Look Who it Was Random video

The Source of Inspiration | Rob Heighington | TEDxCanmore

794 views · Published 14 March 2016 · 13:43 · Indexed 21 September 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2016 · Nonprofits & Activism

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Rob shares an inspiring and powerful turn of events whereby an alternative high school creative exercise is turned on its head by the toughest youth in the community.  An 'epiphany and life-changing moment'.
Working with students struggling with re-occurring trauma, substance abuse and underlying mental health issues a theme of inspiration rises out of the story when a handful of exceptional students come to discover and then express their dreams in a unique and creative way.

Rob is the founder of the Creative Spark-Logon for Mental Wellness, a non-profit program that links creative expression with mental health. The program launched in 2006 has connected face to face with over 3000 students in Alberta delivering a unique Mental Wellness information program utilizing creative hands-on activities, and high-energy student inspired events. Rob lives in Canmore, Alberta with his wife Ellen and their two children. Before moving to the Rocky Mountains, Rob worked his way through the IT profession to become a Fortune 500 CIO. Rob’s journey is anything but normal.  Prior to reaching the top of his profession Rob was a high school dropout. While he suffers from serious depression, he considers himself very fortunate to have a strong support network of friends, family, and excellent medical care which allows Rob to focus on his volunteer work. In support of mental health, Rob is also a watercolour artist and Second City trained in the art of Improv. 

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx

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