Nivishe Foundation recognizes the significance of addressing mental health, an issue that has been largely neglected in various parts of the world, including Kenya. Shockingly, Kenya ranks fourth in Africa and ninth globally in terms of the number of individuals suffering from depression. In response, we are deeply committed to tackling this challenge head-on by fostering community resilience through mental health interventions and trauma-informed care.
In line with our mission, Nivishe organizes a transformative mental health fellowship program designed to provide young individuals from all corners of the country with invaluable opportunities for practical experience, professional growth, and mentorship under seasoned mental health professionals. This carefully tailored program aims to promote mental well-being, combat the stigma surrounding mental illness, and enhance access to vital mental health resources within the fellows' own communities.
In 2021, Nivishe successfully launched the inaugural cohort of the fellowship, which attracted over 800 applications. Following a rigorous selection process, 50 candidates were chosen to embark on the fellowship journey, and they have since completed the program. Presently, Nivishe is running the second cohort, scheduled to conclude in June 2023. This cohort comprises 60 fellows, all youth leaders representing diverse professions from across the nation. The overarching objective of this cohort is to empower these individuals to effect positive change within their communities. Looking ahead, the third cohort is slated to commence in the final quarter of the year and will span a period of 12 weeks.
The fellowship methodology is rooted in current research and evidence-based practices, equipping fellows with the necessary skills to address mental health concerns, reduce stigma, collaborate with public health authorities and other youth champions, and design and implement youth engagement initiatives focused on promoting mental health and well-being. As a final requirement for graduation, fellows are tasked with executing a community project that applies the knowledge and skills gained during the fellowship to their respective localities. The fellowship itself is conducted online and comes at no cost to participants, with accomplished psychologists invited to facilitate the sessions. We also plan to hold an in-person graduation ceremony for the fellows.
In our unwavering commitment to ensuring the mental well-being of all community members, Nivishe also provides counseling services at a nominal commitment fee. If interested, individuals can access the intake forms for these services at the following link: https://bit.ly/Nivishecounselingintakeform.
"I am immensely proud of the Nivishe Mental Health Fellowship and its profound impact on the promotion of mental health in Kenya. Central to the fellowship's triumph lies our unwavering dedication to empowering young individuals as catalysts of change within their communities," stated Amisa Rashid, Founder and Executive Director of the Nivishe Foundation.
By equipping these aspiring leaders with the essential skills, knowledge, and resources to advance mental health, Nivishe is cultivating a transformative generation that will revolutionize Kenya's mental health landscape. Moreover, their fellowship has thrived through fruitful collaborations with the Brain and Mind Institute and the Ambassadorship Program. The enduring support and partnership from BMI and other stakeholders have played instrumental roles in the fellowship's resounding success.
Nivishe firmly believes that investing in the upcoming generation of mental health advocates is paramount to effecting positive change in the mental health sector. By affording young professionals’ opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge, we are empowering them to become leaders capable of making a profound impact on mental health advocacy and support.
