Girl Up leaders have been calling for deeper conversations about mental health and resources to sustain their activism.
In 2024, a Youth Advisory Committee was commissioned to start the conversation. Youth leaders from around the world have gathered together to ask: what resources do youth leaders need? What does supporting mental health look like?
This page explores their work and initial projects.
Meet the Committee Members
Letter Writing Campaign
During Mental Health Awareness Month, the committee launched a letter-writing campaign to address the stigma surrounding Mental Health. Writing to their regions, they explore their unique cultures and call for change.
Don’t see your region represented? Click any of the letters below to learn how to get your own letter published!
Dear You, You’re Not Alone
Learn With Us
The Committee has been working with a clinical expert to learn more about self-care, emotional intelligence, empathy, vulnerability, and more. Explore the resources below and see what we have been working on!
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Self Care Kit
Welcome to your self-care kit, a special tool exclusive to our online community members.
Build Your Kit Now -
Empathy and Vulnerability
How can we can engage in authentic connections?
Learn More -
Somatic Experiencing
Explore our physical body’s ability to heal from trauma and stress.
Get Started
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Resource Mapping Guide
Use this resource to support you in building a resource list that reflects your local reality
Start Mapping -
Neuroplasticity
Explore our brain’s ability to positively change the way we think and feel.
Get Started -
Emotional Intelligence
Understand and manage emotions, build stronger relationships, and navigate challenges.
Learn More
Be There Certificate
Girl Up is proud to be partnering with Born This Way Foundation to offer Girl Up leaders access to the Be There Certificate. Launched in March 2022, the Be There Certificate is a free online course that provides you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to safely support anyone who may be struggling with their mental health.
Through 6 self-paced interactive lessons, you can get certified in less than 2 hours. The course is available in English, French, and Spanish.
“Advocacy starts in our minds. Being part of this board has taught us that we must prioritize our own mental well-being to effectively support others. It’s a reminder that meaningful change begins with how we care for ourselves and extends to how we advocate for others. To help well, you have to be well.
olamide and shanum, co-chairs
I Can’t Keep Quiet: Film Discussion Guide
In honor of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, Girl Up’s Mental Health and Wellness Youth Advisory Committee co-collaborated on a project with artist, MILCK, on her recent short film, I Can’t Keep Quiet.
This guide is made by youth, for youth, with the hope that Girl Up members around the world can come together during these 16 Days of Activism to learn, discuss, and connect.
Live in the United States?
Explore Girl Up USA’s Mental Health Youth Champions work, specific to your region.
Questions about the Mental Health and Wellness Advisory Committee?
Ideas for Girl Up as we expand mental health and wellness resources?
Want to highlight resources in your region?
