In our personal journeys, we have grappled with the challenges of mental health conditions within our own families. These journeys have taken us from belief systems to pilgrimages and even consultations with professionals overseas, spanning India and Muhimbili. It was during these experiences that we couldn’t help but notice the glaring void within the mental health support system.

The seismic moment that underscored the dire need for enhanced mental health support came with the tragic building collapse near the KSIJ mosque. Witnessing the trauma and anguish that gripped our communities served as a poignant reminder of the urgency at hand. In response, we organized for mental health trainers from the U.K. to travel and train 16 first aiders, arming them with the tools to provide support to those in need.

However, as we delved deeper into this training program, it became apparent that it was Eurocentric in its approach and did not comprehensively address the unique challenges faced by developing countries.

This realization marked the genesis of our journey, the inception of Fikrafya’s guiding light. In collaboration with the esteemed NGO, Mental Health First Aid U.K., we embarked on a mission to create training programs tailored specifically for the needs of developing countries. This pursuit transformed our careers and ignited a passionate commitment to learning and imparting various therapeutic interventions aimed at promoting well-being.

Fikrafya stands as a testament to our dedication, born out of a profound desire to fill the void in mental health support systems, and a testament to our unwavering passion for the well-being of our communities.