New Wellness Conference in Brandon Aims to Support Those Who Spend Their Lives Supporting Others

A new one-day conference coming to Brandon this spring is drawing  interest from nurses, nonprofit professionals, and frontline workers from across Westman  and organizers say that response confirms just how needed the event is. 

The Flourish Wellness Conference, hosted by The Breathing Room — a new wellness  initiative of United Way West Central Manitoba — will take place on April 13 at the Western  Manitoba Centennial Auditorium. Designed specifically for helpers, caregivers, and  frontline professionals, the conference will offer a full day of learning, reflection, and  connection focused on wellbeing, sustainability, and resilience in helping professions. 

“People who work in care-focused roles are incredible at showing up for others, often at the  expense of their own wellbeing,” said Cynamon Mychasiw, CEO. “Flourish was created to  intentionally hold space for those individuals, to acknowledge the weight they carry and to  offer practical tools, connection, and renewal.” 

Organizers say interest has already exceeded expectations, with inquiries and registrations  coming not only from Brandon, but also from surrounding communities including Dauphin,  Virden, and Minnedosa. Many early inquiries have come from nurses and mental health  professionals, alongside nonprofit leaders and staff. 

The conference will feature speakers with expertise in mental health, resilience, and  community care, including Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, an award-winning psychology and  education behaviourist and internationally recognized leader in resiliency, stress, and hope. A bestselling author and sought-after speaker, Dr. Hanley-Dafoe is known for  delivering “science with heart,” translating research into practical tools that support  psychological safety and sustainable performance in helping professions.  

“This isn’t about adding one more thing to people’s to-do lists,” said Jamie Stouffer. “It’s  about reminding those who give so much of themselves that they matter too. It’s about  caregivers putting themselves first sometimes, and some of the tools that can help them  do it.” 

Flourish is open to anyone who supports others as part of their work or daily life, including  healthcare workers, nonprofit and social sector staff, educators, community leaders,  caregivers, and those who show up for people in meaningful ways.

Registration is now open, and space is limited. 

For more information or to register, visit https://www.wmca.ca/events/flourish-wellness conference-presented-by-the-breathing-room-and-united-way