Brandon training aims to build peer support skills in rural Manitoba

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Brandon training aims to build peer support skills in rural Manitoba

LA SALLE, MB, Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026 – Farmers, rural residents and people who support Manitoba’s agricultural community are invited to take part in a two-day peer support training session in Brandon this November, where they will learn practical ways to support others through difficult times.

The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program (MFWP) is partnering with Stigma-Free Mental Health Society to bring its Rural Minds Matter peer support training to Brandon University on Nov. 14 and 15, 2026.

“Farm life comes with its share of challenges, and you don’t always know what someone else might be going through,” says Gerry Friesen, chief administrative officer of MFWP. “Being able to check in with someone, listen without judging and help them feel comfortable talking can make a real difference.”

The Rural Minds Matter Peer Support Training is designed for people in rural and agricultural communities who want to support others with shared experiences. Participants will develop peer support skills and learn how to start support groups in their own communities, helping people connect with others who understand their way of life.

“You do not need to have all the answers to make a difference in someone’s life. Listening with care and helping someone feel less alone can mean so much,” says Andrea Paquette, CEO and co-founder of Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. “We are honoured to work with the MFWP to bring these practical skills to farmers and rural communities.”

MFWP brings its understanding of farm life and connections across Manitoba’s agricultural community to the partnership. Through Rural Minds Matter, Stigma-Free Mental Health Society helps rural and agricultural communities build peer support skills and strengthen connections.
Training details

• Dates: Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026
• Time: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CST each day
• Location: Brandon University, Brandon, Manitoba
• Cost: $50
• Registration: Advance registration is required, and space is limited. Register at ruralmentalwellness.com/peer-support

A special panel discussion on mental health in agriculture will follow the workshop on Saturday, Nov. 14. Participants are welcome to bring a partner or friend to the evening event, and pizza will be provided.

The panel will feature Gerry Friesen, CAO of MFWP, also known as “The Recovering Farmer”; Bryce Fisher, a Manitoba farmer, research assistant at the Centre for Critical Studies of Rural Mental Health, mental health advocate and psychiatric nursing student; Tracy Young, a mental health clinician with the Centre for Critical Studies of Rural Mental Health and the MFWP; and David Stewart, owner, developer and facilitator of RecoveryWise Consulting. Andrea Paquette, CEO and co-founder of Stigma-Free Mental Health Society, will moderate the discussion.

The event will offer an opportunity to talk about mental health in agriculture and connect with others who understand the challenges facing farmers and rural communities.


About Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program
The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program is a non-profit organization that connects Manitoba farmers, farm families and farm employees aged 16 and older with professional counsellors who understand agriculture. The program offers confidential, no-cost counselling through in-person, phone and virtual appointments. For more information, visit manitobafarmerwellness.ca.

About Stigma-Free Mental Health Society
Established in 2010, Stigma-Free Mental Health Society is a Canadian charity providing education, resources and opportunities for community connection. Its Rural Minds Matter program supports rural residents in building skills to support one another. Learn more at stigmafreementalhealth.com.


Media Contacts
Gerry Friesen
Chief Administrative Officer
Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program
info@manitobafarmerwellness.ca | 204-232-0574