Community Impact & Engagement
Dr. Hélène Leone’s professional journey is driven by a deep, unwavering commitment to social responsibility and community service. Over the years, she has passionately used her expertise to empower and uplift diverse communities, believing that education is a transformative force for positive change. Her efforts reflect a true dedication to making a difference, grounded in compassion and the desire to create a lasting impact. Her community-focused initiatives are a testament to her belief that real success is measured by the lives touched and the lasting contributions made. Some of her key efforts include:
Empowering Educators Across Africa
Dr. Leone has worked alongside educators in African countries, providing teacher training and professional development to help improve educational standards and create more inclusive learning environments. Her focus has been on strengthening educational leadership and supporting teachers in their efforts to provide better educational opportunities for their students.
Providing Access to Technology for Schools in Africa
Recognizing the importance of digital connectivity in education, Dr. Leone has worked to help schools in Africa establish a digital presence by funding the creation of websites for schools that lack online platforms. This initiative aimed to expand their visibility, improve communication, and make educational resources more accessible, fostering a broader sense of community engagement.
Supporting Ukrainian Refugees
In response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, Dr. Leone opened the doors of the Canadian International School of Paris to Ukrainian refugee families, offering them an opportunity to continue their education in a supportive and compassionate environment. This initiative was driven by Dr. Leone’s belief in the transformative power of education to help students rebuild their lives in the wake of crisis.
Creating Access to Bilingual Education for Students with Special Needs
Dr. Leone saw the need for bilingual education opportunities for students with special needs, and in response, she created a special needs program at the Canadian International School of Paris. This program is designed to provide inclusive support, enabling students of all abilities to thrive in a bilingual environment and ensuring that each student has access to quality education, no matter their learning needs.
Supporting the Arts and High-Performance Sports
Dr. Leone is passionate about supporting both artistic and athletic excellence. She developed a half-day high-performance program for students, including classical ballet, lyrical and jazz, Olympic track swimming, and gymnastics. This program, built through partnerships with local dance studios and athletic training facilities, enables students to pursue their talents while maintaining academic progress. Students from this program have represented Canada in international competitions and events, demonstrating the potential of combining high-level training with education. Dr. Leone’s commitment to supporting creative and athletic development reflects her belief in fostering well-rounded individuals.