During their second visit to Alberta, their Excellencies the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, and Mr. Jean-Daniel Lafond, along with their daughter Marie-Éden, spent some time in Calgary from January 25 to 27 taking part in a variety of activities involving youth and the local arts scene .

The Governor General led a discussion with 50 young Calgary artists, held at Quickdraw Animation Society, around how the arts can be used to reach out to marginalized youths and create stronger communities. Quickdraw Animation Society's Youth Animation Project program welcomes all youth, including immigrant youth, Aboriginal youth, street-involved youth, and others who face barriers to employment. Participants receive animation & employment training and are paid full-time minimum wage.

Sharon Adams, Operations Coordinator at QuickDraw Animation Society, is enthusiastic about the Governor General's visit.“It's a real privilege to have the Governor General visit Quickdraw, especially given her interest in the arts and social action. She hosted a discussion with youth that come from a variety of backgrounds, and it was a really powerful experience for them.”

The Governor General toured the Banff Centre and together with Jean-Daniel Lafond led a discussion with visual artists. She also attended the world premiere of the new Canadian opera Frobisher by John Estacio and John Murrell, a co-commissioned and co-produced piece between the Calgary Opera and The Banff Centre.

“We are so proud of all the artistic activities happening in and around Calgary, and it's a real honour to share our city's achievements in the arts with the Governor General and her family,” says Terry Rock, President & CEO of Calgary Arts Development.

This will be the Governor General’s second visit to Alberta, her first official regional visit to the province took place in May 2006.