Leading up to World Mental Health day on October 10th, Mental Illness Awareness week is an opportunity for our community to learn about the reality of living with a mental illness, fight social stigma, and normalize conversations about mental health.

This year’s campaign for World Mental Health Day calls for meaningful engagement with people with lived experience and recognize that their experience is a vital form of knowledge; and that this knowledge is critical in shaping policies, services and decisions that affect their lives. Just as we learn from research and professional expertise, there is immense value in listening to and learning from individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges. Their stories provide insight, foster empathy, challenge stigma, and remind us that recovery and resilience look different for everyone.

How can you engage?

During the week of October 5-9, 2026, in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, join Campus Well Being & ArtBeat Studio in celebrating the strength, talent, and diverse experiences of our community through the power of art. The exhibit will showcase artwork created by individuals who have experienced mental health and addiction challenges, highlighting personal stories of resilience, hope, and self-expression. Through their artwork, ArtBeat artists share personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives that may be difficult to express in words alone.

Connect through conversation and art during the drop-in Rock Painting session at EDC on Wednesday October 7th from 11:15 am to 12:45 pm. Click here for details.

Drop in to the Canadian Human Rights Museum on Sunday October 4, 2026 for conversation and art that explore mental health as a human right. Through artistic expression and community connection, these programs invite participants to consider mental health through a human rights lens and reflect on what it means to create communities where everyone can support one another with dignity, compassion and care.

Get involved with Campus Well Being’s Advisory Group. The purpose of the Advisory Group is to provide critical input to shape the Healthy Minds Healthy College strategy, ensuring a wide variety of perspectives are considered. Contact Kelly Giddings for more information.

College life is a lot like a paint night. Everyone starts with a blank canvas, a few basic tools, and no perfect plan. As the evening unfolds, colours mix differently than expected, brushstrokes don’t always go where intended, and the finished painting often looks very different from the original idea. That’s all part of the experience.

College is much the same. Your journey will include surprises, challenges, and opportunities you never expected. Rather than striving for perfection, embrace the experience, adapt to change, and create something that is uniquely yours.

Mistakes and Change

At a paint night, mistakes are expected. A brushstroke might go in the wrong direction or a colour may not turn out as planned. Instead of starting over, you simply paint over it, add another layer, or find a creative way to make it part of the picture.

College works the same way. You might earn a lower grade than expected, struggle in a course, or face an unexpected setback. These moments don’t define your future; they help shape it. Like adding layers to a painting, you can learn new skills, make different choices, and keep moving forward. Every challenge becomes another opportunity to grow.

Stop Comparing

During a paint night, it’s easy to glance around the room and compare your painting with everyone else’s. You might wonder why theirs looks better or why yours doesn’t match the example at the front of the room.

College can feel the same. It’s easy to compare grades, friendships, careers, or accomplishments with those of your classmates. But comparison often takes away from your own experience.

Painting becomes much more enjoyable when you stop comparing your work and simply allow yourself to create, experiment, and have fun. College is no different. When you focus on your own progress instead of someone else’s, you create space to learn, grow, and appreciate your journey. Your canvas can look different from everyone else’s, that’s okay!

Your Masterpiece

Over time, a blank canvas transforms into a finished painting filled with layers, adjustments, colours, and unexpected details. Every brushstroke contributes to the final picture.

Your college experience unfolds in much the same way. Every class, friendship, challenge, success, mistake, and new experience adds another layer to who you are becoming.

May we all create a painting that reflects our own journey. As you move through college, celebrate your progress, embrace the unexpected, and remember that you are creating something meaningful. Your unique masterpiece (your life) will look different, and that’s exactly what makes it beautiful.

Upcoming Paint Night

Register for our upcoming Paint Night Class this October 2026. Grab your ghouls, witches, and friends (or come solo!) for a spooktacular evening of painting, creativity, and Halloween fun.

