Thomas’ Journey : Empowering Kenyan Youth and Championing Mental Health Advocacy

In this Q&A, we chat with passionate mental health advocate Thomas,  who is at the forefront  of promoting mental well-being for young people in Kenya. Through the Better Me Network, Thomas is breaking down stigma, raising awareness of mental health solutions, and providing crucial support to young people in need. 

Q: What work are you currently doing as a mental health advocate / activist?

A: In my role as a mental health professional and as the Program's Coordinator of Better Me Kenya , I have dedicated myself to empowering young individuals, providing them with the opportunities I never had while growing up. Through our organisation, we have successfully implemented various programs aimed at fostering personal growth, mental well-being, and resilience among the youth. Additionally, we have been running a wellness volunteering project that has attracted over 100 participants from around the world in the past four years.

Q: When and how did you first become interested in mental health advocacy or activism?

A: Over a decade ago, I experienced a traumatic incident of sexual abuse by one of my teachers during my time in high school. The repercussions of this experience led me down a path of depression and isolation. My determination to heal and my passion for supporting others facing similar challenges fuelled my decision to pursue a diploma in psychology. Today, I am proud to work as a mental health professional in Kenya, striving to make a positive impact on the lives of young people.

Q: Can you share some recent activities you've been involved in?

A: Absolutely! I've had the privilege of participating in several impactful initiatives recently. For instance, I was involved in a YUMP session at Ken Obura Secondary School and conducted a wellness session at the Kisumu Fire Station. Additionally, we provided psychological support for displaced children in Kisumu and took part in organising the International Day of Families 2024. We've also been active in flood relief efforts, collaborating with various organisations to distribute food to those affected.

For more detailed insights, I recently shared about our efforts to raise mental health awareness among first responders on LinkedIn. Additionally, I highlighted the resilience workshops we've conducted for flood victims. These experiences have been deeply rewarding, and I’m excited to continue this important work.

What is ONE thing you've learned in your journey?

Resilience is an invaluable asset in the life of any individual, often ignored yet it can be trained and be shared with anyone in the world.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about you and your story? 

I believe that sharing my personal experience as a survivor of sexual abuse and my subsequent journey to recovery and professional development can greatly contribute to any discussions surrounding mental health and resilience. My story might serve as a testament to the transformative power of therapy, education, and community support in overcoming traumatic experiences and rebuilding one's life. 

If you would like to share your story with the Action Network we invite you to complete this form.