About

Championing Youth Mental Health in Africa

Chido Mpemba, the driving force behind the #Icansurvive Mental Health Toolkit, is a passionate advocate for youth well-being in Africa. Her vision for the toolkit was born from a stark realization of the challenges young people face – issues like drug abuse, high suicide rates, and gender-based violence.

A Listening Tour Across Africa:

During her tenure as the African Union Special Envoy on Youth, Chido embarked on a comprehensive listening tour. She visited over 40 countries, participating in youth town halls, meeting with marginalized communities, and engaging with policymakers. This firsthand experience solidified her commitment to:

• Empowering young Africans with the tools and resources they need to navigate mental health challenges.

• Breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health discussions across the continent.

• Cultivating a future where young Africans can thrive by prioritizing their mental well-being.

A Collaborative Effort:

Chido's leadership has brought together a powerhouse of collaborators for the #Icansurvive Toolkit. These include:

• H.E Ms Monica Geingos: First Lady of Namibia and President of OAFLAD

• Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC): Leading public health efforts in Africa

• The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC): Delivering humanitarian assistance worldwide

• The London School of Economics: A center for global social science research

• United For Global Mental Health: Championing mental health advocacy globally

• Global Partnerships for Education: Promoting quality education for all

• COP28 UAE Government: Addressing the mental health impacts of climate change

• Harvard University and Columbia University: Leading academic institutions

• African Union Commission: Promoting continental unity and development

Chido Mpemba's dedication, coupled with the expertise of these esteemed partners, has resulted in the #Icansurvive Mental Health Toolkit – a beacon of hope for young Africans on their journey towards mental wellness.

Chido Cleopatra Mpemba is a prominent figure in African youth advocacy, with a particular focus on mental health. She is the driving force behind the #Icansurvive Mental Health Toolkit, a comprehensive resource designed to empower young Africans.

A History of Leadership:

Mpemba served as the African Union Special Envoy on Youth, the youngest senior official in the organization's history. In this role, she undertook an extensive listening tour across 40 African countries. This firsthand experience exposed her to the critical mental health challenges facing young people on the continent.

Motivated by Action:

Witnessing the struggles of African youth, including issues like drug abuse, high suicide rates, and gender-based violence, fueled Mpemba's passion to address these issues. She spearheaded the development of the #Icansurvive Toolkit, aiming to:

• Equip young Africans with tools and resources for mental well-being.

• Break down the stigma surrounding mental health discussions in Africa.

• Cultivate a future where young Africans can thrive by prioritizing their mental health.

Building a Collaborative Network:

Mpemba's leadership has fostered a powerful network of collaborators for the #Icansurvive Toolkit. These partnerships include esteemed organizations like Harvard University, the African Union Commission, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Chido Mpemba's unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit have positioned her as a champion for youth mental health in Africa. The #Icansurvive Toolkit stands as a testament to her commitment to empowering young Africans and fostering a brighter future for the continent.