Local student Alston Richards is headed to Ottawa next month.
The Grade 11 student at École secondaire Notre-Dame-du-Sault (Sault Ste. Marie), is one of 12 finalists selected to participate in the grand finale of the LOL – Mort de rire! Desjardins competition, which takes place June 6.
Richards is the only finalist from Northern Ontario to reach this prestigious stage and will have the opportunity to perform a comedy routine as part of this provincial competition.
For more information, see the press release below.
Alston Richards, a Grade 11 student at École secondaire Notre-Dame-du-Sault (Sault Ste. Marie), is one of 12 finalists selected to participate in the grand finale of the LOL – Mort de rire! Desjardins competition, taking place on June 6, 2025, in Ottawa. Alston is the only finalist from Northern Ontario to reach this prestigious stage and will have the opportunity to perform a comedy routine as part of this provincial competition.
Alston Richards is an enthusiastic and funny student who is proud of his Francophone heritage. In his comedy routine, he refers to his Caribbean roots and the comb he always wears in his hair. In addition to being part of his school’s improv team, he hosts the student radio every morning. Alston enjoys entertaining students and staff with his contagious cheerfulness, sense of humor, and charisma. Members of the school community have nicknamed him “All-Star” because he is an inspiring leader who shines through his talents, self-confidence, and originality.
In May 2024, Alston Richards received a Coup de Coeur award at AFOLIE, the annual Franco-Ontarian improvisation tournament for French-language secondary schools. He is also actively involved in school life, participating in leadership camps organized by CSC Nouvelon, as well as various activities of the Fédération de la jeunesse franco-ontarienne (Federation of Franco-Ontarian Youth).
"The entire school community is extremely proud of Alston for his authenticity and determination. We are confident that he will represent his roots, his community, and all of Northern Ontario brilliantly on the provincial stage," says Ms. France McLeod, principal of École secondaire Notre-Dame-du-Sault.