Last week I was awarded the Judy Mappin Community Award at the QWF Literary Awards gala. The honorary award goes to someone who has made a significant and longstanding contribution to English-language literature in Quebec (kind of like a cross between a lifetime achievement award and Miss Congeniality). I was awarded the prize for my work with both the Quebec Writers’ Federation and the Violet Hour Reading Series & Book Club. You can read the QWF’s statement here.
The evening was a lot of fun. The theme was “Reflecting the Future” and everyone was encouraged to dress up. As you can see from the photos (credit Kevin Calixte), my partner Greg and I came in some bling.
I’ve been involved with the QWF since 2005, when I started working for them as publicist for their literary awards. As I mentioned in my acceptance speech., I remember standing at the bar that night, impressed with such an amazing, supportive community. To be now acknowledged by them means the world to me.
You can watch my short speech below.