Élise Pilote
Through my experiences, I have learned lessons. I shaped myself and now I live a life that makes me happy. Would you like to live a colourful life? Do you want to learn more about me? Then continue reading!
My name is Élise Pilote. I live in Saguenay, in the far north as they say, but with all the advantages of a big city. When I was 16, I found out that I had an autism spectrum disorder. I was later diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and borderline personality disorder as well. However, I haven’t stopped chasing my dreams. I continued to build my life around my values and goals. I charged headfirst, as they say. I spent 4 years in secondary 5 and did my CEGEP in 3 years, but I managed to get my high school and college diplomas, even though a guidance counsellor told me that I was never going to go to CEGEP or university. I’m currently a student in administration at TÉLUQ. I am a persevering, courageous and unique girl that people love to be around. I love the arts and sciences. My favourite hobby is music—I am a flautist and a violinist. I also like to discover new cultures by travelling or by learning about their specific realities.
The first time I got involved was when my special-education teacher asked me if I wanted to host a conference about how I viewed autism. I gave my first solo talk in April 2012. Since then, I have done volunteer commitments after volunteer commitments by hosting conferences and by being involved in school, musically and in my community. I learned about Chantiers jeunesse through an ad posted on social media. I then pursued a cybervolunteering project in the summer of 2020 with CAFi, a Francophone reception and support centre for immigrants, which brought me immense joy. I learned a lot during that summer. I’m also doing an entrepreneurship volunteer project on a mental health improvement retreat. I value curiosity, justice and mutual help, which naturally led me to my desire to contribute to my community. Besides, I’ve been hooked since my first conference. Helping others was suddenly the reason why I wanted to get involved.
I have always been passionate about writing and I have a unique style. I like to bring my rich experience and knowledge in the form of words by using them to convey a message. I consider myself an apprentice poet of words. My extensive life experience also gives me a unique perspective on certain situations. I’m curious and able to learn a multitude of things as long as the subject interests me. It makes me an encyclopedia (as some of my friends like to call me) and I’m able to share that with my readers. By reading my texts, you’ll have all of this and more!
I have always been passionate about writing and I have a unique style. I like to bring my rich experience and knowledge in the form of words by using them to convey a message. I consider myself an apprentice poet of words. My extensive life experience also gives me a unique perspective on certain situations. I’m curious and able to learn a multitude of things as long as the subject interests me. It makes me an encyclopedia (as some of my friends like to call me) and I’m able to share that with my readers. By reading my texts, you’ll have all of this and more!
Live your dreams and don’t limit yourself to what society tells you to do. We’re unique and no one can change that. Set dreams for yourself and write them in the comments! We want to hear from you!
Élise Pilote, CJ Ambassador