Andrea Paquette serves as the President and Co-Founder of the Stigma-Free Society. In 2009, she initiated the Bipolar Babe Project, sharing her mental health journey and establishing a website as a valuable resource hub. Evolving into the Bipolar Disorder Society of BC in 2010, the charity later rebranded as the Stigma-Free Society, extending its reach across Canada through comprehensive education and training programs.
At the heart of Andrea's dedication is the Society's impactful Virtual Presentations Program, led by 21 stigma-free personal story presenters. These individuals spotlight their struggles and victories, spearheading Andrea's mission to foster awareness, understanding, and acceptance of
various stigmas.
Driven by a passion to combat mental health stigma and societal biases, Andrea shares her inspiring journey since her bipolar disorder diagnosis in 2005, addressing diverse audiences across North America. As an acclaimed mental health activist, educator, facilitator, speaker, and published author, she has delivered her story at 850+ venues, including schools, workplaces, and community events, touching thousands with her message of hope.
Andrea's exceptional contributions have earned her prestigious accolades, including the 2023 Alberta Blue Cross - Faces of Wellness Recipient and the 2019 President's Commendation from the Psychiatric Association of Canada. Notably, she was a 2017 YWCA Woman of Distinction nominee for Metro Vancouver and featured in a nationally aired Bell Let’s Talk Public Service Announcement. Her impactful presence extends to the media, where she appeared in CBC's documentary "You Can’t Ask That."
Andrea shares her message with a passion far and wide that truly… "No matter our challenges, we can all live extraordinary lives."
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