On June 7th, the team from the Montmagny Regional County Municipality had the privilege of participating in the Fishing Festival.
This activity was organized with the goal of bringing Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) closer to the natural and cultural riches of the region. Held in Sainte-Apolline-de-Patton, the event provided a unique opportunity to promote community integration and the discovery of the local environment.
With the participation of approximately 30 Temporary Foreign Workers from the Philippines, Guatemala, Morocco, Colombia, and Madagascar, the day stood out for its cultural diversity and warm, friendly atmosphere. Among those present were Jonathan, InfoTET Coordinator — Immigrant Québec, as well as Élyse Mercier and Josée Lemieux from the Montmagny Regional County Municipality.
The activity began with a guided one-hour hike through the forest, featuring traditional wooden games that added a playful and educational touch to the experience. Afterwards, the group headed to the lake, where the municipality had released fish specifically for the fishing activity.
Before casting their lines, the participants attended an educational presentation on responsible fishing practices, offered by Parc des Appalaches, followed by a talk on invasive species led by Ozero Solutions. A hands-on workshop on how to use a fishing rod was also provided. Although the workshop was introductory, several Temporary Foreign Workers demonstrated strong mastery of these techniques, highlighting their experience and skills.
The day continued with moments of fishing, relaxation, and exploration of the lake, all within an atmosphere of cultural exchange and shared enjoyment.
The Temporary Foreign Workers present, working in fields such as wood processing, agriculture, metallurgy, and other manufacturing sectors, found this activity to be a valuable opportunity to step outside their professional environment and better connect with their living environment.
This event was made possible thanks to the commitment and collaboration of the Economic Development Corporation of the Montmagny Regional County Municipality (CDEMM), which once again demonstrates its dedication to creating spaces for connection and integration within the region.
