The Project

The CHRR is pleased to collaborate on Smile Flowers. Smile Flowers is a project in partnership  with Resilia Community Wellness Centre that is rooted in togetherness, resilience, growth and supportiveness that aims to address issues of mental health and trauma faced by refugee youth in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. The Smile Flowers Project is an innovative social project funded by UNESCO and SEVENTEEN’s “Going Together — For Youth Creativity and Well-Being” Global Youth Grant Scheme.

Project Goals

This project aims to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to enhance their well-being through arts-based activities that promote healing, peacebuilding, community building, and human rights.

Who is involved

The project is co-led by Bich Ha Dong (Cassie) and Bich Thuy Dong (Kristy). Bich Ha Dong (Cassie) is a Ph.D student in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Manitoba, Canada. Her research focuses on the arts, education, and healing as everyday practices of peacebuilding. Bich Thuy Dong (Kristy) is pursuing a Master’s in Peace and Conflict studies at the University of Manitoba. They are passionate about advocating for positive social change, including women’s rights, 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion, anti-bullying, mental health and healing.

What the Project will Produce

Through the facilitation of workshops led by an Art Therapist from community partner Resilia, youth will be supported in developing knowledge of relevant arts-based practices that promote healing and wellness. Youth will have the opportunity to produce art based on their unique artistic and creative intuitions and lived experience, which will serve as public art to raise awareness of the issues faced by refugees in Canada, promoting wellness, diversity, inclusion, and community building.

Upcoming Events

Check back soon for updates! 

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Partners

For more information on The Smile Flowers Project, please contact dongc4@myumanitoba.ca.