In this interview, we delve into the dynamic world of Mikros Animation Montreal with Samuelle Courtemanche, a central figure as the Community & Wellness Coordinator. Samuelle shares her exciting experiences, from organizing unique events to fostering an enriching company culture for Mikros’ employees.

• What is the best aspect of your job?

Organizing events for the employees of Mikros Animation Montreal, whether it’s a project wrap party, a summer BBQ, a Show Your Stuff event, or a Christmas party. Even though it involves a lot of work and logistics, I really enjoy doing it. These events are at the heart of Mikros’ culture and continue to highlight the sense of community we share among colleagues. Each event is a new challenge for me to make it even better than the last. My reward: seeing the employees happy and having fun!

• What was the first project you worked on when you joined Mikros Animation?

I started at Mikros Animation just over 2 years ago, and we had 4 productions underway. So technically, not working on the films themselves, the first 4 projects I participated in were: The Tiger’s Apprentice, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, and Thelma the Unicorn.

• Share your animation journey!

I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences at the University of Montreal. I began my professional journey in a startup called IDU Interactive, which was developing a phone application for creating tourist trails. This app aimed to enhance knowledge transfer in a more interactive way. I collaborated with museums, historical sites, and heritage sites across Quebec and France, which was a fantastic experience. I then applied to Mikros Animation for the position of studio assistant and later evolved to become the community and wellness coordinator!

• What inspires you?

People who manage to balance their professional and personal lives while continuing to pursue their hobbies, interests, and travels. My parents have achieved this. Sometimes it seems unattainable for me at the moment, but I’m working on it!

• If you could be a character from Mikros Animation films and series, who would you be?

Well, I haven’t seen all of Mikros’ films (I know, I need to catch up), but I think I would be a good fit for a female Obelix. He and I share the same passion: eating. Although I wasn’t born in a magic potion, just in Quebec (Don’t get me wrong, Quebec is great too!).

• Your greatest achievement so far?

I have 3 major achievements:

1. Returning to school to complete higher education.
2. Joining the industry that has fascinated me since I was a child: cinema.
3. Going on a student exchange to Switzerland, alone (The best experience of my life!).

• What would be your superpower?

I would like to have the power to stay young and not age, a bit like Peter Pan. And also to be able to share it with my family and friends. I have a lot of difficulty seeing my thirties approaching. Everything is moving too fast!!

• What advice would you give to your younger self?

To trust myself, carve out my own space, and believe in my abilities! You can do it, girl!

Thanks Samuelle!