Mali Gaudreau is a CCAA Torchbearer

Mali Gaudreau, a fourth-year student and volleyball player at Cégep de Sherbrooke, has been selected as the latest recipient of the Torchbearer Scholarship, which recognizes her exceptional dedication to community service and leadership.

Mali Gaudreau showcased initiative and commitment by organizing a successful breast cancer awareness event during the month of October. She mobilized her teammates, opposing teams, and fans to participate. Inspired by her mother's battle with breast cancer, Mali's event aimed to raise both funds and awareness for the cause.

Initially envisioned as an awareness campaign during a single women’s volleyball game, Mali’s efforts gained attention and support from the men’s volleyball team, both Volontaires soccer teams and the Cégep itself. Sherbrooke’s teams, their opponents and the fans were all encouraged to dress in as much pink attire and accessories as possible. Pink shoelaces, hair ribbons and temporary tattoos were distributed to participants. A donation box was posted at the entrance to the events and short speeches were conducted at the start of games to thank the fans and make them aware of the cause.

“Mali showed a lot of initiative and effort creating this new event from the ground up,” said Alexandre D’Amboise, Head Coach with the Volontaires women’s volleyball team. “She was worked out every detail from branding to communication and even the location. Her campaign will now be a tradition that endures through the years.”

The event raised more than $2,200, which was a combination of donations from fans, participants and the Cegep de Sherbrooke. Mali's initiative and dedication exemplify the community service and leadership spirit that the Torchbearer Scholarship celebrates. 

“After this difficult year at my mom's side, I am hopeful that the actions for this cause will continue over time,” said Gaudreau. “I realize that not all women have the love and support of family and friends so my hope is that this event will continue to grow to support those in need.”

In terms of legacy, the Cégep de Sherbrooke and Volontaires programs are committed to making breast cancer awareness games annual events on campus each October. 

"Mali is a people person who cares about others and isn't afraid to assert her values and follow through on her projects,” said Ève Chevrier, one of Gaudreau's teammates. “She demonstrated leadership by getting teammates, fellow Volontaires and even opponents involved with this cause. Even small gestures can make a difference and those that participated in this event were touched by the reality of the evening.”

With her recruitment to the University of Sherbrooke for the 2024-2025 season, Mali is not just continuing her advocacy for breast cancer awareness; she is igniting a flame of hope. She envisions a future where more people join the cause, stand up, and make a difference, just as she has, inspiring a ripple effect of positive change.