Our History

Our History

  • 2018
  1. What is Mental Health/Illness – The basics

This event offered accessible, evidence-based mental health education designed to demystify common conditions and reduce stigma. Participants leave with practical tools to recognise symptoms, seek support, and build emotionally healthier communities.

Speakers: Darryl Stafford, Dr Khanyile-Lenake, Thabile Mpe, Anele Siswana

 

  1. What is Mental Health/Illness – What Now?

This event explored what mental health progress truly looks like, emphasising growth, relapse, resilience, and long-term wellbeing. Attendees gain guidance on tracking their personal journey and sustaining positive mental habits over time.

Speakers: Dr Khanyile-Lenake, Dr Sindi Van Zyl, Dr Khamker

 

  • 2019
    1. The “Men-tal” Health Conversation

A safe, non-judgmental space created specifically for men to discuss emotional health, vulnerability, and the pressures of masculinity. The event challenges stigma while empowering men with tools and language to better navigate their inner world.

Speakers: Khaya Dlanga, Anele Siswana, Dr Amogelang Manganyi, Sikanda Kalla

 

  1. What is Mental Health/Illness – The basics (Durban)

This event offered accessible, evidence-based mental health education designed to demystify common conditions and reduce stigma. Participants leave with practical tools to recognise symptoms, seek support, and build emotionally healthier communities.

Speakers: Dr Khanyile-Lenake, Anele Siswana, Sikanda Kalla

 

  1. Spiritual, Psychological, Financial & Emotional Wellness

This session unpacked the deep connection between money stress, emotional wellbeing, and decision-making. Experts provided strategies for managing financial anxiety and building healthier financial behaviours that support mental stability

Speakers: Dr Khanyile-Lenake, Farah Fortune, Nicolette Mashile

 

 

  • 2024
  1. My Person’s Keeper

This was a compassionate session for caregivers supporting loved ones with mental health challenges, including those at risk of self-harm or suicide. The event offered guidance, emotional support, and tools to navigate the weight of caregiving without losing oneself.

Speakers: Lerato Sengadi-Tsambo, Melina De Kock, Dr Khanyile-Lenake

 

  1. Work & Me

This event addressed the realities of managing mental illness within demanding work environments. Attendees learn practical coping strategies, rights in the workplace, and ways to advocate for healthier organisational cultures.

MC: Lindah Majola

Speakers: Llewellyn Devereaux, Melina De Kock, Dr Samke Nqcobo

 

  1. Spirituality, Religion & Mental Health

This was a reflective dialogue on how South African spiritual and religious beliefs shape our understanding of mental health. This event bridged traditional wisdom with clinical insight to foster culturally grounded pathways to healing.

Speakers: Anele Siswana, Leishka Laljitah, Monica Mtshemla

 

  • 2025
  1. Healing through my Art

An immersive, creative experience that tried to express the various uses of art as a therapeutic outlet to process emotions, trauma, and stress. Participants explored expressive modalities that promote emotional release, insight, and healing.

Speakers: Mthaux (Yfm), Samkelo Ndlovu, Laurika Lubbe

 

  1. Mental Health & Parenting

This event examined mental health through the lens of parenting, highlighting how different parenting approaches influence both child and the caregivers wellbeing. Parents gained supportive tools to manage stress, communicate effectively, and build emotionally safe homes.

MC: Olwethu Leshabane

Speakers:  Moshe Ndiki, Gina Koffman, Ratile Mabitsela, Melina De Kock, Dr Koketso Pule

 

  1. Mental Health & Body Image

This session explored how body image pressures affect self-esteem, identity, and emotional wellbeing in a media-saturated world. Participants learn to cultivate self-compassion, challenge harmful narratives, and build healthier body relationships.

Speakers: Ndavi Nokeri, Refilwe Modiselle, Waven Harper, Kopane Mokhele, Joy Ayisi, Nonhlanhla Mthombeni, Dr Thozama Xhama