Marguerite Bourgeoys is a historical figure of New France (today, the Province of Quebec, Canada). Originally from Troyes, France, she contributed, alongside Jeanne Mance and Paul de Maisonneuve, to the development of Ville-Marie (Montreal) and established New France’s first school. Marguerite aspired to a more just world. She formed respectful bonds with the First Nations, welcomed immigrants, including the Filles du Roy (King’s Wards), and taught them how to survive in the new continent.

Marguerite Bourgeoys was canonized in 1982 by Pope John Paul II and thus became the first female saint of Canada. An important Quebec religious figure, she, among other things, participated in the construction of the first chapel in Montreal. She also founded a Catholic religious congregation.

Source: https://www.cnd-m.org/en/marguerite-bourgeoys/index.php