Instructor Kisa MacIsaac will guide you step-by-step as you create a hauntingly beautiful masterpiece featuring a glowing orange night sky, a bright full moon, and eerie autumn silhouettes. Then, make it your own by adding your favourite Halloween touches, whether that’s bats, pumpkins, ghosts, witches, black cats, or anything else your imagination conjures up. No painting experience needed!

Seats disappear faster than Halloween candy, so register early! All materials provided.

NDC – Tues, Oct 27, 2026 in Prairie Lights near fountain by Tim Hortons
EDC – Thurs, Oct 29, 2026 in the Dining Hall, Roblin Building

Resources to Explore:

• Art Therapy and Mental Health Benefits
• A World in Colour: The Benefits of Art on Mental Well-Being

Portions of this content were researched and summarized with the help of AI to enhance clarity and accuracy.

September marks the start of a new academic year and a fresh start for many college students. Whether you’re beginning your first term, returning to campus, or living on your own for the first time, you’re likely juggling tuition, textbooks, groceries, transportation, and everyday expenses. With so many new costs, it’s easy to wonder where your money has gone before the month is over. A budget can help you take control of your money and make every dollar count.

Why Create a Budget

A budget is simply a plan for your money. It shows how much money is coming in, where it’s going, and helps you make informed spending decisions. With a budget, you can cover your essentials, enjoy campus life, and reduce financial stress.

Taking time to create a basic budget now can help prevent bigger money worries later in the school year. Whether your income comes from student loans, a job, savings, family support, or a combination of sources, having a plan can help you stay in control of your finances.

Before creating your budget, think about what you want to achieve with your money. Do you want to cover monthly expenses? Graduate with less debt? A budget gives your money a purpose and helps guide your spending decisions.

Know Your Money

The first step in budgeting is to understand where your money comes from and where it goes. Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or budgeting worksheet to track your income and expenses.

Free tools to help you get started include:

• Google Sheets – Create a custom budget that syncs across your devices.
• Microsoft Excel Online – Free web version with budget templates.
• Credit Counselling Society Budget Worksheets and Tools – Printable and digital budgeting resources.

Calculate how much money comes in each month, including income from work, student loans, scholarships, savings, or family support. Then list your monthly expenses, such as:

• Fixed costs: rent, phone bill, bus pass
• Variable costs: groceries, entertainment, dining out, coffee
• School expenses: tuition, textbooks, supplies

Reviewing your bank and credit card statements regularly can help you spot spending patterns. Many students are surprised by how quickly small purchases add up.

Build a Budget That Works

Compare your monthly income to your expenses. If you’re spending more than you have available, look for realistic ways to reduce costs or increase income. If you have money left over, set some aside for savings, emergencies, textbooks, or future goals.

Build a budget that covers your essential needs first, includes some savings when possible, and leaves room for the activities you enjoy. Your budget should support your goals without feeling overly restrictive.

Review and Adjust

A budget is something you create and check regularly. As your income, schedule, and expenses change throughout the school year, review and adjust your budget regularly. Set aside time each month to review your spending and update your budget. The more often you check in, the easier budgeting becomes and the more confident you’ll feel managing your finances.

May we all ask for support and help when needed, even when it comes to learning how to manage our money. Creating a budget takes a little effort upfront, but it can reduce financial stress and help you make informed decisions throughout the school year.

Webinar – Managing Your Money in College

Join us Wednesday, Oct 21, 2026 at 11am for a student-focused webinar to learn strategies for budgeting, managing expenses, understanding borrowing options, and making informed credit decisions.

• Register today to watch live or receive the recording.

The workshop is presented by Anna Gordon from the Credit Counselling Society, a Canadian non-profit providing free financial education and confidential credit and debt counselling.

Anna Gordon, CCDP, brings more than two decades of experience in education, career development, and community engagement. She loves making complex topics easier to understand and creating welcoming learning experiences that give people practical tools they can use in everyday life.

