
Photo credit: Sylvain Légaré
Date of publication: Sunday 1 June 2025
About the Ordre de Montréal (Order of Montreal)
As a legacy of Montréal’s 375th anniversary, Ville de Montréal has created an honorary order to recognize the talents and achievements of the men and women who have helped shape the city. The Ordre de Montréal reflects the pride felt by all Montrealers. The Ordre de Montréal, which is marked with nobility and prestige, recognizes 17 prominent personalities each year, following a public call for nominations. Recipients of the honour have distinguished themselves in one or more of the following ways, regardless of their area of activity:
- Decisive contribution to the development of Montréal
- Notable contribution to the national or international reputation of Montréal
- Exemplary commitment to the community
- Exceptional professional achievements
About Fabienne Colas
A key figure on the Montréal and Canadian cultural scene, Fabienne Colas is morphing the city’s artistic landscape through her actions for and commitment to the inclusion and representation of minority voices.
An award-winning entrepreneur, actress, director and producer, she has founded 12 international festivals – including the Festival Haïti en Folie and the Montréal International Black Film Festival – which have brought together 10,000 artists and two million spectators in four countries. Under the aegis of the Fabienne Colas Foundation’s Festwave Institute, and Zaza Production, she is developing training programs for young racialized creators. Her documentary series Being Black in Canada, broadcast on CBC, won several Canadian Screen Awards. Recipient of the Order of Canada, an honorary doctorate from Concordia University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, a medal from the Québec National Assembly and numerous other distinctions, Fabienne Colas transforms diversity issues into levers of innovation. Her tangible impact helps make Montréal a more inclusive, equitable and vibrant city.