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Mener avec Compassion : L’engagement de 2iE pour la Santé Mentale et le Bien-être Institutionnel   Revenir avec Intention : Une Collaboration Renforcée Du 19 au 23 janvier 2026, la Clinique en Santé Mentale Solid Minds s’est rendue à Ouagadougou, au Burkina Faso, pour sa quatrième visite à l’Institut International d’Ingénierie de l’Eau et de l’Environnement (2iE), l’un de nos précieux partenaires du Programme des Boursiers de la Fondation Mastercard. Alors que les précédentes missions étaient centrées sur les étudiants et les équipes techniques chargées de leur bien-être, cette visite a marqué un tournant significatif : pour la première fois, le Comité de Direction de 2iE a participé à un atelier d’une journée dédiée à la santé mentale en milieu professionnel. Ce moment fort s’inscrit dans le cadre de notre programme intitulé « Soutenir la Santé Mentale et le Bien-être des Boursiers, Alumni et Organisations Partenaires de la Fondation Mastercard », soulignant l’engagement croissant de 2iE à intégrer le bien-être mental au cœur du leadership et de la culture institutionnelle. Le Leadership au Centre : Quand les Visionnaires s’Engagent L’atelier a réuni plus de 12 hauts responsables de 2iE, dont le Directeur Général, le Professeur El Hadji Bamba DIAW, le Secrétaire Général Professeur Hamma YACOUBA ainsi que des directeurs de départements stratégiques. Leur participation active n’était pas que symbolique : elle témoignait d’une véritable vision. Alors que, dans de nombreuses institutions, la santé mentale reste confinée aux services étudiants, à 2iE, les dirigeants ont pris les devants.   Comme l’a exprimé le Professeur DIAW : “La santé mentale a longtemps été une notion floue et peu abordée dans notre contexte. Mais après cette session avec l’équipe de Solid Minds, nous en comprenons désormais toute la pertinence, non seulement pour le bien-être individuel mais aussi pour la réussite globale de 2iE. En tant que dirigeants, nous portons la responsabilité à la fois des opérations quotidiennes et de la vision à long terme de notre institution. Prendre soin de la santé mentale au travail n’est pas une option – c’est une nécessité. Nous sommes pleinement engagés à appliquer ce que nous avons appris et à renforcer notre collaboration avec Solid Minds pour bâtir une institution plus saine, plus solidaire et plus résiliente.” Ses mots illustrent une prise de conscience essentielle : la résilience institutionnelle repose sur une culture de sécurité psychologique, d’empathie et de soutien proactif. Faire grandir une culture de présence et d’attention : une semaine d’échanges riches et d’engagement holistique Au-delà de l’atelier historique avec le Comité de Direction, l’équipe de Solid Minds a animé une série de sessions avec différents acteurs de 2iE tout au long de la semaine. Nous avons échangé avec l’équipe technique du Programme des Boursiers de la Fondation Mastercard, impliquée au quotidien dans l’accompagnement des étudiants. Nous avons également collaboré avec l’équipe de Transition afin d’explorer comment intégrer la préparation émotionnelle et psychologique dans le modèle d’accompagnement post-diplôme de 2iE. L’alignement entre la réussite académique et la résilience mentale est essentiel, et nous saluons l’ouverture de 2iE à faire progresser ce chantier par l’apprentissage mutuel. Des sessions de groupe ont aussi été menées avec les étudiants boursiers, créant des espaces sécurisés pour réfléchir au bien-être émotionnel, à la gestion du stress et à l’auto-soin. Une session particulièrement significative a été organisée pour les étudiants en situation de handicap, réaffirmant notre engagement commun envers l’inclusion et le soutien personnalisé. Semer pour la Durabilité : L’Action des Pairs Aidants Un moment fort de cette visite fut notre atelier additionnel destiné aux étudiants souhaitant devenir pairs aidants. Développer des systèmes de soutien entre pairs est une étape clé pour bâtir une culture de bienveillance durable au sein du campus. Lorsqu’ils sont formés à reconnaître les signes de détresse, à offrir les premiers secours psychologiques, et à orienter vers les services appropriés, les étudiants deviennent des acteurs clés de la santé mentale institutionnelle. Par des échanges interactifs, les participants ont exploré le rôle du soutien entre pairs dans : La détection précoce des signes de mal-être mental L’offre d’un premier soutien émotionnel La création d’espaces inclusifs, bienveillants et préventifs Le lien avec les services académiques pour une aide professionnelle rapide “Des espaces comme celui-ci, où le dialogue ouvert est encouragé et chaque voix est respectée, sont essentiels. Pouvoir exprimer nos idées, nos doutes et nos besoins sans jugement favorise la connexion, la réflexion et un apprentissage continu.”— Chabi Soubo FARIDATOU, pair aidante en troisième année de bachelor technologique en énergies renouvelables et efficacité énergétique. “En ingénierie, nous comprenons que la pression fait partie du parcours. Cette formation a également été un rappel important des dispositifs d’accompagnement et des services mis en place par l’institution pour soutenir notre bien-être.” Kabore B. ABDOULAYE — Étudiant en Master 2 de génie de l’eau, de l’assainissement et des aménagements hydro-agricoles et représentant des étudiants à 2iE. Solid Minds continuera à offrir un appui technique et un mentorat à ce réseau croissant de pairs aidants. Nous croyons fermement que les initiatives menées par les étudiants – lorsqu’elles sont soutenues – génèrent des changements durables. Pourquoi l’Engagement du Leadership est Clé Chez Solid Minds, nous savons depuis longtemps que la santé mentale n’est pas qu’une affaire d’étudiants – c’est une question stratégique. Le leadership a le pouvoir d’ancrer des valeurs, de mobiliser des ressources et d’opérer de réels changements structurels. C’est pourquoi l’engagement de 2iE à ce niveau nous a tant inspirés. Quand les dirigeants priorisent le bien-être, ils : Normalisent les conversations sur la santé mentale Brisent les stigmas au sein de l’institution Permettent des interventions précoces et bienveillantes Alignent les valeurs de l’établissement avec une culture du soin Ce modèle d’engagement, fondé sur une impulsion stratégique portée par la gouvernance vers les collaborateurs et renforcée par une mobilisation active sur le terrain, est celui que nous souhaitons promouvoir au sein de l’ensemble de notre réseau de partenaires. Vision Partagée, Responsabilité Commune Notre engagement à 2iE s’inscrit dans un programme plus large soutenu par la Fondation Mastercard, couvrant actuellement 36 universités dans le

