What is your initiative? 

Aawaaz aims to increase mental health awareness and support for youth in Pakistan in a culturally-responsive manner by building communities of solidarity united by shared artistic experiences. Through the medium of performing arts, both as a process for learning and a product to be used to convey information to larger community circles, Aawaaz will work with local leaders in hopes to empower youth to work to address the lack of mental health support in Pakistan.

What is your connection to your chosen community? 

I have worked in different communities in Pakistan in 2019 and 2022, as well as having community connections because of my Pakistani heritage. I will be working two local arts organizations, both of whom view mental health as a priority and have a strong presence in their respective communities. In my previous work in the region, I was involved in mental health education for students, teachers and parents, and this multi-tiered approach will also be evident in partnership between myself and the partner NGOs.

What are you looking forward to this year? 

I am excited to learn from all of the people in my cohort and communities, as well as work towards a future in which arts opportunities and mental health literacy are afforded to everyone, regardless of socio-economic status.