Upcoming events within the community:

Upcoming events within the community:

  • Life is Wonderful (Evans Theatre) on December 4th to 8th (tickets online)

  • Neelin High School presents: Charlie and The Chocolate Factory (WMCA) on December 5th to 7th

  • Christmas Makers Market and Vintage Finds (Town Centre on Rosser) on December 7th to 8th

  • WSO Holiday Tour 2024 (WMCA) on December 17th

  • The Magic Flute, Opera Workshop Performance (Lorne Watson Recital Hall in Queen Elizabeth II Building) on December 13th

  • Manitoba Ag Days (Keystone Centre) on January 21st to 23rd

  • Clarinetfest 2025 (Queen Elizabeth II Building) on March 1st to 2nd

  • WMCA presents: Rhythm of the Dance (WMCA) on March 2nd

  • BU Jazz Festival (Throughout Campus) on March 13th to 15th

  • Royal Manitoba Winter Fair (Keystone Centre) on March 31st to April 5th

More events to come! Keep updated by going on the BU website in the Events section. Come out to school performances to support fellow students, and also attend some in the community to meet new people and support the city of Brandon!

Events to Look Forward To this December: Finding Warmth in Company this Holiday Season By Deacon Fidierchuk, Junior Reporter

Trapped in your cold dorm or apartment this winter? Need something to help keep you busy on top of all the studying you’re doing? This article contains a few events that are going on in Brandon and a couple of ideas for activities to do during the cold winter season. Winter can be a lonely time when the snow traps us in our residence and it’s hard to justify the energy to go out, but BU has a lot to offer if you’re in need of company.

Beading is a calming and relaxing way to keep your body moving while remaining mindful. The Indigenous People Center (IPC) has a beading group at 12 PM and 5:00 PM on Tuesday December 5th and December 17th. The Metis room has lanyard beading at 12PM on Mondays and Wednesdays, from December 2nd to 16th . Come find your new hobby or maybe even your new favourite lanyard. Don’t be discouraged if you lack gear, as materials will be provided.

The IPC has plenty more to offer students, with Drum songs Mondays at 3 PM, Ribbon Skirt making Thursdays at 1 PM, Crib Night December 9th at 5 PM (stop by the IPC to sign up), and Jigging lessons Thursday December 12th at 5 PM.

As for the arts, there is a piano ensemble concert on December 5th at 3:30 PM in the Lorne Watson recital hall, and the Brandon Conservatory Chorale Winter Concert on December 14th at 3 PM in the First Presbyterian Church (339 – 12 Street Brandon). Mozart’s the Magic Flute will be performed by BU’s Opera Workshop December 13 at 8 PM in the Lorne Watson Recital Hall. Finally, Neelin High School will be performing Charlie and The Chocolate Factory December 5th and 6th at 7 PM, and December 8th at 2 PM and 7 PM. Please check ticket prices and admission requirements before attending these shows, as some are not free to students.

On December 14th, the Keystone will feature the Brandon Gun and Collectables Show. This event will contain vintage and antique collectors’ items from across Westman, come down and check out what our local collectors have to offer.

For some other ideas, The Brandon Community Sportsplex’s iconic waterslide is back and operational. Fridays are $5, and it makes for a great group activity! Local cafe Chez Angela has Free Music Fridays, where performers come and offer the guests of Chez Angela any genre of music their hearts could desire. Please check Chez Angela out to see if any of their acts will entertain you. And, as usual, the Keystone Centre will be hosting hockey events.

Happy Holidays and a Merry Christmas to everyone. Manifesting positive energy for everyone this holiday season!

My Apologies 2: Broken University By Scott Blyth of Sustainable Brandon

Alarm bells should be ringing! Have you heard the news? A recent article in the Globe and Mail (Oct. 5th, 2024, p. B5) shouts out: “Our Broken University System Holds Us Back”. Broken? How could our university system be broken? How did it get broken? If it’s broken, how do we fix it?

The first point to make is the source. The Globe and Mail is a newspaper based out of Toronto. It covers a national story like this one extremely well. It has been recognized as one of the best newspapers in the world.

Now to the main point - are you aware that our higher education institutions in Canada are publicly funded? This means that the majority of the funds to cover operating costs for universities originates from our taxes. This is where my apologies come in - sorry to have left you with this! The dilemma that universities find themselves in now did not happen overnight. Depending on who is in power at both the federal and provincial levels, there have been times when there were years of tax cuts taking place. And, as it states in the article, we have slowly starved our universities of funding over the past decades. The constant cuts and declines in public support have resulted in the majority of Canadian universities facing growing operational deficits, putting many on the verge of financial ruin! When an institution has a deficit, what are their options? Usually, they resort to cuts in service, including staff, and cuts in programs. Our government has expected these institutions to look for other means of funding.

