Tell Us Your Story. What motivated you to start your business? Why are you passionate about what you do?

At some point in our lives, we all face some challenges. These challenges might involve a loved one, a family member, a colleague, or a friend. Which we may end up needing counselling support. However, some of us may hesitate to seek help due to the fear of being judged. Sadly, even in today's world, there is still a stigma attached to seeking mental and emotional support. This very reason inspired me to create a center where youth and adults, couples and families, can access various services in a judgment-free environment. At Catalyst Mind Center, individuals and groups can find empowerment, assertiveness training, meditation, and mindfulness workshops, Art therapy, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Counselling— and some inquiry-based learning programs for the youth, all under one roof. Our aim is to help everyone achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life while ensuring they have the emotional support they need. A cornerstone of our approach is supporting young people from an early age. We believe that early intervention is crucial in preventing more serious mental and emotional health issues in the future. By addressing problems early, we help young individuals build resilience, develop positive emotional health habits, and challenge harmful mindsets. This proactive approach not only supports their immediate well-being but also lays the groundwork for healthier mental health practices throughout their lives.

Describe and demonstrate, including metrics, your community support. How do you support and uplift your community, and how do they show that support in return? Minimum 25 words, maximum 2500 characters.

Addressing a crucial gap The inspiration behind founding Catalyst Mind Center was the recognition of a crucial gap in existing mental health services and the need to normalize seeking emotional and mental health support to avoid the stigma related to it. While there were existing clinics and counselling services in the area, there seemed to be a lack of a holistic approach where various forms of support could be accessed under one roof. The center aims to fill this gap by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their challenges and develop essential personal empowerment life skills. Catalyst Mind Center places a strong emphasis on early intervention, particularly for young people. By addressing issues early, we help young individuals build resilience and develop positive emotional and mental health habits, This proactive approach not only supports their immediate well-being but also lays the groundwork for healthier mental health practices throughout their lives. This proactive stance is designed to support immediate well-being and lay the groundwork for healthier mental health practices throughout their lives.

Why do you deserve to win the Business Impact award?

This cultural competence ensures that clients feel truly understood and supported. The team at Catalyst Mind Center speaks multiple languages, which helps build trust and makes clients feel more at ease during counselling sessions. Looking ahead, Catalyst Mind Center plans to expand its reach and services to meet the evolving needs of the community. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking support and guidance. The center aims to foster a community that addresses emotional and mental health concerns and promotes a continuous personal growth mindset. Their vision includes building a strong network of support with specialized programs, outreach initiatives, and collaborations with other organizations. With its comprehensive approach, commitment to cultural sensitivity, and dedication to community involvement, the center is poised to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of its clients. We are all connected to one another, in one way or another. We look forward to working together and supporting one another as a community towards empowerment and healing. Our aim is to help everyone achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life while ensuring they have the emotional support they need.”

Tell Us About Your Culture. How are you creating a sustainable and healthy workplace where everyone feels welcome? Provide examples of leadership you show in interactions with clients, vendors, contractors, staff and others.

Offering continuous support, implementing a cross-cultural ambiance, supporting and understanding the staff and their cultural and mental health needs. One of the distinguishing features of Catalyst Mind Center is its commitment to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. The center serves a diverse community in the North Shore area and has built a team of associates from various cultural backgrounds and ethnicities. Our associates are trained to be mindful and respectful of cultural differences, which is crucial in providing effective and empathetic care, which supports individuals through their integration into Canadian culture, This cultural competence ensures that clients feel truly understood and supported. The team at Catalyst Mind Center speaks multiple languages, which helps build trust and makes clients feel more at ease during counselling sessions. Looking ahead, Catalyst Mind Center plans to expand its reach and services to meet the evolving needs of the community. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking support and guidance.

Why do you think you should win the Premier’s People’s Choice Award?

Addressing a crucial gap The inspiration behind founding Catalyst Mind Center was the recognition of a crucial gap in existing mental health services and the need to normalize seeking emotional and mental health support to avoid the stigma related to it. While there were existing clinics and counselling services in the area, there seemed to be a lack of a holistic approach where various forms of support could be accessed under one roof. The center aims to fill this gap by providing a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals can explore their challenges and develop essential personal empowerment life skills. Catalyst Mind Center places a strong emphasis on early intervention, particularly for young people. By addressing issues early, we help young individuals build resilience and develop positive emotional and mental health habits. This proactive approach not only supports their immediate well-being but also lays the groundwork for healthier mental health practices throughout their lives.