the residence’s management recently gifted him tickets to see his favourite team play, along with a jersey featuring Cole Caufield’s number.
His mother was moved to tears by the gesture, overwhelmed with gratitude for the recognition given to her son. “She never imagined Louis would achieve so much. Just him graduating high school felt like a triumph,” recalls Sylvain Lambert.
His perseverance shines through every day, inspiring his colleagues to strive for better. “He’s taught me to adjust my approach – even with other employees,” admits the General Manager.
“Just because you’re autistic doesn’t mean you can’t work. You just need a boss who understands we learn differently. And once we master something, it’s for life!” Louis aptly concludes.
Having André, Simon and Louis as part of Le Groupe Maurice is a powerful reminder of how diversity truly enriches our communities. It also highlights how an inclusive environment gives everyone the opportunity to thrive and be their best. Of course, listening and openness are key to making that possible.
A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who helped bring these inspiring portraits to life.
Want to dive deeper into the topic? Read the testimony of our vice-president – Strategy, Innovation and Marketing on diversity at Le Groupe Maurice.
