Patrick Mwewa

Breaking the silence, one circle at a time

Patrick leads campaigns that make anxiety, depression and stress ordinary things to talk about, and that tell people where help is.

Patrick Mwewa on an outdoor panel with Mr. and Mrs. Waddell in Mwandi

Where the work happens

Radio, social media and the street

Campaigns that break stigma through radio talks, social content and community sensitisation, with practical tools and a clear answer to the question most people never ask: where do I go?

Young people

Safe spaces in schools, colleges and youth groups. Peer support sessions, workshops and mentorship that teach coping skills, emotional regulation and how to help a friend who is struggling.

Men

Stigma tells men to be strong and keep quiet. Patrick runs dialogues and outreach that invite men to open up, to seek therapy, and to redefine strength as asking for support.

Churches and community groups

Health talks and sensitisation in Lusaka and the surrounding areas, delivered where people already gather, with direct links to counselling services and support groups.

Patrick Mwewa in navy nursing scrubs against a stone wall
Nurse first. The clinical work is what gives the advocacy its footing.
Patrick Mwewa in conversation at the Mwandi outreach, a banner reading Strong Minds, Strong Zambia behind him
Mwandi, Western Province. Community sensitisation with the Mwandi Mental Health Network.
Community members gathered around a bonfire at night
The bonfire. Zambia's first, begun at Lilayi Lodge in Lusaka and now held around the country.
Patrick Mwewa seated on a panel outdoors with Mr. and Mrs. Waddell
On the panel with Mr. and Mrs. Waddell, mission partners from Scotland.

What three years have built

2,000+

People reached through the mental health bonfire since it began.

First

The first mental health bonfire held in Zambia, a community event at Lilayi Lodge in Lusaka that now travels to other provinces.

Twice

Nominated for the Game Changers Awards hosted by the Pro Light Foundation.

Press

Recognised by the Zambia Daily Mail and by two national television stations, ZNBC and Diamond TV.

Partners

Mission partners from Scotland, the Rotary Club of Nkwanzi, the Ministry of Health and youth-led organisations across Zambia.

Bring it to your community

Schools, churches, workplaces and community groups can host a talk, a workshop or a bonfire.