Mental health awareness campaign
The event was organised in collaboration with organisations sharing a similar vision, including RISE MZANSI, Vuka Vaal Rainbow Movement, and LoveLine.
SEBOKENG. – Young Proud Lesbians Legacy Campaign recently hosted a mental health awareness event at Mathazima Hall Hostel 2 in Sebokeng recently. The campaign aimed to address the stigmas surrounding mental health issues, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.Speakers at the event included Pastor Mdletshe, Tshepo Ratshomo from the RISE MZANSI political party, Kiddo Morobe, activist Uhuru Norma Mbele, Siwel Bolae, Nox Mtshali, Kent Sethabela, Kgothatso, and many others.
The primary goal of the event was to educate the youth, especially the LGBTQ+ community, about mental health issues. The organisers aimed to connect individuals with the necessary resources and support to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness.
Speaking to Ster South, Jessica Gcinile Cindi, the Chairperson of Young Proud Lesbians Legacy Campaign, said: “Today’s event was very important to everyone, even my team. The event focused on depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and suicide cases that we are facing here in Vaal. It was a massive event, and I am very impressed that people managed to attend despite their busy schedules. It was a good event. I hope that what was shared helps people understand where to look for help. When you feel troubled, seek help. I hope those who came looking for help found some healing.”
The event was organised in collaboration with organisations sharing a similar vision, including RISE MZANSI, Vuka Vaal Rainbow Movement, and LoveLine. They emphasised the importance of building strong relationships and unity within the LGBTQ+ community.
Mental health can affect families, which is why the youth were advised to communicate openly with their parents. Parents were encouraged to normalise conversations with their children and not force them into activities they are not interested in, such as certain career paths. Anxiety, substance abuse, and stress were also discussed as significant issues.
Tshepo Ratshomo, the Rise Mzansi Civic Alliance Organiser of the Sedibeng Region, explained their collaboration with Young Proud Lesbians aims to highlight the tireless work the LGBTQ+ community is doing despite facing stigma. Vaal, which has experienced a high number of killings and suicides within the LGBTQ+ community, needs safer environments for all, regardless of gender or sexuality.
Bohlale Zondo from the Bohlale Zondo Foundation performed a poem titled ‘Letter to Pain,’ inspired by the statistics of young people facing mental health issues. Many are afraid to speak up due to fear of judgement. Zondo emphasised that mental health should be normalised in society, as it is a sensitive topic requiring more frequent discussion.
Uhuru Norma Mbele, the founder of Tosunga Boninga (Helping to Help Others) organisation, discussed how growth impacts mental health. As individuals grow, they make choices that may lead to losing close friends, affecting mental health. She stressed the importance of knowing whom to talk to, as the right support can prevent someone from falling into mental health crises.
