The 2024 recipient of the Country Leadership Award for Canada is David Wiljer. 

David is an exceptional individual who has pioneered the integration of compassion and technology to transform mental health care. His groundbreaking work has significantly shaped the landscape of digital mental health in Canada and beyond. He has been a cornerstone in advancing e-mental health through a unique blend of human-centered approaches and technological innovation, with a profound influence on the field.

What sets David apart is his unwavering commitment to compassionate care in the digital realm. In a field often dominated by pure technology, he has championed a human-centered approach that emphasizes empathy and understanding. His work highlights the importance of incorporating compassion into artificial intelligence and mental health technologies. His recent workshop on AI best practices showcased his ability to merge leading-edge technology with a deep respect for human suffering, demonstrating how empathy can drive effective and ethical tech solutions.

David’s dedication extends beyond technological advancements. He actively engages with the community, ensuring that the voices of those with lived experiences are heard and valued. His focus on bias, diversity, and inclusion reflects a profound understanding of the broader implications of digital mental health.

Furthermore, his proactive contributions to mental health app assessments and the E-Mental Health Strategy for Canada underscore his commitment to practical, compassionate solutions. His ability to pivot from technical discussions to advocate for the human side of mental health care exemplifies his holistic approach.

Congratulations David!