On September 10, Men’s Sheds Canada hosted a national webinar to mark World Suicide Prevention Day and shine a light on men’s health, connection, and saving lives.
The conversation featured Todd Minerson, Country Director for Movember Canada; Dr. John Oliffe, Professor at the University of British Columbia and Canadian Research Chair in Men’s Health Promotion; Jan Skora from the Ambleside Men’s Shed; and our own Brian Sawyer, Member Services and Outreach Manager and an active Shedder himself, who moderated the discussion.
Our President, Robert Goluch, opened the session by reminding us why this conversation matters: too many Canadian men are dying too young, and building social connection is one of the most powerful ways to turn that around.
The panel unpacked findings from the 2025 Movember Report: The Real Face of Men’s Health. This report offers some of the most compelling insights yet into the factors shaping men’s health in Canada—from mental health struggles and isolation to the protective role of friendship, purpose, and belonging.
Hearing from experts like Todd and John, and pairing that with the lived experiences shared by Jan and Brian, made for an honest, eye-opening discussion. It was a clear reminder of how important it is to support men in finding spaces like Sheds where they can connect, contribute, and be themselves.
If you missed the webinar, you can watch the full recording here: https://youtu.be/rnYKaASLDv0?si=8p35rSbAMi94Yp3d