Our first wellness workshop was held on May 25th, 2024. This was part of our efforts to join the rest of the globe in celebrating May as the health awareness month. This workshop marked an important step in promoting mental health education and psychosocial support amongst young people aged 12-25 years in different academic institutions spread across the city of Yaoundé.
The primary goal of this workshop was to create a deeper understanding and awareness of mental health issues. By addressing the often overlooked and misunderstood aspects of mental health, Safe Space aimed to reduce the stigma that surrounded the topics covered. Participants were not only educated but empowered to become advocates and trainers, that would provide a support system to others in their respective institutions.
One of the key highlights of the workshop was the role-play session on conflict resolution. This session allowed individuals present to express themselves and communicate their emotions freely. By promoting open dialogue, Safe Space enabled participants to feel heard and supported, a crucial element in mental health care.
The workshop also focused on the importance of self-care and the development of strong support networks. Participants were introduced to various self-care practices and coping techniques, empowering them to take control of their mental wellness. By building support networks, individuals learned the value of relying on one another, creating a more resilient and connected community.
This event would not have been possible without the support of the Mastercard Foundation at African Leadership Academy who provided the financial resources and holistic guidance via the scholar entrepreneurship fund and then Open Dreams who enabled us to have an outstanding “safe space” to come together and learn.
The Project Team
This is just the beginning of a series of initiatives aimed at promoting mental wellness. We look forward to more workshops, more learning, and more community building. Together, we are making strides on the journey to mental wellness.
...
Project Team: Joyce Ngaha, Serenna Mangwi, Lucien Kenyaupli, Esther Epossi, Serena Dingue, Yann Dingue, Lynn Akisarl, Chelsea Kuwan.
Comments