Francophonie as an Economic Lever
The Francophone Economic Summit in Vancouver
As Vancouver steps onto the global stage, PACIFIQUE 2026 gathers the economic players and institutional leaders already driving Francophone alliances, growth, and influence.
The program includes keynotes, panels, sector-focused roundtables, and networking.
Date
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Time
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Language
French
Location
Canada Place
999 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC
La francophonie en mouvement, an initiative led by SDECB
As global economic, political, and cultural dynamics are being reshaped, francophonie is emerging as a stronger economic force.
Led by SDECB, La francophonie en mouvement – Vancouver 2026 convenes decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and partners from across the francophone world, as the city steps into the global spotlight. At the heart of the initiative, PACIFIQUE 2026 is designed to position Vancouver and the Pacific as a strategic anchor for Francophone economic exchange.
A Premier Gathering for Francophone Business and Institutional Leaders
PACIFIQUE 2026 creates a credible meeting ground for Francophone markets, territories, and expertise to strengthen alliances and accelerate high-potential collaboration.
What to Expect:
- Keynotes and panels on Francophone economic landscapes and business potential
- Sector-focused exchanges between business and institutional leaders
- Insights on markets, partnerships, and business development
- Networking with partners, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers
The Francophone Economic Summit in Vancouver
In the lead-up to FIFA 2026, PACIFIQUE 2026 is for public and institutional decision-makers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, sector partners, and organizations committed to moving Francophone economic growth across provincial, national, and international networks.
Why Attend
Forge Alliances
Engage with decision-makers and partners positioned to move projects and business forward.
Expand Your Reach
Gain access to diverse expertise, markets, and partners across the francophone world.
Harness the Spotlight
Use this global visibility to strengthen your business reach in Canada and beyond.
Inside the Summit
A full day designed to deepen dialogue, sharpen perspectives, and move strategic conversations forward.
Welcome and Networking
Business breakfast and networking
Opening Session
Welcome and opening remarks
Strategic Forum
Economic outlook and Francophone business potential
Lunch and Networking
Informal exchange and live performances
Bilateral Summit
Canada–Francophone Africa focus
Western Canada Focus
Francophone business connections and regional synergies
Coffee Break
Networking and informal conversations
Import-Export and Entrepreneurship
International dynamics and entrepreneur perspectives
Closing Remarks
Key takeaways, acknowledgements, and next steps
Cocktail Reception
Evening networking with partners, guests, and attendees
Hosting and Moderation
The summit will be hosted by two exceptional figures, recognized for their leadership and deep understanding of the economic and institutional issues within the Francophonie.
Marie Villeneuve
Journalist and Host | Radio-Canada
A seasoned journalist and host at Radio-Canada, Marie Villeneuve is an expert in conducting high-level interviews and facilitating strategic panels. Her ability to synthesize complex issues and foster dialogue between public decision-makers and business leaders is a major asset for ensuring the impact and flow of the summit’s sessions.
Serge Corbeil
Institutional Relations and Governance Expert
Serge Corbeil is a bilingual government relations professional with over 40 years of experience in politics, advocacy, strategic communications, and stakeholder management. Recently retired from his role as Director of Government and Community Relations for Western and Northern Canada at Air Canada, he brings a unique strategic depth to the summit. Having served on the boards of several key organizations, including the SDÉCB, he possesses recognized expertise in governance and economic development, making him an ideal facilitator for our high-level discussions.
Speakers and Panelists
PACIFIQUE 2026 will feature speakers, panelists, and experts from the business, institutional, and entrepreneurial spheres.
Strategic Forum
The Francophonie as a Lever for Economic Diversification
Paul Choi, MLA – Parliamentary Secretary for Trade of B.C.
Paul Choi was first elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Burnaby South-Metrotown in 2024.
In July 2025, Paul was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Trade. He previously served as Parliamentary Secretary for Trade with Asia-Pacific.
