INTEREST FOR A COLLABORATION ON ANY MENTAL HEALTH TOPIC

[Gaynor Ankamah]

Dear all,

I am a Psychiatrist currently living in Ghana.

I am very passionate about mental health and I  would very much like to collaborate with anyone on this  esteemed platform  interested in research bordering on mental health issues.

I am willing to share my knowledge and experience and also ready to learn new things.

Kindly feel free to contact email me.

Thank you.

Dr. Ama Ankamah.

[BIVES MUTUME]

Dear Gaylord,
Thank you for reaching out 
I'm also a psychiatrist 
What is your domain of interest as far as mental health research is concerned?
Regards.
Bives 

Bives Mutume

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[Hafeezullah Maiyegun]

I am a family physician in Nigeria. I would be happy to collaborate with you. 

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[Kingsley Achi]

I'm interested, Doc. I have some expertise in medical research writing. 

Kingsley. 

On Tue, 2 Sept 2025, 3:38 pm Gaynor Ankamah, <gaynoran...@gmail.com> wrote:

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[Abass Hamza]

Dear Dr. Amah,

My name is Abass Hamza, Founder and Creative Director of HACEP-Ghana, a youth-led and youth-serving organization established in 2008 and based in Tamale. I am also a nurse and public health practitioner, with over a decade of experience at the Tamale Teaching Hospital since 2010.

Beyond my professional background, I have lived experience as a survivor of drug addiction, which has given me unique insight and practical expertise in the field of mental health. As you may be aware, the Tramadol epidemic in the Northern Region—particularly in Tamale—remains a pressing public health challenge. Combined with the broader gaps in mental health resources and services across Ghana, this is an area where urgent, collaborative action is needed.

I am eager to explore how we might work together to design and implement impactful programmes to address these challenges. I have already developed some ideas for initiatives that I believe could form the basis of a strong joint effort.

I would be grateful if we could schedule a short one-on-one meeting within the week to discuss potential collaboration and chart a way forward.

Thank you once again for reaching out. I look forward to your response at your earliest convenience.

Warm regards,
Abass Hamza
Founder & Creative Director, HACEP-Ghana

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[IMAAN ALI]

Dear All,

Thank you for your email and the detailed introduction. I am very interested in discussing potential collaboration with you, especially given your experience and the pressing issues you've highlighted in the Northern Region.

I agree that a meeting would be beneficial to explore how we might work together. Would you be available to suggest a few times that work for you within the coming week?

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Warm regards,

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQeezJ-zTFYR54OuqyRPK74P9o0XGmoPgJ3owUq_padtjnw%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Dear Dr Armah and Imaan,

Given the urgency of the issue in Northern Ghana especially Tamale, I am available from 9:00AM to 6:00PM GMT from today, the rest of the week and the whole of next week from Monday to Saturday daily.

I am really looking forward to Dr Amah engagement since this has been initiated from his/her angle, am tapping into it because I have already documented a few ideas and programmes from prevention to rehabilitation and re-integration. It will be wonderful to have him/her onboard as well, that said, we do not know his or her schedule so I suggest we can move ahead when you have a date and the fact that this will be preliminary and introductory short meetings to chart the way forward.

Let me know when you will prefer as I am highly flexible and wish we could even meet sometime today.

Regards,

Abass

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAHhELtOe%2BqD7By5b-U%3DxAWY25DdhPzoJbA2r6vntoZJthFk7qg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Kingsley Achi]

I am available anytime. 

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQedxMTWuif_y6-Rchuo_7E0wz2eEQbNaG%2B19AfrVE36JXQ%40mail.gmail.com.

[Arul Nesan]

Dear Friends,

Please someone send me this research article PDF 

(Semi-Structured Interview Guide Development and Validation to Explore Parental Experiences and Expectations From Physiotherapy for Children With Down Syndrome

, 

First published: 06 March 2025

 

https://doi.org/10.1111/jar.70030)

Thank you

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[Otuto Chukwu]

Here you go!

Warm regards, 

Otuto

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[FUNMILOLA AJANI]

Well, l am interested, l'm into recreation.

Funmilola Ajani 

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[Adams Faith Nkut]

I'm interested 

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAAbypBqqE8qS2T0pT0G495NgPnh1Kdf6hMYKx3hwPmWwfHSd6A%40mail.gmail.com.

[mutabazi augustin]

Greetings!!!!!

I'm deeply interested in sharing and learn more about mental health issues. Research, experiences, knowledge, and so far.

Regards,

Augur

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[centre for development support initiatives]

Well done everyone 

I am A Professor of Social Work and look forward to collaborating

We can come up with the topic

Someone does the instrument

We then administer in our various countries and continue the process of review and analysis together 

Just suggesting

Warm wishes

Mimi

Yahoo Mail: Search, organise, conquer

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[Tirelo Modie-Moroka]

Iam  interested in researching mental health issues. Please contact me. Iam with the University of Botswana.

