Changing Perspectives, One Event at a Time: Your Health Matters Summit
World Obesity Day is a global event that aims to raise awareness and take positive steps towards meaningful change. Obesity Matters, a non-profit organization, recently held its largest event yet, Your Health Matters, in celebration of this day. Despite inclement weather, the event was a success, with nearly 250 attendees either in-person or online. The day was filled with thought-provoking conversations, inspiring speeches, and even some dancing.
Opening the summit were hosts Sandra Elia and Rachel Atkins, who welcomed the guests and delivered heartfelt speeches that set the stage for the day’s theme: Changing Perspectives.
The first guest speaker, Dr. Sean Wharton discussed the medical implications of obesity and the myths and truths surrounding the new era of weight management medications, followed by Dr. Gillian Mandich, who shared her research on the science of happiness and emphasized that happiness is not just a feeling but is also a state of mind.
Next up was an interview between Dr. Vera Tarman and Sandra Elia on food addiction and the launch of Sandra’s book, Never Enough.
In Your Own Words moderated by Lisa Machado provided a candid and insightful look into the struggles and victories of people living with obesity. The stories of Andrew Locker and Brian Baumal were not just about weight. They were about finding hope in the face of adversity, about resilience and strength, and about inspiring others to challenge expectations and create change. This session was based on the book with the same name in collaboration with Novo Nordisk.
We were honoured to welcome Sonia Sidhu, Member of Parliament for Brampton South who commended Obesity Matters on the much needed work in obesity prevention and also highlighted the government’s work in diabetes care.
In the final session, Tedi Nikova and Julie Mai provided invaluable insight into debunking the notion that eating less or exercising more is all one needs when it comes to weight management – followed by a food demonstration.
Sandra and Rachel’s vibrant hosting style kept things engaging with fun walk-up songs introducing each speaker! Dancing along together truly showcased how this organization succeeds at creating a strong sense of community while also keeping it enjoyable
Executive Director Priti Chawla offered inspiring words at the event’s conclusion, expressing gratitude and appreciation for everyone’s dedicated efforts in building vibrant communities.
The Your Health Matters summit showcased Obesity Matters’ commitment to changing perspectives and creating a community that is passionate about making a difference. The speakers delivered thought-provoking messages that challenged attendees to consider the multi-faceted nature of obesity. The event was also a reminder that addressing obesity requires a collaborative effort from healthcare professionals, educators, corporations, media, policy makers and individuals. Obesity Matters had a clear call to action for attendees and left them motivated and empowered to advocate for change. It’s events like these that show how we can make a difference and inspire others to join the fight against obesity.
Get a glimpse of the event through these photos. Scroll down or click this LINK for the summit videos.
