The Pedriatic Research Foundation’s Young Leaders Circle : A new generation of committed philanthropists
27 January 2025
News

Since its creation in 2022, the Pediatric Research Foundation’s Young Leaders Circle has brought together passionate young professionals in the service of philanthropy.
Our Circle – and I say this with an immense sense of pride – embodies an inspiring collective effort. Initially created by Mia Morisset, a visionary recognized for her role at Inovia Capital, where she is Principal – Growth Equity, this Circle reflects her commitment to innovation and collaboration. From Circle leader to member of the Foundation’s Board of directors and Strategic Committee, Mia has charted an exemplary course in transforming personal commitment into structural impact.While I can’t claim any credit for the Young Leaders’ Circle’s achievements, I’m honored to collaborate with these young stars who infuse dedication and intelligence into everything they do.
The importance of the next generation of philanthropists
In a context where the needs of non-profit organizations are increasing in the face of growing economic and societal pressures, the renewal of donors and volunteers becomes a strategic priority. The Young Leaders Circle responds to this need by introducing new perspectives and fostering intergenerational collaboration. An initiative that aims to bring new energy and innovative ideas to philanthropic practices.
Nearly 74% of board chairs are likely to leave their organizations in the next three years, and only 60% of organizations have plans in place for these transitions (source : BNP Performance philanthropique). A situation which underlines the urgent need to involve young people in governance and leadership roles to ensure dynamic continuity for paediatric research.
Today, the Circle is run by two inspiring young leaders: Camille Dionne and Jean-François Malo.
- Camille Dionne, Human Resources Director at Cozey, has used her startup experience to structure initiatives and navigate uncertainty: “My experience has taught me how to set a vision and motivate teams to achieve ambitious goals.”
- Jean-François Malo, senior consultant at Southlea, draws on his expertise in governance to reinforce the group spirit: “Observing Board dynamics and identifying the key ingredients for success enabled me to transpose these learnings to the Circle.”
Together, they embody a model of collaborative leadership, surrounded by a team of young talents just as essential to the smooth running of the Cercle.
This collaborative leadership style fits perfectly with the FRP model, which values the synergy of talents to maximize the impact of its initiatives. By emphasizing collective commitment and complementary strengths, the Cercle de la relève fosters dynamic governance and a shared vision, essential to meeting tomorrow’s challenges.
As mentioned by Jean-François : “If I’m being honest, being in a co-leadership position with a good friend, is very helpful. I hold Camille in high esteem and have complete confidence in her judgment. This relationship allows us to have great candor and transparency in our conversations.”
Camille adds : “From the very start, with Jean-François, we took the time to have frank discussions to clarify and align our shared vision. We also recognize that our strengths are complementary, which allows us to share responsibilities in a natural way.”
Exceptional strengths for the Foundation
I see that the Cercle’s assets at the Foundation lie in their influential network of committed young professionals, who provide a solid strategic influence. But what sets them apart is their ability to design ingenious and effective initiatives, while optimizing resources with exemplary rigor. Their approach maximizes impact and ensures that funds raised have a tangible effect on pediatric research. A striking example is their rigorous management of operating costs, which enabled over 98% of the funds raised during the Bécanes & Bottines Challenge
This financial efficiency goes hand in hand with a long-term vision, focused on the sustainability of philanthropic commitment. The two co-leaders agree that creating a habit of giving is essential to ensuring a lasting impact: “At the start of a career, you have more to offer in terms of time than in terms of monetary contributions. Encouraging young people to get involved, whether as ambassadors or participants, enables them to realize the direct impact they can have”. It’s an approach that focuses on involvement from the earliest stages of professional life, and helps to build the great donors of tomorrow.
The impact of key events
The Cercle organizes two major events each year:
- The Bécanes & Bottines Challenge: This virtual sports challenge raised $70,000 in 2024, with 98% profitability. Camille and Jean-François are particularly proud: “Reinventing this challenge has shown the impact that a well-thought-out strategy can have.”
- Pinotage: At its third edition in September 2024, this networking evening raised over $40,500. Pinotage is an ideal opportunity for participants to network while supporting philanthropy. The event always includes a silent auction and a convivial atmosphere that attracts a varied audience.
An ambitious vision for the future
For the future, the co-leaders envision a Circle recognized as a model of youth involvement in social causes: “We aspire to continue growing the revenues generated by the Circle, while maintaining strong profitability. Our results have doubled every year for the past three years, and we are determined to continue this trajectory. Within five years, we want the Circle to be recognized as a model for mobilizing young people around social causes. This includes flagship events (perhaps including a few new ones to continue engaging with our initial base approaching their mid-career years), strong revenue growth and a vibrant community that continues to develop and innovate – and why not a greater presence in other geographies in Quebec where the Foundation is also involved. Our roles will evolve to support this growth while strengthening our structural and strategic foundations.
Jean-François also anticipates changes in philanthropy: “With the influx of solicitations and choices available, I wouldn’t be surprised to see donors more engaged or involved if they have the chance to target their contributions to specific initiatives aligned with their interests. We’ll have to make sure we offer tomorrow’s donors projects that are in line with their values.”
The Pediatric Research Foundation’s Young Leaders Circle is more than a group of committed young professionals. It’s a driving force for change, an inspiring model for the future of philanthropy, and a reminder that every contribution, whether of time, talent or money, can transform lives.
– Julie Poulin, Events and Communications Director
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