The Impact of Our First Flourish+ Talks Event
On February 22nd Teachers Life and nowly was joined by inspirational keynote speaker Tyler Smith for our first-ever Flourish+ Talks event. Flourish+ Talks is a quarterly series of complimentary virtual wellness speaking events that allow our Teachers Life, nowly and OTIP Members, including staff, to gather as a community and hear inspiring stories from Canadian mental health keynote speakers. Our aim in sharing these harrowing stories of triumph is to create conversation and a sense of strength and empowerment for our Members around the topic of mental health.
Our first speaking event created a meaningful impact, thanks to Tyler’s incredible story detailing his challenging and emotional journey with grief and vulnerability.
Tyler’s Story
At the young age of 21, Tyler Smith survived the tragic 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash, which took the lives of 16 of his fellow teammates, staff members and coaches. With no memory of the devastating crash, Tyler spent almost two weeks in the hospital recovering from his injuries, struggling to understand the meaning of the event.
“There are 3 words that we can say to ourselves that are the most vulnerable words you can say. ‘I need help.’ I knew I needed help this whole time, but I had no idea how to do it.”
Selfless in nature, Tyler put his grief and trauma second to the comfort of those around him. After physically recovering, Tyler tried to return to the hockey scene, only to realize that his unresolved emotional pain needed just as much care and attention as his physical injuries. Upon prioritizing his mental health, he discovered the value of creating safe spaces for people to be vulnerable and have open and honest conversations about how they’re doing.
“We’re allowed to do this. We’re not alone in this. It’s okay to struggle and to go through it.”
After years of using self-care tools such as counselling to do inner work, Tyler has gone on to use his strength and courage leading him to win The Amazing Race Canada, season 9 while dedicating his career to connecting with and empowering others and raising awareness for mental health. His social enterprise clothing line, ‘Not Alone Co’, promotes the need to create meaningful and open conversations around trauma, PTSD and mental health, while donating a part of proceeds to Canadian mental health charities and foundations. Highlighting the precedent need to normalize mental health conversations in the sports world, Tyler also co-hosts a podcast with NHL veteran Riley Sheahan called Speak Your Mind.
“We’re scared of connection sometimes. We have to remember that everyone is fighting a battle that you have no idea about.”
As a public speaker, Tyler shares his journey of vulnerability and recovery, in hopes that it will inspire others to prioritize their mental health and create spaces for meaningful conversations, without stigma or shame. Following Tyler’s 45-minute keynote speech, our audience was taken aback by hope and inspiration for the new landscape of mental health conversations and the journey of health and well-being. Tyler Smith is truly an inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and using vulnerability to catalyze personal growth.
Our Commitment to Mental Health
At Teachers Life and nowly, we feel empowered by Tyler’s story which shows the value and impact of supporting mental health and well-being across communities. Committed to making a positive change in the mental health and well-being of our Members, Flourish+ is our new complimentary benefits program with a wide range of thoughtfully curated perks, including our Flourish+ Talks events. In addition to the speaker series, we also offer rebates, awards, an annual giving back program and so much more.
A huge thank you to Tyler and all our Members for joining us for our first-ever Flourish+ Talk event! It is through everyone’s collective courage and vulnerability that we continue to create a community of open and honest support for one another through our journeys of mental health and well-being.
Up Next: Preventing Burnout with Dr. Susan Biali Haas
We hope to see you at our next Flourish+ Talk event with Dr. Susan BIali Haas on May 30th, 2024, at 4:00 – 5:00 pm EST! Dr. Biali Haas is an award-winning medical doctor, wellness expert, coach, speaker and author who transformed her struggles into a global influence on health and well-being. Dr. Biali Haas uses the story of her personal experience with mental health and burnout to empower others to take control of their health and live more impactful, meaningful lives.
Always Give More Than You Take
Despite the tragic nature of the event, the families of the Broncos share a common belief: that something positive can and should emerge from this sorrow. The Humboldt Broncos Memorials Committee embarks on a mission to leave a lasting impact on team sports and communities across Canada. Their vision entails the creation of a facility that inspires and motivates— the Broncos Tribute Arena and Training Centre. This establishment will serve as a national emblem of community spirit, commemorating the essence of hockey in our communities and the myriad positive effects of sports and teamwork. The Humboldt tragedy served as a poignant reminder of the significance of family, community, and the pivotal role that sports play in nurturing these bonds. The Broncos Tribute Centre will not only celebrate these cherished values but also pay homage to those who were lost or affected by the tragedy. Consider donating whatever you can to The Humboldt Broncos Tribute Campaign.
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