Brock Poulin was a spark of joy to those he graced with friendship during his high school years.

He was the kind of person who brought people together from different circles, debating passionately about artists, music, film, and pop culture. His sense of humour was also something that was most memorable. He would leave us in tears, rolling with laughter.

Brock’s commitment to ongoing formal education was proof of his enduring work ethic and intelligence, his zest for life, and his passion for the arts over the span of 20 years.

Brock obtained a BA in Film Studies from the University of Regina in 2000, went on to receive his Masters in Journalism from Ryerson, (Toronto 2002), before completing his Masters in Arts from the University of British Columbia (2005).

He also travelled overseas to Korea and spent his final days teaching international students in Vancouver, a city he grew to love and call home.

We lost Brock to a battle with mental health that he chose to keep quiet about. We are profoundly sad to have lost him. What he didn’t know was how much he was admired and had inspired and impacted those who had the pleasure to meet him along the way.

In remembrance, Brock’s friends have created the Brock Poulin Memorial Scholarship for students at the YRHS in Yorkton, Saskatchewan – including students in the Rainbow Club, students entering a care profession, and students similar to Brock who have shown a passion for starting a career in film, music, drama, or the arts.

We will continue to accept donations for this Scholarship, but also ask you to support HeadsUpGuys, a UBC mental health initiative that focuses on the wellbeing of our male friends, brothers, coworkers, partners, and family members. The stigma around mental health has no place in a future where everyone is respected, seen, and heard as a complex whole.

Thank you for your ongoing support and your heartfelt messages.

Brock was loved more than he knew, and his loss his felt deeply by those he inspired. He will be missed, but not forgotten.

In memory of Brock, all donations made here will go to support HeadsUpGuys, an online resource that supports men in their fight against depression. Your gift will pay tribute to Brock’s life and break the silence around men’s mental health, encouraging men to reach out for help. To learn more about the HeadsUpGuys program, visit https://headsupguys.org.