Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the human brain

An exciting event is coming up for anyone fascinated by the mysteries of the human brain. McGill’s Healthy Brains, Healthy Lives (HBHL), in partnership with Brain Canada, is gearing up to host a free public event where some of Canada’s leading neuroscientists, and individuals with lived experience, will shed light on the incredible capabilities of our brains.

“The brain generates ideas, implements actions, and governs our interactions with others and our environment. Every day, we rely on our brain to think, feel, act, and interact. Trained brains perform extraordinary feats.” – Vladimir Hachinski

Scheduled for October 14, 2023, at Tanna Schulich Hall in downtown Montreal, the event promises to be a unique and enlightening afternoon for attendees. Organizers aligned the event with the XXVI World Congress of Neurology (WCN 2023), which will be taking place in Montreal that week. Guy Rouleau, Director of The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute‐Hospital), is President, XXVI World Congress of Neurology, and was part of a group that conceived of idea of the Amazing Brain Science Talks, together with Dr. Vladimir Hachinski, a Canadian clinical neuroscientist and researcher based at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry at Western University; Krystle van Hoof, Managing Director and CEO of Healthy Brains, Healthy Lives; and Brain Canada CEO and President Viviane Poupon.

As Vladimir Hachinksi explains, the event will highlight some of the “underappreciated” capacities of the brain and leave attendees with practical advice for keeping their brains healthy. “The brain generates ideas, implements actions, and governs our interactions with others and our environment. Every day, we rely on our brain to think, feel, act, and interact. Trained brains perform extraordinary feats. The split-second decision of a hockey player, the unhesitant renderings of a simultaneous translator, or the instrumental eloquence of a musician.”

“In this digital age and knowledge-based economy, we are continuously learning to adapt and thrive. This in turn requires holistic brain health, when thinking, feeling, and interacting with others is the best that it can be. Cherish your brain as if your life depended on it, because it does,” says Hachinski. “Our brains are the most precious three pounds in the known universe, unmatched in creativity, flexibility, and durability.”

Researchers from across Canada will be taking to the stage to unravel some of the most intriguing aspects of the brain’s functioning. What makes our brains so amazing? What small actions can we take that will have the biggest impact on protecting and preserving our brain health? From the way we perceive the world around us as neurodiverse or neurotypical people, to the complexities of the imagination and the role exercise can play in our brain health as we age, these experts will offer insights into the inner workings of the human brain.

“We believe that unlocking the mysteries of the brain is not only the domain of scientists, but a journey that every curious mind has the potential to embark upon.” – Viviane Poupon, Brain Canada CEO and President

Unlike some other events that feature scientists presenting research findings for other scientists, Viviane Poupon highlighted that the afternoon’s content was curated with the public in mind. “We believe that unlocking the mysteries of the brain is not only the domain of scientists, but a journey that every curious mind has the potential to embark upon. By fostering a love for science, we pave the way for a deeper understanding of ourselves and the incredible potential of our brains. Through collaboration with initiatives like this with HBHL, we aim to inspire a new generation of thinkers who will shape the future of neuroscience and accelerate discovery.”

One of the highlights of the event will be the opportunity to hear directly from individuals who have their own unique experiences with brain function. From overcoming a traumatic brain injury to moving through the world as a young person living with autism, these speakers will provide a personal perspective that adds a deeply human element to the scientific discussions. Their stories promise to be both moving and inspiring, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of the human mind.

Attendees will have the chance to ask questions to the neuroscientists and other speakers, fostering a dynamic and interactive learning environment.

“The Amazing Brain Science Talks aim to make neuroscience accessible to everyone, regardless of their background in science,” explains Krystle van Hoof. “We’re bridging the gap between academia and the public—understanding brain health shouldn’t just be for the experts.”

Registration for this event is open, and space is expected to fill up quickly. Anyone with an interest in the brain, science, or personal stories of triumph is encouraged to reserve their seat. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/amazing-brain-science-talks-registration-699719910087