On October 20 and 21, the RITMA Group celebrated its 20th anniversary with a memorable congress at Mont-Gabriel in the Laurentians, highlighting its commitment to complementary medicine. This event brought together exhibitors, practitioners, and enthusiasts of alternative medicine around a diverse and enriching program.
A Rich Program of Activities
The two days of festivities featured a variety of activities. Participants attended enlightening conferences led by experts in the field, discussing practices such as massage therapy, orthotherapy, kinesiology, naturopathy, and osteopathy. Dynamic activities also encouraged exchanges among community members.
A highlight of the congress was the networking cocktail, which allowed professionals to connect and share ideas in a warm atmosphere. The evening concluded with a successful gala featuring magician Alain Choquette, whose performances captivated the audience.
A Commitment to the Recognition of Complementary Medicine
Founded in 2004 as the RITMA Association, the group became the RITMA GROUP in 2021. Its primary mission is to promote alternative and complementary medicine. However, in Quebec, most of these practices are not yet legislated, making their recognition essential.
The RITMA Group is dedicated to framing and structuring these disciplines to protect both the public and its members. By advocating for the interests of therapists and practitioners, the group works towards their professional development and represents their concerns to relevant bodies, such as the sectoral committee on the workforce and various governmental levels.
A Vision for the Future
This anniversary was also an opportunity to honour the members of the RITMA team, particularly Édith Larose, who leads the group, as well as Guy Béland, Malika Larouche, Sandrine Larose, and Byanca Neveu. We also acknowledged the retirement of Louise Paiement, who has significantly contributed to the group's growth for over 15 years through her exceptional service.
The congress also initiated a reflection on the future of complementary medicine in Quebec. The group now has over 5,000 therapist and practitioner members, committed to promoting ethical and respectful practices while raising public awareness of the importance of these disciplines for maintaining optimal health.
The 20th Anniversary Congress of the RITMA Group was a resounding success, showcasing the unwavering commitment of its members to complementary medicine. By fostering knowledge exchange and strengthening community ties, the RITMA Group positions itself as a key player in the recognition and development of alternative health practices in Quebec.