Nova McGillivray: Bridging Compassion and Community in Peer Support

In this episode of As I, A Peer, we’re thrilled to welcome Nova McGillivray, a dedicated peer support facilitator from Calgary, Alberta. Nova’s journey into peer support began in 2013, when she struggled to find any support groups in the city for postpartum depression. Motivated by this gap, she took matters into her own hands, starting to facilitate group sessions herself. Since 2018, she has been offering one-on-one support, always driven by a deep passion for helping others. Her dedication to this work grew even stronger in 2021, when she completed the CMHA School of Peer Support. This milestone led her to her role as a 1:1 Peer Support Specialist at the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Centre in 2022, and by 2024, she proudly earned her certification as a Peer Supporter.As a mother of two earthside children and three in the stars, Nova draws strength and balance from her love of the outdoors, hiking, dogs, and reading. Her personal experiences, combined with her professional training, allow her to offer support that truly resonates with those she works with. Through her work, Nova continues to make a meaningful impact in the community, helping others navigate their challenges with empathy, understanding, and care.Join us as Nova shares her inspiring journey into peer support, how her lived experiences have shaped her approach, and the lasting impact she’s making in the lives of those she supports.