Leading with Compassion: 2iE’s Commitment to Mental Health and Institutional Wellness   Returning with Purpose: A Deepening Engagement From January 19th to 23rd, 2026, Solid Minds Counselling Clinic returned to Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, for our fourth visit to the International Institute for Water and Environmental Engineering (2iE)—one of our valued Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners. While previous engagements focused on scholars and technical teams supporting scholar well-being, this visit marked a powerful shift: for the first time, 2iE’s senior management team—its full “Comité de Direction”—participated in a dedicated, day-long mental health in the workplace workshop. This milestone moment came as part of our broader program aimed at “Supporting Mental Health and Wellness among Mastercard Foundation Scholars, Alumni, and Partner Organizations”, and signaled a deepening institutional commitment to integrating mental health and wellness into leadership practice and campus culture. Leadership at the Center: When Visionaries Show Up The full-day workshop brought together over 12 senior leaders, including the Director General, Professor El Hadji Bamba DIAW, the Secretary General Professor Hamma YACOUBA, and heads of key departments shaping the strategic direction of 2iE. Their presence was not only symbolic—it was visionary. For many institutions, conversations about mental health remain in the realm of student services or staff welfare committees. At 2iE, leadership stepped forward. As Prof. DIAW shared: “Mental health has long been an unclear and under-discussed concept in our context. But after today’s session with the Solid Minds team, we now see its relevance not only for individual well-being but also for the overall success of 2iE. As senior leaders, we carry the responsibility for both daily operations and the long-term vision of this institution. Supporting mental health in the workplace isn’t optional—it is essential. We are fully committed to applying what we’ve learned and strengthening our collaboration with Solid Minds to build a healthier, compassionate, and more resilient institution.” His words encapsulate the growing realization that institutional resilience depends on a culture of psychological safety, empathy, compassion and proactive mental health support. Building a Culture of Care: A Week of Holistic Engagement Beyond the historic leadership workshop, the Solid Minds team facilitated a week-long series of sessions with diverse stakeholders within 2iE. We met with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program technical team, who play a central role in the daily well-being of scholars. We also held focused discussions with the Transitions team to explore how emotional and psychological readiness can be embedded into 2iE’s post-graduation support model. The alignment between academic preparation and mental resilience is critical, and we left inspired by 2iE’s openness to further developing this area through shared learning and collaboration.Our team also facilitated group sessions with students and Scholars supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholar Program, creating safe spaces to reflect on emotional well-being, stress management, and self-care practices. A particularly meaningful session was held with students with disabilities, reaffirming our joint commitment to inclusivity and personalized support. Planting Seeds of Sustainability: Peer Support in Action A standout feature of this visit was our two-day workshop for scholars and students interested in becoming peer support leads (“pair aidants”). Building peer support systems is a vital step toward creating a self-sustaining culture of care among students. When students are equipped to recognize signs of distress, offer psychological first aid, and refer peers to appropriate services, institutions become more compassionate and responsive.Through interactive training, students explored what mental health is and the role of peer support in: Detecting early signs of mental distress Providing emotional first-line support Creating inclusive and judgment-free zones Bridging connections with the Student and Academic Affairs Departments for timely professional help Here are some insights shared by participants:  “Spaces like this, where open dialogue is encouraged and every voice is respected, are essential. The ability to share our views, questions, and ideas without judgment support ongoing connection, reflection and continuous learning.”       Chabi Soubo FARIDATOU— A peer supporter in her third year of technological bachelor’s degree on renewable energy systems and energy efficiency. “In engineering, we understand that pressure is part of the journey. This training also served as an important reminder of the support systems and services the institution has put in place to support our well-being.”   