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Calgary's second annual Sober Runway featured 30 non-professional models in recovery from addiction, aiming to change perceptions and build confidence.
Calgary's second annual Sober Runway took place recently, featuring 30 non-professional models who are all in recovery from addiction. The event, held in Calgary, brought together participants from six addiction and mental health treatment centres, with the goal of changing how people see recovery and helping build confidence among those working to stay sober.
Founder Shares Personal Recovery Journey
For founder Susie Anibueze, the message is personal. She says she is in recovery herself and created the event after seeing how often addiction and mental health were treated as something people don't talk about.
Anibueze explained that coming from a place of shame and isolation to a room where people are celebrating and applauding can greatly boost self-confidence. She hopes the message resonates in communities where mental health is still difficult to talk about and where seeking help can still carry judgment.
Participants Build Confidence Through Preparation
For the participants, the runway is only part of it. In the weeks leading up to the show, they take part in fittings, rehearsals and group sessions, which helps build connection and confidence.
Brian Hamel, executive director of the Recovery Coach Academy of Canada, took part as a model for the first time this year. He says that sense of belonging is what makes recovery stick. He described the experience as a chance to let loose, have fun, and smile at what recovery can do.
Event Closes Recovery Week Calgary
The event also received support from several organizations, including funding from the government. Organizers hope to continue the show in future years, with the aim of raising awareness around recovery and mental health challenges.
The show closed out Recovery Week Calgary, which features workshops dedicated to mental health and addiction recovery. The Sober Runway not only provided a platform for individuals in recovery to celebrate their progress but also aimed to shift public perceptions and reduce stigma.
By bringing together participants from various treatment centres, the event fostered a sense of community and showed that recovery is possible. As the event continues to grow, organizers hope to reach more people and inspire others to seek help without fear of judgment.
Sober Runway Calgary Addiction Recovery Susie Anibueze Recovery Week Calgary Mental Health Brian Hamel
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