Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, mental health professional and social advocate Lana Bentley joins Hafiz and Gilbert to talk about her work as Director of Strategy at YW Calgary, Mount Royal University, and Alberta Health Services, as well as the pivotal moments in her life that led to her dedication to healthcare. Lana also details her extensive philanthropic and volunteer work, as well as her efforts to better her community by running for City Councilor Ward 6 in 2021. On top of all that, Lana tells us how and why she is preparing upcoming three-round boxing match that she is competing in for charity. Listen in as Hafiz and Gilbert find out what makes such a community-driven person tick.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Lana.
[2:35] “They were definitely pushing the margins!” Lana details her upbringing as a lifelong Calgarian with progressive minority activist parents.
[16:56] Lana shares a harrowing experience that proved to be a great blessing in her life. “When you’ve gone through a life and death experience yourself… you tend to look at things differently.”
[24:26] “Wellness, community, and connection: these things matter.” We learn how Lana’s health problems shaped her worldview, and how she turned her intentions into action.
[25:26] Lana highlights some of the most important parts of her physical and mental wellness regimen.
[35:07] Lana explains why her iPod and skiing are her can’t-live-with outs.
[39:05] We learn about the ins and outs of Lana’s unlikely and inspiring run for City Counsel in 2021.
[57:07] Lana tells us how we can help support the long list of community-building organizations that she is involved in (visit these links below).
Connect with Lana and support her work:
www.ywcalgary.ca
www.calgaryblackchambers.ca
www.youthcental.com
www.thesharpfoundation.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies