Focus Montreal introduces Montrealers to people who are shaping our community and bringing their stories into focus.
It airs on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 7:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and at midnight.
Take a look at who we’re meeting this week on Focus Montreal:
Barbarian Lost
As a documentary filmmaker and younger brother to Canada’s Prime Minister, Alexandre Trudeau is usually the man behind the scenes.
But almost a dozen trips to China over his lifetime inspired his first book , Barbarian Lost Travels in the New China.
Trudeau recently read passages from his work at the official book launch in downtown Montreal.
In the book, he recounts his experiences travelling in China in recent years and recalls his visits with artists, migrant workers, townspeople and rural farmers.
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The title, Barbarian Lost, was inspired by a trip to China he took with his brothers and their father – former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau – back in 1990.
Trudeau explains the connection in a sit-down interview with senior anchor Jamie Orchard.
West Island Community Shares
Leanne Bayer knows the West Island and is proud of the ties she has with that community.
She was recently appointed as executive director of West Island Community Shares. To Bayer, it seemed like a natural fit and she wasted no time getting involved.
The latest statistics indicate that at least one in five West Islanders turns to a community group for help, and assisting those in need is her main priority within the organization.
Last week West Island Community Shares kicked off their annual fundraising campaign in Pointe-Claire, with hundreds turning up to show support.
The much-needed money goes to 40 West Island community groups, all of which have seen a rise in demand for the services they provide.
Bayer dropped by Focus Montreal to talk about the organization and what makes it unique.
A taste of Tuscany
For almost 20 years, the Action Centre has stood as the only affordable, bilingual day centre for Montreal’s most physically challenged citizens – many of whom live below the poverty line.
The Action Centre, located in Lasalle, creates a social environment for its members.
It offers educational courses and leisure activities. But most importantly, it’s one of the few places that offers English services for adults.
Like many other community organizations, the Action Centre’s existence is directly connected to their ability to raise funds, secure grants and solicit donations.
That’s where our next two guests come in. The Action Centre’s Andrew Pepper discusses a Taste of Tuscany, an upcoming wine and cheese fundraiser featuring a silent auction and a presentation by a master vintner.
To learn more about Tuesday’s soirée, visit the Action Centre website.