Name: Anne-Julie Asselin
Role: I am the Coordinator of the MAP-Quebec research group.
1) Where are you from, and where did you study?
I am originally from the South Shore of Quebec City. I then studied social and cultural anthropology at Laval University in Quebec City, where I obtained my bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
2) What motivates you to make the world more accessible?
What motivates me to make the world more accessible is the deep conviction that every person deserves to be fully seen, heard and included, regardless of their abilities or background. I have seen how barriers—whether physical, social, or cultural—can limit individuals’ participation and dignity. Helping to create accessible and inclusive environments not only reduces these barriers, but also recognizes the unique value of each person and allows everyone to flourish and actively participate in society.
3) In simple language, describe your research project/the project in which you are collaborating.
I coordinate the scientific programming of the MAP-Qc research group, which brings together researchers, organisations and individuals involved in projects aimed at making society more inclusive and accessible. My role is to support collaboration and facilitate knowledge sharing in order to advance these projects
4) What are your hidden talent and your greatest quality?
My hidden talent is my ability to come up with original and creative ideas, whether it’s to liven up a meeting or breathe new life into a project. My greatest qualities are my empathy and my ability to bring people together, which help to create a climate of trust that is conducive to collaboration and inclusion.
5) What is the best way to make yourself smile?
A good pun or a touch of spontaneous humour is often enough to make me smile.
6) What do you like to do during your hobbies?
Cycling, walking in the forest with my dog, and cooking.
7) What place in the world do you dream of visiting?
Iceland!
8) Which book you have read or movie you have watched that has inspired/marked you the most?
As a film buff, it’s very difficult for me to choose! Let’s stick with the theme of accessibility, and I would say… The Sound of Metal, by Darius Marder. A must-see!
9) If you could have dinner with a known researcher/scientist/clinician/person who would it be and why?
I would like to have dinner with Chief Scientist Rémi Quirion to discuss his vision for the development of science in Quebec.