On Saturday, May 23, the BC Schizophrenia Society (BCSS) brought together individuals, families, caregivers, and allies for Voices of Hope: From Expression to Understanding.

Held in recognition of Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day (May 24), the event was a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when a community chooses to show up for one another.  

Whether you joined us in person at the Cultch or tuned in virtually via Zoom, thank you for being part of it! 

Setting the Stage 

Voices of Hope has always been about more than awareness. It’s about creating a space where stories can be told honestly, where art and music open doors that words alone sometimes cannot, and where the people most affected by schizophrenia and psychosis can feel seen and supported.  

This year’s theme, From Expression to Understanding, guided everything from the performances to the conversations that unfolded throughout the afternoon. 

Highlights from the Day 

The afternoon featured an incredible lineup of performers, speakers, and special guests who each brought something meaningful to the stage. 

Attendees first heard a special video message from the Josie Osborne, Minister of Health, who recognized the importance of Schizophrenia and Psychosis Awareness Day and acknowledged the impact of BCSS and its community across the province. 

We were also honoured to be joined by Amna Shah, MLA, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives and Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Addictions, who spoke about her personal connection to BCSS and reflected on the importance of continuing to build understanding and support for individuals and families affected by schizophrenia and psychosis. 

Wendy Clark, Registered Art Therapist and caregiver, helped open the afternoon by sharing insights into the role of creative expression in supporting caregiver wellbeing. Drawing from both her professional expertise and lived experience, she guided the audience through a hands-on creative activity, inviting participants to experience how art can help process emotion, reduce stress, and reconnect with a sense of self. 

Sandra Yuen unveiled new artwork, offering a powerful visual reflection on lived experience and the emotional landscape of mental health. Her incredibly work created a moment of awe, pause, and connection, reminding the audience of the depth and complexity that art can communicate beyond words. 

The Highs and Lows Choir opened hearts with a moving performance that helped the tone for the afternoon and left us feeling uplifted. Their music brought warmth, vulnerability, and a strong sense of community to the room, grounding the event in shared experiences and expression. 

Our panel discussion delivered a profoundly moving exploration of the intersections between mental illness, caregiving, and the transformative power of creativity. Moderated by Renato Zane, BCSS Foundation Chair, the conversation brought together an exceptional lineup of voices:

• Actress and playwright Jill Daum, who spoke to the invisible and deeply layered realities of caregiving
• Registered Art Therapist Wendy Clark, who highlighted the vital role of creative and mindfulness-based practices in healing
• Indie musician and advocate Jonathon Goldie, who shared his journey of navigating schizophrenia through songwriting; and
• Poet, public speaker and author Leif Gregersen, whose literary work sheds vital light on the realities of living with bipolar disorder.

The panel challenged the stigma surrounding schizophrenia, psychosis, and complex challenges, ultimately fostering empathy and illustrating how creativity and connection can bridge the gap from isolation to deep, collective understanding.

Thank You! 

None of this happens without the people who pour their time, talent, and heart into making it real. 

A huge thank you to our performers and speakers for their courage and generosity in sharing with our community. Thank you to our volunteers, our partners, and everyone who helped spread the word, including our event sponsor, Otsuka-Lundbeck Alliance. 

And most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended. Your presence is what gives this event its meaning. 

Stay Connected 

Voices of Hope is one day, but BCSS’s work supporting families and caregivers of individuals living with schizophrenia and psychosis continues year-round. If you want to stay involved, here is how: 

• Subscribe to our newsletter for updates.
• Follow us on social media.
• Consider making a donation to support our work.

We are already looking forward to next year. Until then, thank you for helping us change minds and build a more compassionate BC.