Kabore B. ABDOULAYE — Master’s student (Year 2) in Water Engineering, Sanitation, and Hydro-Agricultural Development, and Students Guild President at 2iE. Solid Minds will continue to offer technical guidance and mentorship to this growing network of peer supporters. We believe strongly that student-led initiatives—when supported and resourced—create lasting change. Why Engaging Senior Leadership Matters At Solid Minds, we’ve long understood that mental health isn’t only a student matter—it’s a strategic matter. Leadership holds the power to shape values, unlock resources, and drive systemic transformation. That’s why 2iE’s engagement with mental health at the highest level was so inspiring. When leaders prioritize wellness, they: Normalize conversations about mental health Break stigma across the institution Empower teams to intervene early and compassionately Align institutional values with a culture of care This model of top-down commitment paired with grassroots action is one we hope to advocate for and sustain across our broader partner network. Shared Vision, Shared Responsibility Our engagement at 2iE is part of a wider Mastercard Foundation-supported program, currently spanning 36 universities globally, including 24 across Africa and 12 others across Europe, North America, Central America, and the Middle East. At each partner institution, we work to embed mental health and wellness as a cornerstone of scholar success, staff empowerment, and organizational health.What we experienced at 2iE exemplifies what’s possible when commitment meets collaboration. By involving technical teams, scholars, and senior executives, 2iE has embraced a whole-institutional approach to mental health and wellness.Together, we are shaping campuses where mental health is not a reactive service, but a strategic priority intertwined into leadership, operations, and learning environments. Looking Ahead: Deepening the Roots We are deeply grateful for the openness, hospitality, and vision demonstrated by 2iE during this visit. From senior-level dialogue to peer support design, the partnership has laid a strong foundation for deeper integration of mental health and

Solid Minds at ALCHE’s First Wellness Week: A Transformative Journey in Holistic Student Wellness During the week of December 15–19, 2025, Solid Minds Counselling Clinic partnered with the African Leadership College of Higher Education (ALCHE) for the institution’s first-ever Wellness Week—an immersive initiative designed to promote mental health, wellbeing, and community connection among students. This collaboration was made possible through both institutions’ partnerships with the Mastercard Foundation, which advances holistic student support across the continent. The week brought together students, interns, staff, counselors, faculty, university leadership, and external partners in a co-created experience that recognized students not just as beneficiaries of wellness programming, but as active contributors, leaders, and partners in shaping a healthier campus culture. Mauritius: A Vibrant Context for Wellness Week ALCHE, with about 180 students currently enrolled across four undergraduate programs BSc. Entrepreneurial Leadership, BSc. International Business and Trade, BSc. Computer Science, and BSc. Software Engineering places strong emphasis on holistic development and leadership. The student community thrives in a multilingual and ethnically diverse environment, where local students Indo‑Mauritians, Creoles, Sino‑Mauritians, and Franco‑Mauritians interact with international students from various African countries, creating a rich and vibrant mix of cultures. Kicking Off Wellness Week The Wellness Week was officially opened by ALCHE Dean, Jeremy Ruiters, whose thought-provoking address set a powerful tone for the entire week. He reminded participants that “if you don’t make time for wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness,” a message that resonated deeply with everyone present. Following the opening, a Fireside Chat and Multidisciplinary Panel Discussion on Youth Mental Health brought together experts from different fields to explore key issues affecting young people today, including social media use, stigma, and anxiety. The session featured: Jean Pierre Ndagijimana ( Dr. JPN), Senior Regional Manager of Strategy and Partnerships at Solid Minds Counselling Clinic Ms. Joann Davenia Permall, Lecturer at the Mauritius Institute of Education specializing in Pedagogy and Philosophy of Education. Nazeerah Golamnobee-Foondun, Pedopsychiatrist at the Ministry of Health and Wellness of Mauritius. The discussions were lively and interactive, with participants engaging deeply through thoughtful questions, highlighting that wellness is not only a personal responsibility but also a collective effort shaped by dialogue, understanding, and shared learning. Psychological First Aid: Equipping for Impact On December 16th, the Solid Minds Counselling Clinic team facilitated a Psychological First Aid (PFA) training. Normally conducted over three days, we condensed the essentials into a half-day session. Topics  included mental health, stress, trauma, and the three core principles of PFA look, listen, and link.. To make the session engaging, icebreakers were included, bringing the training to life. This part of the program is always a hit, consistently engaging all attendees and fostering a positive, collaborative environment.  The session was highly interactive, with participants engaging in group activities that simulated real-life scenarios. At the end, one participant shared: “…..so much I learned. It was beyond my expectations. I learned how to better support myself first as a PFA, and then others who need immediate support.” The energy and enthusiasm in the room were palpable, and it was rewarding to see participants leave with practical skills they could immediately apply. Fun and Mindfulness: Moving Beyond the Classroom Wednesday, December 17th, combined fun, movement, and mindfulness. The morning began with a Karate session, led by school counselor Gianeswaree Caully and a coach, both black belts. At first, the idea of Karate in a wellness program seemed surprising to me, but it quickly became clear how it connected to wellness. The session offered a full-body workout, laughter, and confidence-building, demonstrating that wellness encompasses both mental and physical health. By the end, participants felt empowered, exhilarated, and exhausted in the best possible way. The karate session was exciting! It taught me not only how to defend myself physically but also how to stay calm, focused, and resilient under pressure. As the karate session concluded,, Damien Niyonsaba, a psychiatrist nurse at