Mariama was born in Salé, Morocco, and for her, sports and physical activity mainly took place at school, and even then, only once a week. Born to a middle-class family, her early years were focused on academic performance, something she excelled at from a young age. As a result, she quickly became one of the bright minds in her country.

When she moved to Quebec in 2001, she brought that spirit of dedication with her. Only here, she applied it to her professional life, becoming a top performer in her field of business, taking her rightful place in a prestigious consulting firm.

The change of environment gave her the opportunity to try some new activities, like winter sports, which she discovered with her daughter. Today, Mariama swims, boxes and practises a variety of outdoor activities, all of which help her manage her energy levels in a healthy way. She also has a special place in her heart for tennis, for which she learned the rules by watching a Japanese anime. She will always remember her first racket: a simple, round wooden plate made by a carpenter in her neighbourhood. To this day, tennis remains her favourite sport of all.

A leading woman with a generous heart, Mariama has always been active in her community. She is involved in several causes that foster greater economic integration of immigrants by promoting equality and financial autonomy through education, employment and entrepreneurship, creating new professional opportunities for women.

Mariama is particularly fond of supporting organizations that contribute to the well-being of women because they often share these benefits with their family and community, so the overall positive effects are exponential. For her, the FitSpirit Mother/Daughter Challenge is a natural fit. As a committed leader, she is proud to take part in the event alongside her daughter, Anissa-Camilia, and her mom, Fatimou. She is particularly excited to see her mother, who has been a great source of inspiration in Mariama’s life, discover the simple pleasures of physical activity at the age of 73. Mariama is looking forward to taking part in this multigenerational event.

"We have to learn how to welcome past difficulties as a preparation for life. It is these experiences that help to better shape our future. I firmly believe that even something as simple as walking is still a way to move forward in life." – Fatima, 73 years old

"Believe in yourself and go after what you want!" – Anissa-Camilia, 14 years old