AquaAction and the entire freshwater innovation community in Quebec and Canada mourn the passing of Mr. Philippe De Gaspé Beaubien II, a true visionary and builder of water solutions. His departure marks the end of a significant era, but his extraordinary legacy of environmental stewardship will continue to inspire for generations.
A dedicated businessman and pioneering philanthropist, Mr. De Gaspé Beaubien, alongside his wife Nan-B, co-founded the de Gaspé Beaubien Foundation. From the 1990s, they strategically focused the foundation's mission on environmental impact, with a profound commitment to freshwater protection. This foresight led to the establishment of AquaAction in 2012, an organization dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs to develop tangible solutions for our most pressing water challenges.
The impact of Mr. De Gaspé Beaubien's vision is undeniable:
- The creation of the AquaHacking Challenge, a national competition that has empowered over 2,000 young minds to develop technological solutions for improved water quality nationwide.
- Support for 100+ environmental startups through our AquaEntepreneurs and AquaNation programs, resulting in estimated water savings equivalent to over 38,500 Olympic-sized swimming pools thanks to groundbreaking innovations.
- The fostering of vital connections between water specialists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and young innovators, bridging knowledge and experience across generations.
Mr. De Gaspé Beaubien's entrepreneurial spirit, evident in his earlier success as the founder of Télémédia, seamlessly transitioned into a lifelong dedication to philanthropy. His leadership and vision were recognized globally, including by the World Economic Forum.
Beyond his remarkable achievements, it was Mr. De Gaspé Beaubien's profound humanity that deeply touched us all: his unwavering curiosity, his genuine ability to listen, his steadfast belief in the power of youth, and his deep conviction that every individual can make a difference.
The entire AquaAction team extends our deepest condolences to his family, loved ones, and all those whose lives he enriched.
Thank you, Mr. De Gaspé Beaubien, for your visionary leadership and for planting the seeds of a brighter future for freshwater across North America. Your impact will forever flow through the work we do.
— The AquaAction Team
Please read the full press release here.