Solid Minds shared, reflected, “I feel more confident handling challenges, both mentally and physically” Later, we experienced Mindfulness through Drama, led by Joan Davenia Permall, Lecturer at the Mauritius Institute of Education specializing in pedagogy and Philosophy of Education. This innovative technique combines mindfulness practices with theatrical exercises to help participants become more present, self-aware, and emotionally expressive. Activities ranged from playful movements and running to quiet reflection and sharing in a circle. Participants were encouraged to connect with their emotions freely, illustrating that safe spaces are best created through experience and interaction, not just theory. To help us better understand the exercises, the facilitator explained: “Drama is often mistaken for theatre, but it is much more than performance; it is a reflection of the human experience. Drama engages people with themselves on every level, offering an excellent way to understand holistic education. It exercises the mind, memory, and cognition, while also fostering emotional connection and self-awareness. Drama encourages participants to explore their feelings: what they feel, why they feel it, how they usually express it, and how they might choose to express it differently. It gives people the opportunity to shape and reshape their being through their emotions and experiences.” — Joan Davenia Permall What Joan enjoys most about drama is how it repositions the body, which is especially valuable since we spend so much time sitting in school chairs often to our detriment. Through mindfulness through drama, there are no chairs; participants can move freely, relax their bodies, and fully engage in the experience. This session reminded me that we often don’t take enough time to truly appreciate ourselves or connect with who we are. For me, this was a moment of connecting and reconnecting with myself. We began with a game celebrating our names. Usually, we say our names in a formal or casual way, but this exercise turned it into a celebration of who we are. Drama, for me, became a way of connecting my mind, my being, and my feelings. During the exercises, we imagined walking through elements of nature, and our bodies responded

Nature and Mental Health: An Invisible Lifeline On Sunday, October 26, 2025, Solid Minds Counselling Clinic joined residents of Umutako village, in Kibaza Cell, Kacyiru Sector, Gasabo District, for a meaningful tree planting initiative under the theme “My Tree, My Legacy.” This was part of a nation-wide campaign encouraging communities to contribute to environmental protection and neighborhood beautification during the last weekend of October. The activity followed Rwanda’s monthly Umuganda on Saturday, which this time emphasized large-scale tree planting efforts across Kigali and the rest of the country. Families, youth, and community leaders gathered to plant seedlings, restore green spaces, and protect local ecosystems—reminding everyone that environmental care is a shared responsibility. Among the participants were the Solid Minds team, led by both Co-Founders, Samuel Munderere and Ariane Uwamahoro, who worked alongside the community with encouragement and gratitude. Reflecting on the exercise, the CEO & Co-Founder, Samuel Munderere, shared: “It was great to see us all working together with the local residents of Umutako Village. Solid Minds Counselling Clinic donated 625 trees altogether, with the majority planted yesterday during Umuganda. Today, our efforts resulted in about 160 trees planted. I take this opportunity to thank the leadership of our country for being intentional about the protection of the environment. We are also proud of our modest contribution to this journey, and we reaffirm our commitment to continuing to work hand in hand with the City of Kigali in such a great life- saving initiative.” He concluded by emphasizing that Solid Minds’ presence on the ground underscores the clinic’s commitment to extending wellness beyond clinical practice and into the heart of community life. The environmental benefits of planting trees are well known: they purify the air we breathe, regulate temperatures, reduce pollution, prevent soil erosion, and add natural beauty to our surroundings. Yet, beneath these physical advantages lies a quieter truth; nature plays a vital role in our mental health and emotional balance. Green spaces are proven to reduce anxiety, lower stress, improve focus, and enhance overall wellbeing. When communities are surrounded by clean, healthy environments, the mind feels calmer, safer, and more connected. Conversely, when natural habitats are degraded, polluted, or neglected, our psychological wellbeing is placed at risk. The environment we live in influences how we think, feel, sleep, and interact with one another. Tree planting, therefore, becomes more than an act of environmental care. it becomes an investment in collective mental health. As a clinic dedicated to mental health and wellness, Solid Minds is proud to contribute to initiatives that strengthen both the environment and the wellbeing of those who depend on it. Participation in activities like this reflects a broader belief that healing does not only happen within counseling rooms; it happens in communities, in shared spaces, and through intentional acts of care. Each seedling planted in Umutako Village symbolizes hope, growth, and the desire to leave something better for future generations. It is a gesture that transcends individuals and benefits the whole community. By cultivating greener neighborhoods, we cultivate healthier minds. Solid Minds Counselling Clinic will continue to be intentional, present, and engaged in community outreach initiatives that promote environmental wellbeing and mental health awareness. These acts of service echo our core values: connection, compassion, and collective responsibility. Nature is not a luxury; it is a necessity. When we care for it, it quietly cares for us in return. Plant a tree. Protect your environment. Strengthen your mind. My tree, my legacy. Our earth, our wellness.

