Alliance Donne, Italian Women of Québec is a non-profit organization, the first of its kind, dedicated to representing women of Italian heritage in Québec and Canada. We highlight and support their contributions and interests across many sectors through conferences, networking events, mentorship programs, and cultural projects.
To bring together women of Italian heritage across Québec and Canada, fostering connection, dialogue, and empowerment. We serve as a platform to highlight, support, and celebrate their contributions in arts and culture, entrepreneurship, academia, and professional fields.
For decades, individuals of Italian descent have contributed to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Québec and Canada. Yet the stories, achievements, and experiences of women from the Italian diaspora have often remained undocumented or undervalued. Alliance Donne exists to change that.
To empower Italian-heritage women in Canada to lead, create, and be heard and to contribute to a more inclusive, equitable, and culturally rich society, today and for future generations.
A glimpse into the exhibitions that honour the heritage, resilience, and contributions of Italian women across generations.
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Alliance Donne is guided by a committed Board of Directors whose members bring diverse expertise and a shared connection to women, culture, and community. Many are Italian first- and second-generation women, alongside allies deeply rooted in Italian heritage in Québec. Together, they provide strategic leadership to ensure Alliance Donne continues to grow with purpose and impact.
Anna has over 30 years of experience in special education in teaching and learning, school administration and leadership. She is a lifelong learner with a passion for leadership, research pedagogy and change in schools, and advocates for inclusive, student-centred education. Known for promoting positive cultures and productive work environments, she leads with humility, confidence, and transparency. As a visionary, she strives to build consensus and commitment to group goals, embracing diversity and inclusion.
A proud daughter of Italian parents, Elena Laudi is a dedicated financial professional licensed in British Columbia, Quebec, and Ontario. Trilingual in English, French, and Italian, she brings a welcoming multicultural perspective to everything she does.
Elena is deeply rooted in community life. She serves as Treasurer of Alliance Donne, representing the Italian women of Quebec, and as a Board Member of PME Ouest de l’Île, an organization committed to strengthening economic development in the West Island. Her financial expertise and caring approach make her a valued contributor in both roles.
Carolina Toteda is an award-winning marketing and communications leader with over 30 years of experience across B2B, B2C, and nonprofit sectors. She is the Marketing Lead for LEARN and holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University, along with additional certifications and diplomas from Université de Montréal and other professional organizations. Carolina is also a co-author of the bestselling book Honest as a Mother: Personal Essays That Will Make You Feel Like You’re Not Alone in Motherhood.
She has held senior roles advising organizations on brand strategy, digital transformation, stakeholder engagement, and large-scale initiatives. She is the proud daughter of two Italian parents from Calabria, Italy. Deeply connected to her Italian roots, Carolina spent many childhood summers in Italy, shaping her strong sense of culture, family, and community.
A proud wife and mother of two, she actively brings Italian traditions into her daily life and her children’s upbringing. With over 12 years of volunteer experience, Carolina has served on numerous boards and committees, including school governing boards, the SWLSB Parents’ Committee as Chairperson, and as a Director with the provincial EPCA. She currently sits on the Board of Directors of AQEFLS and Alliance Donne, where she contributes to advancing education and empowering women of Italian heritage.
