Meet the Team
Together, we strive to break the stigma surrounding mental health.
Through every initiative, project, and fundraiser, our passionate team of students is committed to shining a light on the realities of mental health by fostering open and honest conversations. We believe that no one should ever have to face these challenges alone. That's why we continue to build a strong support network, collaborating and partnering with organizations that specialize in youth mental health to provide meaningful, tailored resources for both individuals and their families.
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Together, we are forging a path forward where every young person feels safe to speak up and seek help, free of judgment, and surrounded by a community that truly cares. ​
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Every young person deserves to feel seen, heard, understood and well-surrounded.
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MATTHEW TURNER
" Every journey begins with a single step."
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Step into Light ​
FOUNDER
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Through Step Into Light, we are building a community of student ambassadors and partners with expertise in youth mental health to dispel the stigma that surrounds mental illnesses and to provide a path forward with empathy and the resources needed.
Our team is united by the core belief that openness and awareness, when combined can transform lives. We believe that understanding begins with conversation, and that no one should ever have to face their mental health challenges alone or in silence.
My dream is that no other friend or family ever have to suffer the loss of someone they love to suicide. ​​​​
COLE VELAN
​“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” ​​​
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Step into Light ​
Contributor
1 in 5 young Canadians struggles with mental health issues.
That’s not just a statistic. It represents real people - our brothers our sisters, classmates, our friends, and even a neighbour.
Yet, the stigma around mental health keeps too many from speaking up or seeking help. Through our initiatives and partnerships with youth mental health organizations, we are building bridges between awareness and action.
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I am proud to be a part of such a purpose driven team. Together, we can make a change.
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JAMES CYTRYNBAUM
“Mountains are silent masters and make silent students.” – Goethe
Step into Light ​
Contributor
Step Into Light is about more than raising awareness. It's about changing the way we see and speak about mental health.
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Depression disrupts education and affects our development. Through awareness campaigns, presentations and themed assemblies, we are fostering honest conversations about all sorts of mental illnesses and their repercussions.
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Together, we are working to light a path toward a future where every young person feels understood, supported and valued.
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​Real change begins when people feel safe enough to be honest with themselves and others.
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Step into Light is driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to mental health resources and a supportive network that no longer stigmatizes mental health, but rather offers a compassionate, open and caring space for youth to emerge healthier and happier in building their futures. Born out of tragedy, Step into Light hopes that no one else is faced with the loss caused by suicide. It is time to shed light on a path forward.