Tirelo Modie-Moroka 

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[Antonio Lentoor]

Dear colleagues

I am Antonio and I am an associate professor of clinical psychology based in South Africa, and very open to collaborating. For colleagues from Ghana or any other African country, there is also an opportunity for funding between South Africa and other African countries- if you are interested, please reach out to me. I would like to have opportunity to discuss. 

Looking forward 

Regards. 

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[Tom Mboya]

Dear colleagues,

I am Dr Tom Mboya Nyang'wara, a psychiatrist based in Kisumu, Kenya.

I am interested in this collaborative work

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAH4wiGk_rDA0vXXbggHVL85t6PPOYrzUqr3in48LTKwMN6W3DA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Dear All,

Thank you so much for showing your interest to work on this issue.

I will be sending over a doodle pool for us to select our availability for at least 3 options for our first virtual meeting, the date and time slots that win many votes will be adopted for us to meet and chart the way forward.

May Thanks,

Abass

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[Patience Kukundakwe]

Dear Researcher,  

Iam very much interested. Please involve me in any kind of mental health collaboration. 

Regards 

Patience Kukundakwe
Research Associate, MicroResearch Projects
Mildmay Research Centre, Uganda
Tel. +256 704317608
kup...@gmail.com

patience....@mildmay.or.ug

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[Olivia Shaw-Lovell]

Dear Abass,

I am interested in Mental Health research where I can add decolonial perspectives from my previous research on Global Mental Health for Gender-Based Violence Black Caribbean Women in Jamaica.

I am looking forward to joining that session when the details are provided. 

Olivia Shaw-Lovell Social Entrepeneur|Global Health Consultant, Evolve Coaching Services +44 7596 063540  |  oliviash...@gmail.com London, United Kingdon Create your WiseStamp email signature

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[Abass Hamza]

Dear All,

Please find below a pool for holding our first Virtual Meet Up.

Kindly select the date and time that best suits you, those with the highest number will be selected for our meeting. Click on the link to vote

LINK: Meeting Pool

Regards,

Abass

On Tue, Sep 2, 2025 at 2:38 PM Gaynor Ankamah <gaynoran...@gmail.com> wrote:

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[Abass Hamza]

Subject: Confirmed Date – First Virtual Meet: Accelerating Youth Mental Health in Africa 🌍💡

Dear Colleagues,

I am deeply inspired by the overwhelming enthusiasm each of you has shown toward our collective journey of Accelerating Youth Mental Health in Africa. Following our poll, I am delighted to announce that Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM GMT has emerged with the highest votes and will be the date of our first virtual meet.

From today until Wednesday, a new thread of communication will be coordinated with you all to ensure smooth final preparations. 

This meeting will undoubtedly mark a bold first step toward shaping a future where young Africans thrive mentally, socially, and emotionally.

As Nelson Mandela said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” Together, we are proving that possibility is limitless when passion meets collaboration.

With gratitude and anticipation,

Abass

NOTE: Below is a tentative agenda we will collectively fine-tune by close of day Wednesday, finalized and sent out once more a reminder email on the Morning of Thursday.

Agenda – First Virtual Meet

Theme: Accelerating Youth Mental Health in Africa
Date & Time: Friday, September 12, 2025 | 5:00 – 6:00 PM GMT
Platform: [Insert Link – Zoom/Google Meet/MS Teams]

1. Welcome & Opening Remarks (5 mins)

• Brief appreciation and setting the tone for collaboration

2. Introductions & Icebreaker (10 mins)

• Each participant introduces themselves, their organization/interest, and one aspiration for youth mental health in Africa

3. Background & Vision Sharing (10 mins)

• Context setting on why youth mental health matters now more than ever

• Highlighting collective goals

4. Open Discussion: Key Priorities (20 mins)

• Identifying immediate challenges

• Brainstorming solutions, synergies, and areas of collaboration

5. Next Steps & Coordination Mechanism (10 mins)

• Agreeing on communication channels

• Setting up working groups/task teams

• Proposing roadmap for the next 3 months

6. Closing Inspiration (5 mins)

• Reflection, motivational quote, and appreciation

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAKeCdNrM%2B-ceD-N%2BwKr32w3FcAYUcZ6YDYwEZofH6pf8bY74nA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Dear All, 

I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits.

Let me begin by extending our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Armah for convening this group and creating the platform for us to begin a conversation—and more importantly, coordinated action—on one of the most neglected yet devastating public health crises of our time: mental health and substance use disorders. For far too long, this issue has been silenced across Africa, despite the profound and far-reaching toll it continues to take on young people, families, and communities.