At Credit Counselling Society, Anna supports financial wellness education and engagement initiatives that help Canadians feel more confident making informed financial decisions. She is passionate about helping people navigate change, build confidence, and take positive steps toward their goals.

Outside of work, Anna enjoys fitness challenges, trail walks, writing, and encouraging others to embrace active living and find greater satisfaction in life and work.

Resources to Explore:

• Credit Counselling Society
  • Credit Card Tips
  • Money Management Skills
• MindWell
• Financial Goal Calculator – Canada.ca
• Start My Budget – Canada.ca
• RRC Polytech – Funding Your Education

Portions of this content were researched and summarized with the help of AI to enhance clarity and accuracy.

Our mental health influences how we think, feel, and respond to the world around us. When stress, worry, or racing thoughts take over, it can become harder to focus, stay present, and find a sense of balance.

This October, in recognition of World Mental Health Day, MindWell’s programming is focused on Mental Health, offering practical tools to help you quiet mental noise, improve focus, and support your overall well-being.

Here’s what’s coming in October:

• When the Mind Won’t Slow Down
• Strengthening Mental Clarity

Join these sessions to build practical mindfulness and grounding techniques you can apply in everyday life. Staff and students can set up their free MindWell account here.

When the Mind Won’t Slow Down

Racing thoughts, overstimulation, and mental exhaustion can disconnect us from the present moment. This class provides practical mindfulness tools to quiet internal noise, improve focus, and create mental space during stressful situations. You will learn grounding techniques that support clarity, calmness, and emotional balance.

Friday, October 9 at 11 am CST.

Register Here.

Mindful Mindset: Strengthening Mental Clarity

Using a blend of evidence-based research, experiential mindfulness, and personal reflections, Dr. Ellen Choi will walk you through habits and perspectives that shape our mental wellness.

Wednesday, October 28 at 11 am CST. Register Here.

Yoga is a powerful and accessible way for college students and staff to care for their mental, emotional, and physical well-being, especially during busy days.

At RRC Polytech, yoga is offered as a welcoming pause in the middle of the day: a chance to step away from screens, deadlines, and stress, and reconnect with your body and breath. Our lunch-hour yoga classes are open to all levels of experience, whether you’re brand new to yoga or returning to a familiar practice. Mats and blocks are provided, so all you need to bring is yourself and a willingness to try something new.

Research shows that yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and mood, support physical strength and mobility, while encouraging emotional balance. These benefits are especially meaningful in a college environment, where mental load and long hours can take a toll.

Our current offerings reflect this holistic approach to well-being. Both instructors create inclusive, supportive classes that emphasize mindful movement, breath awareness, and accessibility.

• Monday Hatha Yoga with Nicole Haverda, in-person only at the Exchange District Campus downtown.
• Wednesday Gentle Flow Yoga with Jaimie Bristow, in-person, live streamed and recorded at the Notre Dame Campus.

Whether you’re looking to manage stress, move your body gently, improve focus, or simply take a mindful break at lunch, our college yoga classes offer a supportive space to prioritize your well-being, on and off the mat.

Monday Hatha Yoga with Nicole Haverda

Meet Nicole Haverda, your Monday Hatha Yoga instructor at EDC downtown. Nicole Haverda is a yoga instructor and wellness practitioner passionate about creating welcoming, empowering spaces where people can connect with themselves and others. Nicole brings experience in Hatha, restorative, yin, vinyasa, slow flow, and yin-yang yoga, adapting each practice to support a range of abilities and experience levels.

With a focus on mindfulness and nervous system regulation, Nicole weaves breathwork, meditation, and mindful movement into her classes. Her approach encourages participants to slow down, build body awareness, and develop practical tools for balance and self-regulation.

Known as HAVS NRGY, Nicole’s Hatha classes offer an opportunity to build strength, flexibility, and awareness while cultivating a grounded connection between mind and body.