He brings extensive experience in public safety, law, and community engagement to the British Columbia Legislative Assembly. Prior to serving in the Legislative Assembly, Paul was a first responder, a small business owner, and a lawyer. These experiences have strengthened his ability to serve, support, and protect his community. As a mediator and arbitrator certified by the ADR Institute of Canada and a member of the executive committee of the Canadian Bar Association’s Criminal Justice Section, Paul has a solid background in conflict resolution and justice reform. Paul has also held leadership positions in Burnaby, including serving as Chair of the Burnaby North Road Business Improvement Association (BIA) and as a board member of Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). Additionally, he served as Vice-Chair of the Registration Committee for the College of Health and Care Professionals of British Columbia.
Paul is a strong advocate for multiculturalism, economic development, and human rights. He has served on numerous community advisory committees. His exceptional leadership within the business community was recognized with the 2020 Young Professional of the Year Award. Paul has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local entrepreneurs and is committed to collaborating with Burnaby businesses to create a prosperous and inclusive place to live and work.
Through his practical approach to public policy, Paul’s experience in public safety, law, and community service guides his work within the Legislative Assembly.
Martin Lefebvre – Chief Investment Officer and Strategist at National Bank Investments for National Bank of Canada
Martin is the Chief Investment Officer at National Bank Investments, where he is responsible for developing investment solutions and managing tactical asset allocation mandates. With over 20 years of experience in financial markets, he also previously led the portfolio management team at Private Banking 1859.
Prior to joining National Bank, Martin served as Vice President, Asset Allocation, at Natcan Investment Management. He also acted as Senior Economist and Strategist for Desjardins Group, as well as an Economist (U.S. desk) for the Department of Finance Canada.
Martin holds a Master’s degree in Economics from the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM).
Alberto Scotti, Deputy Director General of the Alliance des Patronats Francophones
Alberto Scotti is the Deputy Director General of the Alliance des Patronats Francophones (Alliance of Francophone Employer Federations). A lawyer by training and a graduate of Paris-Panthéon-Assas University with a degree in Security and Defense Law, he spent several years working for major high-tech and defense industry groups in the fields of strategic analysis, influential communications, and institutional relations.
An expert in geopolitical issues and a lecturer in the history of ideas, he works to strengthen economic and entrepreneurial cooperation between Francophone players on an international scale.
Facilitator : Franklin Bouguep
Franklin Bouguep is the President and CEO of Solid Rock Life and Business and the Chair of the Advisory Board of the African Canadian Business Chamber (ACBC). Through these organizations, he leads international trade initiatives, orchestrates major business summits, and builds transcontinental networks between Africa and North America.
He is also the Executive Director of Black Buildup, a bilingual non-profit organization that supports underrepresented entrepreneurs through skill development, access to resources, and strategic connections that generate economic growth and social impact.
Furthermore, he serves on several boards of directors, including the Relais francophone de la Colombie-Britannique, which he chairs, as well as a global logistics and freight company, where he applies his expertise to optimize operations and support international expansion.
Panelists :
Éric Baranès
Eric Baranes is the President of La Baguette & L'Échalote (BLE Bakery), an artisan bakery based in Vancouver specializing in high-quality breads and bakery products.
In December 2025, he finalized the acquisition of Tartistes, a local manufacturer renowned for its artisan pies, quiches, and desserts made with "clean-label" ingredients. This strategic acquisition brought together two complementary businesses and illustrates his commitment to the development of the artisan agri-food industry in British Columbia.
Alongside his entrepreneurial activities, Eric is the President of the Board of Directors of the Société de développement économique de la Colombie-Britannique (SDÉCB), where he has been a member for nine years. This organization is dedicated to supporting Francophone businesses in the province. Through this volunteer role, he actively contributes to the growth and influence of the Francophone business community on Canada’s West Coast.
Emmanuelle Corne Bertrand
Emmanuelle is the Executive Director of the Fédération des francophones de la Colombie-Britannique (FFCB), the representative organization for the Francophone community in B.C.
Having immigrated from France in 2018, she and her family are now well-integrated Canadian citizens.
