Honouring Tema: The Story of the Tema Foundation
In the heart of the Tema Foundation lies a story that reflects resilience, compassion, and the unyielding spirit of a woman whose life was tragically cut short. Tema Lisa Conter, born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia, had a promising career in fashion management ahead of her when her life was brutally taken at the age of 25. Her memory lives on through the foundation created in her name, dedicated to mental health and wellness for frontline workers, first responders, and the people who support them.
Tema was a young woman filled with humour, wit, and charm. On January 27, 1988, tragedy struck when Tema fell victim to a convicted serial killer, who attacked her while she was on her way to work. Her senseless murder devastated her family and friends, leaving an irreplaceable void in their lives. But even in the darkest moments, hope began to bloom.
The two paramedics who responded to Tema's call experienced their own trauma and developed PTSD. In their journey to heal, they felt a calling to honour Tema's memory and help other first responders facing similar challenges. Thus, the seeds of the Tema Foundation were sown.
Originally focused on providing support for frontline workers with PTSD, the foundation quickly evolved to embrace a more proactive approach. The team realized the importance of building resilience from day one, not only for first responders but for all those working on the frontlines of our communities. As the organization grew, they gained a deeper understanding of the challenges they sought to address. They recognized that they could make a more significant impact by empowering individuals and organizations with the tools and knowledge to be resilient and mentally strong.
The Tema Foundation's mission expanded beyond providing immediate support to creating a lasting impact on mental health awareness and resilience. Education became their most potent tool. Their educators developed evidence-based and informed educational curriculums, targeting frontline workers and those who support them.
The goal was to create a ripple effect, a chain of knowledge that would extend beyond their reach. They aimed to equip other trainer groups, organizations, and establishments with the necessary resources to understand mental health and foster resilience within their communities.
The ultimate aspiration of the Tema Foundation is to be a quiet partner, working behind the scenes to empower others. They envision a world where mental health awareness and resilience training become integral parts of frontline workers' preparation. By arming them with the tools to navigate the challenges they face, the foundation seeks to create a safer and more compassionate environment for those who keep us healthy and safe.
Tema's story is one of triumph over tragedy. While her life was cut short, her legacy lives on through the Tema Foundation. With compassion, determination, and a vision for a better future, the foundation stands as a beacon of hope for frontline workers and first responders, providing them with the tools to overcome mental health challenges and build resilience from within. Tema's light continues to shine, guiding those who dedicate their lives to the service of others, toward a brighter and mentally healthier future.