This issue is not abstract for me; it is painfully personal. I served at the Tamale Teaching Hospital for over a decade, and in 2016, after a tragic accident that left me bedridden for over two years, I was unable to access the surgery I needed. In trying to manage my pain, I became addicted to the opioid Pethidine. Rather than receiving holistic care and support, the institutional response was to divert my salary for over two years. My story is not unique. Health professionals in Ghana, as Dr. Armah can confirm, are themselves increasingly falling victim to addiction. Meanwhile, in Tamale and beyond, the Tramadol epidemic is destroying countless young lives.

It is against this backdrop that we have come together—not merely to talk, but to take decisive action. Attached is a draft agenda and programme. Kindly review it and indicate which section you would like to speak to. By Thursday, September 11th, 2025, we should finalize the agenda so that our introductory meeting on Friday, September 12th, 2025 (5:00–6:00 PM GMT) will be engaging, impactful, and action-oriented.

Since I do not currently have a paid Zoom account, I kindly request a volunteer to schedule a one-hour session and share the link with the group. Please also note that it is important we record this meeting to document our progress.

Colleagues, this is more than a meeting—it is the beginning of a movement. The work we embark on together will safeguard the future of countless young people. One day, when we look back on this moment, we will proudly say: we were there, we made it happen, and we sowed seeds of hope whose harvest our grandchildren’s children will enjoy.

With deep gratitude and anticipation,
Abass

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAKb1o_TrKW-_1%2B2DXws2rjP-2umNVTzKxNDfofuDi8M5AvM23w%40mail.gmail.com.

[Aman Yesuf]

Hi Abass,

Thank you so much for creating this platform to work on mental health and substance use disorder. 

Can we make the meeting using Google Meet? It is free. 

If we agree on this, I can create it.

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQee78AL5Ox%2BC4JzJrRJoZXmt97QHtEkzK1uNTSG_ATYLJw%40mail.gmail.com.

--

Best Regards,


Aman Yesuf (MPH-Epidemiology, Assistant Professor)
School of Public Health
St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College
Mobile: +251920569262
Alternative e-mail:aman....@sphmmc.edu.et or aman....@aau.edu.et
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

[Antonio Lentoor]

I've included here the link to the meeting for those who haven't gotten it. 

Inaugural Virtual MeetUP : Collective Action Mental Health for Young People In Africa | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAMT5LcnOcFF%2BUzTqpWN%2BwVvWCoL%3Dv%3D%3DzR5M7_Y1efOdij08haA%40mail.gmail.com.

[khadijah suleiman]

Please what time is the meeting? Also, can we please have a whatsapl group for easy disermination of information.

Thank you all.

Khadijah Ayoade-Suleiman,  Ph.D,  MAGES, GAIMF.

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[Abass Hamza]

Great Antonio, I look forward to meeting all of you in a couple of hours

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[William Oribu]

Hi,

I am also available for collaboration.

Dr. William Sagini Oribu (PhD)

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAJSdz9crEY8rSWP-SUzb09P7EyEUavrnVw%3Dsa4BQEkRc7C6ZTQ%40mail.gmail.com.

[Lina Salomão]

My name is Lina Salomão from Mozambique. I am affiliated with Eduardo Mondlane University, Faculty of Education, at the Center for Studies and Educational Research, and I am also a PhD Candidate in Anthropology at Moi University, Kenya. I am interested in collaborating on topics related to youth mental health, with a particular focus on traditional roots and causes, starting from the family setting in Mozambique

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQecpfiePzK2tUgaFkUgrskyOxLbfthnPKrkGC_9PintpGQ%40mail.gmail.com.

[Muwanguzi Moses M.D]

Dear all,

I am Moses Muwanguzi, a senior psychiatric resident at Mbarara University in Uganda. I am very much interested to join this move.

Thank you so much,

Moses

---

From: risings...@googlegroups.com <risings...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Abass Hamza <hacep...@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 10, 2025 2:18 PM
To: risings...@googlegroups.com <risings...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Re: [Rising Scholars] INTEREST FOR A COLLABORATION ON ANY MENTAL HEALTH TOPIC

 

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQee78AL5Ox%2BC4JzJrRJoZXmt97QHtEkzK1uNTSG_ATYLJw%40mail.gmail.com.

[Theophilus Maduabuchukwu Ikegwu]

Dear colleagues,

Mrs. Ikegwu, Hope Ijeoma (Nee Chukwu) is a psychiatric Nurse in Enugu state teaching hospital in Enugu state Nigeria and wishes to collaborate with the group. You may wish to reach out to her on: ikegwu...@gmail.com. Phone no: +234-7060747320.

Dr. T. M. Ikegwu (MNIFST, MIFT, FNOTAP)
Senior Lecturer
Department of Food Science and Technology,
Faculty of Agriculture,
Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka

Sabbatical Lecturer
Department of Food Science and Technology,
Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Federal University Wukari

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[Abass Hamza]

Kindly join us for the first meeting at 5-6pm GMT

Thanks

Abass

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[Ayuku Justine]

The meeting is scheduled 8 - 9pm EAT

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[kikelomo rachael]

Good morning

My name is Kikelomo Adeduntan 

I am interested in joining the group but the time is not convenient for me due to my timezone. 

