Kathy Roach, a community worker in our CIUSSS’s Healthy Schools Program, has been named a Laureate of 
Black History Month (BHM) by the Round Table, a non-profit organization.
As part of the group’s tribute to the rich diversity of Quebec’s Black communities, Ms. Roach is featured in a video and a 2024 calendar that shines the spotlight on those who have distinguished themselves in their respective fields.
For more than three decades, Ms. Roach has encouraged and empowered children, adults and seniors in the Black English-speaking community, notably, in her work at CLSC de Côte-des-Neiges.
In particular, her inspirational efforts with youths in various programs—involving community partners such as the Côte-des-Neiges Black Community Association—has been praised for opening the way for future generations of leaders.
“I am a woman who dreams huge—and I tell young people to do just that,” says Ms. Roach. That means not only striving for excellence, she explains, but “being bold and embracing everything and more, with enthusiasm and joy.”
As a decorated BHM honouree, Ms. Roach was invited this week to sign the golden book at Montreal City Hall, where she met with Mayor Valérie Plante. Ms. Roach also distinguished herself this past November, receiving an award for her “outstanding services and contributions” at the Côte-des-Neiges Black Community Association 50th Anniversary Gala event. In addition, during Black History Month last year, she was named a Black Changemaker by the CBC.
Ms. Roach concludes her Laureate video with an appeal to youths: “Share your knowledge and wisdom. Pay it forward.” Having spent her career leading by example, Ms. Roach credits supportive managers in the CIUSSS for allowing her dreams to become reality, saying she is humbled by the recognition, while promising, “There’s more to come!”