Humber College prioritizes the health and well-being of its community.

Initiatives such as the Healthy You healthy community hub demonstrate how the College emphasizes well-being in all aspects of the Humber experience – from health-focused programs to how it builds curriculum.  

That support continues with Humber Let’s Talk, a week dedicated to mental health awareness and action. The theme for this year’s week is connection, which emphasizes the power and impact of building meaningful relations within the community.

The week is in alignment with Bell Let’s Talk Day, which takes place this year on January 24.  

Ewnet Demisse, a health promotion specialist with Student Success and Engagement (SSE) at Humber, said that by talking about mental health, they’re hoping to reduce its stigma and let the community know that supports and services are available.

The week starts with a kickoff on Monday, January 22 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Learning Resource Commons building at North Campus. Students can build friendships and connect with their peers through speed friending, viewing the Photo Voice project display, grabbing a snack or taking a picture at the photo booth.

On January 24 there will be a talk by Michelle Chubb, who goes by Indigenous_Baddie on Instagram and Tiktok. Chubb will share her experiences and perspectives on mental health. The audience will have an opportunity to ask questions and connect as part of a meet-and-greet. The talk will run from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Student Centre.

Also happening on January 24 is a Connection Fair in the E Concourse from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. There will be free food, prizes and more as students explore the various services available to support their holistic well-being while engaging in activities that foster connection.

The week closes with a virtual student panel discussion on Thursday, January 25 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. It will feature diverse perspectives on mental health from fellow students sharing their stories, experiences and insights.

Demisse said when students hear from their peers about their stories, it can normalize what they’re experiencing and, hopefully, make them realize they’re not alone.

“Mental health and well-being support is something we at Humber sustain beyond a day or week, which are great ways to highlight and raise awareness around the topic. But we want to let the Humber community know that various services are available throughout the year and we’re here to support year-round, not just this week.”

Those who are interested in attending any of the events are being asked to pre-register.