Bibi Hakim: How One Advocate Changed Canada’s Mental Health Policy

In this episode of Talk of Fame, Kylie Montigney talks with Bibi Hakim. Bibi is a passionate advocate for mental health and gender equality, with an impressive background in political science and public administration from the University of Ottawa, where she focused on international relations and mental health policy. She previously served as a Legislative Assistant in the Parliament of Canada, where she worked closely with Members of Parliament, analyzing bills, legislative amendments, and committee reports on international trade, science and technology, government operations, and more. Her commitment to global advocacy led her to the United Nations Population Fund’s Asia-Pacific Regional Office in Thailand. There, Bibi championed initiatives to eliminate gender-based violence, promote gender equality, and strengthen international mental health advocacy. She played a key role in regional consultations for the UN Commission on the Status of Women and developed a monitoring and evaluation platform used across UNFPA regional and country offices. Bibi is also the founder of Project Breaking Barriers, a campus-based initiative that creates safe spaces for students to decompress and learn mental wellness practices. Her efforts sparked faculty-wide recognition, leading to the creation of a scholarship supporting students facing mental health and financial struggles. Her advocacy work has reached the federal level—Bibi authored a policy proposal calling for accessible, affordable, and inclusive mental health services. This proposal was adopted by three major political parties during the 2021 election and helped pave the way for the establishment of Canada’s first federal Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. Bibi is also a proud recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold, Silver, Bronze, and commemorative Diamond Awards.

Listen in as we discuss Bibi’s journey advocating for Mental Health. You’ll be inspired by her dedication to inspiring others through advocating for people with depression & anxiety.

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Hi, I’m Kylie! I’m passionate about sports, spending time with family, traveling, and connecting with people who inspire me. I love listening to people’s stories and sharing their journeys with the world!