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A Movement Born from Connection
When 21-year-old Lily Baker launched the University of Ottawa Jack Chapter, she wanted to ignite change on campus. What began as a search for connection and shared understanding with other youth became a movement that reached hundreds of students with education, connection, and life-changing conversations about mental health.
"Having Chapters on post-secondary campuses gives students the opportunity to lead real, local change. Every community is different, and deserves solutions that work for them. When young people lead, they're able to shape mental health initiatives that respond to the unique needs of our peers. That's the power of Chapters."
As a Chapter Co-President
Lily grew the Chapter team to create safe, stigma-free spaces where students could show up as themselves and speak openly about mental health. Through training she received from Jack.org on safe storytelling, peer-to-peer support, and facilitation, she brought students together to connect and support one another.
"Jack.org didn’t just give me information—they gave me human support and energy. It’s powerful how Jack Talks allow everyone to take something different away. It’s not just about the facts; it’s about connecting with people and moving the needle forward on how we talk about mental health.”
Luca Bernardini
At 18, Luca experienced mental health struggles after an incident at his high school. Learnings from a Jack Talk were instrumental to him getting the support he needed. As a Jack Talks Speaker today, he’s working to make sure every young person gets the support they need.