Rabble Rousers: Empowering Youth, Changing Lives
“Art made my silence loud enough that someone heard me.”
“It’s not about being okay all the time, it’s about being brave enough to show up anyway.”
“You got this. It’s okay to reach out. You’re not alone.”
These are the voices of Rabble Rousers – a group of young adults from the Coast Mental Health Young Adult Program who are using creativity and courage to change conversations about mental health.
This year, Rabble Rousers took their message beyond their own community and into the biggest conversations in our city. At the BC Cancer Foundation’s Employee Health & Wellness Event, they shared personal stories of resilience and practical mental health tips with an audience of health care professionals and staff.
Their honesty and vulnerability sparked meaningful dialogue on health and wellness – physical, emotional and mental.
In addition, they proudly marched through the streets at the 2025 Vancouver Pride Parade this summer. Their presence brought visibility to the importance of mental health advocacy within queer spaces, sharing that every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and celebrated for who they are. These moments weren’t just public appearances – they were acts of healing and advocacy.
Projects making an impact
Over the years, the Rabble Rousers created projects that continue to inspire change – from digital storytelling events and podcasts to public art, interactive magazines, and youth-led workshops. Each initiative was designed by young people for young people, offering connection, creativity, and hope.
These efforts challenged stigma, fostered belonging, and proved what’s possible when lived experience leads the way.
We invite you to explore these projects that are not just about raising awareness, but are also about changing lives, fostering connection, and breaking down barriers young people face.
- @coastrabblerouser on TikTok (2025) – Talking [and sharing musings on] mental health, survival, culture and chaos – straight from the clubhouse.
- ContemPLATE: An Interactive Self-Help Magazine (2025) – Empowering young people with tools for wellness and self-care.
- You Got This: Mental Health PSAs (2023) – Spreading messages of hope and resilience through public service announcements.
- They Called Me Mental: Personal Stories of Mental Health Recovery Podcast (2022) – Sharing raw stories of recovery to inspire others on their mental health journey.
- Courage: Rabble Rousers at Vancouver Mural Festival (2021) – Using public art to raise awareness about mental health and inclusivity.
Your support powers change
Programs like the Rabble Rousers are powered by your generosity including the group’s lead funder, the Westminster Foundation. Your support provides young people with nourishing meals, safe spaces to connect, and the opportunity to turn their experiences into powerful, change-making initiatives.
Thank you for being the driving force behind youth-led change. You are helping create a future where every young person feels heard, supported, and empowered to heal.
