Bernard Rondet

At 18, I was given a fabulous choice: work or… work. Unsurprisingly, I chose the wise path and got to work. No long studies for me, but a series of varied jobs—factory work, construction, corporate cleaning—a real tour of different industries!

One day, I was lucky enough to meet someone who trusted me in accounting, the only field I had studied, while I was driving school buses part-time. Starting as an accounting clerk, I climbed the ranks, changing companies along the way, until I became an Administrative and Financial Director and IT Manager.

Then came the moment to leave France. Why? Because, quite frankly, it no longer felt like my country—too conservative, too many protests. I longed for more openness, tolerance, and diversity. That’s how I found my new home in Canada.

More specifically, in Quebec, in neighborhoods where cultural diversity is a strength. I’ve lived in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Pointe-Saint-Charles, and now Chomedey—places that aren’t the wealthiest but where I’ve learned to appreciate diversity and human connection.

Politically, I have always observed national and international dynamics with great interest. I never let myself be consumed by materialism—not for lack of opportunities, but out of conviction. Having more than my neighbor has never been my goal. A roof over my head, food on my table, the freedom to move and think independently—that’s what truly matters.

Ecology and nature speak to me far more than shopping malls filled with useless gadgets. I actively boycott companies that disregard the environment, their customers, or their employees. Amazon, Shein, Temu? No, thanks. I prefer to support local businesses.

And diversity—let’s talk about it! For me, it’s the norm. What could be more boring than a world where everyone thinks, lives, and acts the same way? And if “normality” looked like certain political figures, I think I’d already have a ticket booked for another planet… (Don’t worry, I won’t name names!)

My political engagement started modestly, within my close circles. But during the Earth March in Montreal, I realized that action was a necessity. Given today’s challenges, standing by as a spectator was no longer an option. When the Green Party reached out, I jumped at the opportunity. Running as a candidate for federal office? That’s a challenge you don’t turn down! I decided to run because, together, we can move things forward in the right direction.