Human rights activist Saadani Maa Alainine was named woman of the year by Canadian think tank "Polisens" in recognition of her efforts to promote human rights and relentless fight against the recruitment and use of child soldiers by the polisario militias.

"This tribute is a way to salute Maa Alainine for the long struggle she has waged since she was abducted from the Tindouf camps and deported to Cuba, with 8,000 other children, for ideological indoctrination and military training," said Founder and CEO of Polisens Ottawa, Abdelkader Filali.

Saadani's story is a source of inspiration and a reminder of the systematic human rights violations that continue to plague these camps on Algerian territory, he added.

For her part, Canadian academic of Moroccan origin Rakia Hakima Laroui was awarded a Certificate of Recognition by the National Assembly of Quebec for her dedication and civic engagement in favor of Maghreb's diaspora and the society of Quebec.

Laroui, a professor at the University of Quebec at Rimouski, also received a trophy in recognition of her actions with a strong civic impact from the president of the Association "Racines".

"Working for equity and equality of rights, opportunities, duties and responsibilities is an ongoing goal and a civic duty," she told MAP.

Salma Regragui, another example of these committed and inspiring Moroccan women, was in turn honored by the city of Laval (Quebec).

Regragui, director of a communication agency specialized in consulting, marketing and events, expressed her pride in receiving this distinction which illustrates the commitment of Moroccan women to their community, the host society and their native country.

In the same vein, the event "Parade of Hope", which aims to honor women with cancer and rehabilitate them in the best conditions, celebrated this year its 10th anniversary.

The event was held by the "Parade of Hope" Assocation in a virtual format due to the pandemic. Trophies were awarded to ten people in recognition of their unconditional support to the cause of the Parade of Hope, and their social and cultural involvement in the community in strengthening dialogue, knowledge and generosity, said the president of the association, Nawal Naji.