Since the 1990’s, our higher education institutions have managed to find private- resource income - income enough to be able to increase overall funding. This has mainly been done by increasing the number and the tuition costs for international students. For example, there is a college in Ontario whose student body is 80% foreign students. Instead of our leaders in government maintaining the high-quality of our universities by ensuring there is more than adequate funding in place, universities are instead left funding the program on the backs of international students.

To give you an idea of the extent of this, in 2023 in Ontario, students from India alone channeled more money into its higher education system than the province did - for a total of $2 billion. The increased operating budgets of practically all universities since 2010 have come from international student tuition fees. So, it does sound broken! But how do we fix this problem? Do we want to fix this? Do we need to fix this?There should be a resounding “YES!!!” heard from all of us!

As Canadians, we pride ourselves in our publicly funded institutions. Our universities have become ‘best-in-class’ - truly, global leaders in providing high quality education, research, and innovation. That such a major point of pride for our country is built upon the financial exploitation of international students is incredibly wrong! We need to make sure our leaders of government know that we know there is a problem, and we need to move back to a proper, well-funded higher education system. Our elected officials must come up with a plan to fix it! So what can we do? 1 - If there is an election, please familiarize yourself with which candidate has the same concerns about our higher education system, and vote for that candidate. And 2 - find out who your federal and provincial representative is, and let them know your feelings on this very important issue. It matters - especially if you are a student at one of our universities!!!

Canadian Blood Services on the Brandon Mobile and future plans for the donor recruitment at BU
By Mehak ‘May’ Oberoi

In a phone interview with Brett Lawrence, the Community Development Manager for Canadian Blood Services in Manitoba, we discussed the importance of the Brandon mobile and plans to increase outreach and awareness in Manitoba.

Currently, Canadian Blood Services has one permanent donor site in Winnipeg for all of Manitoba, out of which they operate the donor mobile that arrives at Brandon twice a month. Though the clinic was shut down in Brandon in 2017 due to not meeting donor quotas, “Mobiles specifically in Brandon do very well”, according to Mr. Lawrence. Despite a Canada-wide need for more donors, Brandon seems to have the opposite issue, with the mobile facing the unique challenge of appointments usually being booked up months in advance. The closing of the donor site meant that mobiles to nearby towns could no longer be operated out of Brandon. However, each donor mobile in Brandon receives about 100 units of blood per visit, which indicates that the location has retained a lot of donors from nearby towns who travel to the site. According to Mr. Lawrence, the demographic for Brandon is majorly an older generation, many of whom are consistently returning donors.

Though Canada can’t be considered to be in a blood shortage, as, according to Mr. Lawrence, hospitals are still able to meet demand in order to treat patients, they are still in active need for new donors. From Manitoba alone, Mr. Lawrence stated that the organization was looking to meet demand by adding over 3000 new donors every year alongside the returning donors. With that in mind, they hope to recruit new donors through different programs targeted at BU students in the future. Though they don’t have the ability to receive blood and plasma donations in Brandon, they hope to hold a stem cell registration event at Brandon University in order to add new donors to the stem cell registry. This would be particularly effective at the university-level as the organization looks for stem-cell donors between the ages 17-35 in good health, with most students being part of that demographic. Interested readers can also register online to receive a swab kit from

the organization, which they can use and mail back to have themselves added to the registry.

Canadian Blood Services also plans to make donating blood more accessible for university students, especially first-time donors interested in booking an appointment but finding it difficult to book a slot. With this initiative, students would have specific appointment times blocked off without having to book months in advance. As written by Mr. Lawrence, the instructions to do so can be read below:

STEP 1: Visit www.blood.ca and click “Sign In”

STEP 2: Sign into your account, or create an account

STEP 3: Click on “Partners” in the left task bar

STEP 4: Click “Join an existing team”

STEP 5: Begin typing your partner’s name (Brandon University) and the search results will pop up below.

STEP 6: Select “yes” and then click “join” STEP 7: Select “View team”

STEP 8: Book into the appointments reserved for the team under Team Appointments!

