For Katherine Nikidis, the connection between literature and social change is not abstract — it is something she witnesses every day as Head of School at Trafalgar School for Girls, and champions as Vice-Chair of the Board of the Blue Metropolis Foundation. Founded around the internationally renowned Blue Metropolis International Literary Festival, the Montreal-based foundation uses literature as a vehicle for literacy, intercultural dialogue, and social justice — bringing together writers and readers from across the globe to challenge assumptions and amplify voices that too often go unheard.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
I am a fan of institutions that question and try to expose the world, particularly youth, to think differently about problems and how we can change our community. At Blue Metropolis Foundation, I support initiatives that promote reading, literacy, and intercultural dialogue through literature for youth, including the internationally renowned Blue Metropolis International Literary Festival.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Blue Metropolis aims to address literacy gaps and cultural isolation by giving people — especially youth — access to diverse voices, stories, and ideas from around the world. It is like no other organization as it really steps into social justice and questions the status quo.
When did you start/join it?
I joined the board several years ago, driven by both my role as an educator and my personal commitment to lifelong learning. I am also Head of School at Trafalgar School for Girls.
What made you want to get involved?
As a Head of School, I see firsthand how reading builds empathy and critical thinking. The foundation’s mission aligns deeply with my belief that exposure to different perspectives is essential in education. The Executive Director, William Ste-Hilaire, had a strong vision that I was aligned with, and I wanted to support the vision she developed.
What was the situation like when you started?
The organization was already respected, but like many cultural institutions, it was working to expand its reach and remain accessible in a rapidly changing, digital world. I was so impressed by how they handled COVID, ensuring authors were remunerated even when we could not have the festival, and ensuring children had access to programs online. They really showed their strength as an organization through that period, and I admire the work they continue to do to be better every year!
How has it changed since?
It has grown in impact and inclusivity, reaching broader audiences and amplifying diverse voices, both locally in Montreal and internationally.
What more needs to be done?
We must continue breaking barriers to access — financial, cultural, and linguistic — so that literature remains a shared and democratic space. We need to support non-political organizations by giving authors a voice to tell stories.
How can our readers help?
Attend Blue Metropolis International Literary Festival and TD-Blue Metropolis Children’s Festival events, support literacy programs, volunteer, and most importantly, encourage reading in your own communities and families.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I love Blue Metropolis, but other local charities like Santropol Roulant, Bread and Beyond, and even Christ Church Cathedral’s last Sunday of the month lunches — where our students and families volunteer — really meet the needs of the community where they are in real time. They are all fantastic!
