Join Montreal's CJPAC Fellows and Hillel MTL for an evening to discuss all things politics! Whether you're a budding political enthusiast or simply curious about governance, join us for an enlightening evening. This multi-partisan event will begin with a short discussion followed by time to network. Food and refreshments will be served.
Speakers:
A graduate from Université de Montréal, Karl Sasseville worked in politics for 8 years, a little over 2 years for the provincial government in Québec City and almost 6 years in Ottawa for the federal government. In that capacity, he served several Ministers in a number of different roles, and managed a large diversity of files, ranging from industrial policy, cultural and social policy, government operations and funding, as well as health and public health policy at the height of the pandemic. Now retired from politics, Karl works as Head of Strategy and Public Affairs for the Bank of Montréal in Québec.
Michael Forian-Zytynsky leads government relations in Canada for Keurig Dr Pepper, the third-largest beverage producer in North America. He served governments in both eastern and western Canada, notably in the Government of Quebec during the premiership of Philippe Couillard as an advisor to the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, and the Government of Alberta as press secretary, acting chief of staff and senior advisor in various executive offices during the premiership of Jason Kenney. Michael is a board director for Encorp Pacific (Return-It) and the Alberta Beverage Container Recycling Corporation (ABCRC).
Laura Azeroual is a dynamic force in the world of politics and public policy. With a degree in political science, she kicked off her journey as an intern at the National Assembly of Quebec with the CAQ. From there, she dabbled in campaign logistics, lending her hand to Premier Legault's 2018 provincial election bid, and later served as a trusted advisor to Minister Isabelle Charest. Three years ago, she decided to pivot towards agricultural policies, bringing her passion to the Union des producteurs agricoles in the realm of Government Relations and Public Affairs. Now, Laura brings her expertise to the restaurant industry as the Manager of Public Affairs for Restaurant Brands International.
Born and raised in Montreal, George Tsantrizos is a communications and public relations professional. After a short period spent in Greece where he worked for the Greek Association for Atlantic and European Cooperation, a NATO-based NGO, he returned to Montreal where, from 2007 to 2018 he worked as a political advisor for a Member of the National Assembly of Quebec. Since 2018, after running, unsuccessfully, as a candidate in the general election, he has been focusing on business and digital media production. He is the creator and producer of the hit French podcast Politiquement Parlant, as well as The Backstage Podcast and Just Us Dads Podcast.
