Beautiful Gate Church Mental Health Conference

16 October 2024

Bomoto is an incredible African philosophy that stands for healing as one, embracing strength. That was the thread running through a conference organised by the Redeemed Christian Church of God [RCCG] Beautiful Gate church. October is Mental Health Month, an opportune time to generate conversations that tackle the stigma and shame that still exists to diminish help-seeking for our mental health and wellbeing, especially in culturally and linguistically diverse communities. I joined Pastor Dr Niyi Borire, keynote speakers Dr Tinashe Dune and Aileen Pamonag Lane, and many members and guests of the church for an insightful and engaging morning featuring expert-led discussions on emerging trends, treatment innovations and community support strategies. I shared a stage with Pamela Espin, Dr Olayide Ogunsiji and my former colleague Tracy Tabvuma to highlight the importance of community care and support, and especially the need for culturally safe mental health services. It is important to note that the RCCG Beautiful Gate team continued with Bomoto despite losing their church premises in a fire recently. I encourage all to smash the stigma around mental health.