Full course description
Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Time: 1:30–2:45 pm PST
Audience: All faculty and staff at UBC Vancouver and Okanagan are welcome to attend.
Location: Zoom. (Once you’ve registered, you will be directed to the course Canvas page where you can find the Zoom link.)
About this workshop:
Life transitions often occur suddenly, and when they do, they can leave a churning mess in their wake. Planning for all aspects of life (even the end of it) is an act of self-care AND an act of care for others.
This workshop is for anyone who wants to lighten the burden on their loved ones, protect their future wishes, and feel a little more grounded knowing they’ve put a few key things in place long before they likely ever need to.
With equal parts heart and practicality, we’ll cover the foundational elements of personal end-of-life planning, demystify the paperwork, and discuss what really matters (spoiler alert, it isn’t your stuff and your things).
Designed for those who have aging parents, complex family dynamics, or simply a busy life, this session offers a meaningful nudge to move from “I don’t know where to start” to action on your own personal planning projects.
Interactive Elements:
- The “Just Enough” Checklist: Participants choose 1–3 doable planning tasks that feel accessible right now.
- Partner Prompt: One question to ask a loved one tonight.
Key Takeaways:
- An understanding of planning as an act of self-care, and care for others
- A clear roadmap of small, achievable steps toward a more organized future.
-
The confidence to begin having conversations with aging parents about topics they may have been trying to avoid.
Important notes:
- The session will not be recorded, but the slides will be shared.
- Participation will be via Zoom chat. There will not be breakout rooms.
- Closed captioning can be enabled.
About your facilitator
Christa Ovenell (she/her) is the founder of Death’s Apprentice Education & Planning, community educator, funeral director, and end-of-life doula. Her heartfelt, practical approach to tackling difficult topics helps folks think about, talk about, and prepare for all aspects of life....even death. You can find her via her website www.deathsapprentice.ca or on Instagram @deathsapprentice.ca
If you have questions, please email Lauren Lee at lauren.lee@ubc.ca.
Keywords: VRPTGY, ONCS, VRRNSE, ORLS, OE, WG, WGIS, INSWE