Hope all group can be created for easy communication after the zoom meeting

Thank you 

Kike

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[Elizabeth Owino]

When is the meeting? What did you agree on during the planning 

Bright futures for every child every Nation (CEI)

akinyi...@gmail.com

0733854894/0724293571

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[Alex Akaka]

I'm interested 

Akaka ALEX 

Uganda 

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[Seighazi Regina]

Good day all,

Please can anyone kindly share the meeting link🙏

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[Antonio Lentoor]

Inaugural Virtual MeetUP : Collective Action Mental Health for Young People In Africa | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAA%3DrOAcKa1L0c3y6uYnSCAJPNoFaTf96TT%2BS4Oc_3fte-GCR9A%40mail.gmail.com.

[Antonio Lentoor]

Inaugural Virtual MeetUP : Collective Action Mental Health for Young People In Africa | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CACB_XFv2wWd5O_CJMzw%3DoJk1vMa%2Bq%2BpY%2BTGtdQw9wr%2BHLnHG3A%40mail.gmail.com.

[Muwanguzi Moses M.D]

Inaugural Virtual MeetUP : Collective Action Mental Health for Young People In Africa | Meeting-Join | Microsoft Teams

Join conversation teams.microsoft.com

Here is the Meeting link.

---

From: risings...@googlegroups.com <risings...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Seighazi Regina <seighaz...@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, September 12, 2025 7:07 PM

To: risings...@googlegroups.com <risings...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Re: [Rising Scholars] INTEREST FOR A COLLABORATION ON ANY MENTAL HEALTH TOPIC

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CACB_XFv2wWd5O_CJMzw%3DoJk1vMa%2Bq%2BpY%2BTGtdQw9wr%2BHLnHG3A%40mail.gmail.com.

[MK-Maurice Kongongo]

Dear all,

My name is Maurice Kong'ong'o. I am a Medical Anthropologist at the Department of Sociology, Psychology and Anthropology, Moi University, Kenya. I am interested in adolescent and youth mental health issues. I would be happy to collaborate in this area of research.

Regards

Maurice

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/SA2PR11MB4924A5F39C2354F4C4E360FEF708A%40SA2PR11MB4924.namprd11.prod.outlook.com.

[Doyin Ogunbiyi]

Good day,  

I am an AI researcher from the  University of Lagos, Nigeria. I missed the inaugural mental health meeting.

I am interested in the application of AI in mental health. I have done a few projects on that topic. I am interested in the collaboration.

Can I still be part of it?

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/SA2PR11MB4924A5F39C2354F4C4E360FEF708A%40SA2PR11MB4924.namprd11.prod.outlook.com.

--

Doyinsola Afolabi

Lecturer

Department of Computer Science, 

University Of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria.

dogu...@unilag.edu.ng

+2348065022065

[Monica Nabatanzi]

Dear Scholars,

Hope you are doing well. 

I write to seek support in accessing this journal article.

Could someone help me download and share? Please!

https://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3733548

Machine Learning in Demand Forecasting - A Review

Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on IoT, Social, Mobile, Analytics & Cloud in Computational Vision & Bio-Engineering (ISMAC-CVB 2020)

Regards

Monica

[Otuto Chukwu]

Here you go!

Warm regards, 

Otuto

--

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[Monica Nabatanzi]

Thank you so much! 

[Tesfay Equar]

Dear all, I am a psychodramatist from Ethiopia.  I am very interested in mental health. I would like to collaborate with anyone. who is interested in conducting further research on mental health issues.

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CACvYyQkfvd5rSj5mv_1VvR6NfiptMwuyy6rB_cFBHg5b%2BHaRvQ%40mail.gmail.com.

--

Tesfay Equar Kidanu Lecturer and Researcher, Jimma University +251914139962  |  +251914007072 www.linkedin.com/in/tesfay-equar-63316a2b5/ tesfae...@gmail.com  |  Ginjo. Jimma, Ethiopia Create your own email signature

[Abass Hamza]

Dear All,

Dear Rising Scholars,

Thank you to everyone who joined our first virtual meeting of the Youth Mental Health Collaborative Africa—your energy, insights, and commitment truly set the tone for a transformative journey ahead. Together, we are shaping a movement that amplifies youth voices, advances mental health solutions, and drives collective impact across Africa.

For those who could not attend but are eager to be part of this groundbreaking initiative, we warmly invite you to complete the form via the link below. This will allow you to join our WhatsApp group and participate in the thematic working groups, where ideas will be co-created and translated into meaningful action.

👉 [LINK]

We are already planning our second virtual meeting, which promises to be even more engaging and action-focused. Your involvement is vital as we build momentum and strengthen our collaborative network.

