Building Bridges of Hope: Mental Health Awareness at Greenwich Islamic Centre

On 29 November, the Somaliland Mental Health Support Organisation (SMHSO) took part in a community fundraising event at Greenwich Islamic Centre. The purpose of the day was twofold: to raise vital funds for our mental health initiatives and to strengthen mental health awareness within the local community.

The turnout far exceeded our expectations. We were deeply encouraged to see so many people from different ethnic backgrounds come together to support our work and engage in conversations around mental wellbeing—a topic that is too often ignored or overshadowed by stigma. Throughout the day, we distributed educational leaflets, hosted workshop hubs inside the mosque hall, and shared videos showcasing our programmes. These resources provided practical, life-changing information and highlighted the urgent need for our services, both in the UK and back home in Somaliland.

The Somali diaspora is undergoing significant social and emotional shifts, and mental wellbeing sits at the heart of a healthy, thriving community. As the saying goes, fighting for what we believe in is in our blood—and for us, that belief is the importance of mental health.

Events like this remind us that our charity stands where it is today because of community support. SMHSO was built by the community, for the community, and it is strengthened every time people come together in this way. We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who attended—from Somali families to the wider Greenwich and Woolwich communities. Your presence, generosity, and encouragement help us continue supporting those facing mental health challenges. It was truly uplifting to witness such unity and shared purpose.

We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making the event a success: the catering team, the mosque staff at Greenwich Islamic Centre, the volunteers, the speakers, and all who participated. It was a remarkable achievement. We hope attendees left with new insight and a renewed commitment to discussing mental health openly. We encourage all members of the Somali diaspora to share their experiences, ideas, and perspectives so we can continue improving our services in both Somaliland and the UK.

Witnessing such strong community engagement fills us with hope and strengthens our vision for the future.

Thank you once again—and we look forward to seeing you soon. Remember: invest in your mental health just as you would your physical health. It is the foundation of a stronger, healthier community.