Dearest mental health lovers,

 

We’re back and better than ever, ready to spill the tea on one of the most epic events of the year. On Saturday, 23rd March 2024, the University of Lagos was buzzing with excitement as Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) rolled out the red carpet for HerCanvas Harmony. And let us tell you, it was a vibe like no other!

 

It’s okay if you missed it, we are here to give you a breakdown of how it all played out so you don’t miss our next event.

 

Over 200 fierce and fabulous attendees coming together to celebrate International Women’s Day 2024 in style. With empowerment in our hearts and mental well-being in our minds, we dove headfirst into a day of fun, inspiration, and, of course, some serious girl power.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kicking things off with a bang, Mr Abiodun Oguntola, the Executive Director of MANI, set the stage with his opening remarks. His words? A powerful reminder of why we were all there: to honour International Women’s Day and smash those mental health stigmas once and for all, and an introduction about MANI and our mission, including the unveiling of the Student Advocacy Network (STAN) at Unilag.

 

We were treated to jaw-dropping spoken word performances celebrating the beauty and resilience of women, followed by the heartwarming “Anonymous Affirmations” session. Talk about feeling the love from strangers – it was a moment that left us all feeling warm and fuzzy inside. Imagine randomly selecting messages of encouragement from strangers and feeling the warmth of shared humanity, it was indeed a moment cherished by many!

 

Next up, it was time to walk in her shoes with the Experience and Storytelling Session, diving deep into women’s history and the true meaning of International Women’s Day.

 

Highlighting the artistic flair of the occasion, we had earlier organised an Art competition before the event giving people an opportunity to express themselves through art. At the event, the MANI Art Competition winner was announced, Victoria Oniosun, whose stunning piece stole the show and inspired us all to embrace our inner artists, Accompanied by a mesmerising Virtual Art Exhibition. Victoria’s winning piece, a testament to women’s resilience and diversity, stirred emotions and inspired empowerment.

 

But wait, there’s more! We also had the Financial literacy session with Victoria Oladoye ACA sharing valuable tips on financial independence, followed by a soul-nurturing Wellness and Art Painting Session led by the one and only Dumebi Okuagu. The session, infused with meditation and mindfulness, led by Clinical Psychologist Oluwatomilayo Awodoyin, provided a therapeutic release for many.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the event drew to a close, attendees expressed gratitude for the transformative experiences, especially the Wellness and Art Painting Session, which left a lasting impact on their hearts and minds.

 

As the day came to a close, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences and empowering connections we made. HerCanvas Harmony wasn’t just an event – it was a celebration of womanhood, resilience, and the power of community.

 

So here’s to MANI, here’s to women everywhere, and here’s to smashing those mental health stigmas, one brushstroke at a time.

 

Okay, now I know you wish you were present. Be sure to stay tuned on our websites and social media platforms so you don’t miss out on our next event.

 

Until next time, stay fierce, stay fabulous, and remember – you are worthy, you are loved, and you are never alone.

 

 

Catch you on the flip side!