Aissa Nauthoo is a leading figure in Ontario’s Francophone community, widely recognized for her unwavering commitment over the past two decades to advancing the rights of Francophones and supporting the integration of newcomers. A member of the Common Law Honour Society at the University of Ottawa and an immigration lawyer, she leads the Francophone legal clinic at the Centre francophone du Grand Toronto, where she works passionately to promote access to justice and defend the linguistic rights of minority Francophone communities.

Her leadership as Vice-President of Services at the CFGT has led to the creation of innovative programs, including access-to-justice initiatives for victims of violence and newcomers, the Francophone Welcome Desk at Toronto Pearson Airport, and the development of pre-arrival services, to support the successful integration and flourishing of Francophones in Canada.

In parallel with her professional work, Ms. Nauthoo is deeply involved in community governance, serving on numerous boards of directors and advisory committees. She also contributed to the establishment of Toronto’s first shelter for Francophone women, further advancing social justice and inclusion. She currently chairs the Governance Council of the Francophone Immigration Observatory at the Université de l’Ontario français.

The dual recognition bestowed upon her — being named a Knight of the Ordre de la Pléiade and receiving the King Charles III Coronation Medal in honour of her service and dedication to Canada — reflects her lasting impact and visionary leadership.