TORONTO, May 5, 2017 - Like many of us, the moment Dexter Nyuurnibe decided it was time to finally open up about mental illness came from a deeply personal place.
He found his voice as an advocate and champion after being hospitalized at the end of his third year at university.
“Talking about my mental health has helped me become a person that is proud of being vulnerable to others,” he says.
“I believe one of the greatest strengths of humanity is our ability to connect through our common existence. Sharing our realities of living with a mental illness reaffirms our right to life, and reminds us that there is hope.”
Having found strength in his own journey to talking more openly about mental health, his decision to accept the invitation to join the National Committee of mental health advocates and experts helping to drive CAMH’s new Difference Makers – 150 Leading Canadians for Mental Health campaign was easy to make.
“Any small act can make a difference, and one person’s passion and talent can make a lasting change. I got involved because I believe those that work selflessly for the benefit of others deserve to be recognized and honored for their commitment to change.”
CAMH Difference Makers – 150 Leading Canadians for Mental Health is targeted at doing exactly that. It is a national campaign to nominate and celebrate Canadians making an impact in the mental health space, whether through research, philanthropy, advocacy, social change, or inspiration.
For his part, Dexter is especially hopeful that the Difference Makers initiative will help create space for people we don’t always hear from about mental health to share their stories.
“I’m excited to see nominations from members of marginalized communities who haven’t yet been given the recognition they deserve, namely young leaders that are people of colour, members of our First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities and New Canadians who are tirelessly working to change the face of mental health.”
Do you know a Difference Maker? Join Dexter in his passion for talking more openly about mental illness by nominating and celebrating the Canadians who are changing the course of mental health.
Visit www.camhdifferencemakers.ca and click “Start Your Nomination” today!
To learn more about Dexter, you may wish to check out his contributions on the U.S. based online health blog The Mighty.