August 4, 2022, OTTAWA— The Canadian Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health (CAMIMH) is proud to announce this year’s winners of the Champions of Mental Health Awards. This annual advocacy campaign celebrates seven exceptional Canadians who have worked to advance the mental health agenda in Canada. These exceptional individuals were nominated by peers, colleagues, friends, and community members for the impact they have had in mental health advocacy, both at the local, provincial, and national levels. A CAMIMH selection committee, comprised of CAMIMH members including health care providers and organizations that represent people with mental illness, their families and caregivers reviewed the submissions.
This year’s Champions are:
- The Sharon Johnston Champion of Mental Health Award for Youth – Ervis Musa
- Media – Carla O’Reilly
- Workplace Mental Health – Steve Tizzard
- Community Organization – SAY OutLoud!
- Community Individual – Waabshkigaabo
- Parliamentarian – The Honourable Mike Lake, P.C., M.P.
- Innovation- Researcher or Clinician – Dr. Myra Piat
“As we move through the uncertainty of the pandemic, we continue to be moved by the extraordinary work in mental health done across the country,” said Ellen Cohen, CAMIMH co-chair. “It is more important than ever to recognize Canadians advancing the mental health agenda.”
“Our 2022 Champions, like all of the Champions who have come before them, are shining examples of the constant progress in Canada towards a future where all Canadians can access mental health care, support, and respect without stigma and in parity with other health conditions. We are so grateful for the work they’ve done,” added Kim Hollihan, CAMIMH co-chair.
The Champions of Mental Health Campaign is CAMIMH’s cornerstone campaign that
recognizes the people across the country that, through their advocacy, innovative
solutions, and remarkable stories continue to bring attention to the importance of mental health in Canada.
“Every year, the selection committee receives more impressive nominations that are reflective of the critical work being done to ensure Canadians remain connected and supported in their mental health and wellbeing,” said Florence Budden, Chair of the Champions Campaign.
The award winners will be celebrated at the annual Champions of Mental Health Awards gala, taking place in person for the first time since 2019, on October 5, 2022, during Mental Illness and Awareness Week (MIAW). The theme of this year’s gala is “Reconnecting, rebuilding, and restoring.” For more information about the event and tickets, please visit camimh.ca.
CAMIMH would like to thank its generous partners who make this campaign possible: : Bell Let’s Talk, the Mental Health Commission of Canada, Lundbeck, Canadian Credit Union Association, and Impact Public Affairs.