Dates reserved for BU students are:
November 28th – appts start at 14:35
January 30th– appts start at 14:00
February 27th– appts start at 14:00
March 13th– appts start at 14:00
Appointments can also be booked by scanning the QR code below:

Receiving blood in medical care seems to be a guaranteed resource made available by hospitals. It is easy to forget, as Mr. Lawrence emphasized that “people come in to donate blood for free. They take time out of their day for no money, just a snack and juice, and they give blood.” By donating, they make blood accessible for people in medical need, which includes patients with physical traumas, cancer, chronic illnesses and more. Observable demographics for blood donations remain to be the older generations, and Canadian Blood Services hopes to bring awareness on the importance of blood donation to potential younger donors.

As a current volunteer at the Brandon mobile, it’s incredible to see long-time donors who’ve come in consistently to donate blood (some having donated 100s of times), as well as the team that makes it possible. If you’re encouraged to donate blood, the mobile comes every two weeks on Thursday to Brandon from 2-8. For more information on booking appointments at eligibility, visit www.blood.ca.

Garbage Disposal By Scott Blyth of Sustainable Brandon

The amount of waste that we produce is a massive problem!! There is garbage at the top of Mt. Everest; there is garbage in the deepest ocean trenches. There are whales trapped by all the nets and lines in the ocean. Every shorebird has evidence of ingested plastic. There is an island of waste - mainly plastic - the size of Texas in the Pacific Ocean. You find trash in the Arctic, and in the Antarctic. The amount of land we use as “dump-sites” is very extensive.

Anytime you have something to dispose of, think - and be aware of best practices. The first step to consider is to try to “live light”. Living light means to use the four R’s:

1) REFUSE: Only buy something that you really, really need.

2) REDUCE: Buy in bulk with less packaging, buy local, and consider adopting a plant-based diet.

3) REUSE: Consider, for example, rechargeable batteries and reusable plastic containers.

4) RECYCLE: Get to know what products can be recycled. Some products you may not expect can actually be recycled, but you sometimes have to get them to a specific disposal site (e.g. ECO centre). Some products like paint and fluorescent lights need to be taken to a site so they can be disposed of properly.

When thinking of the term “recycle”, there are other opportunities to “re-cycle,” rather than throwing things away: For example, have a garage sale, donate to thrift stores (like Plato’s Closet, Value Village, and Nearly New), and do your shopping at thrift stores to reduce waste.

Sweet Treat Review #2 - O&O By Neesa Walowetz

Calling all little treat enjoyers!! Everyone needs a little pick-me-up in their day, and life is just that tiny bit easier when you have a little treat. We’re setting out each week for a review of some treats available in Brandon.

This week we visited One and Only Design Studio. Their whole shop is filled with gorgeous (for sale) decorative and functional design elements, such as lighting, art, furniture, etc. This really sets the vibes of the place; very cozy and relaxed. To enjoy along with this lovely, cooler, fall weather, I tried their chai latte with a little sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Truly one of the most delightful and warming drinks I’ve had in a while. The cozy atmosphere with their small, but rather inexpensive, menu makes this a great spot to sit and read, or meetup with friends.

“I’ve had O&O more than any other coffee shop in Brandon, so maybe I have a little bit of bias. I think for me though, O&O is the best in terms of quality-to-price ratio. To me, the atmosphere of a place is a huge part of the experience. You can also play piano here, so that’s a big bonus. I’m pretty sure O&O is pretty popular with some BU music alumni; I know a few people who come here fairly regularly. Their London fog is unmatched, I would recommend! That’s about it.” - Raven M., BU Piano Student

Come join a small group of fellow students on Mondays, for a little treat spot highlight! Chat, destress, grab a snack/drink and enjoy a small trip to a local sweet-treat-stop. So, if you’re free, think about it! We’ll be meeting around the Kavanagh courtyard after slot 3, leaving at 11:45. The little trip shouldn’t take more than 45-60 minutes, so you could be back on campus for a class afterwards. Maybe you’ll discover your new favourite off-campus study spot, or even a new study reward for all that hard work you’ve been putting in.

MY APOLOGIES By Scott Blyth of Sustainable Brandon

Don’t you find this time of year exciting? It’s time to start or go back to your studies at college or university. There is energy in the air! New faces, familiar faces, old faces. Enthusiasm! This is future-stuff - you are doing something now to help shape your future. And certainly, for most of you, the future is bright. We all hope that the future is bright.

Unfortunately, there is a problem with all of our futures. I wish to apologize for the mess we have you in. And it is a mess you will have to deal with, and hopefully can clean-up. When I say “we,” I mean my generation; I am much older than most of you. The “mess” to which I am referring has to do with our environment, all the different ecosystems, and climate change. Despite the warnings from scientists - and these warnings have been going on for decades - we still experience global warming, due to the increase in concentration of greenhouse gases caused by the burning of fossil fuels. You would think that the well-known root cause of the problem would have been corrected and dealt with by now. That can be very difficult to understand. Again, I am sorry.

It can be very discouraging to learn of what is happening NOW as the direct effects of climate change. Firstly, we have passed the 1.5° C recommended level of rise in global warming, and we are headed to 2°C and beyond. We are already experiencing the effects of climate change: drought, floods, the increase of vector-borne disease, heat domes, forest fires - think of all those smoke-filled days, even here in Brandon. The World Health Organization has declared that climate change is our biggest health concern, and that we should regard it as a health emergency! Also, the number of species (animals, insects, etc.) that have gone extinct is occurring at an alarming rate! This reflects how humans are not fitting in very well with the ecosystems around us - climate change is only part of that. Some wise people are saying that we are now in the midst of the 6th mass extinction. If we continue down this path, our very existence is at stake!

Once again, I’ll say I’m sorry. I can only hope that you can do better. And, yes, despite all the doom and gloom, there is hope. Hope will mean that all those concerned about climate change need to be energized and do something about it. Mother Earth has amazing healing power and potential - if we just give her a chance! Just watch the short film called “The Man Who Planted Trees” (1953) - a film about how one man’s efforts re-forested a huge area. Just learn from a production called “The Week,” to see how a lifeless, desolate strip mine in China  flourished with the right attention. Vegetation came back, rivers ran again, birds came back. Remember during the pandemic, when the amount of vehicle traffic dropped off significantly, how clean the air became — you could “see the sun!” Look into all the ways of becoming more energy efficient - there are so many renewable energy possibilities. Be aware of the action of divestment from any financial association (e.g. sponsorship) with the fossil fuel industry.

So, there is hope, but we all need to acknowledge the urgency - time is running out. Most importantly, we need to let our leaders know to “end the harm” and end the use of fossil fuels - the leading cause of this Climate Change Crisis we find ourselves in.

You do have the energy, you do have the excitement, you do have the enthusiasm, and you deserve to look forward to a bright future! But, you need to speak up - louder and louder and LOUDER!!

Sweet Little Treats! By Neesa Walowetz

Calling all little treat enjoyers!! Everyone needs a little pick-me-up in their day, and life is just that tiny bit easier when you have a little treat. We’re setting out each week for a review of some treats available in Brandon.

This week we visited Café Do Good, by Renu Hygienics. This hidden gem, located at 1502 Rosser Ave, is only a five-minute walk from campus. They have such a cozy space to hangout and study, as well as a cute bistro set outside to sit and enjoy your drink. Their menu includes mostly coffee, with some alternatives such as their Bursts, for example. I tried their Peach Creamsicle Burst from their Tik-Tok menu and it really hit the spot on such a hot day!

Also available from their specialty menu is their strawberry sundae latte. I might have a soft spot for strawberry flavoured treats, so this was highly suggested. Our taster tried this treat iced and had a lovely review to share about our first stop. “It was a really pretty drink and I love the little note they wrote on my lid! I couldn’t taste much of the strawberry though, so for that it gets a 7/10.” - May O. It really hit the summer vibes, so get it before their autumn menu comes out!

Excellent for the upcoming fall weather is their variety of hot or cold chai drinks. “I got the dirty chai with coconut cold foam and it was so good. Definitely one of the best chai’s I’ve had in a while and very affordable.” - Kylee B. Who doesn’t love sitting down with a nice hot cup of tea for some reading?

Come join a small group of fellow students every Monday for a little treat! Chat, destress, grab a snack/drink and enjoy a small trip to a local sweet-treat stop. We’ll be meeting around the Kavanagh courtyard after slot 3, leaving at 11:45. The little trip shouldn’t take more than 45-60 minutes, so you could be back on campus for a class afterwards. Help yourself through the most sluggish day of the week with a small treat… YOU DESERVE IT! Maybe you’ll discover your new favourite off-campus study spot!

Men's Mental Health Resources in Brandon By Dorcas Adetundimu, Junior Reporter

Men should be provided with comfortability to discuss their mental health. However, it’s common for men to experience several barriers when expressing their mental health to family, friends, community, and work environment. Generally, men report lower levels of stress and depression; contrastingly, suicide rates amongst men are four times higher than women. In Canada, suicide rates are elevated among rural men when compared to their urban counterparts and to rural women. Further research proved that Canadian men harbour more stigmatized perspectives about male depression than women, are less likely to seek support, and often express mental distress differently than women. The prevalent “silent crisis” in men’s mental health has been linked to practices, values, and societal beliefs of masculinity. 

