Mental Health Champions: Celebrating a Year of Impact
As the school year drew to a close, the OCDSB recognized the dedication of our Mental Health Champions. In May, we brought together around 100 passionate staff and students for a day of learning, sharing and connection. Attendees joined in a variety of activities, all designed to foster well-being and show how students have been leading the way in bringing vital mental health initiatives to our schools.
The day kicked off with an engaging keynote by author Sam Demma, followed by presentations from students in the Black Youth Forum course and a youth leadership panel. These sessions provided insightful perspectives and highlighted the incredible work our young leaders are doing to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma.
The afternoon transitioned into interactive “labs” where students took the lead, showcasing the mental health promotion events they had run throughout the school year – from kindness graffiti and “smash the stigma” initiatives to therapy dogs and mindfulness activities.
Inspired by the creativity and achievements of their peers, students began planning initiatives for the upcoming year, ensuring the continued growth of our Mental Health Champions program.
The Mental Health Champions Day was a resounding success, filled with collaboration and a clear vision for the future. Watch the video below to see how students and staff are building more supportive and mentally healthy school communities for everyone: