IRIC - Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer

Published on November 14, 2025

November 15, 2025, is National Philanthropy Day across Canada. This day is an opportunity to honor philanthropists and their impact on society. IRIC has chosen to highlight the recent achievements of the IRIC Young Philanthropists Committee and some of the faces behind the committee’s success. IRIC is proud to introduce two of its founding members: Katrina Kontaxis and Benjamin Raynauld.

 

Can you briefly introduce yourself?

Katrina Kontaxis (K.T.) My name is Katrina Kontaxis. I am a maxillofacial surgeon and associate professor at the Faculty of Dentistry at the Université de Montréal. I have been involved with IRIC’s Young Philanthropists Committee since 2018, supporting a cause that is very close to my heart.

Benjamin Raynauld (B.R.) My name is Benjamin Raynauld. Professionally, I work in real estate investment and have a background in finance. Personally, I am 38 years old and the father of two young boys under the age of three.

 

You have been involved with IRIC’s Young Philanthropists Committee for several years now. Where does your motivation come from?

K.T.: Cancer affects so many people, and almost everyone knows someone who has suffered from it. Enormous progress has been made thanks to research, and I sincerely believe that supporting science and research is the best way to help eradicate this disease.

B.R.: I consider myself extremely fortunate to be in good health. I am aware that everything can change quickly, and it is this feeling of gratitude that drives me to give back. I sincerely believe that we have a moral duty to help those who are not so fortunate.

 

In your personal and/or professional life, have you been directly or indirectly affected by the scourge of cancer? Have you witnessed the importance of cancer research in any way?

K.T.: Several members of my family have been affected by cancer. Some have been cured thanks to medical advances, and I am deeply grateful for the scientific research that is improving protocols and outcomes for patients.

B.R.: Unfortunately, cancer affects everyone in some way. Recently, close friends received difficult diagnoses, but were fortunate enough to benefit from effective treatments that saved their lives. Seeing their children keep their parents close to them had a profound impact on me and reminded me of the crucial importance of research.

 

What are you most proud of since becoming involved with IRIC’s Young Philanthropists Committee?

K.T.: I am particularly proud of how we have managed to mobilize the community of young professionals in Montreal, to raise awareness of IRIC and all the exceptional research that is being done there. There is a real buzz, a great energy, and it is extremely gratifying to see people getting involved, giving their time or resources, and inspiring others to do the same.

B.R.: Of course, there is great pride in donating funds to IRIC and supporting the exceptional work of its scientists. But what touches me the most is the collective sense of accomplishment that I share with the other committee members. I have had the opportunity to meet many inspiring people over the years thanks to this involvement.

 

How do you feel you are making a real difference by getting involved with the Young Philanthropists Committee?

KT.: I believe that our role is above all to promote IRIC and raise awareness about all the world-class research being done here, in our own backyard, in Montreal. Knowing that our efforts motivate people to give and that our fundraising directly contributes to research to defeat cancer is extremely rewarding.

B.R.: Every time the funds we raise enable a research team to hire an intern or finance a promising project, I feel the tangible impact of our work. Contributing, even in a small way, to training the researchers of tomorrow is extremely rewarding.

 

How do you see the future of IRIC’s Young Philanthropists Committee?

K.T.: I hope that the committee will continue to grow and renew itself, with new members, new ideas, and the same passion. The goal is to continue this wonderful community mobilization and cultivate a culture of philanthropy among the younger generations.

B.R.: I am very confident about the future. The committee is in the hands of a dynamic, motivated and creative new generation. Our events, whether boxing matches, pickleball tournaments or other original activities, have always combined fun and commitment. I believe that this spirit, which is both festive and inspiring, will continue to drive the committee in the years to come.

 

Why do you think it is important to donate to support cancer research?

K.T.: Cancer treatment outcomes have improved enormously over the years, thanks to research like the kind we support at IRIC. Some cancers now have much better prognosis, while others can even be prevented. The more we invest in research, the closer we get to prevention and cure.

B.R.: For me, there are two main reasons:

– Cancer remains a major scourge, causing immense suffering.

– We are fortunate to have a world-class research center like IRIC here in Quebec. It was there that the UM171 molecule was discovered, which improves stem cell transplants and is already saving lives. This is one of many examples that prove that our support can lead to concrete advances.

 

What is your wish for the future of cancer research?

K.T.: I think we all share the same wish: that one day, no one will have to go through the ordeal of cancer. I hope to see even more advances, innovative treatments, and above all, better prognosis and a better quality of life for all patients.

B.R.: Obviously, I would like to see this scourge disappear one day, even though I know it will be a long fight. But every small daily victory achieved by IRIC scientists brings us closer to this goal. My wish is that their discoveries continue to change lives.