Hannah Jackson: Pics 4 Passion – Passion to Purpose

Hannah Jackson from Nova Scotia creates a mental health photobook

TELL US ABOUT THE ACTIVITIES AND IMPACT OF YOUR PROJECT

My project included travelling throughout the province photographing individuals who struggle with mental health. Along with the photographs I interviewed them and learned more about their stories and why they were willing to share them. When I finished collecting the images and stories I compiled them all into a book that is being used a resources and conversation starter. Each person who was in the book had an option to get a copy of it. Those who chose to have been sharing it throughout the communities and in-result having some powerful conversations and brain storming sessions on how they can help each other. The book has also been given to Members of Parliament and they are using it to raise awareness while in Ottawa.

TELL US HOW YOU RECRUITED AND INVOLVED YOUR PEERS IN THE PROJECT

I used word of mouth and social media ads. Mainly on Facebook.

WHO DID YOUR PROJECT ENGAGE AND WHAT IMPACTS DID YOU AND YOUR TEAM ACHIEVE?

Young adults who have struggled with mental health.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BIGGEST SUCCESS ACHIEVED THROUGH YOUR PROJECT

Getting the privilege of connecting with so many incredible people and hearing where they’ve been and what they’re going through. Also completing it.

TELL US ABOUT THE LESSONS LEARNED THROUGH YOUR PROJECT

If I were to start it today, I would spend less time trying to chase down people who didn’t actually want to be apart of it but wouldn’t tell me, and spend more time with those who did want to be apart of it.

I would also designate a week or two to getting the photographs and that’s it, instead of trying to fit them in whenever I could.