On Wednesday 3 June, more than 160 pupils and their accompanying adults travelled from all over France to attend the 2026 ELA Ambassador Award ceremony at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in Paris. This national ceremony, the third high point of the “Wear your trainers and beat disease” campaign, rewards students who have shown solidarity in the fight against leukodystrophies and celebrates their commitment.
Youth still mobilised for ELA
Our patron, Sandrine Quétier, who has been a loyal host of the ceremony, opened the celebrations by highlighting the figures for the school community’s participation in this latest edition: 583,000 pupils and 3,260 schools have worn their trainers for ELA since the start of the school year!
Our President, Crystelle Cottart, highlighted the young people’s unwavering support in advancing the fight against leukodystrophies. “You give us such tremendous energy!”
Guy Alba, founder of ELA, shared his memories of how “Mets tes baskets” began 34 years ago at a high school in Nancy, right up to the festive event that brings thousands of schools to life every year. “I have a great respect, admiration and gratitude for the world of education, which is characterised by such solidarity and kindness. […] Without you, ELA would have ceased to exist long ago!”
Sharing stories, expressing gratitude and continuing the fight
Sofiène, a teenager living with Alexander’s leukodystrophy, then spoke about the impact the condition has on his daily life. He concluded by delivering a powerful message to the ambassadors present: “Your commitment gives us strength and hope, and makes us feel less alone. Thank you for running for those who can no longer do so!”
Crystelle Cottart outlined how ELA provides practical support to families: a supportive presence, a listening ear, moral and psychological support, and administrative and financial assistance. Guy Alba reported on promising advances in research into the leukodystrophy from which Sofiène suffers, thanks to the support ELA has provided to researchers.
He also discussed the families’ other campaign – for newborn screening – through the story of Hugo and Arthur. These two brothers, both affected by the same condition, have nevertheless led radically different lives: the younger brother was diagnosed in time and treated, whereas his elder brother was not. To ensure this never happens again, ELA has submitted a proposal to the French National Health Authority (HAS) to have two forms of leukodystrophy included in the national newborn screening programme. Every day gained before symptoms appear changes a child’s fate – and that of their family!
Following the broadcast of a report on a “Mets tes baskets” run organised at a middle school, Sandrine Quétier handed over to Jérôme Bagard, a technology teacher who has been working alongside ELA for 16 years. “When we promote the values of commitment and solidarity, our headteachers support us and give us the resources we need to carry out this project.”
Enzo, Jade and Chloé, three 2026 ELA ambassadors, played the part of journalists to interview our patrons who are working alongside us: Michaël Gregorio, Sophie Thalmann, Caroline Bourg and Rémy Riou. It was an opportunity to review their commitment to supporting families and schools.
Finally, Crystelle Cottart unveiled the theme of the next “Mets tes baskets” campaign: “We’re all superheroes!” She also revealed the name of the author of the ELA 2026 dictation: Laurent Mauvignier, winner of the 2025 Prix Goncourt.
Let the music begin!
Charles Doré, a semi-finalist on Star Academy in 2024 and ELA’s newest patron, shared his very personal story about leukodystrophies, before performing “Famille ou pas famille”. He then handed over to Lyna Mahyem, also a new patron. She spoke about joining the ELA family following her first Dictation last October. She set the stage alight with her song “Demain”! Finally, all the sponsors gathered on stage for the ambassadors’ graduation ceremony, which was captured in a souvenir photo!
Thank you, everyone!
ELA would like to extend its warmest thanks to all the schools that join forces with it every year for the “Wear your trainers and beat disease” campaign, as well as to the sponsors present at the ceremony: Shemss Audat, Aurélie Bargème, Caroline Bourg, Pauline Bression, Henri Bungert, Charles Doré, Michaël Gregorio, Caroline Lopez, Tristan Lucas, Romain Magellan, Lyna Mahyem, Ella Philippe, Grégory Questel, Sandrine Quétier, Rémy Riou and Sophie Thalmann.