If you tell someone, it doesn't count. That has always been my philosophy about acts of kindness. When you do something good, mentioning it to others makes it about your ego rather than the genuine desire to help. So, you're not supposed to tell anybody. That's why recording this today feels so bizarre; it goes against what I stand for. We're not supposed to talk about philanthropy.

I didn’t even want to share this news. But a friend who nominated me shared a perspective that changed my mind. She said, "If what you do inspires others to do the same, then it has an even bigger impact." That, combined with the opportunity to give visibility to the organizations I support, convinced me to record this. So here it is.

Watch the video or keep reading to find out more.

I received the 2024 Peter Legge Philanthropist of the Year Award. I did not expect it. I was in shock. I almost didn’t accept the nomination because I’ve always done little acts of kindness in the background, never mentioning them. My rule was simple: if you tell somebody about it, it doesn’t count, and you need to find something else to do to make up for that bragging.

First, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Peter Legge for choosing me as the 2024 recipient. Peter is a remarkable Canadian business leader and philanthropist who has dedicated his life to his community, inspiring others. As the chairman and CEO of Canada Wide Media, he has not only built a successful business empire but has also consistently given back through countless charitable initiatives and mentorship programs. Receiving this award that bears his name is truly humbling. Thank you so much, Peter.

You can watch the video Peter Legge recorded for me when I was presented with the award. Here is the transcript of what he said: "Congratulations, Nathalie. I'm so thrilled you're willing to support because giving to the community is a challenge. Not everybody does it. And they don't do it with love, affection, and caring. They just do it for other reasons. You are doing it for the right reasons because the community needs your help. They appreciate your help as I do. Merry Christmas to you, your family, colleagues, and people you associate with. Thank you for what you do."

Now, let me share some simple ways I try to help. I set aside 5% of every speaking engagement fee for the charities I support. If you’re on a fixed salary, you could automatically allocate a small portion to a separate account for giving. In my case, I sponsor children in Haiti through an organization called Heart to Heart and another organization called Alongside Haiti. I also like to support another organization called Stand As One working with communities in Malawi. Feel free to click on the links to check them out.

I also support the Petit Séminaire de Québec, where I went to school, and many of my friends’ charity efforts—whether it’s a race, a ride, or a swim—by sponsoring their initiatives. Charity isn’t just about money; it’s also about time and sharing your knowledge. I volunteer 40+ hours per month in my community and business network. Sometimes, I quietly pay for people to attend a speaking convention if they can’t afford it.

I have a personal rule: when I splurge on something unnecessary, like a designer purse, I have to match that amount in charitable giving. If I buy a $500 purse, that means I need to give $500 to help families in need. This makes me think twice about indulgent purchases and ensures that when I do indulge, others benefit too.

The reason I’m sharing this—breaking my own rule of silence—is the hope that it might inspire you to find your own way of giving back. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures like traveling to a third-world country. Consistent acts of kindness can make a real difference. And remember, do it from your heart, not for the tax receipt or recognition.

Now that I’ve told everyone about these things, I guess I have some catching up to do. It’s time to find new ways to help others—quietly, of course.

Check out some of my previous blog posts...