Nathan, a grade 12 student at W.J. Mouat Secondary, is one of the amazing Foundry Abbotsford Ambassadors who help promote mental health and well-being throughout their school.
Foundry ambassadors are grade 10-12 students in the Abbotsford School District who are passionate about mental health and supporting their peers to know about services available to them.
Nathan first heard about the program in grade 10, when a school counselor told him he had been nominated by another Foundry ambassador student who was graduating.
Initially motivated by the prospect of a reference letter for university applications, Nathan soon discovered a far greater reward. As he started planning events to raise awareness about mental health resources, he saw the impact that the program was making.
“We try to destigmatize mental health struggles so students aren’t afraid to talk about it and get help.”
The program’s monthly meetings take place at school during the students’ lunch break and are facilitated by a Foundry staff member.
“The meetings revolve around planning engaging activities for fellow students. These initiatives range from bringing in therapy dogs during exam times to setting up information booths,” said Billie Brown, the Youth and Family Engagement Coordinator at Abbotsford Foundry.
A highlight for Nathan was organizing a school assembly featuring Sheldon Guy – a basketball coach who spoke openly about his mental health struggles after losing his eyesight. Witnessing the impact Sheldon’s vulnerability had on the audience – many students were moved to tears – was a defining moment for Nathan.
“Sheldon’s story reminds me that even when things are tough, you have to keep fighting. Everyday is a chance to get a little bit better, even if it’s just by 1%.”
Volunteering with the Foundry Ambassador Program has not only allowed Nathan to make a difference in the lives of others, but it has also been a valuable learning experience for him. The program provided him with online courses to better understand mental health and equip him to support his peers. Through his experiences, Nathan has learned the importance of perseverance and that even small victories can create a ripple effect.
We appreciate Nathan’s dedication to mental health awareness through the Foundry Ambassador Program. Nathan serves as an inspiration to his peers and the Abbotsford community at large.
“Nathan is a natural born leader. His motivation, kindness, and passion for helping others is truly inspirational. Foundry and Abbotsford School District are lucky to have Nathan model what it really means to be an ambassador!” said Billie.
“Nathan is a natural born leader. His motivation, kindness, and passion for helping others is truly inspirational.”
Foundry Ambassador Students Booth
“Sheldon’s story reminds me that even when things are tough, you have to keep fighting. Everyday is a chance to get a little bit better, even if it’s just by 1%.”
Interested in becoming a Foundry Ambassador?
Email Billie to get connected!