A professional in the non-profit sector for over twenty years, she served as a project manager at Terre des Hommes France (2006–2012), an international solidarity organization focused on defending human rights. She later managed institutional relations for the Scouts et Guides de France (2012–2018). Building on this extensive background, she now dedicates herself to defending the linguistic rights of her community in Canada.
MLA Paul Choi 
Martin Lefebvre 
Alberto Scotti
Bilateral Summit
Canada / Francophone Africa Corridor – The Case of Ivory Coast
H.E. Bafetigue Ouattara, Ambassador of Côte d’Ivoire to Canada
Ambassador Bafétigué OUATTARA is a career diplomat, currently serving as the Ambassador of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire to Canada and Permanent Representative to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) since 2021.
A senior official within the Ivorian diplomatic administration, he has over twenty years of experience in managing bilateral and multilateral relations. A specialist in disarmament and international security, he distinguished himself as a seasoned negotiator at the United Nations, notably during the negotiations for the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), where he chaired the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Group in 2012.
Formerly Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of Côte d’Ivoire to the UN in New York (2008–2016), he ensured the political coordination of his country’s files within the Security Council and the UN General Assembly’s First Committee.
On a national level, he led the Department of African International Organizations as well as the Department of the Americas and the Caribbean at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2016–2021), contributing to the strengthening of strategic partnerships and the consolidation of Côte d’Ivoire’s diplomatic presence.
A graduate of the Senior Cycle of the École Nationale d’Administration (ENA) in Abidjan (Diplomacy major) and holder of a Master’s degree in Public Law, he also lectures in international relations and diplomacy at several higher education institutions in Côte d’Ivoire.
Discussions on Vancouver’s role as a gateway to Africa and post-World Cup collaboration strategies.
Facilitator : Tanniar Leba
A visionary bilingual leader and strategist, Tanniar is passionate about capacity building, conflict resolution, and strategic problem-solving. He has over 25 years of leadership experience across the business, community development, and organizational governance sectors. He is the co-founder of the African Canadian Business Chamber (ACBC) and the Capacity Building Group, and has held executive director roles at La Boussole and Le Relais Francophone in British Columbia.
A recipient of several awards for his commitment and impact on Francophone, immigrant, and Afro-descendant communities, he is recognized for his expertise in Africa-Canada relations, the Francophonie, immigration, employment, and contemporary socio-economic challenges.
With a deep understanding of international economic, social, and institutional dynamics, Tanniar effectively guides organizations, entrepreneurs, and communities in designing and implementing sustainable, innovative solutions tailored to the realities of different continents. His strategic approach is based on collaboration, partnership development, and the creation of ecosystems that foster inclusion, economic growth, and community leadership.
Panelists :
Marie-Paule Lasme, Founder of Lasme Foods
With a diverse background originating from Africa, Marie-Paule has worked for over 10 years in the education and entrepreneurship sectors in Quebec and British Columbia. In 2021, she founded Lasme Foods, a food product selection and import company based in B.C.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Gerontology and a certificate in Immigration and Intercultural Relations from the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). She currently serves as an administrative assistant for the Conseil Scolaire Francophone de la C-B (CSF).
Ghislain Brown Kossi, Entrepreneur and Artist
Ghislain Brown-Kossi is a Franco-Ivorian and Canadian abstract artist. His practice lies at the intersection of painting, sculpture, and installation. Working with wood, textiles, and mineral materials, he develops a visual language based on compression, tension, and transformation.
His works involve material systems where elements are subjected to forces that alter their stability. Rather than representing narratives, he explores how memory and identity are inscribed in matter through traces, ruptures, and states of change. His installations unfold as spatial sequences between constraint, imbalance, and emergence, where meaning arises from form without a fixed narrative.
Drawing on his previous career in fashion, he maintains a keen eye for structure and composition. His work has been exhibited internationally and is featured in both private and institutional collections. In 2026, he will be in residence at the Fonderie Darling in Montreal.
Kouamé N'Goandi, Executive Director of the CÉCS
Originally from Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. N’Goandi completed his entire university education in Canada, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Administration, specializing in the management of SMEs and their economic environment.
He began his career at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) within the Research Institute on SMEs as a Research Assistant in the Department of Administration.
