JUMP Stress
Let’s Talk About It Conference
August 23, 2024
Nakawa UICT
Kampala, Uganda
JUMP Stress Conference: A Successful Event Raising Mental Health Awareness
The “Let’s Talk About It” Conference, hosted by JUMP Stress, was a resounding success. The free event, aimed at raising mental health awareness and providing stress management techniques, was attended by youth aged 13 to 22 from local schools and communities across Uganda.
Inspiring Opening by HRH Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu
The event kicked off with a warm welcome by the JUMP Stress co-founders, followed by a Grand Opening Welcome Address by HRH Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu. His address highlighted the importance of addressing mental health, setting a positive and inspiring tone for the rest of the day.
Art, Music and Dance Therapy: A Fun and Engaging Stress Relief
After lunch, the attendees were introduced to the therapeutic power of art, music, and dance as ways to manage stress. The event featured a musical performance by saxophonist Egesa, which energized the participants and led to a dance session that fostered a sense of community and relief.
Co-Founders Dive Into Stress Triggers and Management Techniques
The JUMP Stress co-founders followed the keynote by delivering a presentation that explored the triggers of stress and offered various techniques for managing it. This informative session was followed by a lively Q&A session moderated by Dr. Bantu, giving attendees a chance to ask questions and deepen their understanding of stress management.
Interactive Breakout Sessions Focus on Peer-to-Peer Support
Youth participants engaged in interactive breakout sessions led by the JUMP Stress co-founders. These sessions involved discussing stress-related scenarios and brainstorming ways to provide peer-to-peer support. At the same time, adult attendees took part in discussions about mental health led by Dr. Bantu and Dr. Peter Baguma, ensuring a comprehensive dialogue for all ages.
Uplifting Closing Remarks by Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere
The event concluded on a high note with an uplifting Closing Address from the Archbishop of Kampala, Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere. His message reiterated the importance of mental health advocacy and inspired attendees to take action in their communities.
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Positive Feedback and Support from Attendees
The conference garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly for its peer-to-peer approach, which resonated with the youth. In addition to gaining valuable knowledge and stress management techniques, attendees received items such as t-shirts, pens, journals, and attendance certificates as tokens of appreciation.
Gratitude to Speakers, Sponsors, and Partners
JUMP Stress extends its sincere thanks to the speakers—HRH Prince Kassim Nakibinge Kakungulu, Dr. Edward Bantu, Dr. Peter Baguma, and Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere—as well as to their partners and sponsors, including WOPI Boston International, WOPI UG Limited, Kabale University, MTN Pulse Radio, NBS, and Next Media. Their support and participation were critical in making the event a success.
Looking Ahead: Future Collaborations and Events
JUMP Stress looks forward to future collaborations with schools and plans to host more events aimed at fostering mental health awareness and providing tools for stress management.