At just 21 years old, Tyler Smith has already faced challenges most of us can’t begin to imagine. As a survivor of the 2018 Humboldt Broncos bus crash that claimed the lives of 16 teammates, staff, and coaches, Smith’s path has been one of profound grief, resilience, and ultimately, transformation.
He spoke last week at the meeting of the Alberta Seed Processors in Edmonton, Alta.
“It was a time where I had to prioritize my mental health and take a step back to truly heal,” he said of the weeks and months following the bus crash.
Since then, Smith has become a passionate advocate for mental health, sharing his story across Canada. His advocacy takes many forms: co-hosting the podcast Speak Your Mind, founding The Not Alone Company, a mental health awareness clothing line, and continuing to spread his message through public speaking engagements. He is also a recent winner of The Amazing Race Canada.
For Smith, it all comes down to one belief: “The power of a conversation can change everything.”
Mental Health in the Field
When it comes to the unique challenges faced by agricultural communities—a group increasingly vocal about mental health—his insight was clear: “Farmers have incredible stories, but sometimes they don’t give themselves permission to care about their own story. With so much change happening in agriculture—whether it’s the next generation bringing in new ideas or the pressures of adapting to an evolving industry—it can be overwhelming,” he said.
For Smith, the key is to help people embrace change, even when it feels daunting. “My number one piece of advice? Celebrate the small victories. It’s all about setting small goals and reflecting on how far you’ve come. That mindset helped me after the crash, and it’s something I carry with me today.”
When it comes to the stigma surrounding mental health, Smith shares a cautiously optimistic perspective. “I think we’re making progress. There are more resources available, and conversations are happening more openly. But the reality is, especially for youth, the pressures of social media, expectations, and the world they’re growing up in are tough,” he said.
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