Since 2001, he has been with the Conseil économique et coopératif de la Saskatchewan (CÉCS), where he has held several strategic roles: Sectoral Agent, Economic Development Officer, Special Projects Manager, and Deputy Director General. Driven by a vision focused on innovation, growth, and the sustainable development of Francophone and Francophile communities, he has served as the Executive Director of the CÉCS since October 2019, bringing over twenty years of expertise to the economic advancement of Saskatchewan.
Dr. Germain Tanoh, Entrepreneur and Academician
Dr. Germain Tanoh is a Professor of Mathematics at BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology). He trains competent administrators and professionals in the fields of finance, accounting, and artificial intelligence.
Dr. Tanoh has over 25 years of experience as a consultant and educator. Thanks to his expertise in scientific methods of administration and digital data management, he has advised numerous organizations and businesses in making better strategic decisions.
He holds a Master’s degree in Mathematical Engineering and a PhD in Applied Mathematics. He also holds a certificate in Administration from the University of British Columbia (UBC), specializing in project management and strategic leadership.
He has been a lifelong volunteer and leader in many civic and community organizations, including La Boussole and the FFCB. He has significantly contributed to the growth of the Francophone community through numerous initiatives such as Le Repère Francophone and the Café de l’Intégration.
Western Canada Focus
Findings from the PHAR study and analysis of sectoral opportunities.
Guillaume Cariou, Partner - Director, Business Intelligence at PHAR
Partner and Director of Business Intelligence at Phar Veille Stratégique Inc.
A specialist in market intelligence and strategic monitoring, Guillaume Cariou has been involved in research and analysis activities, as well as the development of strategic plans and studies, for twenty years. He is also a lecturer in International Marketing at HEC Montréal.
A roundtable discussion with provincial RDÉEs (Economic Development and Employability Networks) on support services and regional success stories.
Facilitator : Ann Delarosbil, Partner and Director of Business Strategy at PHAR
Ann Delarosbil, M.Sc., is a partner and Director of Business Strategy at PHAR. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she combines a Master’s degree in International Relations with a McGill Mini-MBA to transform complex challenges into concrete solutions.
An expert in facilitation, Ann notably served as project manager for a major study on internal trade between Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. This deep understanding of interprovincial economic mechanisms qualifies her to moderate the panel "Investing and Succeeding in the West: Support and Synergies." She will moderate the dialogue between the executive leadership of the SDÉCB, Parallèle Alberta, CÉCS, CDEM, and RDÉE Canada, leveraging collective intelligence to identify actionable paths for the Francophone economy.
Panelists :
Mylène Letellier, Executive Director, SDÉCB
At the helm of the SDÉCB since 2022, Mylène Letellier brings extensive strategic expertise acquired in both the private and public sectors. Holding an MBA and specialized in women's leadership, she built her career at internationally renowned firms such as Nielsen, Grant Thornton, and Stryker Medical before settling in British Columbia 25 years ago. A true pillar of the economic Francophonie, she previously served at the FFCB and later the SDÉCB, developing a deep understanding of the province’s unique challenges. Recognized for her collaborative leadership and pragmatism, she sits on several national boards, including RDÉE Canada, and is passionately committed to the advancement of young women leaders.
Étienne Alary, Executive Director, PARALLELE ALBERTA
Étienne Alary is the Executive Director of Parallèle Alberta, an organization launched on April 1, 2024, following the merger of the Conseil de développement économique de l'Alberta (CDÉA)—where he had served as Executive Director since 2017—and Accès Emploi Alberta. Based in Edmonton since 2005, he served as the director of Le Franco newspaper (the voice of the Franco-Albertan community) for nearly 10 years, in addition to working at the University of Alberta’s Campus Saint-Jean for three years.
Étienne has extensive experience within the Francophone community. He has been a school trustee for the Conseil scolaire Centre-Nord since October 2017 and its Chair since August 2024. Additionally, he served on the Government of Alberta's Francophone Advisory Council from June 2018 to February 2024.
Kouamé N'Goandi, Executive Director, CÉCS
Originally from Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. N’Goandi completed his entire university education in Canada, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and a Master’s degree in Administration, specializing in the management of SMEs and their economic environment.
He began his career at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) within the Research Institute on SMEs as a Research Assistant in the Department of Administration. Since 2001, he has been with the Conseil économique et coopératif de la Saskatchewan (CÉCS), where he has held several strategic roles. He has served as the Executive Director of the CÉCS since October 2019, bringing over twenty years of expertise to the economic advancement of Saskatchewan.
Madeleine Arbez, Executive Director, CDEM
Madeleine Arbez has been the Executive Director of the Conseil de développement économique des municipalités bilingues du Manitoba (CDEM) since January 2023. A proud Franco-Manitoban and MBA graduate, she is recognized for her principled leadership, dynamism, and commitment to the Francophonie, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Before joining the CDEM, she led Francofonds starting in 2012, where she achieved significant growth in capital, grants, and fundraising. At the head of the CDEM, she works to drive economic development in Manitoba's bilingual municipalities across seven key sectors. She focuses on activating the "bilingual advantage" to generate sustainable benefits for communities and the Manitoba Francophonie.
Jean-François Parent, Research and Public Policy Analysis Manager, RDÉE Canada
Jean-François Parent is the Assistant Director of Public Affairs and Research at the Réseau de développement économique et d’employabilité du Canada (RDÉE Canada). He holds a Master’s degree in Geography from the University of Ottawa, specializing in the study of Francophone and Acadian communities in minority contexts; his research has allowed him to examine the socio-economic and entrepreneurial profile of these communities in depth.
Having worked for over 13 years for several Francophone organizations—including the Vanier Museopark, the Fédération des gens d’affaires francophones de l’Ontario, and Impact ON—and having served on numerous committees and boards such as the Canadian Community Economic Development Network (CCEDNET), he brings a precise analytical lens at the intersection of various fields of study.
Import-Export and Entrepreneurship
The fundamentals of exporting, international partnerships, and the impact of major global sporting events.
Christian Sivière, Founder of Solimpex
After a career spanning over 30 years in international logistics, Christian Sivière launched Solimpex in 2010, an import-export consulting firm active in two areas:
Advising companies on international development.
Providing training on logistics, regulatory, and customs aspects of international trade, Free Trade Agreements, supply chain management, and related topics.
Christian teaches for the Canadian International Freight Forwarders Association (CIFFA), conducts seminars for numerous organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal, Invest Ottawa, the Toronto Board of Trade, and others, and provides customized corporate training.
Francophone entrepreneurs share their experiences with exploratory missions and international development.
Facilitator : Matthieu Giacri, Business Services Manager, SDÉCB
Gestionnaire du service aux entreprises à la SDECB, Matthieu Giacri s'appuie sur un parcours solide en développement d'affaires et en stratégie commerciale pour propulser l'écosystème francophone en Colombie-Britannique. Avant de rejoindre la SDECB, il a forgé son expertise dans des environnements compétitifs, développant une capacité unique à identifier les leviers de croissance et à structurer des projets complexes. Expert en pédagogie entrepreneuriale, il crée des ateliers interactifs qui font le pont entre théorie stratégique et réalité du terrain. Son approche combine rigueur opérationnelle et vision humaine pour bâtir des entreprises résilientes.
Panelists :
Oyéta Kokoroko, Founder of OKOKO Cosmétiques
Oyéta Kokoroko is an entrepreneur, formulator, and brand strategist based in Vancouver. She is the founder of OKOKO Cosmétiques, an award-winning Canadian brand recognized for its high-performance formulations, innovation, and the distinctive sensory experience of its creations. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit, she has built an independent company over the years that now serves an international clientele. Her journey combines innovation, branding, customer experience, and online brand growth. Alongside her work at OKOKO, Oyéta also supports entrepreneurs and emerging brands in their growth, positioning, and e-commerce strategies.
