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Mia Kelly

The Francophonie Games of Kinshasa 2023 have come to a close. However, our team
continues to engage with the artists and athletes, numbering over 3500, who made their
mark in this edition. Here, Quebecois singer Mia Kelly opens up to Yasmine Taviot.
Mia Kelly is a 20-year-old author, composer, and performer hailing from Gatineau,
Quebec. Her folk music, tinged with blues rock, unfolds in both English and French,
creating a unique and captivating musical experience. In this interview, she reflects on her
journey in Kinshasa and allows us to delve deeper into her world.

Q: Hello, Mia, thank you for being here with us. Can you share your experience
representing Canada at this major cultural event?

Mia: Hello, representing Canada and Quebec at the Francophonie Games was truly an
exceptional experience. It offered me a unique opportunity to share my culture with other
French-speaking countries around the world. Discovering their cultures and paths while
sharing my own was enriching. Meeting international artists and exchanging with them
was an honor. I truly cherished every moment of this experience.
Q: The Francophonie Games bring together artists from various backgrounds. How did you
feel about sharing the stage with other talents from the Francophonie?
Mia: The diversity of talents in the cultural competitions truly inspired me in my own
artistic field. Bearing witness to these Francophone talents left a lasting impression on me.
Observing these different facets of Francophone culture was also exciting and broadened
my artistic perspective.

Q: What specific elements of Canadian Francophone music did you highlight during your
performance?

Mia: What made my performance stand out in this lineup of competing artists was the fact
that I was the only solo performer, accompanied by just my guitar. This approach reflects
the tradition of Canadian and Quebecois folk music, where simplicity and intimacy are
prized. While other groups consisted of 7 or 8 members, my solo performance emphasized
the personal aspect of my lyrics and the stories I tell through my songs. It was an
exceptional opportunity to showcase this facet of Canadian and Quebecois music.
Q: As the final of the Francophonie Games 2023 approached, what emotions and feelings
drove you? How did you prepare for this large-scale event?
Mia: As the final drew near, I was filled with enthusiasm. I was eager to discover the other
performances and address the audience of Kinshasa, who had warmly encouraged me
during my first performance. My goal was to deliver the best performance possible and
present my musical universe authentically. Participating in the final was an incredible
experience because it allowed me to interact more with the other musicians before the
event.

Q: What are the main lessons you've learned as an artist throughout this experience, and
how has it influenced your approach to music?

Mia: One of the most significant lessons I've taken from the Francophonie Games is
undoubtedly appreciation. Through conversations with artists from other backgrounds, I

became aware of the value of our artistic environment in Canada and Quebec. We are
fortunate to receive grants for our artistic projects and to make a living from it. This
experience has motivated me to give back to the artistic community and contribute to its
growth.