Wednesday Gentle Flow Yoga with Jaimie Bristow

Take a midweek pause with Wednesday Gentle Flow Yoga, designed to support your mental and physical well-being. Led by Jaimie Bristow, this class blends slow, mindful movement with conscious breath to help ease tension, improve focus, and restore balance. Gentle Flow is accessible for all levels and perfect for students and staff looking for a calming, supportive practice.

Attend in person, join the live stream, or access the recorded class, whatever fits your schedule. This flexible, inclusive yoga experience offers a steady reset for your body and mind during the week.

Further Reading

• Harvard Health – Yoga for better mental health
• Healthline – Yoga for stress relief and anxiety management
• National Holistic Health Partners (NHPC) – Research on yoga benefits
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – 9 Benefits of Yoga
• National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) – Yoga for Health: What the Science Says

Starting your fitness journey can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, build strength, reduce stress, or simply stay active between classes, RRC Polytech Fitness Centres at both NDC and EDC are great places to begin. 

If you’ve never stepped foot in a gym before, this guide will help you feel more confident and prepared for your first visit. 

Why Join the Gym? 

Being physically active offers benefits far beyond fitness. Regular exercise can help: 

• Increase energy levels 

• Improve focus and concentration 

• Reduce stress and anxiety 

• Boost mood and confidence 

• Improve sleep quality 

• Support overall physical health 

For students balancing academics, work, and personal commitments, even a few gym visits each week can make a significant difference. 

Preparing for Your First Visit 

Once you’re ready to start your fitness journey, prepare a few things before your first visit: 

• Comfortable workout clothing 

• Clean indoor athletic shoes 

• A lock to lock and store your belongings in one of our daily use lockers  

• A water bottle 

• Your student or staff identification 

Upon entry, you are required to scan your student or staff ID to confirm you have a valid membership. 

As an active student, your gym membership is covered through the Wellness Fee. Depending on the program you’re enrolled in, this fee may already be included in your tuition or may need to be paid at the front desk.

Understanding the Gym Layout 

Walking into a gym for the first time can feel overwhelming. At RRC Polytech fitness centres key areas are divided so it is easier to navigate through: 

Try this beginner-friendly routine: 

Warm-Up (5 Minutes) 

• Walk on a treadmill or cycle on a stationary bike 

• Light dynamic stretching (Leg and arm swings, walking lunges, etc.) 

Strength Circuit (15-20 Minutes) 

Complete 2 sets of: 

• Leg Press: 10-12 reps 

• Chest Press: 10-12 reps 

• Lat Pulldown: 10-12 reps 

• Seated Row: 10-12 reps 

• Bodyweight Squats: 10-15 reps 

If using weight, make sure it’s challenging enough to the point where you can comfortably complete all the recommended reps – feeling like you can do 1-2 more reps by the end of the set. Rest as needed between exercises (~ 60-90 sec) 

Cardio (10 Minutes) 

Choose one: 

• Treadmill walk 

• Bike ride 

• Elliptical workout 

Cool Down (5 Minutes) 

• Slow walking 

• Gentle stretching 

The goal isn’t to have a perfect workout. The goal is simply to get comfortable in the space and establish a routine. 

We’re Here to Help

Starting something new can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. The RRC Polytech Fitness Centre is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming space for all fitness levels. 

Whether you’re stepping into a gym for the first time or returning after a long break, remember that every experienced gym user was once a beginner too. 

Your fitness journey starts with a single visit. We look forward to seeing you at the RRC Polytech Fitness Centre. 

Got questions about equipment or facility services? You can ask for help from one of our Gym Clerks or book a Fitness Centre Orientation through this link here  

Suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. An estimated 727,000 people die by suicide each year worldwide, and each suicide profoundly affects many more people. World Suicide Prevention Day is observed every year on 10 September to draw global attention to this issue and to reinforce the message that suicide is preventable.

