Black Joy Art Initiative | Dalla Lana School of Public Health - University of Toronto

Project Description: Branded Content Video | University of Toronto – Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Client: University of Toronto (Dalla Lana School of Public Health)
Project Lead: Mercedes Sobers
Produced by: BIGSIX MEDIA

Project Title: Black Mental Wellness: A Celebration of Resilience, Joy, and Strength

Overview:
BIGSIX MEDIA had the honour of producing a branded content video in partnership with the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto to capture the heart and spirit of an exhibition created by Mercedes Sobers. Designed as a counterbalance to her dissertation research on disparities in Black mental health access, the exhibition and accompanying video shift the narrative from deficit to strength—amplifying Black voices, resilience, joy, and holistic wellness practices.

Purpose:
The goal of the video was to document and celebrate the exhibition as both a scholarly and community-based initiative that honors lived experience while promoting mental wellness in the Black community. The video also serves as a visual artifact that can be used for future educational and engagement opportunities within the university and beyond.

Key Elements:

1. Amplifying Black Voices:
   The video highlights a diverse group of participants and community members reflecting on their experiences with mental wellness. Their voices collectively represent a rich tapestry of stories, cultural wisdom, and personal healing practices.

2. Cultural and Emotional Resonance:
   With an emphasis on joy, strength, and self-reflection, the video intentionally centers positivity—an often overlooked perspective in conversations around Black mental health.

3. Exhibition Documentation:
   BIGSIX MEDIA visually captured the energy and interactive nature of the exhibition space, showcasing installations, written reflections, artwork, and discussion areas that invited participants to engage deeply and personally.

4. Educational Utility:
   Designed for more than just storytelling, the video can be used by faculty, researchers, and community health organizations as a teaching and advocacy tool in ongoing discussions around equity in mental health.

5. Short-Form, Impactful Format:
   The final cut is optimized for educational use and online sharing—striking a balance between thoughtful pacing and emotional impact to ensure engagement and retention.

Outcome:
The video was received with enthusiasm and gratitude by academic audiences, community stakeholders, and exhibition participants alike. It contributed to the broader aim of reframing the Black mental health narrative—from one rooted in disparity to one rooted in dignity, resilience, and collective care.