Vitendo4africa

Back in June 2012, we set out on a mission to raise mental health awareness and promote a healthy lifestyle within the African immigrant community. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Muthoni Musangali, Rose Njenga, Nhial Tutlam, PhD, MPH , Sally G. ,Joyce Mugure Christina Vivit, Sebastian Mwangi and the dedicated volunteers who have been part of this noble cause. Over the past decade, our efforts have touched countless lives in Missouri and beyond. A special thank you to the 100+ individuals who have trained as Mental Health First Aiders, using a culturally competent approach to address mental health challenges in our community. Your commitment continues to make a lasting impact! Mental Health America

Are you an immigrant with questions about?visas, green cards, citizenship, or legal rights??Don’t miss our?Immigration Forum?on?March 19th at 6 PM CST, where immigration lawyer Nalini Mahadevan will provide valuable insights and answer your pressing immigration questions. ???Date:?March 19, 2024 ??Time:?6:00 PM CST ???Location:?Virtual - https://lnkd.in/gmQCmt3 This is a great opportunity to connect with legal professionals and get the guidance you need for yourself and your family.?Tag a friend who needs this info and spread the word! #ImmigrationForum #Vitendo4Africa #StrongerTogether

We're thrilled to partner with Visitation Academy- Saint Louis to host their inaugural Multicultural Night! Our Vitendo4Africa mentees, with guidance from teachers took the lead in planning this spectacular event, and we couldn't be prouder. Special thanks to Ms. Elizabeth A. for her outstanding work as tonight's emcee. We're grateful for their principal Terry Murray's and staff's overwhelming support. The evening showcased the diversity of over 20 nationalities, each sharing their unique cultures through vibrant booths, delicious cuisine, and captivating performances. The jollof rice and various international dishes were a hit! Standout performances included Kevin Ole Kuntai's mesmerizing Maasai dance, Chief Bokulaka's energetic Congolese drumming, V4A Rwandan dance group and impressive mexican dance routines by Eileen Wolfington and others. Over the past five years, Vitendo4Africa has helped over 20 schools in the St. Louis region establish Multicultural and Passport Nights as annual events. We believe these celebrations not only empower students to embrace their identities but also provide a platform for others to learn about and appreciate different cultures, fostering compassion and global understanding. Next month we will be at Fort Zumwalt East high and St Peters Elementary in Fort Zumwalt School District on April 17th and 29th. In today's increasingly interconnected world, it's essential that every child is prepared to thrive in a diverse and global community. We're honored to be part of this initiative!

?? Join Me for an engaging dialogue: "Unpacking Microaggressions – Awareness, Action, and Change" ?? Have you ever witnessed or experienced a microaggression but weren’t sure how to respond? Do you want to create a more inclusive and empowering environment in your workplace or community? Then this discussion is for you! In collaboration with Vitendo4africa, The Archway (MO) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and Washington University in St. Louis - Olin Business School Office of EDI, I’m excited to lead a powerful virtual conversation where I will break down microaggressions—what they are, why they matter, and how we can move from awareness to meaningful action. This isn’t just another webinar—it’s an opportunity to engage, reflect, and walk away with real-world strategies for making a difference. Let’s shift from passive awareness to proactive change—because every action counts. Are you in? #Inclusion #Leadership #Microaggressions #DEI #AwarenessToAction

Our V4A mentee and the newly elected Missouri Youth and Government (MOYAG) attorney General for 2025-2026, Elizabeth A. represented YMCA of the USA youth from across the United States at @Y-USA's 2025 National Youth Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C. During National Advocacy Days, Elizabeth collaborated with other young leaders to champion youth and community priorities. While in D.C., Elizabeth had the opportunity to meet with Congressman Wesley Bell and Missouri Senator Eric Schmit in their offices, further amplifying the voices of youth in legislative discussions. Elizabeth is an active participant in V4A’s youth mentorship meetings, volunteers for special projects, and contributes to our annual gala. Her potential to make a significant impact on the world is truly inspiring. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors. For more information about the program, visit https://lnkd.in/g74dCeeJ #NationalAdvocacyday #YMCAyouth #Advocacyday #Missouriyouth

Empowering Our Community! Help us congratulate the latest cohort of immigrant Adult Mental Health First Aiders in Missouri. Today, we had the privilege of hosting an impactful Adult Mental Health First Aid class in collaboration with PreventEd , specifically for our immigrant community. This invaluable workshop focused on equipping participants with the knowledge to recognize the early signs and symptoms of mental health challenges. It’s crucial for everyone—whether in personal relationships, as parents, or in the workplace—to be aware and supportive. The shared experiences, insights, and practical tools gained from this session will help foster stronger connections and create a healthier environment for our families and communities. Let’s continue to support one another on this journey to mental well-being! Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this important cause. Together, we can make a difference! St. Louis County Children's Service Fund #MentalHealthMatters #AdultMentalHealthFirstAid #PreventEd #CommunitySupport #Empowerment #StrongerTogether

You are invited to a Swahili-speaking Community Gathering on March 29th at 2:00 PM. This forum is a vital opportunity for us to come together and discuss solutions to key challenges affecting newly arrived families, including: -Housing difficulties -Employment opportunities -Youth challenges -Access to healthcare and mental health Your voice and participation are essential in shaping solutions that strengthen our community. Let’s work together to create a better future for all. Plan to attend and be part of the conversation! ********************* Wanajamii, Munakaribishwa kuhudhuria Mkutano wa Jamii ya Wasemaji wa Kiswahili utakaofanyika tarehe 29 Machi saa nane mchana. Huu ni mkutano muhimu wa kujadili suluhisho kwa changamoto zinazowakabili familia mpya zinapowasili, zikiwemo: Changamoto za makazi Fursa za ajira Changamoto za vijana Upatikanaji wa huduma za afya na afya ya akili Ushiriki wako ni muhimu katika kutafuta suluhisho na kuimarisha jamii yetu. Tushirikiane kwa pamoja kujenga mustakabali bora kwa wote. Tafadhali jiunge nasi na uwe sehemu ya suluhisho! Kwa maelezo zaidi, tafadhali wasiliana na Jean Konde, Jackson Rogamba ama Jolie Amuri. Karibu sana kwaheshima

"It takes a village to raise a child." – African Proverb Today, we had the privilege of joining other organizations dedicated to uplifting children and youth across the St. Louis region. A special thank you to the?St. Louis County Children's Service Fund?for their unwavering support of grassroots organizations. Your commitment to strengthening local communities is truly transformative! By taking a proactive,?upstream approach, we are not just addressing challenges as they arise—we are building a foundation for strong, healthy families that will thrive for generations to come. This investment in our youth creates a?ripple effect, fostering a more?prosperous and vibrant regional economy. As another African proverb reminds us: “A child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” To all the organizations and individuals investing their time, energy, and resources into shaping the next generation—thank you!?Your dedication is laying the groundwork for a brighter future, and we deeply appreciate your efforts in uplifting and strengthening our community

University of Missouri-Saint Louis-International Business Institute?will host the?16th Annual International Business Career Conference (IBCC)?on?Friday, April 11, 2025. Theme: "Beyond Borders: Expanding Possibilities" ? The IBCC provides?International Business students?with the opportunity to connect with professionals who can offer insights into career opportunities, the paths to achieving them, and what to expect in an international business career. Conference Details & Registration:? https://lnkd.in/eFCPTrTp ?Location: Anheuser-Busch Hall 170 West Drive St. Louis, MO 63121 Time:?8:30 AM – 2:30 PM