Donald A. Wilson SS Students Bring Community, Culture, and Inclusion to Life Through Inspiring Franco-Ontarian Mural Project

WHITBY, ON — Students at Donald A. Wilson Secondary School are leaving a lasting mark on the Whitby community through an inspiring artistic collaboration that celebrates French language, multilingualism, inclusion, and belonging.

Through a partnership with acclaimed Franco-Ontarian artist Mique Michelle, students in the school’s Core French and French Immersion programs worked together to design and paint a vibrant mural at downtown Whitby business Alayo Foods. This activity was carried out as part of Celebrating 50 Years - Shaping the Future Together, an initiative of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and the Alliance culturelle de l’Ontario, with the support of the Ontario Arts Council, the Government of Ontario, and TFO. In addition, the project was made possible through generous funding support from the Mayor’s Community Development Fund of Whitby and a partnership with the DDSB’s French Non-Profit SHSM (Specialist High Skills Major) at Donald A. Wilson Secondary School.

More than just a mural, the project represents the voices, experiences, and hopes of young people who believe in the power of community connection and cultural celebration. The artwork highlights the importance of the Franco-Ontarian identity while also embracing Whitby and Durham Region’s growing diversity and multilingualism.

Throughout the project, students explored themes of inclusion, identity, and belonging while learning about the rich history and contributions of the Franco-Ontarian community. Together, they created a meaningful public art piece designed to welcome residents, newcomers, and visitors alike.

The initiative was guided from start to finish by Donald A. Wilson Secondary School educators Gina Hook, French Curriculum Lead, and Marie-Eve Giguere, French and Co-op Teacher, whose dedication and leadership helped transform the vision into a reality. Their passion for French education, community engagement, and student empowerment inspired students to think creatively, collaborate meaningfully, and contribute something lasting to the community. 

Professional Franco-Ontarian artist Mique Michelle worked closely alongside students throughout the entire creative process, mentoring and encouraging them while ensuring the mural authentically reflected the values and perspectives of the students and broader Franco-Ontarian community.

“This project demonstrates the incredible impact that happens when education, art, culture, and community come together,” said Gina Hook, French Curriculum Lead. “Students were empowered to use their creativity and voices to build something beautiful that reflects the inclusive spirit of Whitby.”

The mural stands as a powerful symbol of unity, cultural pride, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and welcomed. It also reflects the commitment of Donald A. Wilson Secondary School to fostering inclusive learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom and into the heart of the community.

Through their creativity, collaboration, and hard work, students have created more than a mural; they have created a message of hope, belonging, and connection that will inspire the Whitby community for years to come.