Turning Struggles Into Strength: Diane Nyirarukundo’s Journey To Support Youth Mental Wellness Diane Nyirarukundo, a Clinical Psychology student at the University of Rwanda and a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, turned her personal struggles into a mission to support youth mental wellness through her initiative, Healing Hearts. During secondary school, Diane experienced emotional challenges such as isolation, low self- esteem, and emotional suppression, which she once accepted as normal. It was only after joining the Clinical Psychology program that she recognized these as signs of emotional distress. Through learning and seeking help, she found healing and made a promise to support other young people facing similar struggles. Growing up in Jabana Sector, Gasabo District, Diane witnessed the stigma surrounding mental health where emotional distress was often misunderstood or linked to witchcraft. This inspired her to start Healing Hearts, an initiative promoting emotional awareness, resilience, and empathy among youth. Today, Healing Hearts has over 370 members, operating mainly through social media. The team organizes weekly psychoeducation sessions on topics such as emotional support and resilience, visits schools, shares awareness content, and connects individuals to professional services when needed. A turning point came when Diane attended a three-day PFA training, where she learned the importance of look, listen, and linking people to proper mental health resources. Before this, members mainly supported each other informally without a structured referral system. The concept of linking connecting individuals to professional help has since become the foundation of Healing Hearts’ approach, ensuring that everyone receives appropriate support beyond the group’s capacity. Diane focuses on empowering young people because she believes they are the future of the nation capable of becoming compassionate leaders and changemakers when supported mentally and emotionally

What If You Were the First Responder to Someone’s Mental Health Crisis? Imagine walking into class and noticing that someone hasn’t been themselves for days. They’re quiet, distracted, and keep to themselves. You feel something’s wrong but you’re not sure what to say, or if it’s even your place to say anything. You notice something’s not quite right. The one who used to crack jokes now barely makes eye contact. A friend who was always on top of things suddenly stops showing up. A colleague starts making small mistakes, seems on edge, and shrugs off any concern with “I’m just tired.” Deep down, you know it’s more than that. Almost everyone has found themselves in these moments, where someone around us is clearly not okay, and we’re left wondering what to do. Do we say something? Do we stay quiet? What if we make it worse? This is the moment where we need something that few of us are ever taught: the ability to respond to emotional pain with calm, compassion, and confidence. Just as physical first aid teaches us how to respond to cuts, burns, or choking, Psychological First Aid or PFA gives us the tools to support someone who is struggling emotionally. It doesn’t take years of training. It doesn’t require you to be a therapist. It simply prepares you to show up for someone who’s hurting, in the right way, at the right time. As conversations around mental health grow louder, PFA is becoming an essential life skill. Whether you’re a parent, peer, teacher, manager, or friend, knowing how to show up for someone in distress can make all the difference. Through our work with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, we grew out of a shared belief that academic excellence must go hand in hand with emotional well-being. These students are bright, driven, and full of potential. But like many young people today, they also face immense stress, loneliness, and self-doubt. We held a three-day PFA training built around open dialogue, real-life scenarios, and practical learning. Participants reflected on how emotional distress often hides in plain sight in silence, irritability, sudden withdrawal. They learned that support doesn’t always mean solving someone’s problem; it can be as simple as listening, staying present, or helping someone feel safe enough to open up. “Look. Listen. Link.” That’s the simple but powerful model we use in Psychological First Aid. As Dr. Jean Pierre Ndagijimana, Senior Regional Manager of Strategy and Partnerships, put it: “We did this training because we believe that emotional support is essential. ‘Look, Listen, Link’ is a model that helps people stay grounded while responding with care. It teaches us to payattention, to be fully present, and to know when to guide someone toward more professional help. It’s about creating safer communities one conversation at a time.” One participant, David, shared, “I used to think supporting someone meant fixing them. Now I know that just being present and listening is already a powerful form of help.” Another said, “This training helped me realize that many of the behaviors I used to judge were actually cries for help I didn’t recognize.” While this training took place in a university setting, the truth is that the need for Psychological First Aid exists everywhere. In classrooms and offices. On social media. Around dinner tables. In moments we often overlook, when someone needed us to notice and we didn’t know how. PFA is not just about emergencies. It’s about everyday empathy. It’s about learning to really see each other. And in a world where so many people are silently struggling, that’s one of the most powerful things we can do. Because sometimes, what helps isn’t a solution, it’s a conversation that reminds someone they’re not alone.

