Humboldt Broncos bus crash survivor Tyler Smith brought a message of perspective, resilience and the power of personal stories to Lloydminster on March 24 at the Comprehensive High School.
Smith spoke ahead of a local community mental health presentation which had over 300 people attend. Earlier he had spoken to over 1500 high school students from the region. He shared reflections from his journey following the 2018 tragedy that shook communities across Canada.
While the crash remains a defining moment in his life, Smith said his focus today is on how people move forward.
“Your story can be the spotlight at the end of other people’s tunnels,” Smith said.
Smith said speaking in communities like Lloydminster carries added meaning, pointing to a personal connection through his brother, who played here during the 2016 RBC Cup.
“Any chance I get to chat with communities is important… and a community like Lloydminster, that I’ve got a little connection to, it’s always fun to be back,” he said.
A message rooted in perspective
Smith said his message is not about having all the answers, but about reminding people that their experiences matter.
“I don’t have all the answers, and I’m not an expert by any means, but I think it’s a fresh perspective,” he said.
“You never know what people are going through… perspective is a huge thing.”
He said one of the biggest lessons from the aftermath of the crash was the overwhelming support from across the country.
“The love and support was massive… people show up,” he said.
Smith said leaning on others remains one of the most important tools for getting through difficult times.
“There’s no right or wrong way to go through something like that… just remember to lean on your people.”
Living with survivor’s guilt
Smith also spoke candidly about survivor’s guilt, something he said continues to impact him years later.
“I don’t wish survivor’s guilt upon anybody,” he said.
He said many Broncos survivors continue to search for answers, but healing often comes from the support of others, including families of those who were lost.
“There’s 16 beautiful families that lost somebody that day… and a lot of them have told us to keep going.”
That message, he said, has helped him find moments of peace and the ability to move forward.
Finding purpose through experience
Since the crash, Smith has continued to rebuild his life, including winning The Amazing Race Canada alongside his partner.
He said those experiences reinforce the idea that progress often comes from focusing on small steps.
“Putting one foot in front of the other… and celebrating the little goals.”
Today, Smith said his motivation is simple.
“Sometimes you just never know,” he said.
“If your story can offer something to allow someone to find that light, then that’s probably a big reason to keep going.”
A message of gratitude
Smith ended with a message for those who supported the Broncos in the days and months following the crash.
“Thank you… for showing up,” he said.
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