The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”. Changing the narrative is about transforming how this complex issue is understood, shifting from a culture of silence towards one of openness, empathy and support. It aims to encourage individuals, communities, organisations and governments to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide and suicidal behaviour.

Changing the Narrative on Suicide

How can you change the narrative on suicide?

Check in with loved ones: Take time to reach out to someone in your community, a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger. Look out for those who you think might be struggling and don’t be afraid to ask someone if they are suicidial. By offering support, showing empathy, and validating their feelings, you will most likely reduce destress rather than exacerbate it. Encourage them to seek help and further support.

Keep informed: Consider accessing training opporunities in suicide prevention and awareness to identify and support those with suicidal thoughts and behavour. Staff and instructors can enroll in Safetalk or Mental Health First Aid through Organizational Development.

• Safetalk- teaches participants how to recognize a person with thoughts of suicide and connect them to help to keep them safe.
• Mental Health First Aid – skills to recognize & support individuals experiencing mental health challenges

Advocate for mental health awareness: Promote mental health awareness within your community, use social media and casual conversations to spread the message.

Join the Winnipeg Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) for an event marking World Suicide Prevention Day. This year’s WSPN event theme, “You may be wondering… if it’s okay to ask,” highlights the importance of checking in, asking questions, and creating space for conversations about suicide and mental health. Thursday September 10, 2026, Whittier Park Picnic Shelter (836 Rue St Joseph), 11 am to 1 pm.

Visit the Campus Well-Being resource table to learn more, pick up resources, and learn how to change the narrative on suicide.

• South Campus – Tuesday September 8, 11:30 am to 1 pm. Hallway Alcove – Cafeteria.
• Notre Dame Campus – Wednesday September 9, 11:30 am to 1 pm. Library Hallway.
• Exchange District Campus – Thursday September 10, 11:30 am to 1 pm. 2nd floor, Manitou Building.

This summer, we welcomed youth ages 9–17 to RRC Polytech to explore, create and discover programs across our campuses. With support from friendly instructors, campers stepped into real labs, studios, kitchens and shops — building practical skills, trying new things and sparking future interests.

We’re sharing a few highlights from across our Youth Camps and celebrating the moments of discovery that shaped the summer.

Trades & Technology Camps

Girls Exploring Trades & Technology Camp (GETT)

We offered three sessions of GETT Camps this past summer, giving 54 lucky campers the chance to explore trades and technology across RRC Polytech. Funded by the Canerector Foundation, which is dedicated to investing in skilled trades education, GETT Camps support girls and non‑binary youth in discovering pathways in the trades.

 

Electrify Your Game!

Our Industrial Arts – Teacher Education team guided campers through Electrify Your Game, a hands‑on camp blending electronics, woodworking and graphic arts. All week, campers brought their own “Operation”-style board games to life — wiring circuits, crafting components and designing their boards.

It’s safe to say the operation was a success.

Wheels in Motion: A Transportation Technology Camp & Girls in Motion: Shifting Gears in Automotive Trades

Youth got a fast‑paced intro to Automotive Trades this summer, exploring Automotive Repair, Heavy‑Duty Industry, Collision Repair and Outdoor Power Equipment. They tackled tons of hands‑on activities, with the standout moment being the RC cars they built (thanks to GFL!) and raced in an epic end‑of‑week showdown. A high‑energy, skill‑building adventure from start to finish.

Next-Level Coding

This camp explored how coding powers the world around us, diving into Python to build digital worlds, create interactive projects and share their creations with the rest of the group. Hosted in the Exchange District for youth ages 15–17, this camp gave participants a chance to level up their skills and build confidence.

Sustainability & Indigenous Teachings Camp

Rooted in the Land: Indigenous Teachings for a Sustainable Future

Campers spent the week immersed in land‑based learning guided by Indigenous knowledge, taking part in activities like berry picking, bannock over the fire and building tipis. It was a week of tradition, stewardship and connection — and their relationship with the land grew stronger each day.