Mental Health and Invisible Disabilities.  -A Conversation with Justine Mukamwezi.  Conversation with Justine Mukamwezi. Clinical Director, Solid Minds Counselling Clinic. Introduction: Tell us about yourself and why you chose a career in psychology. Tell us about Solid Minds and the work they are doing with young people to support mental health. I’m a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals across different life stages, particularly youth and young adults. I was drawn to this field because of a deep desire to walk alongside people through their pain and help them reclaim their potential. Mental health is a critical foundation for thriving, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized aspects of our wellbeing, especially in Rwanda and similar contexts. 2. What are some common misconceptions about mental health conditions and non-visible disabilities in the workplace? Many people still believe that mental health struggles are signs of weakness or personal failure. One widespread myth is that if someone looks “fine,” they must be fine. Ignoring the reality of invisible conditions like anxiety, PTSD, or chronic depression. Some also assume these challengesare rare or only affect certain types of people, which is untrue. Mental health issues affect people across all professions and backgrounds. 3. How does stigma—both internalized and external—impact individuals experiencing mental health challenges? Stigma isolates. External stigma can lead to discrimination, exclusion from opportunities, and misunderstanding from peers or supervisors. Internalized stigma is equally harmful; it can prevent individuals from seeking help, cause shame, and lower self-worth. Together, they create a cycle where people suffer in silence rather than getting the support they need. 4. What practical steps can leaders and team members take to create a psychologically safe work environment? Start by normalizing conversations around mental health. This can be as simple as including mental well-being in team check-ins or making sure HR policies include psychological safety. Leaders should model vulnerability and respect privacy while setting clear expectations for respect, flexibility, and support. Training on mental health awareness is also critical. 5. How can managers foster open communication without overstepping personal boundaries? Managers should approach conversations with curiosity and compassion, not assumptions. Asking open-ended, non-intrusive questions like “How can I support you today?” signals care without pressure. It’s also important to reinforce that sharing is voluntary, and that confidentiality will be respected. 6. What are some everyday tools or language shifts we can use to better support students and colleagues struggling with mental health challenges? Language matters. Replace “crazy” or “unstable” with “experiencing stress” or “going through a hard time.” Encourage check-ins like “You’ve seemed a bit off lately, how are you doing?” instead of judgmental remarks. Tools like peer-support groups, mental health first aid training, and access to counseling services are also practical ways to provide support. 7. How can we offer help or accommodations if someone hasn’t disclosed a mental health condition but seems to be struggling? Focus on behavior, not assumptions. You can say something like, “I noticed you’ve seemed overwhelmed, would you like to talk or take a break?” Offer flexible options without demanding explanations. Respect their privacy while making it clear that support is available. 8. How can we effectively educate staff and scholars about mental health without overwhelming or triggering them? Use a trauma-informed approach: start small, create optional learning spaces, and provide contentwarnings when discussing heavy topics. Blend education with stories, tools, and hope. Normalize learning about mental health the same way we do physical health, and always leave room for reflection and processing. 9. What role does peer support play in building a more inclusive and understanding environment? Peer support is powerful. When people see others with lived experience sharing openly, it breaks down stigma and creates safe spaces. Peer networks provide validation, shared language, and practical strategies that professionals alone can’t always offer. I encourage peer-led conversations as part of our holistic approach. 10. What is one thing every individual in this room can start doing today to reduce stigma and create a more supportive environment? Practice empathy. Make space for mental health in everyday conversations. If you hear someone dismissing or mocking mental health issues, speak up. And most importantly, be gentle with others, and with yourself. Stigma is reduced not just through policy, but through everyday kindness and courageous conversations.  

