Implemented by Tutapona
October 2024 – September 2025
In Uganda, there is an urgent need for Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), especially for young people in refugee settlements and host communities. Many children face complex challenges—mental health issues, stigma, and social exclusion—that hinder their development. Exposure to trauma during formative years leaves lasting impacts on their social and emotional well-being, while caregivers often struggle to meet children’s emotional and developmental needs.
The Peace of Mind Foundation is supporting impactful mental health initiatives tailored to the unique challenges faced by young people in Uganda. Partnering with Tutapona, the project combines group mental health programming with individual support sessions, in Nakivale Refugee Camp. Structured group sessions and training workshops equip teachers to understand and respond to trauma-related challenges, fostering an environment conducive to healing and resilience.
At the core of the project is the Heroes Journey program, developed by Tutapona to promote Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) among children aged 8 to 12. Through nine sessions of child-friendly activities—games, stories, songs, and art—facilitated by trained mental health professionals, children build emotional resilience, hope, and a positive outlook.
In 2024, the program supported 208 children through group sessions and therapeutic tools like sand tray therapy, guided gratitude exercises, and creative expression. Follow-up support includes therapeutic coaching for parents and teachers, encouraging a supportive home and school environment.
“ I am truly grateful for the Heroes’ Journey program. The lesson on kindness [deeply inspired me]. Before joining Tutapona, I would rarely offer help to others unless they were people I knew well. Deep down, I used to think, ‘Why should I help them if they’ve never helped me?’ But the [sessions] changed my perspective. It made me realize that […] change in my village starts with me. I learned that to be a true hero, I must show kindness to everyone, whether or not it is returned. Now, I understand that every act of kindness […] can make a big difference.”
Isaac, 13 years old, Congolese refugee in Nakivale Camp