Please note: The deadline to complete the form is Saturday, 20th September 2025, at 11:59 PM GMT+0. Let’s seize this opportunity to create a united, youth-led force for mental health transformation across Africa.

In solidarity and hope,
Dr. Amah, Abass, Antonio & Team
Youth Mental Health Collaborative Africa

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[Ulunma Mariere]

Dear All, 

Is there a link for the meeting?

Please let me know.

Thank you 

Dr Ulunma I. Mariere

[MBBS; MA (Health Management, Planning & Policy); MScMEd; FWACP]

Consultant Public Health Physician

Head, Health Insurance Programmes,

Federal Medical Centre,  Bayelsa, Nigeria

Visiting Lecturer,

Community Medicine & Public Health

Bayelsa Medical University, Nigeria

Mobile: +234(0) 803 708 0586

E-mail: ulunma...@gmail.com

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[Abass Hamza]

Hi Dr Ulunma,

Thanks for getting in touch, the link for the 2nd virtual meeting will be shared tomorrow, am currently trying to get in touch with Antonio who volunteer to lead that process and we are counting on him again unless anyone would be please to volunteer and set up the link for 1 hour uninterrupted via zoom or google meet.

Updates will follow tomorrow, and their all, lets accelerate the action, the WhatsApp group will be set up very soon by Moses from Uganda, am not sure yet, but it will be done within the week.

Looking forward to meeting you all soon.

Regards,

Abass

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CA%2BreyykPOuvkqxPQNpVNtP8uNOiGQJv3aFWE03CPzd%3DGHNaHoA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Suvekshya]

Dear all! 

Nice to see all interacting messages!! My field is nursing! I am too enthusiastic to collaborate!! 

Best Regards

Suvekshya Silwal

Phd scholar Nursing 

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CA%2BreyykPOuvkqxPQNpVNtP8uNOiGQJv3aFWE03CPzd%3DGHNaHoA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Ulunma Mariere]

Dear Dr Abass,

Thank you for getting back to me.

It's all  well noted.

My warmest regards.

Dr Ulunma I. Mariere

[MBBS; MA (Health Management, Planning & Policy); MScMEd; FWACP]

Consultant Public Health Physician

Head, Health Insurance Programmes,

Federal Medical Centre,  Bayelsa, Nigeria

Visiting Lecturer,

Community Medicine & Public Health

Bayelsa Medical University, Nigeria

Mobile: +234(0) 803 708 0586

E-mail: ulunma...@gmail.com

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQef-1iM9DrLq1sGer_GxZHLoJQQ1Js4%2BUrBqUVveQWMruA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Gaynor Ankamah]

Hello team, 

I hope this email finds you well.

As we wait for our other colleagues to set up our next meeting,I would like to suggest we start penning down the various Mental health issues we have in our localities that you would like us to tackle as a group.

This will enable structure and  Prioritize our interventions.

Thank you.

Dr. Ama Ankamah.

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAN-MQef-1iM9DrLq1sGer_GxZHLoJQQ1Js4%2BUrBqUVveQWMruA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Rabia Farooqi]

Dear Collageus,

I am a clinical psychologist and associate professor at a university in Pakistan. I would love to be able to collaborate in any research project, tool development or data collection from Pakistan. I have missed the first meeting, but I can surely join the next meeting whenever it is scheduled.

Best Regards,

Dr Rabia Farooqi

Associate Professor 

Department of Psychology

Nur International University, Pakistan

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CA%2BuNz1aJ98vOCeOeVd4MnkN9sUnQV8EPw8FZA0y5m78JvMRfeQ%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Hi Dr Rabia,

Kindly complete this form to be added to our WhatsApp and Working Groups, infact we are already exploring multi-national research, please ensure you complete the form below ASAP, since the deadline has passed and I am re-opening the form for you and it shall remain open until 11:59pm GMT+0

LINK: https://forms.gle/619VdCsRGJByGhZu7

Looking forward to see you in the group as soon as you can

Regards,

Abass

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CALTE%2Beqf59PutLeZdeiQckbZ2Tk_ABEWE5gtn1%3D5Wn0wPS%3Dy3g%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Hi Dr Ulunma,

Kindly complete this form to be added to our WhatsApp and Working Groups, infact we are already exploring multi-national research, please ensure you complete the form below ASAP, since the deadline has passed and I am re-opening the form for you and it shall remain open until 11:59pm GMT+0 (Today 23rd September, 2025)

LINK: https://forms.gle/619VdCsRGJByGhZu7

Looking forward to see you in the group as soon as you can

Regards,

Abass

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CA%2Breyykwpr4B5VOuxUBaDSudTQzEQ4TsaLnci%3DDkhBp_cwFMaQ%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Hi All,

Kindly complete this form to be added to our WhatsApp and Working Groups, infact we are already exploring multi-national research, please ensure you complete the form below ASAP, since the deadline has passed and I am re-opening the form for you and it shall remain open until 11:59pm GMT+0 (Today 23rd September, 2025)

LINK: https://forms.gle/619VdCsRGJByGhZu7

Looking forward to seeing you in the group as soon as you can.

