Absa Seychelles contributes to mental health and suicide prevention efforts |09 November 2023
The cheque presentation ceremony
In a demonstration of its support of mental health and suicide prevention, Absa Seychelles recently made a significant contribution of R77,000 to ‘Kindness and Compassion’, a prominent non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on supporting mental health and suicide prevention in Seychelles.
The donation was formalised during a cheque-handing ceremony held on Thursday, November 2, 2023.
This donation is especially significant as it was raised through the successful Absa Challenge – 'Walk for Wellness’ – a mental health awareness hike where Absa colleagues and friends joined the symbolic walk, covering a distance of over 17km. The walk started in Victoria, winding its way via Sans Soucis, Morne Blanc, Port Glaud, and concluded at Port Launay.
This pivotal moment was attended by Nazim Mahmood, managing director of Absa Seychelles, who highlighted the organisation’s strong commitment to this important cause.
Beryl Dodin, chairperson of the NGO, was present to accept the donation on behalf of ‘Kindness and Compassion’.
'Kindness and Compassion' is known for its unwavering commitment to providing crucial assistance and care to individuals facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, addiction, and thoughts of self-harm. The generous contribution from Absa Seychelles underscores the bank's dedication to making a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of those affected by mental health issues,” said Mrs Dodin speaking at the ceremony.
The R77,000 collected will be allocated to training Seychellois individuals in specialised programmes. These individuals will be equipped to offer support and intervention through a dedicated hotline service focused on suicide prevention – a move that aligns perfectly with the goal of creating a safer and more compassionate Seychellois community, as emphasised by Mrs Dodin.
“We feel fortunate to be able to support Kindness and Compassion in its vital mission. Mental health is an issue that touches many lives, and together with Kindness and Compassion, we hope to create a more compassionate and supportive society,” stated MD Mahmood.
The donation significantly bolsters the capacity of ‘Kindness and Compassion’ to continue its crucial work within the Seychelles community. It represents a substantial contribution to the organisation's ongoing initiatives to help create a just society.
Contributed