On Saturday, 4th October, YUVA proudly participated in the National Youth Mental Health Symposium “Detect and Prevent Mental Distress in Our Young Generation” held at the Municipality of Curepipe. This inspiring national event was jointly organised by the Municipal Council of Curepipe, Lions International, and the Mauritius Psychiatric Association — three institutions deeply committed to advancing public awareness and action on mental health in Mauritius.

The symposium brought together civil society organisations, psychologists, government representatives, and youth advocates to address one of the most pressing issues of our time: the mental wellbeing of young people.

Showcasing YUVA’s Mission and Impact

As part of the symposium, each participating organisation was provided with an exhibition table and chairs to showcase their initiatives, engage with attendees, and highlight their contributions to youth wellbeing. YUVA made the most of this opportunity, creating an inviting space where visitors could learn about our mission, programmes, and impact on youth mental health.

Our stand featured informative banners, brochures, and interactive materials that encouraged dialogue around mental health challenges faced by young people today. Visitors were able to engage with our team, ask questions, and explore ways to support youth in their communities. The enthusiasm and curiosity of attendees underscored the importance of creating safe spaces for conversation about mental health.

Raising Awareness in a Collaborative Environment

The National Youth Mental Health Symposium was more than an exhibition; it was a collaborative platform for NGOs, mental health professionals, and policymakers. Numerous organisations working in mental health and youth development showcased their initiatives, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility.

The event also featured keynote speeches and panel discussions led by psychologists, educators and even government representatives. Their insights highlighted the challenges young people face in relation to mental wellbeing and emphasised the need for proactive support mechanisms.

By participating, YUVA contributed to this critical conversation, ensuring that youth perspectives and grassroots solutions were represented. The event offered a unique opportunity to engage directly with both decision-makers and young participants, creating meaningful connections that can drive future collaborations and initiatives.

Engaging Young People in Mental Health Conversations

At YUVA, we recognise that youth engagement is essential to effective mental health initiatives. During the symposium, our team facilitated interactive discussions with young attendees, exploring topics such as stress management, coping mechanisms, and access to mental health resources.

Through these interactions, we were able to educate participants about mental health in an accessible and relatable manner. Young people shared their experiences, asked questions, and learned practical strategies for maintaining their mental wellbeing. This type of engagement not only raises awareness but also empowers youth to become advocates for mental health within their own communities.

Strengthening Partnerships Across Sectors

One of the key takeaways from the National Youth Mental Health Symposium was the value of partnerships. By bringing together civil society organisations, government officials, mental health experts, and youth representatives, the event created an environment conducive to collaboration and innovation.

YUVA’s presence allowed us to exchange ideas with other NGOs, discuss best practices, and explore joint initiatives aimed at enhancing youth mental health support. These partnerships are crucial for creating sustainable change and ensuring that mental health services are accessible, inclusive, and effective.

Highlighting the Importance of Mental Health Awareness

Events like the National Youth Mental Health Symposium are vital for raising public awareness about mental health. Despite growing recognition of mental health issues, stigma and misinformation still persist, often preventing young people from seeking help.

By participating, YUVA helped break down these barriers. We emphasised the importance of recognising mental health as an integral part of overall wellbeing and encouraged open dialogue among attendees. Our team highlighted key initiatives, shared success stories, and provided guidance on how individuals and communities can support youth in need.

Looking Forward: Continuing the Mission

The National Youth Mental Health Symposium was a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for mental health advocacy and education. YUVA remains committed to its mission of supporting young people through innovative programmes, community outreach, and evidence-based interventions.

We are inspired by the energy and dedication of everyone we met at the event – from fellow NGOs and mental health professionals to the young people who are at the heart of our work. As we move forward, YUVA will continue to develop initiatives that empower youth, reduce stigma, and foster a culture of mental wellbeing across Mauritius.

Conclusion

Our participation in the National Youth Mental Health Symposium reaffirmed the importance of community engagement, collaboration, and education in addressing youth mental health challenges. YUVA is proud to contribute to these efforts and remains dedicated to creating meaningful impact for young people everywhere.

Through ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and public awareness campaigns, we aim to ensure that every young person has access to the mental health support they need to thrive. The journey towards better youth mental health is a collective effort, and events like this symposium demonstrate that together, we can make a real difference.

Tereza Röslerová, Caritas College Olomouc – Communications Officer