Johanne Dumas Unites Culture, Seniors, and Community Vision: Faces Tri-Cities Co-Author Series

 Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre & Cathy Cena Today on Faces: Tri-Cities Co-Authored Stories, Cathy Cena and Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre and had the pleasure of sitting down with Johanne Dumas, a respected Maillardville community builder whose lifelong dedication to culture, civic collaboration, and senior advocacy continues to shape the heart of the Tri-Cities. Earlier this year, the Faces book launched in celebration of International Women’s Day, highlighting the leadership and lived experiences of local women. For Johanne, taking part in this civic storytelling project was an opportunity to reflect on her 29 years of service and to amplify a message she has long believed in.

“Shared stories create shared responsibility,” she said. Her chosen quote in the book, “We need to dream together. Dreaming alone is pointless,” speaks to the importance of working across sectors, generations, and cultures. Though now retired from her role as Executive Director of the Société francophone de Maillardville, Johanne’s legacy remains visible across the community. Under her leadership, a once-small festival blossomed into a flagship cultural event that celebrates Francophone identity, engages newcomers, and inspires collaboration across the Tri-Cities. “If we had not built bridges with others, our Francophone reality would have faded long ago,” she reflected. Her civic involvement remains strong.

She serves as president of the Provincial Francophone Seniors of British Columbia and vice-president of the National Francophone Seniors of Canada, advocating for age-friendly policies and equitable access to care. Locally, she sits on the board of Foyer Maillard, a long-term care facility supporting seniors with their health needs. Johanne is among those advocating to expand the facility with an assisted-living wing, ideally in partnership with the North Fraser Métis Association. “It’s about dignity, belonging, and bringing together minority communities in ways that truly serve people,” she said. Johanne is also passionate about mentorship. She has long embraced the inclusion of younger women in leadership conversations and sees collaboration across generations as key to civic renewal.

“If someone younger takes your place, it’s because they’ve earned it,” she explained. “It’s not about competition. It’s about continuity.” Asked how others can get involved, her answer is simple and direct: show up. “Volunteer. Attend. Speak. Share. Change starts with small acts and honest conversations.” Johanne Dumas’s journey reminds us that civic leadership does not end with retirement. It evolves. Her continued presence, advocacy, and mentorship are a testament to what happens when community service is rooted in purpose and driven by heart.