Yellow Hope Walk

Yellow Hope Walk – Creating hope, community and awareness for youth suicide and mental health

October 03, 2023

In a powerful display of solidarity and commitment to mental health awareness, on behalf of Open Hands Community Care (OHCC), our very own Operations Lead, Pule Salafai made us proud by representing and participating in the Yellow Hope Walk event organized by the Black Butterfly Group. The event, held on Saturday 16th September, aimed to shed light on the critical issues of youth suicide and mental health, igniting conversations that can save lives.

The Yellow Hope Walk event was a vibrant and poignant affair, with attendees donning bright yellow attire to symbolize hope and positivity in the face of adversity. CEO’s of Black butterfly Group Tapu & Joe started the group after sadly losing their niece to suicide late August 2023.

Pule a mental health advocate herself was fortunate to know and get amongst the conversation, raising awareness and encouraging communication.

Youth suicide and mental health issues have become increasingly prevalent concerns in today’s society. According to recent studies, the global youth suicide rate has been on the rise, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support. In response to this growing crisis, Manawise Group and the Black Butterfly Group joined forces to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

The color yellow was chosen for its association with optimism and sunshine, reflecting the event’s goal of bringing light into the lives of those battling mental health issues.

Pule, alongside members of the community, and other mental health advocates, gathered at Berrinba Wetland Park to walk together in unity. The walk route was adorned with uplifting banners and signs, each bearing messages of hope, encouragement, and resources for those seeking support.

The event also featured guest speakers who shared their personal experiences with mental health challenges and emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding these issues. These moving testimonials served as a reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of age or background, and that seeking help is a courageous step towards healing.

“This event is a powerful reminder that no one is alone in their mental health journey,” said Pule, representative from OHCC. “Open Hands Community Care is dedicated to being a beacon of hope and support for those who need it most. Together with the Black Butterfly Group and other like-minded organizations, we can create a safer and more compassionate community for our youth.”

The Yellow Hope Walk event organized by the Black Butterfly Group and attended by Open Hands Community Care was a resounding success, drawing attention to the pressing issues of youth suicide and mental health. By coming together as a community and embracing the color yellow as a symbol of hope, participants took a significant step toward reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering an environment where young individuals can seek help without fear or shame.

As the sun set on the event, it left a lasting impression on all who attended, reinforcing the importance of continued efforts to raise awareness, provide support, and ultimately save lives in the battle against youth suicide and mental health challenges. Together, with organizations like the Black Butterfly Group, there is hope for a brighter, more compassionate future for our youth.

 

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