Photography Camps

Out & About Photography & Advanced Photography

We offered two photography camps this summer — Out & About for iPhone basics and Advanced Photography for DSLR skills. Campers learned composition, colour and exposure, lighting and portrait techniques — and we definitely captured some unforgettable moments.

Design Camp

Design Your Dream Room

Campers explored interior decorating basics through Design Your Dream Room — creating vision boards, crafting custom lamps and making their own artwork. The highlight was a field trip to IKEA, where they brought their design ideas to life.

Entrepreneurship Camps

Entrepreneurship: Design Sprint

We offered two Entrepreneurship Design Sprint camps for ages 9–11 and 12–14, where youth learned the basics of building a business — from creating products to marketing and pitching their ideas. They designed business cards, mascots and posters to promote their creations. Talk about building their brand.

Culinary & Baking Camps

Sweet Treats Baking

This camp for ages 9–11 taught young bakers the basics of creating treats from scratch — from cookies to cream puffs to their own pizzas. They explored measuring, mixing and kitchen safety while having a blast experimenting with new recipes. A week full of sweet wins.

Diner Classics Bootcamp

Campers spent the week cooking at the EDC Campus, learning knife skills, kitchen safety and how to work confidently in a real kitchen. They made tacos, pizza, burgers, soup and sandwiches — a delicious mix of creativity and culinary skill.

What a summer- full of creativity, skill‑building and unforgettable moments. From cooking and photography to entrepreneurship, trades and technology to design and sustainability, campers explored new ideas, tried new tools and discovered what they’re capable of.

Thanks to the generous support of the Carolyn Sifton Foundation, we were able to offer 90 free camp seats and open these experiences to even more youth.

Want to stay in the loop about upcoming Youth Initiative programs? Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to hear what’s next. Our check out our FAQ page!

Here’s to the next generation of creators, makers and innovators — and the bright future they’re already building.

Until next Summer!

Life moves quickly. Between family, responsibilities, and the demands of everyday life, it’s easy to stay busy without taking a moment to check in with yourself.

This September, MindWell’s focus is on Emotional Health, creating space to better understand your emotions, strengthen self-awareness, and navigate daily challenges with greater clarity and intention.

As you settle back into your routine, consider making your well-being part of it too. Staff and students can access their free MindWell account here.

What’s on offer?

Holding Space for Yourself

This restorative class invites participants to slow down, process emotions without judgment, and strengthen self-awareness through guided reflection, mindfulness, and emotional regulation practices.

Wednesday September 30, 2026 at 11 am CST. Register here.

Mindful Emotions: Cultivating Inner Resilience

Learn to navigate your emotions with greater awareness and compassion in this class with Dr. Ellen Choi. Discover mindfulness-based strategies to manage stress, reduce anxiety, and foster emotional resilience for a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 11 am CST. Register here.

While we often think of health in terms of nutrition, movement, or sleep, the quality of our relationships is just as important. Meaningful connections can strengthen well-being, reduce stress, and foster resilience both at work and in everyday life. In August, MindWell’s focus is on Social Health, helping you build stronger connections, communicate with greater intention, and cultivate a deeper sense of belonging. RRC Polytech staff and students can access their free MindWell account here.

Here’s what’s coming in August:

The Energy We Bring into the Room

Every interaction carries energy. This class explores how mindfulness can strengthen communication, deepen connection, and help participants naviage conversations with confidence, empathy, and emotional awareness. You will practice staying present while managing triggers, reactions, and social tension.

Friday August 14 at 11 am CST. Register here.

Mindful Connections: Enhancing Social Well-Being.

Explore the powerful synergy between mindfulness and social well-being. Drawing on scientific research, guided experiential pracices, and personal insights, Dr. Ellen Choi will help you navigate the nurances of human connection.

Wednesday August 26 at 11 am CST. Register here.