Andrea Paquette
CEO and Co-Founder
Andrea Paquette is the CEO and Co-Founder of the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. Her journey began with the Bipolar Babe Project in 2009, followed by founding the Bipolar Disorder Society of BC in 2010, which evolved into today’s Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. Under her leadership, the charity has grown its reach across Canada through mental health education, training and community-based programs.
Andrea holds a double major degree in Political Science and Women’s Studies and previously worked with the BC government. An accomplished speaker and author, she has delivered more than 870 presentations across North America, reaching over 85,000 people directly. Her work has received national recognition, including the 2023 Alberta Blue Cross Faces of Wellness Award and the 2019 President’s Commendation from the Canadian Psychiatric Association.
Shirley Kine
Operations and Engagement Manager
Shirley has a Masters’ Degree in Social Work – Leadership (Complex Systems) with BSW Undergraduate Degrees in Indigenous, Rural and Remote Social Work and BA in Women’s Health. She is Certified in Adult Education, Conflict Resolution, Mental Health First Aid, ASIST Suicide Prevention and Beyond the Hurt (Anti-Bullying). Shirley is also a Director for the Health Quality Council of Alberta, Senator for the University of Calgary and Victim’s Advocate for BVVSA. Shirley has spent most of her professional career working in Indigenous, Rural and Remote social work capacities. For the past 15 years, Shirley has tinkered in social enterprise and measuring the impact of social initiatives when she wasn’t doing her lifelong learning. Shirley lives and works with purpose in mind – we must be the change we wish to see.
Alice Wilcox
Programs Manager
Alice brings a background in education, coordination, and program support to her role at the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society. Originally trained as an Educational Assistant, she discovered that her strengths were well suited to administrative and program-focused work, leading her to the non-profit sector where she could combine her organizational skills with her passion for meaningful community work. As a parent of school-aged children, Alice understands the importance of accessible, quality programming that supports mental health and well-being across individuals, families, and communities. Alice is proud to be part of the SFMHS team and values the organization’s commitment to creating space for important conversations, connecting people with meaningful resources, and promoting mental wellness. Outside of work, Alice enjoys spending time outdoors and making memories with her family.
Erin Robertson
Social Media Marketer & Graphic Designer
Erin has a Diploma in Marketing from Kwantlen University and has over a decade of experience in social media, digital marketing, and graphic design. Through contract and volunteer work, she has worked with a variety of non-profits, helping to strengthen their digital presence and amplify their missions. Erin’s personal experiences and passions for mental health have deepened her commitment to reducing stigma and creating more open conversations around mental health. She is excited to bring her skills and creativity to the Stigma-Free Mental Health Society.
Kristine Mitchell
Content Writer
Kristine Mitchell is a professional writer and somatic coach whose work sits at the intersection of science, creativity, and wellbeing. She holds a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of British Columbia, an M.A. from the Universiteit van Amsterdam in Music Cognition (where she researched music-induced empathy and neural synchronization), as well as an M.A. in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Kristine’s published work spans wellness, travel, psychology, and art, reflecting her belief that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for building empathy and reducing stigma. Her personal healing journey has taken her across the globe and deepened her commitment to supporting others. She is excited to bring her voice and skills to the Stigma-Free team.