Marie-Maude Groulx, Founder of Pacific Québec and President of the CCFV
Marie-Maude Groulx is the founder of Pacific Québec, the only bilingual agency in British Columbia specializing in localization marketing and partnership development between Western Canada and Quebec. Originally from Quebec, she settled in Vancouver ten years ago. Over the past few years, she has built a solid business network on both sides of the country, working with English and French-speaking companies of all sizes. Her passion for human psychology and consumer behavior guides every strategy she designs. For her, moving from one market to another is about entering a culture, a sense of humor, and a different worldview—subtleties that are lived rather than just learned. Deeply involved in the Francophonie for nearly a decade, she has also served as President of the Chambre de commerce francophone du Grand Vancouver (CCFV) since February 2025.
Benoît Liegey, Founder of Better Table
Founder of Better Table (MeilleureTable™), Benoît Liegey (he/him) assists hotels, restaurants, and tourism stakeholders in wasting less and earning more. His social enterprise stabilizes menu prices by halving food waste and the carbon footprint of food. Originally from France and an MBA holder, Benoît has 16 years of expertise in sustainability. A visionary, he produced the world's first documentary on farm-to-fork anti-waste solutions. He also designed BonAppify, a mobile platform and app that automates food audits. Named one of the Forty under 40 by Business in Vancouver in 2024, his leadership demonstrates that profitability and attractiveness stem from the responsible management of resources.
Thibault Bréboin, Founder of Colib
Originally from France and established in Squamish, B.C., Thibault Bréboin is the co-founder and CEO of Colib, a Canadian clinic management software for mental health professionals and related services. Colib's mission is to improve the quality and accessibility of care in both official languages by simplifying the daily lives of practitioners—from scheduling and billing to telehealth and AI-generated clinical notes. Hosted in Canada, the platform now serves clinics from coast to coast, with a strong presence in bilingual regions and Francophone minority communities. Thibault is active in Western Canada's Francophone entrepreneurial ecosystem, notably with the SDÉCB, the Vancouver Francophone Chamber of Commerce (where he won the "Growing Business" pitch contest), and the CCIFWC.
Alice Couderc, Founder of Atome Bakery
Alice Couderc is the co-founder of Atome Bakery, an artisan bakery e-commerce site specializing in frozen sourdough breads and pastries delivered across Canada. Before launching Atome, Alice worked in private equity and then in business development within the food delivery industry at Delivery Hero and DoorDash. This dual experience in finance and operations allows her to drive Atome's growth with a rigorous, results-oriented approach. Since its founding, Atome Bakery has established itself as a leader in the innovative bakery product market by leveraging Francophone networks to build its partnerships and community nationwide.
Daniel Paquette, Founder of Danpa Consulting Inc., French Chamber of Commerce in Canada – West (CCIFWC) Representative, SDÉCB Board Member
Founder of Danpa Consulting Inc., Daniel has been supporting companies in international and interprovincial trade for over twenty years. With diverse experience in both the private and public sectors, he developed his expertise in Quebec, Europe, the United States, and now British Columbia, notably for the Quebec government's export assistance service. He is involved in the local community as a business mentor, a board member of the Société de Développement Économique de la C-B (SDÉCB), and a mentor within Innovation UBC.
Marie-Noël Holland
Director of Business Services and Community Economic Development at the SDÉCB
Marie-Noël Hollande is the Director of Business Services and Community Economic Development at the SDÉCB. Originally from Côte d'Ivoire, she completed her secondary and university education in France and Canada. Marie-Noël holds an Executive MBA and a Bachelor of Business Administration. She specializes in results-based management and accountability, which she applies through her work with Francophone organizations and businesses.
Two Complementary Experiences, One Shared Drive
PACIFIQUE 2026 is part of La francophonie en mouvement – Vancouver 2026, a broader initiative led by SDECB and unfolding in Vancouver through a series of connected events.
With the Support of Committed Partners
PACIFIQUE 2026 is supported by partners and collaborators helping advance the initiative’s economic impact and visibility for francophonie.
Lead Organizer
Funding Partners
Diamond Sponsors
Gold Sponsors & Lead Partners
Silver Partners
Bronze Sponsors and Supporting Partners
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