Eight experts were invited to host seminars on various issues, including Anxiety & Depression, Positive Psychology, School Life, Stress and Social Media, and Mourning & Grief. Besides, there was a panel discussion on the different approaches to wellness. The over 80 participants joined sessions of their choosing, ensuring that each left feeling equipped to deal with the pressures they were most likely experiencing. 

With the strife and struggle that comes with Mental Health challenges, the workshop provided resources and techniques for participants to understand mental ill health. In addition, it marked a significant step toward addressing the stigma associated with mental illnesses. 

"The workshop was initiated with the heart to encourage and promote mental literacy among the South Asian and other Kenyan communities at large. We invited eight speakers to hold seminars focused on the spheres of their specialty," said Alida Rahemtulla, who organised the workshop in collaboration with the BMI team. "This, alongside our partnership with the Brain & Mind Institute, allowed our participants to witness the resources we have available in action. Connecting our communities with these spaces is the first step to curating and encouraging conversations on mental health. As the Festival of Friendship celebrates its 30th year, we encourage our communities to join us in striving for unity, strength, and mental well-being." 

Often, mental illness strikes without warning. The tools to attain mental well-being in every setting, whether at school, work, or home, are ready and available in our communities. The workshop served as a stepping-stone in the mental well-being discourse and an introduction to the resources available to support this conversation.  

"Many individuals suffer in silence because of the stigma associated with mental ill health. We need to work together to find solutions, which is why this workshop was critically important," said Prof Zul Merali, Founding Director, BMI. "I am proud and happy that BMI partnered with the Festival of Friendship in this initiative. We are keen on understanding community needs and help in finding new ways of approaching mental health."​

The panel session, conducted by various mental health professionals, examined what causes stress and how to mitigate these factors in what communities must give. They also discussed the necessity of self-awareness, particularly in a society that prioritises loving others and the family around us, by emphasising the importance of caring for oneself. They spoke on teenage empowerment, and by addressing the South Asian tendency to be present and expectant of the children, they encouraged the participants to perceive them as feeling rather than doing.

BMI will continue to provide courses, workshops, and seminars, in partnership with the Festival of Friendship, through such collaborations and connections to the community.