Also find attached draft preliminary documents for our collective, but these are just drafts to get us started, more inclusive through participatory consultations for these kinds of documents will be taking place, which shall be agreed in our next and 2nd virtual meeting within this week. Date, time and link will be shared soon.

Regards,

Abass

[Abass Hamza]

Dear All,

Please join me in expressing heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ama for initiating this powerful and much-needed continental initiative on one of the most silent yet devastating killers of our young generation—mental health challenges. Your courage to raise this issue reminds us that the time for meaningful action is now.

In response to Dr. Ama’s timely call, I will soon share a consultative document that captures key local realities, emerging concerns, and actionable recommendations. This document is intended to guide our collective strategies, ensuring that our interventions are not only informed but also contextually relevant and transformative.

Let us also recognize that building a professional, collaborative, and highly impactful movement will take time and perseverance. The beginning is often challenging and sometimes messy, but with the passion, commitment, and dedication I see in this group, success is not just possible—it is inevitable. What we need is proactive engagement starting today.

Let’s move beyond discussions and translate our ideas into tangible action. Every small step we take now lays the foundation for a healthier, more resilient generation across our continent. Together, we can break the silence, dismantle stigma, and create lasting change.

Less talk. More action. The time is NOW.

With appreciation and resolve,
Abass Hamza

[Abass Hamza]

Dear All,

I trust this email finds you well and energized for the transformative work ahead. My name is Abass Hamza, Founder & Creative Director at HACEP-Ghana and Convener of the YOUNG Coalition. I am excited to share with you the attached Guidelines and Methodology drafted to guide our Action Planning process. As Dr. Ama emphasized in our previous discussions, the time has come to begin documenting our ideas, local realities, and emerging issues to inform and strengthen our interventions.

Earlier, I proposed the use of Participatory Ethnographic Evaluation Research (PEER) as a robust approach to capture authentic insights and lived experiences. The findings from such studies will not only shape our collective strategies but also provide credible evidence for advocacy and funding. Given the wealth of academic expertise within this collaborative, it is imperative that we initiate thorough, country-level studies as the foundation for our continental action.

However, we must also confront a key challenge: structured collective funding. In my 17 years of civil society experience, I have witnessed a significant shift in the donor landscape—from supporting isolated projects to prioritizing joint, multi-country initiatives. This shift presents a unique opportunity for us. By leveraging current funding calls, such as those highlighted by Antonio and the Commonwealth, we can accelerate our momentum and secure resources to launch impactful programs.

I therefore propose, as detailed in the attached document, that we dedicate the next two weeks to finalizing our action plan and positioning ourselves for upcoming funding applications. This plan will be a critical tool for advancing proposals and ensuring our readiness for collaborative opportunities.

Let us move with urgency and purpose. I look forward to discussing these steps in greater detail during our next virtual meeting later this week. Together, we can build a powerful, youth-driven movement for mental health across Africa.

Warm regards,

Abass Hamza
Founder & Creative Director | HACEP-Ghana
Convener | YOUNG Coalition
📧 hacep...@gmail.com | 🌍 www.hacepgh.wordpress.com

[tetua...@gmail.com]

Hello everyone,

I am a Cameroonian medical doctor who just earned an MSc in Global Mental Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. I am currently based at the ministry of health in my country Cameroon. I will very much like to collaborate. I hope I am not too late.

Thanks
Tetu

Yahoo Mail: Search, organise, conquer

On Tue, 23 Sept 2025 at 13:22, Abass Hamza

<hacep...@gmail.com> wrote:

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[Pemberai Zambezi]

Thank you, how best can I be of assistance?

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[Bijay Lama]

Dear All,

Warm greetings!

I am Bijay Lama, Program Director at WYESHR, and have been actively engaged in the social sector for the past 14 years. Recently, Nepal has experienced the Gen Z movement, which has highlighted significant mental health challenges affecting both law enforcement agencies (LEA) and Gen Z groups.

If you are interested in collaborating or engaging on mental health issues in the context of Nepal, I would be glad to connect further.

Best regards,
Bijay Lama

 

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/250801569.6721420.1758639700678%40mail.yahoo.com.

