The Tour de France: travel and meetings
If it is not compulsory in the Companion Union, Companions However, strongly encourage young people to travel once a first diploma has been obtained.
During a period of several years at the rate of one or two cities a year, the young professional works in different companies as an employee and can be accommodated in Cayennes or have his own housing.
The Companion Union leaves a great autonomy for young people in the choice of destinations but it remains accompanied by the Companions of his profession who advise and follow him in his career progression and his companion stages to become Companion.
Making your Tour de France allows you to deepen your profession, discover different subjects and techniques specific to each region, open up to each other, practice daily self-help and solidarity and learn and share your knowledge.
The Companion Union is present in 25 cities in France and Switzerland. It also offers stages in many countries around the world thanks to the presence of expatriate Companions.
Life in Cayennes: learning autonomy and sharing
The houses which welcome the Young Itinerants and the sedentaries attached to them energize the local network of members and call them « Cayennes ». They are headed by a President assisted by all the Companions. In some cities « Mother » or « Lady hostess » responsible for the reception and accommodation of young people. The price of accommodation varies by city. Youth participate collectively in community life and participate in various meetings and events. A contribution is requested and varies between cities.
Freedom of thought, independence of mind are the main words for the Companions, who are obliged never to mention their personal ideas when they end up and, more importantly, when they work together in Cayenne.
Several local sections run a museum where admissions, receptions and numerous archives are displayed. One of the most important is Nantes: the Manoir de la Haultière.
Companion journey: essential steps
After a minimum year as a member, it will be time to present a first job in order to become Aspirant. This room must allow you to show your current knowledge and prove that you can live from the trade that you exercise.
After this first step, you will have time (2 to 5 years) to complete your knowledge so you can, at the request of the Companions, propose a Reception room: your « Head of Work ». This personal work will have to show your progress in professional mastery and companion knowledge.
From the companion point of view, other steps will be opened:
Take the « Joints », these little gold rings worn in the ears, after at least 5 years as a Companion.
Becoming a Companion Fini, after at least 7 years spent as a Companion: for this step which is not obligatory, you will have to present a job said to « Finish ». Very complete realization at technical and symbolic level, it will have to prove your « Mastery » professional and your companion knowledge.
