Member stories from Africa
We asked our members to share their journeys and experiences in mental health advocacy, exploring what inspired them to take action, the work they are currently doing, and the lessons they've learned along the way. Here are their compelling stories that highlight their commitment to raising awareness, supporting their communities, and transforming mental health care for those in need.
Joy Muthoni Ndarathi - Kenya
Q: When and how did you first become interested in mental health advocacy/activism?
I became interested in mental health while studying for my degree at university. I joined the Kenya Red Cross and provided mental health talks to my peers.
A: What work are you currently doing as a mental health advocate/activist?
I provide psychosocial support to individuals recovering from opioid use disorder. Additionally, I offer mental health services to girls whose parents inject drugs, enrolled in the methadone-assisted treatment programme.
Q: What is one thing you’ve learned on your journey?
A: There is no health without mental health.
Tamfu Maybel Yeme spouse Etonge- Cameroon
Q: When and how did you first become interested in mental health advocacy/activism?
In 2020, after the loss of my triplets in what was my fourth miscarriage, I experienced complications as certain healthcare services were unavailable due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This, combined with traumatic childhood experiences, led me to suffer from prolonged sadness and grief. Additionally, several individuals in my community died by suicide during that period, raising my awareness of the urgent need for mental health care in my community.
A: What work are you currently doing as a mental health advocate/activist?
I am involved in community sensitisation campaigns, training programmes, individual counselling, and psychological follow-ups.
Q: What is one thing you’ve learned on your journey?
I have learned to always be available and ready to offer my professional skills.
A:Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself and your story?
Since 2020, I have observed that many people around me—especially religious leaders, community leaders, healthcare providers, and law enforcement officers—often inadvertently cause harm while attempting to provide care. This highlights the need for ongoing sensitisation on psychological first aid skills.
Chinyere Nduu Okoro - Nigeria
Q: When and how did you first become interested in mental health advocacy/activism?
My interest in mental health began at 20, during my own recovery from depression. Through psychoeducation, I developed a deep passion for the field and decided to dedicate my life to this journey.
A: What work are you currently doing as a mental health advocate/activist?
I work as an addiction counsellor and mental health coach, and I also lead several non-profits focused on increasing access to mental health support for at-risk populations.
Q: What is one thing you’ve learned on your journey?
I’ve learned that anyone can face a mental health challenge, and anyone can recover.
A: Is there anything else you’d like to share about you and your story?
I began with informal interventions, such as teaching emotional intelligence to school-aged children, and progressed through volunteering to the career I have today.
If you would like to share your story with the Action Network we invite you to complete this form.
