Join us on Friday, September 12th for
WOW Festival 2025
at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre
The WOW Festival is a high-energy day of action that brings to life what a fully integrated healthcare system can look like—one that gives equal priority to Mental, Physical, and Substance Use Health. Each September, over 200 organizations and more than 2,000 attendees come together to connect with services that support every pathway to wellness.
This year’s theme, From Research to Action, highlights how evidence can drive real-world change. From our new student-led poster session showcasing cutting-edge health research for the community, to expanded booths across the spectrum of care, and a new location at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, this year’s Festival is all about translating knowledge into impact, reducing stigma, and building a more connected and inclusive healthcare system.
Substance Use Health Symposium
Bringing together researchers, service providers, and policymakers, the symposium explores innovative approaches to Substance Use Health informed by experience and expertise. Alongside our incredible speaker lineup (stay tuned!) we will have our annual Mayoral Proclamation and Ally Awards! Space is limited to 150 attendees so get your tickets before they are all gone! Free tickets to a limited number of students, email us at wowfestival@capsa.ca to secure yours.
Student Health-Research Poster Sessions
This years WOW Festival theme, From Research to Action, highlights how evidence can drive real world change. As part of this exciting theme we are introducing a new student-led poster session - a platform for students to showcase health-related research to the general public. If you want to highlight your health-research, submit your abstract by August 1st, 2025.
Community Partner Expo
WOW Festival brings together service providers, community organizations, and the public to envision a coordinated healthcare system that values Physical, Mental, and Substance Use Health equally. Held at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, this year’s Expo features an a large open space to foster engagement and collaboration, and the chance to connect with a growing network of over 100 organizations dedicated to health equity. To secure a booth at the expo, be sure to register your organization.
CAPSA is also looking for volunteers to join us in putting on this great event. Lunch will be provided for all our volunteers. If you are interested, you may contact volunteer@capsa.ca with any dietary sensitivities and/or restrictions you may have.
The Working on Wellness festival is organized by CAPSA. Your privacy is important to us. We do not share your personal information with any outside organization.