129. Pixel moments Zeeshan Leon

Pixle Moment

I’m Zeeshan Hayat, and it is with great pleasure that I invite you to explore the transformative journey behind Pixel Moments —an initiative close to my heart and  a passion project that has evolved into a powerful platform for mental health advocacy.

My path as an entrepreneur has been deeply intertwined with my faith and the values instilled in me by my upbringing. As the CEO and Co-founder of Prizm Media, a journey that started with a profound desire to make a positive impact on society has led me down a remarkable path of community service and philanthropy.

Growing up, I was taught the importance of empathy, compassion, and giving back to those in need. These principles became the driving force behind my entrepreneurial endeavors. One of the initiatives closest to my heart is the 100 Meals a Week program, which aims to provide nutritious meals to those experiencing food insecurity in our community. Additionally, the establishment of the Muslim Food Bank has been instrumental in addressing the specific needs of marginalized individuals and families.

However, as I delved deeper into community engagement, I couldn’t ignore the pressing issue of mental health. It became increasingly evident that mental health challenges were pervasive within our community, yet often overlooked or stigmatized. This realization sparked a newfound determination within me to make a difference in this crucial area.

With a desire to destigmatize conversations around mental health and provide tangible support to those struggling, I found Pixel Moments, an initiative of  St. Paul’s Foundation. Pixel Moments isn’t just a micro-donation campaign—it’s a movement aimed at raising awareness and funds for mental health programs, through innovative means.

The journey of Pixel Moments has been nothing short of extraordinary. It’s been a testament to the power of community and collective action. Together with a dedicated team of like-minded individuals, we set out to create something meaningful, something that would resonate with people on a deeply personal level.

Our efforts culminated in the unveiling of an interactive art mural in the heart of Vancouver Downtown, at the intersection of Granville & West Georgia. The mural, a visual representation of our collective commitment to mental health, served as a sign of hope and solidarity during challenging times. It was a symbol of our unwavering dedication to destigmatizing mental health and promoting well-being.

The response we received was overwhelming. Through the generosity of individuals, businesses, and organizations, we were able to raise over $299,416 in donations, sponsorships, and in-kind support. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, made a significant impact and brought us one step closer to our goal.

But Pixel Moments is more than just numbers—it’s about the lives we’ve touched and the stories we’ve shared. It’s about the individuals who found solace and support through our initiative, knowing that they’re not alone in their struggles. It’s about the conversations we’ve sparked and the barriers we’ve broken down.

I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved with Pixel Moments, but I also recognize that our work is far from over. Mental health remains a complex and multifaceted issue, and there’s still much more work to be done. That’s why I’m committed to continuing our efforts and leveraging Pixel Moments as a platform for change.

Together, we can create a future where mental health is prioritized, where everyone has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. It’s a future that I’m deeply passionate about, and I invite you to join me on this journey towards a healthier, more compassionate world.

Thank you for your unwavering support, and here’s to the countless moments of healing and hope that lie ahead.