Mario Rolle — Courage, Community, and Creating Brave Spaces
Keep Talking with The Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 - 29 minutes
In this final episode of Season 1 of Keep Talking, host Sam Madore sits down with Mario Rolle, a passionate mental health advocate dedicated to advancing social justice and strengthening the wellbeing of African Nova Scotian and Black communities.Mario shares his journey into advocacy — from his early work with at-risk men to helping build impactful programs like the Nova Scotia Brotherhood and beyond. He speaks to the importance of meeting people where they are, creating brave spaces for honest conversation, and the power of community-led solutions that respond to real needs.Together, they explore how stigma around mental health has shifted over time, why vulnerability is essential for healing, and how innovative approaches — from barbershop conversations to community summits — are helping more people feel seen, heard, and supported.Mario also reflects on the importance of self-care, joy, and balance, reminding us that doing this work sustainably means taking care of ourselves along the way.We also continue the conversation with the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia’s President and CEO, Starr Cunningham, reflecting on the importance of listening to communities and supporting grassroots initiatives that create meaningful, lasting impact.⸻About Mario RolleMario is a passionate mental health advocate with a career dedicated to fostering education, promoting social justice, and enhancing community well-being. Growing up in Bain Town, Nassau, Bahamas, he developed a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. This upbringing inspired his lifelong commitment to addressing systemic issues and supporting vulnerable populations.With a double degree in Criminology and Sociology from Saint Mary’s University and advanced training from the Dalhousie School of Social Work, Mario has built a strong academic foundation to tackle complex social and mental health challenges. His professional journey includes impactful leadership roles at Nova Scotia Health and Correctional Services Canada, where he has worked to address mental health and societal issues at both individual and systemic levels.Currently, Mario leads transformative initiatives such as the Engaging African Nova Scotian Men and Boys program focused on domestic violence, the Healthy Relationships program for men and boys of African descent, and the Black Men’s Health Summit. These programs, which he created, are designed to empower African Nova Scotian and Black men, fostering resilience, awareness, and positive change within their communities.Guided by empathy, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the potential for growth and healing, Mario continues to inspire those around him. His work leaves a meaningful legacy, driving progress in mental health advocacy and uplifting individuals and communities alike.⸻Support & ResourcesThis episode may include discussion of mental health or suicide. If this brings up difficult feelings, help is available.Canada Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988 (24/7)Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team (NS): 1-888-429-8167Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.⸻About Keep TalkingKeep Talking is a podcast by the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, which funds community-based mental health and addictions programs across the province. The Foundation does not provide direct services.Learn more or support our work: mentalhealthns.ca⸻New episodes of Keep Talking are available on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.This episode was recorded and edited by Tiny Rhino Studios and produced by Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia.Music: “I Must Believe” by T. Thomason
