From an early age, I was deeply fascinated by both digital technologies and politics. This passion led me to pursue an academic path that bridged the humanities and social sciences with contemporary issues, culminating in a Master’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Management. Transitioning from studying politics to exploring the political gave me a deeper understanding of the decision-making processes essential for public policy implementation. It was at this point that my interest crystallized in the socio-political impact of technology, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) on organizations and society at large.

Torn between preparing for the highly competitive entrance exam to the École nationale d’administration (ENA) and pursuing doctoral studies, I ultimately chose the latter—believing that a PhD would allow me to contribute more meaningfully and credibly within my field. This decision has since proven to be not only relevant but transformative.
In parallel, I built professional experience in finance and consulting before venturing into entrepreneurship with a Fintech fund project designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises access debt financing for growth. When the right partners failed to materialize, I paused this venture to devote time to my professional boxing career while searching for a doctoral program abroad that aligned with my research aspirations. It was then that the Interuniversity Research Center on Science and Technology (CIRST), based in Montreal, emerged as a natural fit.

” In parallel with my multidisciplinary academic path, I pursued a high-level athletic career, eventually becoming an internationally ranked professional boxer. I discovered the sport at the age of five and went on to become a member of the French national team, a bronze medalist at the Alexandria Cup international tournament, a quarter-finalist in the World Series of Boxing, and a multiple regional and interregional champion. It is important to note that I pursued this high-level athletic career alongside my general and academic education from a very young age, without any special accommodations. Balancing academics, professional activities, and a sporting career allowed me to develop a strong sense of organization, unifying leadership, and unwavering discipline. I am very proud of that.”

After winning my first professional fight, I was admitted to the PhD program in Science, Technology, and Society at UQAM, hosted by the CIRST. During one of my first seminars, I was introduced to applied ethics in AI, a discovery that reconnected me with my long-standing interest in ethics and political philosophy. From that moment, I resolved to dedicate a significant part of my career to technology and AI ethics. Since then, I have published in academic journals, contributed to public debates through the media, and built expertise on the ethical and socio-political implications of AI and technology.

This journey has also allowed me to contribute beyond academia. I joined the Board of Directors of Open North, a nonprofit leader in open data and civic technology, and participated in several research projects—first as a research assistant with my supervisor, Yves Gingras, then in a groundbreaking project on the ethical alignment of AI systems, co-led by Professors D. Martin (UQAM) and Y. Bengio (UdeM).

Still, balancing research with multiple professional and athletic commitments eventually became overwhelming, and my doctoral work stalled. It was at this critical juncture that the invaluable support of the Arbour Foundation provided me with a much-needed second wind—akin to the surge of strength a boxer finds in the midst of a difficult fight to turn the tide of battle. The Foundation’s generosity, combined with the extraordinary mentorship of Diane de Champlain, gave me the clarity, stability, and encouragement to refocus on my doctoral research and solidify my expertise in technology and AI ethics.

Since then, I have received the Louise-Dandurand Prize for French-language publication (FRQ, 2024), contributed more regularly to media outlets such as Le Devoir and Radio-Canada, and participated in conferences and public events—including a panel at the AI symposium organized by the Union des artistes (UDA). Most memorably, I was honored to address an exceptional audience at the 31st edition of the Conference of Montreal, where I was humbled to receive the Pierre Arbour Honorary Award.

None of these achievements would have been possible without the Arbour Foundation, the unwavering support of my mentor and board member Diane de Champlain, the leadership of Marine Hadengue, President and CEO of the Foundation, and the encouragement of this remarkable community. Their trust and generosity have left an indelible mark on me, and I will remain forever grateful to be part of such an inspiring circle.

Looking forward, several career paths are possible, and I am eager to see where the future leads. For this, and for everything, I owe a million thanks to the Arbour Foundation.

Lahcen Fatah
PhD Student – UQAM