Trouve ta voie: Finding a voice through art and music

“There is always a way,” says Annick Mailloux, percussion instructor and project coordinator at l’Académie des arts Trouve ta voie, an adapted arts organization in the Town of Rosemère. Its name alludes to the centre’s mission to help individuals with all abilities find both their voice (voix), and their path in life (voie) through performance and visual art.

The organization was started in 2013 by founder Joélle Doré-Hébert, inspired by an adapted art school in Turkey, Düşler Akademisi (Dream Academy). Ten years later, Trouve ta voie is a hub for families in the Laurentian region, providing free music and art opportunities, and a summer day camp for individuals on the autism spectrum, with attention deficit disorder, physical or intellectual challenges.

Partners include the Minister of Culture and Communications and Canadian Tire’s Fondation Bon Départ, however most of the funding is raised through the organization’s annual end-of-year performance, showcasing student talents and providing them with a year-long objective. “Ils m’ont vraiment flabergastés,” recounted Mailloux.

Quebec singer Mario Pelchat, known for his duet with Celine Dion, and the uncle of autistic participant Gabriel, has been the academy’s spokesperson since 2015. Most of the programs are free thanks to a partnership with Tim Hortons Smile Cookies initiative. In May, Mailloux led over 120 volunteers in hours of baking at the 24 participating shops, bringing in a record $81,333.

During the holiday season, Trouve ta voie hosted its fourth Semaine Art et Différence des Laurentides, where students exhibited their work and learned from professional artisans, hosted by disabled Quebec rock singer Martin Deschamps. “We always try to get someone who can speak about living a full life in spite of challenges,” said Mailloux.

She can relate to struggles her students experience as she herself is dyslexic. “I tell them, ‘your situation is not an excuse. There is always a solution.’”

Mailloux’s experience at Trouve ta voie has taught her to never underestimate her students. “They brought me back to the essence of life.”

For info: www.trouvetavoie.com.