Surrey (Richa Walia): Demonstrating its commitment to community well being, Culture Chats BC Association organized two successful back-to-back free public events promoting mental health, healthy living, and preventive wellness. The volunteer led initiatives brought together healthcare professionals, community organizations, and residents to encourage meaningful conversations, practical learning, and stronger community partnerships.
The first event, a Mental Health Forum, was held on June 28, 2026, at Surrey City Hall. The forum addressed growing mental health concerns, particularly within the South Asian community where cultural stigma often discourages open discussion. Speakers explored important topics including children’s and youth mental health, women’s mental health, nutrition and emotional well-being, and the role of art therapy. Interactive group discussions encouraged participants to share experiences and identify practical, community-based solutions. The forum featured participation from Fraser Health’s South Asian Health Institute, Moving Forward Family Services, SACH BC, Nutrify Me, and the SARAVYC Institute at UBC, along with support from the City of Surrey, Dhara Shah Counselling, Advanced Genomics, and Senior Helpers North Surrey. The event also created opportunities for healthcare professionals and community organizations to discuss systemic gaps and collaborative approaches to improving access to mental health services.
Building on that momentum, Culture Chats BC Association hosted its second free event on July 11, 2026, in Burnaby, focusing on healthy food, nutrition, and overall wellness. Healthcare professionals shared practical advice on maintaining balanced diets despite busy urban lifestyles, while wellness organizations showcased natural health products, meditative healing techniques, and holistic approaches to healthy living. The program concluded with breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation sessions supported by Art of Living Vancouver and the Indo Pacific Foundation of Canada.
Asmita Lawrence, organizer of the events, said, “We gathered not just to discuss the challenges of health and wellness resulting from our current stressful lifestyles and complex food systems, but to build a bridge from awareness to tangible, lasting action.” She added that the volunteer-led initiative will continue through future collaborations with CINS Society and other community partners, with additional health and wellness programs planned across British Columbia.
Culture Chats BC Association said the twin events reflect its ongoing mission to promote multicultural community engagement while encouraging healthier lifestyles to address the growing physical and mental health challenges associated with today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world. The organization hopes these initiatives will inspire greater awareness, reduce stigma surrounding mental health, and strengthen community collaboration for healthier and more resilient communities. National Times Media Group played a supportive role in promoting and amplifying these important community initiatives, helping spread awareness about the importance of mental health, nutrition, and holistic wellness among the wider communities.