To address and improve this problem, this article discusses men’s mental health resources in Brandon and the services/programs they offer.

The Men’s Resource Centre (MRC) is located on 153 8th St, Brandon, MB, at the back entrance of the John Howard Society Building. The MRC offers a haven of safety and support for men and their families, facilitating access to a wealth of resources and information. The centre is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive array of programs, services, and personalized support tailored to address the multifaceted issues impacting men and their families. The MRC is available either by appointment or by drop-in. Programs include Anger Management, Building Healthy Relationships, and the new Crossroads Programs, focused on encouraging the growth of positive life skills. The Men’s Resource Centre provides access to numerous services, personalized one-on-one support, assistance with protection orders, third party reporting, and guidance with pardons and record suspensions. Drop-in workshops include information sessions about legal issues, health and wellness, as well as creative workshops for art and music. Upcoming events include a free group boxing lesson at Peak Performance, support groups, free haircuts, and more.

Movember is a men’s mental health charity acknowledging the challenges men face when discussing mental health. Their focus is on dismantling the stigmas attached to suicide prevention, prostate cancer, testicular cancer and more. The month-long movement, which just ended on November 30th, emphasizes the importance of men’s mental health research and the importance of health services that reach and provide support for men. Movember is currently funding upwards of 1,250 health projects, globally uniting experts worldwide to collaborate on projects. The charity concentrates on funding research for the three biggest health issues facing men: mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

The Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, as a nationally registered charity, is committed to offering knowledge, resources and support to men and their families in their pursuit of healthier living. Unfortunately, Canadian men are facing a distressing trend of death by chronic illness. Remarkably, a staggering 70% of men's health issues can be preemptively addressed through the adoption of healthier habits. Walks, jogs, swimming, biking or routine tasks like lawn mowing any physical activity significantly contribute to the enhancement of both physical and mental wellbeing. Make healthier food choices with simple dietitian recommendations, healthy meal ideas, and cost-saving tips with “Guy’s Guide to Eating Healthy”, or listen to the informative “Guy’s Guide to Eating Healthy” podcast.

The Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba (MDAM) cultivates profound relationships and establishes an environment where men can express themselves and share their experiences openly. They offer a broad array of mental health and wellness opportunities, ranging from workshops to peer support and one-on-one engagements. MDAM aims to enable an environment where dialogue about life’s challenges enables comfortability and support men prioritizing their own health. The men’s online peer support group occurs every Wednesday 6:30pm-7:30pm. One-on-one support can be booked online, or in person out of Winnipeg. MDAM provides other information on their website about men’s mental health issues, including eating disorders, erectile dysfunction in men with depression, andropause, and how to stay mentally fit.

We all have a role to play in men’s mental health prevention. Family, friends, partners, and colleagues, it is our responsibility to help these statistics decline, and encourage healthy change for men. Make healthy choices, get screened, sustain a healthy diet, exercise, and check in with friends. Asking, listening, and being supportive of your friends can be lifesaving. If you need a hand in having a conversation with someone who’s struggling, there are several guides online. Ask the question, listen without judgement or distractions, encourage action and check in. Let’s all take part in reversing the stigma around men’s mental health and prioritize the enrichment of personal growth.

Fun Time Pottery!

Fun Time pottery is a small business in Brandon, located at 535 34th street. It’s a really fun place to go for the afternoon if you are looking to make a hand painted gift or just something for yourself. They have many options for kids and adults alike, ranging from little figurines to plant pots, dishware, Holiday themed décor, and more! They have many options for paint colours, and with your student ID you can get a discounted studio fee. The firing times differ, but your piece will usually be ready within a week or two. They are usually open between 10:30 and 5:30, but open later on Sundays and close later on Thursdays, so be sure to look at their website to confirm their open hours before arriving or call and tell them you are coming. If you plan to go with a bigger group, make sure you call so you can go at a time they will have enough space for you. Altogether, it’s a fun thing to do to take a break from your studies, and leaves you with a hand painted piece to take as a memory!

Mental Health

How Important is Mental Health?

Despite being a crucial part of our total wellbeing, mental health typically takes a backseat to physical health in our culture. The importance of mental health, its significant influence on our lives, and the methods and resources available to preserve and enhance it are all topics that will be covered in this article.

Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is essential in determining how our ideas, emotions, and behaviours are shaped. How we handle stress, interact with others, and make decisions may all be influenced by our mental health. The basis for a happy and balanced existence is a sound mind. Anybody, regardless of age, gender, or background, can have mental health problems, since they are not uncommon. Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are a few of the most common mental health conditions.

Anxiety is characterized by excessive dread and concern, which frequently results in bodily symptoms such a pounding heart, tense muscles, and sleeplessness. Depression may lead to physical symptoms including weariness and changes in appetite, as well as prolonged melancholy, a loss of interest in activities, and other symptoms.

The first step in treating these disorders is understanding them, and it’s critical to keep in mind that assistance is accessible. The stigma that is still attached to mental health problems is a major impediment to receiving treatment. The stigma around mental illness has significantly decreased thanks to society; Yet many individuals are still reluctant to talk freely about it. This resistance might result in isolation and a delay in receiving treatment. Frequently, misconceptions and unjustified worries are the root of the stigma around mental health. These myths may be dispelled, and a more encouraging environment can be created by encouraging open discussions regarding mental health. It is critical to keep in mind that mental health issues are just as real and curable as physical health issues. There is a direct connection between our mental and physical wellness. When one is neglected, the other may suffer. Heart disease, high blood pressure, and a compromised immune system are just a few physical health issues that can develop because of untreated mental health difficulties. On the other hand, persistent troubles with one’s physical health can cause or make mental health disorders like depression and anxiety worse. An integrated approach to our well-being is essential in light of this link.

A person’s mental health may be impacted by a variety of things. Genetic, environmental, or situational aspects might all be included. Making educated judgements regarding mental health requires an understanding of these issues.

Genetics contribute to mental wellbeing. There is a genetic component to some disorders, which means they can run in families. Individuals who are aware of these inherited tendencies might take proactive steps to improve their mental health.

The environment plays an important part, too. Mental health issues can be made worse by stressful or traumatic events, violent exposure, or living in an insecure environment. For mental health, it is critical to provide a secure and encouraging atmosphere.

Trauma is yet another element that may influence mental health. People who have gone through substantial trauma, such as abuse, warfare, or natural catastrophes, are more susceptible to mental health issues.

Fortunately, there are many methods and advice available to support preserving and enhancing mental health. While some people may require medical attention, others might profit from these self-care techniques:

Self-care: It is crucial to schedule regular downtime and to partake in enjoyable activities. This might be engaging in hobbies, practising meditation, or just being with loved ones.

Exercise: Endorphins are released when you exercise, and they help to lower tension and lift mood. It’s a fantastic method of encouraging mental health.

Sleep: For mental wellness, getting enough sleep is essential. It enables the brain to recover and digest feelings.

Seeking therapy: A vital first step is to seek the assistance of a mental health professional when managing mental health difficulties becomes difficult on one’s own. Therapy provides a secure setting for discussing worries and creating symptom management plans.

For people dealing with mental health concerns, access to mental health resources is essential. There are several ways to get assistance, including:

Hotlines: People in need can get quick aid through a number of hotlines.

Therapy options: There are several therapeutic alternatives available to address a variety of mental health issues, including family therapy, group therapy, and individual counselling.

Support groups: These give people a place to connect with others going through similar struggles.

The need for assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness, and this must be emphasized. Everybody has the right to the chance to live a happy, full life and experience good mental health. Effective management of mental health requires a strong support network. The ability to get understanding, support, and encouragement from friends and family may be quite important. Individuals can obtain the help they require to manage their mental health issues by encouraging open and nonjudgmental conversation.

Workplace stress may significantly affect our mental health, even if it is a small but important portion of our lives. By encouraging a good work-life balance, giving tools for managing stress, and lowering stigma surrounding mental health conditions, employers may improve employee wellbeing. Employees, on the other hand, may take measures to manage work-related stress, such as setting limits and seeking help when necessary.

De-stigmatizing mental health disorders and creating cutting-edge therapies will be key components of the field’s future. People will feel more at ease seeking assistance when necessary if mental health issues are discussed more in public.

New drugs and other therapeutic innovations like teletherapy also give promise for

better outcomes and care.

As a result, mental health is equally important to our physical health and should be

treated with the same respect. We can create a happier, more understanding society

by learning about mental health, talking about it, and taking active measures to

promote it. Everyone should feel confident in their ability to deal with mental

health issues, ask for assistance when necessary, and reap the rewards of good

mental health. Remember that maintaining your mental health is within your

control and is essential to living a happy and balanced life.

Dr. Robert Mizzi: “Queer Flourishing: Why 2SLGBTQ+ Inclusion in School Libraries Matters”

On Thursday October 26th, BU will see its second instalment in a series of talks supporting 2SLGBTQ+ content in libraries. It will take place in the Gathering Space at the John E. Robbins Library, and all are welcome to attend.