Solid Minds Counselling Clinic at the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Summer Camp 2025 From August 4th to 9th, 2025, the University of Rwanda’s Huye Campus was filled  with energy as over 500 Mastercard Foundation Scholars from the university’s seven campuses gathered for the annual Scholars Summer Camp. Joining them were the Mastercard Foundation Scholar Program team, the university leadership that includes the student welfare office, career guidance and employability office, students guild council representatives, other university programs and key partners such as a representation from the Ministry of Education, Huye district, Kora Coach Business Academy, Bag Innovations, FAWE Rwanda, and Solid Minds Counseling), and  university’s guild council representatives. Themed “Shaping Tomorrow Starts with Today: Building the Next Generation of Transformative Leaders”, the week-long camp was a gathering of bright minds. It became a vibrant space for leadership, learning, and collective action. This year, the spotlight turned to an often-overlooked dimension of leadership: mental health and emotional well-being. Solid Minds Counselling Clinic joined with a clear mission to support scholars in cultivating compassionate communities where mental health is acknowledged, destigmatized, and supported. One of the highlights of the Summer Camp was the Psychological First Aid (PFA) refresher session, delivered by the Solid Minds Counselling Clinic team and 20 Scholars who had previously undergone PFA training. The refresher session was in preparation for the main workshop. The Solid Minds staff team together with selected scholars met in the evening prior to the main workshop for the previously trained scholars to collaboratively  plan and refine their approach, focusing on how best they can transfer acquired knowledge to  their peers during the summer camp. The team designed a student-friendly workshop plan that incorporated scenarios, role plays, and interactive discussions, ensuring participants not only understood the PFA concepts but also felt equipped to apply them in real-life situations. Scholars during an engaging PFA refresher with role plays, scenarios, and interactive discussions to equip peers with practical skills. To kick off the Psychological First Aid workshop, Dr. Jean Pierre Ndagijimana (JPN), Solid Minds’ Senior Regional Manager of Strategy & Partnerships, explained that PFA is “a simple, practical way to support someone in distress, by noticing their needs, listening with empathy, and connecting them to the right help.” He reminded scholars that while some had received PFA training at their campuses, not everyone could attend, making this Summer Camp workshop the perfect chance for the few trained peers to lead and share their knowledge with all the scholars gathered in the Huye Campus main auditorium. Dr. Jean Pierre Ndagijimana (JPN), Solid Minds’ Senior Regional Manager of Strategy & Partnerships introducing PFA Instead of Solid Minds taking center stage, scholars stepped into the role of trainers. Through role plays dramatizing real-life campus scenarios, they showed peers how to Look, Listen, and Link when a fellow student is in distress. PFA providers role-playing the core principles of Psychological First Aid Look, Listen, and Link through engaging sketches. The exercise brought lessons vividly to life: “What inspired me most was seeing the scholars take full ownership,” reflected Pacifique Igiraneza, a Solid Minds clinician. “They weren’t just participants; they were leaders teaching their peers that mental health is everyone’s responsibility.” Reflecting on why the Solid Minds team supported Scholar volunteers in taking center stage to facilitate the main Psychological First Aid (PFA) workshop, Dr JPN shared: “Our role at Solid Minds was to prepare and equip the students to be the ones offering the PFA training. We knew that if scholars themselves took the lead, the sessions would be more relatable, engaging, and impactful. The volunteers were carefully selected from all University of Rwanda campuses, and our hope is that when they return, they carry with them the confidence to continue leading such spaces. This approach builds ownership, strengthens peer-to-peer learning, and ensures sustainability. What they learned and shared here can strengthen their confidence to lead similar spaces and positively impact many more across their campuses.” Beyond workshops,scholars were offered one-on-one guidance sessions that became private spaces to reflect and share challenges rarely voiced. Reflecting on the observed patterns from those spaces, Dr. JPN shared that some students decided to speak with counselors because they were struggling to socialize, others worried about unfair grading, relationship issues and breakups, and many carried heavy personal histories losing parents, being first-generation learners and, or facing financial and family pressures. He shared that while some needed practical guidance on balancing academics and the challenges, others needed deeper support. In those cases, we connected them to Solid Minds, the Psychosocial Support Officer, or peer clubs, and worked with university staff and management where advocacy was needed. “For me, this was Look, Listen, and Link in action”, he added. Peer Support Clubs: One Year of Growth The Summer Camp offered an opportunity to reflect  on the progress of peer support clubs established across all University of Rwanda campuses a year earlier. In lively discussions, club leaders, scholars, and psychosocial supporters at the university shared achievements and challenges, showing how these initiatives are transforming student life. Serge Irambona, deputy president of Sanga Inshuti Dreams Lead Youth Fellowship and a second-year Crop Production student at UR Busogo Campus, shared: “Our peer support club is more than a club; it’s a family. We share our struggles, lift each other up, and find joy in simple activities like hiking or game nights. This family spirit has been a cornerstone of my mental well-being.” Serge Irambona, deputy president of Sanga Inshuti Dreams Lead Youth Fellowship and a second-year Crop Production student at UR Busogo Campus, Christella Ishimwe, the Psychosocial Support Office,Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, at  the University of Rwanda emphasized: “Look, Listen, and Link are powerful skills that equip peer support members and scholars to be more empathetic, compassionate, and responsive. Scholars empowered with these skills can play a vital role in providing mental health first aid, both on campus and in their communities.” Christella Ishimwe, the Psychosocial Support Officer, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda. The integration of mental health into everyday life was