[Rose Opiyo]

VIVA 

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Rose Atieno Opiyo , PhD 

Post Doctoral Research Fellow, Carnegie African Diaspora & 

International Society for Study of Behaviourial Development ( ISSBD) Jacobs Foundations,    

Senior Lecturer, Department of Educational Psychology, School of Education 

Coordinator ,  Strategic and Institutional Planning office 

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology

P.o Box 190-50100

Kakamega, Kenya
Tel +254720926862
      +254739401968

Email: rop...@mmust.a.cke 

Office ABA ABA 404

Children are one third of our population and all of our future who need absolute care
 ~Select Panel for the Promotion of Child Health, 1981

    

[Abass Hamza]

KINDLY NOTE THAT THIS IS NOT OUR GENERAL MEETING; this is just a short meeting for those whose schedule can allow for such a short notice to prepare for our agenda for the general meeting scheduled for Friday 26th September, 2025 at 5:00pm to 7:00pm GMT+0

Dear Team,

I hope this message finds you all energized and inspired. As indicated in the subject line, let’s meet today at the scheduled time to deliberate on our 2nd Virtual Meeting. I’m thrilled to share that our numbers continue to grow—we are now 90 members strong! This is a remarkable milestone and a clear sign that our vision is resonating widely. With such incredible momentum, we must act swiftly and strategically to keep this energy alive.

Dr. Moses, could you kindly create and share a second meeting link with the team? The current link is for 40mins ONLY as I do not have a paid subscription for 1 hour. I’ve also included everyone and special thanks to Lucky, who has graciously volunteered to create the Google Docs form for input collection. Once completed, I’ll share it with everyone so we can begin gathering contributions. During today’s meeting, we’ll review a tentative agenda and circulate it for feedback until close of day tomorrow.

I propose holding our general meeting on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 5:00–6:00 PM GMT. Afterward, each working group lead, along with volunteers for the writing and coordination taskforce, will collaborate over the weekend to refine and integrate feedback into the input document. Next week will then be dedicated to consolidating these inputs so that by week’s end we are ready for our 3rd meeting—moving us closer to launching the Action Plan and beginning our funding applications, outreach, and awareness efforts.

Lastly, I’m concerned we haven’t heard from Antonio. If anyone can reach out to check on him, it would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you all for your unwavering commitment. I look forward to connecting with you later today as we take yet another bold step toward our shared goals.

With gratitude and determination,

Abass Hamza, Interim YMHC-Africa Coordinating Secretary

Dr. Ama Akamah, Convener: YMHC-Africa

AGENDA FOR THE MEETING TODAY AT 5-6PM GMT+0

Agenda: Short Virtual Meeting

Date: [24th September, 2025]
Time: [5-6PM GMT+0, GMT]
Platform: [Meeting: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/75605946463?pwd=ewKdP3VmgDu0x9GyZkmGb42RLtmvxy.1 

Meeting ID: 756 0594 6463

Passcode: M91bJN ]

OR

LINK: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/75605946463?pwd=ewKdP3VmgDu0x9GyZkmGb42RLtmvxy.1

---

1. Welcome & Opening Remarks (5 mins)

• Brief reflection on team growth (90 members milestone)

• Appreciation for collective commitment

2. Review of Progress Since 1st Meeting (10 mins)

• Quick updates from working group leads (if applicable)

• Highlights of key actions taken so far

3. Presentation of Google Docs Input Form (10 mins)

• Overview by Lucky

• Guidelines for input submission and timeline

4. Discussion of Tentative Agenda for General Meeting (15 mins)

• Propose Friday, September 26, 2025 (5:00–6:00 PM GMT)

• Suggestions for key discussion topics

• Agreement on feedback deadline (close of day tomorrow)

5. Taskforce & Working Group Coordination (10 mins)

• Identification of leads and volunteers for writing/coordination taskforce

• Timeline for integrating feedback over the weekend

6. Next Steps & Timeline (5 mins)

• Consolidation of inputs during the upcoming week

• Preparation for the 3rd meeting and Action Plan launch

7. AOB (Any Other Business) (5 mins)

• Updates or concerns (e.g., checking in on Antonio)

• Closing motivational remarks

---

Total Duration: ~1 Hour

[Muwanguzi Moses M.D]

Greetings Team,

Sorry, I've gotten an emergency meeting for the Mental health CME sessions I host.

I may join late.

Apologies. 

[William Oribu]

Kindly share the minutes for the minutes for our reference and information. 

Thank you.

Dr. Sagini, W.O 

[Abass Hamza]

Dear All,

I hope this email finds you well and in great spirits. On behalf of the Interim YMHC-Africa Coordinating Team, I am delighted to invite you to the Youth Mental Health Africa Collaborative (YMHC-Africa) 2nd Virtual Meet-Up, scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 12:00 – 2:00 PM GMT.

Following a membership-wide vote, the majority agreed on this date and time. Please find attached a draft agenda outlining key discussion points to help you prepare for the meeting.

We are calling on members to actively participate by volunteering to lead or support various sessions. Specifically, we need a moderator and session speakers to guide the conversations. We also welcome your suggestions for additional topics or agenda items you feel are critical but not yet included.

Kindly submit your interest to volunteer or propose new items by 12:00 PM GMT tomorrow, Tuesday, September 30, 2025. A final agenda, including the list of speakers and session leaders, will be circulated by the end of the day to allow everyone to prepare ahead of the meeting.

