Poetry, Debate, and Hope – A Day of Mental Health Advocacy at Namagabi Secondary School
How PurpleMinds Foundation, Right Arm Uganda and Swavelink are empowering students to speak up on mental health and climate change.
SSENGENDO HASSAN
7/5/20261 min read
On 28th- june. 2026, PurpleMinds Foundation, in partnership with Swavelink , visited Namagabi Secondary School in Kayunga for a full-day outreach focused on mental health and environmental change.
The day was filled with powerful conversations, creative expression, and hope. Students debated, performed poetry, and listened to inspiring talks from leaders who believe in their potential.
The Founder's Message
Our Founder, Ssengendo Hassan (Dexta) , addressed the students on the Climate-Mind Nexus – the connection between a healthy environment and a healthy mind.
He shared:
Why mental health is not a luxury but a right
How environmental degradation fuels stress and eco-anxiety
Why young people must lead the conversation on both issues
"When the land suffers, the mind suffers too. We cannot heal one without healing the other." – Ssengendo Hassan
CEO Ahmed's Inspiration
Mr. Kawesa Ahmed , CEO of Swavelink , delivered a powerful talk on resilience, leadership, and the importance of preparing for the future.
He encouraged students to:
Embrace challenges as opportunities
Prioritise their mental well-being
You Ai as a learning tool.
Thank you to Swavelink for partnering with us on this outreach!
The Debate
Students engaged in a lively debate on the motion: "Environmental conservation is a form of mental health tool"
The debaters argued passionately, listened respectfully, and demonstrated critical thinking far beyond their years.
One student said:
"When our environment is sick, our minds feel it too. We cannot ignore either."
Poetry for Change
Two talented students moved the room with their poetry – one on mental health, the other on environmental change.
Their words reminded us that creativity is a powerful tool for advocacy and healing.
"Poetry is not just art. It is a voice for the voiceless."
Why This Matters
Events like this are essential because they:
Create safe spaces for students to talk about mental health
Build critical thinking and public speaking skills
Empower young people to become advocates for change
Strengthen partnerships between organisations and schools
Gratitude
We extend our deepest thanks to:
Namagabi Secondary School – for hosting us
Swavelink – for partnering with us
The students – for their courage and creativity
The teachers and administration – for their support
Email :
Phone:
info@purplemindsfoundation.org
+256 701260753
© 2025. All rights reserved.
We are based in Uganda, dedicated to mental health and environmental initiatives.