CMU Africa’s Wellness Open House Sparks Conversations to End Mental Health Stigma. On Tuesday, September 9, the Carnegie Mellon University Africa campus in Kigali came alive with a spirit of openness, care, and community during the annual Wellness Center Open House. Organized in partnership with Solid Minds Counselling Clinic, which manages the campus wellness center and also runs the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program mental health services, the event created a safe and engaging space for students to learn, connect, and reflect on their mental well-being. Each year, the open house is designed to demystify and normalize mental health conversations and bring wellness services closer to the CMU Africa community. Instead of waiting for a crisis, the event allows students to interact with the wellness team in a relaxed setting, discover available resources, and break down the stigma that often surrounds counselling and therapy. For many, the wellness center might be a place they know exists but feel uncertain about approaching. The Open House concept breaks down hesitation by opening doors to mental health support in a safe, approachable, and engaging way. “We want to make students realize that we are not just people in the office waiting for a crisis, we are humans too. We want to interact with them and make friends,” explained Justine Mukamwezi, Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Director at Solid Minds Counselling Clinic. “This activity allows us to break the stigma around seeking help and how people view therapists and counselors.” This year’s event gathered 168 students and staff provided students with valuable exposure to comprehensive mental health assessment tools covering depression, anxiety, mood disorders, self-esteem, personality, and self-care. But perhaps more importantly, it provided something often missing in mental health conversations: human connection, interaction and accessibility. “When is the deadline?” and “Where do I submit after I complete?” were common questions at the various stands, revealing how students initially approached these tools through an academic lens. However, the beauty of this initiative lies in its privacy-centered approach. These assessments aren’t assignments to be submitted, but personal tools for self-discovery and awareness. The comprehensive nature of these tools means students cannot only identify potential concerns but also understand what type of help they might need, creating a bridge between self-awareness and seeking appropriate support. The impact of the open house extends far beyond the day itself. Each year, the wellness center records a surge in counseling bookings immediately following the event. For Mukamwezi, this reflects something essential. “Sometimes the only thing needed is to break the silence. When students see the services for themselves, when they realize we are here and accessible, they are far more likely to reach out,” she said. Psychologists call this the availability heuristic—the idea that people are more likely to act on what is visible and easy to recall. By making the wellness center a living, breathing presence on campus for a day, the open house ensures that when students think of help, they think of the counselors they met, the tools they held, and the conversations they shared. Beyond the assessments, the open house was about interaction and presence. The wellness team stood shoulder to shoulder with students laughing, answering questions, and sharing stories, reminding them that counseling is not about judgment, but about connection and support. In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent among students, CMU Africa’s approach offers both hope and a model for change. It reminds us that behind every scholar is a person who deserves care, understanding, and the space to thrive.

Kanisa’s Journey of Resilience and Giving Back. Her story begins long before she could even write her name. In 2005, just a year after her birth, Kanisa Rebecca Majok Thiak and her family fled South Sudan, forced to leave behind everything familiar. Their destination was Rhino Camp Refugee Settlement in Uganda, a place often overlooked, yet one that would come to define the beginnings of an extraordinary journey. Growing up in the settlement, Kanisa experienced the daily realities faced by many displaced families: scarcity, instability, and the absence of formal opportunity. But she also experienced unwavering love and sacrifice, particularly from her mother, Mary Yar Mabior Pach. Though Mary never received a formal education and could neither read nor write, she became the driving force behind Kanisa’s academic pursuit. Through small but significant acts such as ensuring Kanisa had a pen when food was scarce or a school uniform even when the family went to bed hungry, her mother modeled resilience, purpose, and hope. Kanisa’s early life was not shaped by privilege, but by a quiet determination and the unyielding support of those who believed in her. In 2021, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, she returned to South Sudan to complete high school. There, she met Goch Jacob Thiong, a classmate who would become a key figure in her story. Goch introduced her to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the African Leadership University (ALU) and supported her throughout the application process. His belief in her potential opened the door to a future she had only dreamed of. Now a third-year Software Engineering student at ALU, specializing in Machine Learning, Kanisa is also a Mastercard Foundation Scholar. But beyond her academic milestones, her university journey has been marked by advocacy, peer leadership, and a deep commitment to giving back. At ALU, Kanisa serves as the Refugee and Displaced Persons (RDP) Lead. Through this role, she has worked alongside fellow students and in partnership with Solid Minds Counselling Clinic to address the unique mental health challenges faced by displaced learners. From organizing peer support circles and resilience-building workshops to facilitating storytelling sessions and mentorship spaces, she has created environments where refugee students feel seen, heard, and supported. One of the most impactful initiatives she co-led was a collaborative visit to Nyabiheke Refugee Camp. In partnership with peers from the University of Rwanda and the African Leadership University, Kanisa helped coordinate an immersive day of interactive sessions, skills-sharing activities, and donation distribution. The event aimed to strengthen community ties, encourage solidarity, and inspire refugee youth to reimagine their future. Kanisa’s story is not just one of personal triumph; it is a reflection of what becomes possible when resilience meets support and when students are given space to rise and give back. In her words and actions, she represents the strength of displaced youth and the power of peer support in healing and transformation. “I am not just a scholar. I am not just a girl from a refugee camp. I am my mother’s dream made flesh. Being a refugee is a circumstance, not an identity it doesn’t define who you are or limit who you can become. ” Kanisa Rebecca Majok Thiak As Kanisa continues her academic and leadership journey, she carries with her not just her mother’s dreams but the hopes of an entire community that once lived in the shadows and is now beginning to shine.