Made By Me

Empowering Youth Voices on Mental Health through Stories and Connection

In today’s world, mental health conversations are more important than ever. Yet, in many communities, these dialogues are still surrounded by stigma and silence. The Made by Me project led by the Arab Community Centre of Toronto, offers a transformative approach to this issue, giving a platform to youth voices and encouraging self-reflection, understanding, and empathy through storytelling.

Made by Me follows nine young individuals as they explore their own mental health journeys, openly sharing personal stories and insights gained through a series of talking sessions. Each participant embarked on this journey with unique experiences, but together, they found common ground and solidarity in the shared goal of raising mental health awareness. Through guided workshops, they were encouraged to reflect on their mental health, uncover their emotions, and ultimately share those experiences. The process culminated in a compelling film and an accompanying booklet, both of which serve as resources for understanding mental health and combating stigma in diverse communities.

This project wasn’t just about self-discovery—it was also about creating a space of inclusion. Each story brings a unique perspective, demonstrating the importance of listening to diverse voices, especially within marginalized communities. By opening up and sharing, these young people are actively working to dismantle the barriers and stigmas that so often surround mental health. The result is not just a film, but a collective movement that urges viewers to reflect on their own mental health and the mental well-being of those around them.

The workshops themselves were an integral part of this journey. With the guidance and support of mentors and mental health professionals, each participant found a way to tell their story. These sessions emphasized not only mental health awareness but also the importance of dialogue and community support. Through this collective effort, they learned the power of vulnerability and the strength that comes from sharing one’s experiences.