Your contribution is vital to making this meet-up engaging, inclusive, and impactful. We look forward to your active participation and to connecting with you during this important gathering.

Warm regards,

Abass Hamza
For the YMHC-Africa Interim Coordinating Team

[Amos Kadashi]

Acknowledge 

[Brenda Mugenyi]

Thank you for the invitation. I will endeavor to attend.

[Muwanguzi Moses M.D]

🌍✨ *Invitation to the 2nd YMHC-Africa Virtual Meet-Up* ✨🌍

Dear All 💐,

On behalf of the Interim YMHC-Africa Coordinating Team, we are excited to invite you to the Youth Mental Health Africa Collaborative (YMHC-Africa) 2nd Virtual Meet-Up 🧠💬

📅 Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

⏰ Time: 12:00 – 2:00 PM GMT

💻 Venue: Online via Zoom

🔗 *Register* :

https://zoom.us/j/96268440223?pwd=rA6CMjdk4yytcdENBVCZp8awyYp72j.1

🆔 Meeting ID: 962 6844 0223

🔒 Passcode: 179374

*This is a landmark gathering designed to ignite collective action in drafting and shaping the YMHC-Africa Action Plan 2025–2030.*

 

We look forward to seeing you there! 🙌

#YMHCafrica 🌱🕊️

[Gaynor Ankamah]

Dear Team,

Thank you for finding the time to meet today and for all your brilliant suggestions. 

Our doors are still open to more helpful suggestions.

If you have not yet expressed your interest in any of the working groups, kindly do so and let's continue to keep our WhatsApp page interactive!

Thank you,

Dr.Ankamah,

"From Insight to great Impact"

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[Schola Adeli]

Hello,

Just to let you know that I have not been added to the whatsApp group of YMHC  though I registered. 

Regards,

Dr. Scholastic Adeli,

Senior Lecturer of Counselling Psychology,

MOI UNIVERSITY.

scholas...@mu.ac.ke

 

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CA%2BuNz1bvgkgqttFsetrN1o0dEg2g9EN6V4-XpU7uv5kH68Ygbg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Muwanguzi Moses M.D]

Dear Dr. Adeli,

Kindly join the WhatsApp group following:  https://chat.whatsapp.com/H0EI9EG5jyGDZbwmoqsIJa?mode=ems_wa_t

Thank you so much,

Moses

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CABdxDS1_z4X751EqK56C96Ve61H7kPaxTgBWUui6seLD24tcqA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Hello Dr Moses,

Please if you are free, can we have a very short meeting now?

Regards,

Abass

To view this discussion, visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/risingscholars/CAO8krMREzDre3Vea7zcTuBX_PKjfmAfGAaquVgyCgFEB%3Dmkw8A%40mail.gmail.com.

[Abass Hamza]

Dear Esteemed YMHC-Africa Members,

On behalf of the Convener, Dr. Ama Akamah, and the Interim Coordinating Team, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to every member who took part in the 2nd YMHC-Africa Virtual Meet-Up—and equally to those who, though unable to attend, continue to stand with us in passion and commitment. Your presence, ideas, and spirit of collaboration are what breathe life into YMHC-Africa.

The meeting was truly remarkable. We shared many exciting experiences and ideas that will shape our collective journey forward. Among the key highlights were:

• Drafting the YMHC-Africa Strategic Plan 2025–2030, a roadmap to guide our vision and impact.

• Exploring ways to get our collaborative better organized for efficiency and synergy.

• Discussing the immediate work we can do, such as initiating systematic reviews and scoping studies, while building our programmes portfolio.

• Organizing the various working groups and strengthening country-level chapters to decentralize our impact.

• Laying the foundation for building our digital identity and platforms, which will amplify our visibility and reach.

All these valuable contributions have been noted and will guide our next steps. Importantly, one critical outcome was the decision to strengthen our structure by appointing leadership in communications and coordination. 

It gives us great joy to announce that Mr. Justine Ayuku has been appointed and given the mandate as the Interim Communications and Coordinating Secretary of YMHC-Africa.

There was a unanimous agreement in facing the reality that, at this foundational stages of YMHC-Africa, our passion, commitment and dedication of being here should directly translate into utilizing personal resources at this point to promote, strengthen and structure YMHC-Afra at this early stages due to the fact that we currently do not have funds yet.

Together, let us continue to build with passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advancing mental health and wellbeing for young people across Africa.

The date and time for our 3rd Virtual Meet Up will be announced this week and would likely be part of the culmination to the official Launch of The YMHC-Africa Strategic Plan, 2025-2030, including an operational Action Plan for the Next 3-6 months.

With gratitude and solidarity,

Dr. Abass Hamza
Interim Coordinating Team, YMHC-Africa

For; Dr. Ama Akamah, Convener, YMHC-Africa