06/06/2025
Over the years, we’ve organized and supported countless youth-led mental health campaigns — but nothing makes us prouder than where it all began in 2019.
On 10th October 2019, a powerful youth-led mental health march unfolded in the heart of Nairobi City, uniting over 2,000 participants from diverse backgrounds — including young advocates, people with lived experiences, mental health professionals, government officials, and private sector stakeholders.
This wasn’t just a walk. It was a movement.
Driven by the passion and determination of youth leaders, the march became a catalyst for lasting change. The city transformed into a space of public learning — with awareness, advocacy, and storytelling flooding the streets. Strategic partnerships with national media helped amplify the voices of youth far beyond the day of the event.
Youth leaders boldly called for:
Accessible, affordable, and youth-friendly mental health care
Safe community spaces that nurture resilience and connection
Investments in promotive and preventive mental health approaches
Intergenerational collaboration at policy, program, and strategy levels, recognizing the value of shared wisdom and co-leadership
The momentum from the march contributed to the formation of Kenya’s National Mental Health Taskforce, where youth voices and lived experiences shaped critical insights. The resulting National Mental Health Action Plan (2021–2025) now guides the country’s mental health efforts — with Priority #2 focused on promoting mental well-being and prevention, paving the way for a more resilient and empowered society.
Today, many of these youth leaders continue to drive change by:
🎨 Using art to foster healing and spark dialogue
🌿 Creating green, safe spaces in informal settlements
📢 Influencing mental health policies and advocacy
🤝 Leading youth-powered initiatives rooted in collective care and innovation
From one bold step in 2019 to a national vision for mental well-being — this is the power of youth in action.