Dr. Robert Mizzi is the Canada Research Chair in Queer, Community and Diversity Education. He is also an Associate Professor in Education at the University of Manitoba. He has received a extensive variety of qualifications and awards for his work, including an induction into the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame as well as the Royal Society of Canada.

Given the recent local importance of the topic, BU began this series in September. Its purpose is to give queer people a chance to share their experiences and inform the community about 2SLGBTQ+ perspectives. The first speaker was Professor Melissa Adler, who gave a talk entitled “My Queer Manitoba, in Books”. This talk was very well-received by campus and community members alike.

Spreading a Kinder World

Kinder World is an app on your phone designed to improve mental health and spread kindness. When you download the game, you are met by Samy, a fluffy white non-binary dog who is going to help you clean out your house! You start off the game by being gifted a monstera plant, which you get to name, and then water. When you water your plants, you can practice one of three mindfulness activities. You can pause and breathe, write a daily gratitude message, or practice emotional naming. When you write a daily gratitude message, it may actually get sent to other players playing the game. It is really cute because you can also write letters that will get sent to strangers playing the game. And you receive a letter from a stranger once a day. Emotional naming is a way to track the emotions you are feeling in the morning and at night. Your emotions are colour coded layers of sand and placed in a succulent plant jar. Once the jar is filled with the layers of emotional sand, your succulent moves on and you can start a new jar. Once your plant is grown (I named my first monstera plant Baby) you can move it into the greenhouse and start another one. As you fully grow plants, you unlock rooms in the house and can start to decorate them. You get prizes when you successfully grow “rare” leaves or a certain number of the same plant. Prizes are decorations for the rooms that you can unlock. The game is full of really cute characters such as Samy the dog, Luna the fox, Fern the moose and Quilliam the hedgehog. Throughout the game they will stop by and say hi. Your character is designated a flower when you get the game (I got a poppy) and when you add your friends your flower grows in their outside garden bed and their flower grows in yours. You can water your friend’s flowers in your garden to send them cute animations that will play when they go to view their garden, such as falling leaves, flower petals or dandelion seeds, a frog jumping around, or little insects buzzing around. Kinder World is such a nice app because it allows you to stop and relax for a few minutes of your day in the morning and evening. You can set the times your plant gets thirsty to whichever time would fit best in your schedule, and it doesn’t matter if you water it late. I would highly recommend everyone to download the app Kinder World.

Mental Health Corner 

It is obvious that student life is often filled with academic pressures, social challenges, and personal growth. Navigating these aspects of student life can take a toll on our mental health. To help students maintain a healthy balance between their academic and emotional well-being, here are some essential mental health tips tailored specifically for students.

Establishing a Routine:

Create a daily schedule that includes time for classes, study, breaks, exercise, and relaxation. A structured routine can reduce stress and provide a sense of stability.

Practice Time Management:

For me, using tools like calendars and to-do lists to manage assignments, deadlines, and extracurricular activities works wonders. Effective time management reduces last-minute cramming and stress.

Prioritize Self-Care:

This is one of the most important tips to me. I allocate time for self-care activities such as reading, swimming, listening to music, or simply taking a leisurely walk. I also love going on solo dates as a form of self care. Self care rejuvenates the mind and reduces burnout.

Stay Physically Active:

Engage in regular physical activities to reduce stress and improve focus. Even short daily walks or runs can make a significant difference. You can utilize the Healthy Living Centre during your free periods. 

Get Adequate Sleep:

Prioritize sleep by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Aim for 5-9 hours of quality sleep per night to enhance cognitive function and mood. I know that may be hard for most of you. But try your best!

Balance Social Life:

While academics are important, it is good to maintain a healthy social life. Spend time with friends, join clubs or organizations, and build a support network to combat feelings of isolation. There are many clubs at BU that you can join and meet new people. 


Seek Academic Support:

Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling academically. Reach out to professors, tutors, or academic advisors for guidance and support. Contacting Student Services if you feel like you need help, they are always willing to help.

Manage Stress:

Learn stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation. These practices can help you cope with academic pressures.

Avoid Overcommitting:

While extracurricular activities are valuable, avoid overloading your schedule. Balance your commitments to prevent burnout and maintain mental well-being.

Set Realistic Goals:

Set achievable academic and personal goals. Break them into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your achievements along the way. It’s always good to celebrate your small and big wins.

Talk About Your Feelings:

If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious, talk to friends, family, or a counselor. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can provide relief and support.

Stay Organized:

Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and class materials. Organizational tools can reduce the stress associated with missed deadlines or forgotten tasks. Get a PLANNER!

