Each year, the Jack Satellite Summit brings together some of the best and brightest young leaders from universities, colleges and high schools across Canada to transform the way we think about mental health. The goal is for students to return to their respective communities equipped with the ideas and tools that they need to create real change.

 

Grenfell has sent representatives to the summit for two consecutive years; this year, 2014 facilitators Tyler Gallant and Katherine Rose and delegate Jessica Dawe are bringing the summit to Grenfell.

 

“The Jack Satellite Summit is an unique opportunity, as students are able to participate in a national mental health movement from home,” said Ms. Dawe, a fourth-year student. “Participation in the Jack Summit via satellite feed will allow delegates to participate in a dialogue about mental health on a national level, but also with individuals from their own community.

 

"Grenfell is serving as a model for other universities in regards to mental health education and awareness,” said Ms. Rose, a recent psychology graduate. “In just one day, over the span of a few hours, we will educate and involve over 50 youth in mental health issues. These 50 students will bring innovation and motivation back to the campus. We're creating leaders."

 

"One in five individuals will experience a mental illness in their lifetime,” said Mr. Gallant, also a recent psychology graduate. “However, it's important to communicate that everyone has mental health – five in five people – and everyone needs to take care of it. We hope to spread this message at our Jack Satellite Summit and help people understand that we are all affected by mental health. It's important to openly discuss mental health the same way we discuss our physical health issues."

 

The summit is being offered at no cost to students to ensure anyone who is interested can participate. For more information, please read more here.