Mental health is just as crucial as physical health, yet it often remains neglected in many communities. Growing up in a society where mental health is rarely talked about, I had often seen people around me struggle in silence. When I first heard about SHAMS (self-care and hope through adolescent-led mental health and psychosocial support) and its focus on mental health, I immediately felt connected to the idea. It reminded me of classmates and peers who showed signs of distress, sadness, anxiety, withdrawal but never had a safe space to express themselves. This personal connection inspired me to join the training, not just to learn, but to play a role in changing the narrative around mental well-being in my community. Then I attended my first session on mental health. This session opened my eyes to the importance of mental well-being and how it intertwines with various aspects of life. It made me realize that raising awareness about mental health is essential for a healthier society.
Following this session, I was given the opportunity to work on a project, and I chose to conduct mental health training sessions. Through SHAMS, I conducted these sessions in schools and colleges, engaging adolescents in meaningful discussions about mental health. Additionally, I held a session with teachers to emphasize the significance of mental well-being in the education system. These experiences reinforced my belief that awareness is the first step toward change.
My journey took a significant turn when I was selected to participate in the youth advocacy champion training, an initiative by UNICEF, which led me to Nepal. This five-day training program was an incredible experience that enhanced my skills in advocacy. Being selected for this opportunity felt surreal. It was the first time I traveled outside Pakistan, and I was both excited and nervous. Meeting other youth advocates from different countries showed me that although our cultures were different, our passion for social change was the same. This gave me a sense of belonging to something bigger than myself I learned how to effectively raise my voice for important causes, engage stakeholders, and create impactful campaigns. The training empowered me with the knowledge and confidence to continue my advocacy work on a broader scale. Being a part of a UNICEF-led initiative made this experience even more meaningful, as I felt connected to a global movement for change.
Upon returning to Pakistan, I implemented the lessons I had learned by organizing a YAG session for 40 adolescents. Organizing the YAG session back in Pakistan wasn’t easy. Coordinating with schools, convincing parents to let their children attend, and managing logistics required patience and persistence. But each challenge taught me the importance of planning, communication, and resilience. The smiles and feedback from participants made it all worthwhile and reminded me why I chose this path.
This session, inspired by the UNICEF Youth Advocacy Guide (YAG) framework, focused on mental health and climate change advocacy — two pressing issues that demand urgent attention. Engaging with young minds and witnessing their passion for these topics was truly inspiring. This journey has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’ve developed confidence in public speaking, leadership, and organizing community events skills it will carry with me into every future opportunity.
More importantly, I have seen how others have benefited from the awareness we've built together. Students and teachers with whom I have worked with now better understand mental health, and many have shared that they feel more confident talking about these issues. By creating safe, open spaces for dialogue and learning, I have witnessed how small actions can spark real transformation.
Going forward, I hope to continue inspiring other young people to speak up, take initiative, and become advocates themselves — just as I was once inspired. The session aimed to equip participants with practical tools to lead change within their own communities, creating a ripple effect that will grow with time.
This journey has been incredibly transformative for me. Through these experiences, I have gained valuable insights into advocacy, leadership, and the power of community engagement. I have learned that raising awareness and educating others can bring about real change. Mental health and climate change are interconnected issues and addressing them requires collective effort and persistent advocacy.
Being a part of this initiative has reinforced my commitment to social change. I hope to continue my efforts in creating a more informed and empowered society. The impact of these sessions has shown me that even small efforts can lead to significant transformations. I am grateful for the opportunities I have received through UNICEF, and I cherish the chance to contribute to meaningful causes.
As I move forward, my goal is to expand my advocacy work and collaborate with more organizations to amplify the message of mental health and climate change awareness. This journey has been a learning experience filled with challenges and achievements, and I look forward to continuing my efforts in making a difference.
