Simon Garant, 2005 Garfield Weston scholar

Simon Garant (Entrance Garfield Weston Award 2005) has always wanted to work in the world of television production. He decided the media arts and technology program at Cégep de Jonquière would give him the requisite technical background—and, to say the least, doesn’t regret his decision. It was, he says, “a program where I could create and explore with classmates who were as motivated as I was. It wasn’t for nothing that I decided to perfect my training by doing an extra year. I loved what I was doing!” He’s now considering another diploma in 3-D animation.

His passion for visual arts led Simon to take part in many related endeavours during his college years. Notably, he was president of the short film contest De l’âme à l’écran (From Soul to Screen) for three years and volunteered with the local REGARD sur le court métrage au Saguenay (Saguenay EYE on Short Film) festival.
 
Beyond the creative environment of film and television, Simon deals with more sobering realities. A phone counsellor for the Jonquière Domestic Support Centre, he strives to lift the spirits of isolated people in need of a friendly voice. “I learn about their personalities and interests,” says Simon, “and we talk about how they feel…cases of depression and lack of motivation are not unusual. It’s up to me to restore their morale and help them see the bright side of life.”

Given this background, Simon particularly appreciates the personal support and availability of the staff of the Garfield Weston Awards. “I’m still amazed at the ease with which I’m able to get in touch and discuss things…It’s as if I’m talking to friends.”