Limit Screen Time:

Be mindful of excessive screen time, especially on social media. It can contribute to stress and distract you from your studies. Set boundaries for digital use. This is something I need to practice, I can definitely spend hours on TikTok. If you have an iPhone, there’s a way you can set time limits on certain apps.

Connect with Campus Resources:

Most universities offer mental health services and counseling. Utilize these resources at Brandon University if you're struggling with your mental health or need someone to talk to.

Practice Self-Compassion:

Be kind to yourself, especially during challenging times. Recognize that it's okay to make mistakes and that self-compassion is an essential part of mental well-being!

Educate Yourself About Mental Health:

Learn about common mental health issues and the resources available on campus. Understanding mental health can reduce stigma and encourage seeking help when needed.

As a student, maintaining good mental health is essential for academic success and overall well-being. By incorporating these mental health tips into your daily life, you can navigate the challenges of student life more effectively, reduce stress, and build resilience. Remember that seeking support when you need it is a sign of strength, not weakness, and there are resources available to assist you in your mental health journey. Prioritize your mental well-being, and you'll be better equipped to thrive as a student.

Truth and Reconciliation Week is coming to Brandon

The third Truth and Reconciliation Week is coming to Brandon from September 26 - October 1.  Activities will include presentations and speeches, an Orange Shirt Day Walk, a closing ceremony with a feast to end off the week, and much more! The full schedule can be seen above, and more information can be found on the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council Facebook page.

As a reminder, the University will be closed on Friday, September 29th in observation of Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th. In recognition of this important day, take the time to read, practice, and remember the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.

‘A Warrior’s Red Road’ exhibit highlights Indigenous men connecting to culture

‘A Warrior’s Red Road’ exhibit highlights Indigenous men connecting to culture

(BU News)

·         Date: Tuesday, March 21

·         Time: 6:30–9:30 p.m.

·         Location: Glen P. Sutherland Gallery of Art

(A picture containing fungus, grass, outdoor, tree)

Description automatically generatedAn exploration of drum-making and Indigenous masculinity will be the centrepiece of a new exhibit at Brandon University’s Glen P. Sutherland Gallery of Art.

The exhibit, a collection of photographs created using a community-based research method called photovoice, explores how Indigenous men are connecting to traditional culture by coming together to rediscover drum-making.

Called “A Warrior’s Red Road,” the exhibit will be officially unveiled on Tuesday evening, March 21, from 6:30–9:30 p.m. The evening will include a visual display of photographs, drums, and words of the participants, along with a drumming circle with the men of the Akicita Cante Waste Men’s group. Refreshments will be provided, made with local Indigenous ingredients.

Members of the public are invited to the opening, but are asked to RSVP to Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowitch by email at WaddellC@BrandonU.ca so organizers can prepare for the appropriate number of visitors.

The exhibit will remain up at the Sutherland Gallery, which is open from Wednesday, March 22 through Friday, March 24, from noon until 3 p.m., and Saturday, March 25 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Dr. Waddell-Henowitch is one of the BU researchers who partnered with the Brandon Friendship Centre and Dakota Ojibway Child and Family Services on the project.

“This exhibition brings exploratory research on Indigenous drum making to life. It is so moving to learn from the stories, photographs, videos, and experiences of drum making participants and researchers,” she said. “By seeing the project unfold, and by engaging in the display, everyone from policymakers, program funders, and the whole community will gain a newfound respect and admiration for Indigenous men’s cultural programming and see the importance of supporting this type of work.”

Funding was provided by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Canada Research Chairs Program, and Movember. 

Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca

CONTACT US:

Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowitch Associate Professor,

Department of Psychiatric Nursing

204.727.7404

WaddellC@BrandonU.ca

Grant Hamilton

Director, Marketing and Communications

204.571.8542

HamiltonG@BrandonU.ca

Visitor Perception of Bear Management and the “Bare Campsite” Program at Riding Mountain National Park

Visitor Perception of Bear Management and the “Bare Campsite” Program at Riding Mountain National Park

BU NEWS

Wednesday, March 29th @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Downtown Brandon Public Library

Presenters: Christopher D. Malcolm and Daniela Paz Campama Gonzalez

BU at the Public Library: All presentations will be held on the last Wednesday of the month, from January to June, from 7:00-8:30 in the Program Room of the Downtown Brandon public library. The library doors will be open at 6:30, and visitors can enter through the Town Centre Parkade or the Rosser Ave entrance. Parking at that time of the evening is free. Each presentation will also be catered by a downtown eatery, so expect delicious food as well as stimulating conversations. The presentations will also include door prizes, so these are events not to be missed!