In this Autism Awareness Month, the EMBA McGill-HEC Montréal is proud to spotlight the outstanding commitment of our recent EMBA 2024 graduate, Marie-Claude Leblanc, towards the well-being, health, and social inclusion of high-functioning young adults with autism.

During her journey in the EMBA McGill-HEC Montréal program, Marie-Claude Leblanc took on the role of Executive Director at Autism Without Limits (Autisme Sans Limites – ASL). Since then, she has tirelessly worked towards fulfilling the organization’s mission.

Autism Without Limits: A Mission of Inclusion

Established with the goal of nurturing, supporting health, and promoting social inclusion for high-functioning young adults with autism, ASL has developed a unique service model. Launched in Montreal in September 2017, this model acts as a bridge between these young individuals and their community, rallying partners from all walks of life to develop programs tailored to their specific needs.

ASL’s primary aim is to break isolation, promote physical and mental well-being, and encourage the development of autonomy and potential in young adults with autism. Furthermore, ASL is committed to supporting families and the community in understanding and assisting individuals with autism.

Promoting Inclusive Employment with ASL Studios

Marie-Claude and the ASL team have launched an innovative employability program: ASL Studios. Three of Marie-Claude’s former classmates, Ana, Fabrice, and Dominique, have already integrated this program within their organizations, leading to the successful hiring of young adults with autism.

Ana Schmucker (EMBA 2024) shares:
“The impact of ASL Studios on our work environment has been overwhelmingly positive. An innovative program facilitating the entry of high-functioning autistic young adults into the workforce has fostered a more inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.  We have gained access to a diverse pool of talent, including individuals with unique skills and perspectives enriching our team, nurturing innovation, and promoting a culture of inclusion and acceptance.”

Dominique Voyer (EMBA 2024) shares her experience:
“Our team takes pride in promoting individual diversity. However, neurodiversity was something we had never collectively addressed before. The training we received from ASL helped us better understand autism and its spectrum. My management team had questions about autism, and the answers they received were clear and comprehensive. The team greatly appreciated this training and was ready to welcome our new employee.

The introduction of our new employee was supported by ASL’s pharmacy team during the first two weeks. Integrating this young individual into the team was seamless. He is well-liked among his colleagues.

I highly recommend other companies to utilize ASL’s support for training their current team and recruiting new employees.”

Fabrice Bastos (EMBA 2024) emphasizes the importance of ASL:
“For me, Autism Without Limits plays an essential role in supporting young individuals with autism by promoting their autonomy, developing their social skills, and facilitating their professional integration. The Studios program assists organizations, which often lack the tools and a fully inclusive environment, in adapting their practices to fully leverage the skills of these highly motivated young individuals and become genuinely inclusive. This transformation benefits all employees within the organization and allows us to have a phenomenal economic and social impact both in Quebec and across Canada.”

Discover the new videos in the “Parole d’Autiste” series, which gives a voice to young adults with autism to share their unique perspectives on their experiences in the world of work and employment.

🎥 Watch here: https://autismesanslimites.org/parole-dautiste/

In conclusion

The EMBA McGill-HEC Montréal team proudly observes how Marie-Claude Leblanc leverages her network and EMBA experience to make a positive impact on society. Thanks to her dedication and ASL’s innovation, many young adults with autism now find opportunities for personal and professional growth, and businesses are discovering the benefits of inclusion.

Congratulations to Marie-Claude for her inspiring leadership and commitment to a more inclusive society!