Together We Thrive

In a historic move for mental health awareness and breaking societal taboos, the "Together We Thrive" event unfolded on October 7, 2023, in Kenya. This groundbreaking event, the first of its kind in the country, focused on discussing the pressing issues of mental health stigma and period stigma. It was organized through a collaborative effort between "Together for Better" and "KMV Mental Health Services" (KMV MHS).

The event drew attention with its impressive lineup of panelists, bringing together a diverse group of professionals in the mental health field, including senators, ambassadors, psychologists, doctors, psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, and influencers. The two-panel discussions featured six experts each, providing valuable insights and perspectives on the challenges surrounding mental health and period-related stigma.

The attendance, exceeding 80 people, showcased a strong interest and support for the cause. The venue, marked by the trademark unity of "Together for Better," resonated with the mission of reducing stigma surrounding mental health issues and menstruation.

Khushali Varsani, the Director of KMV MHS, expressed her satisfaction with the success of the event, emphasizing the importance of reducing stigma. Varsani stated, "This is the first event for KMV MHS, and we are glad it was a success. Reducing stigma is the mission of our company, and we cannot wait for more events to encourage conversations and build safe empathetic environments."

Abigael Muthoka, the Co-director of KMV MHS, shared her reflections on the event, saying, "Yes, this event was the first for KMV MHS, and I learned a lot during the discussions! We were pleased to see the turnout, and we cannot wait to see how much further we can push this agenda."

The event was not merely a platform for discussions but also a hub for fostering connections and networking. Conversations flowed freely, breaking down barriers and creating an open environment for participants to share their experiences and insights.

Crucially, the event was timed to honor World Mental Health Day, observed globally on October 10. By hosting the event just days before this significant date, the organizers sought to amplify the conversation around mental health, encouraging ongoing discussions and actions.

As the echoes of "Together We Thrive" reverberate, it marks a pivotal moment in Kenya's journey towards dismantling the stigma attached to mental health and period-related issues. The success of this event serves as a beacon, inspiring hope for more initiatives and events that will continue to push the boundaries and contribute to building a more empathetic and understanding society.