CNSA Mental Health Award

My name is Muhammad Mneina, and I’m a nursing student at the University of British
Columbia. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the quieter corners of people’s
lives. The parts most don’t talk about out loud. That’s where my interest in mental health
started, especially with young people who are trying to find their way in a world that doesn’t
always make space for them.

I didn’t set out to become a nurse, but over time, I kept finding myself in places where
listening, showing up, and standing with others felt less like a choice and more like a calling.
Working in youth programming, I heard stories about stigma and silence, about support that
was too hard to reach. Those stories left an impression I couldn’t ignore.

In nursing, I get to bring my full self into the room. To meet people exactly where they are,
especially in moments that don’t make the highlight reel.

This award means a lot to me. I’m grateful for the encouragement, and I’m excited to keep
learning, keep showing up, and keep making space for voices that need to be heard.