We developed a digital mental health community platform for Not 9 to 5, providing accessible training and certification for thousands of hospitality workers. This platform, supported by the Canadian government, replicated the in-person community experience effectively online.
Not 9 to 5
About The Client
Industry: Hospitality, Restaurants, Mental Health
Not 9 to 5 is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming mental health awareness and support within the hospitality industry. Through comprehensive resources, specialized training programs, and focused advocacy, they aim to enhance the mental well-being of hospitality workers who often face high-pressure and demanding environments. Recognizing the critical need for accessible mental health education and community support, Not 9 to 5 sought to develop a nationwide certification program in Canada. Their vision was a digital platform capable of replicating the community connection traditionally experienced in physical classrooms while providing scalable access to training and certification.
Step One
Discovery and Alignment
The project commenced with comprehensive digital workshops involving Not 9 to 5’s leadership and stakeholders. During these interactive sessions in partnership with Brandsicle, we clearly identified key objectives and constraints related to creating a meaningful, engaging digital experience. We conducted an in-depth digital audit and analytics review to identify current digital gaps, potential user-experience improvements, and opportunities for brand expansion. This foundational step provided clarity on required digital tools, functionality, and the optimal user journey for hospitality professionals engaging with the platform.
Step Two
Detailed Analysis and Strategic Planning
Building upon insights from our initial workshops, we strategically developed a completely customized digital platform from the ground up. Designed specifically to accommodate a large user base—exceeding 5,000 members simultaneously—the platform incorporated comprehensive mental health training modules, certification processes, interactive learning resources, and social networking capabilities. By emphasizing a sense of connection and shared experience, the platform was structured to replicate the supportive atmosphere traditionally found in physical training spaces, enhancing engagement and promoting sustained community interaction.
Step Three
Implementation and Integration
In close collaboration with Not 9 to 5’s team and with support from the Canadian government, the fully customized and scalable platform was successfully launched. Integrated analytics and monitoring capabilities were implemented, enabling the organization to measure platform usage, user engagement, and the effectiveness of training programs. Continuous improvements and optimizations based on user feedback ensured ongoing relevance and usability.
Results and Impact
The result is a robust and fully functional digital community platform, providing critical mental health resources and support for hospitality professionals across Canada. With government endorsement, the platform has effectively removed barriers to access, significantly enhancing community interaction, professional certification, and personal wellness support. To date, thousands of hospitality industry workers have utilized the platform, creating a lasting positive impact on mental health awareness and community support within the sector.
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