The spirit of connection and collaboration was on full display at ShedFest 2025 Québec, held at the Hotel Plaza Québec. The gathering coincided with the Provincial Men’s Health and Well Being Group’s (RPSBEH) Conference on Men’s Mental Health and brought together organizers of Men’s Sheds and other like-minded men’s groups from across Québec to celebrate the next chapter of the Men’s Shed movement.
The event was spearheaded by Robert Elhen of the Lac-Brome Men’s Shed, who also serves on the Board of Directors of Men’s Sheds Canada. His leadership and dedication played a central role in making this event a reality—and in guiding the broader effort to establish a provincial Men’s Shed association in Québec and an inaugural Board of Directors.
Participants engaged in a comprehensive, collaborative brainstorming session that became a space for open dialogue, strategic thinking, and community storytelling. One of the most constructive discussions focused on naming the new association. Participants agreed on a bilingual identity that reflects the province’s cultural and linguistic diversity: L’Association des Men’s Sheds du Québec (French) and Men’s Sheds Quebec (English).
Discussions throughout the day helped clarify the core principles that will guide the emerging association:
- Promoting mental health and well-being
- Reducing social isolation
- Supporting community-led innovation
- Encouraging intergenerational connection and inclusion
- Respecting the diverse nature of individual Sheds
Participants also emphasized the importance of flexible structures that allow each Shed to evolve in response to its local context—whether through woodworking, mentorship, gardening, or social connection.
One of the most powerful moments of ShedFest 2025 was a panel discussion moderated by Michel Rodrigue, President and CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada. The panel focused on the theme Breaking the Isolation of Men and featured:
- Dr. Andy Tamas, Vice-President, Men’s Sheds Canada
- Dr. Dominic Bizot, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
- Dr. Éric Couto, Centre de Ressources pour Hommes de Montréal
- Robert Elhen, President, Lac-Brome Men’s Shed
Together, the panelists offered evidence, experience, and inspiration—underscoring how Men’s Sheds are not just hobby spaces, but essential hubs for community building and mental wellness. Participants also heard moving testimonials from Shed members, sharing how their involvement had led to renewed confidence, friendships, and better mental health. These stories made clear that Men’s Sheds provide life-changing support in informal, welcoming environments—especially for older men.
The establishment of a Provincial Men’s Shed association for Quebec is more than symbolic—it’s strategic. As we’ve seen in other provinces, these associations play a critical role in spurring the growth of new Sheds, coordinating resources, and advocating for support from health, community, and government partners.
With expanded leadership, collaboration, and shared purpose, the future of Men’s Sheds in Québec is bright.