GET TO KNOW ME

Edith Wanyonyi

Who is Edith Wanyonyi

I am a Kenyan youth, born and raised in Kenya. A graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Community Development and Masters in Counseling Psychology. I am a Humanitarian worker, volunteering with Global Goodwill Ambassadors and Advocacy Manager at Global Youth Mental Health Awareness, Australia (GYMHA).

I am a Mental Health Advocate and I also create content around mental health awareness on all my social media platforms.

Why are you so passionate about Mental Health?

Mental health is underrated yet there is no health without mental health. It is impossible to be productive when you are mentally unwell. A few years ago, I was in a state of depression after suffering a major loss. I literally had lost interest and meaning of life. Unfortunately, I battled this alone until I reached a point where I couldn’t do it anymore. To cut the story short I sought therapy and after a number of sessions my situation really improved. I embarked on this journey of creating awareness to end stigma and also because I believe that nobody deserves to go through pain alone.

What has been your work experience ?

I have worked with diverse groups in the community (children, youth, women, refugees.) as a Social Worker and Counseling Psychologist. My experience has been fulfilling and eye-opening. I will be lying if I say that I’ve not faced challenges but the fact that I can put a smile on someone’s face and make a difference is what motivates me.

Do you consider yourself an introvert or an extrovert?

I am introverted. I may appear like an extrovert, but I love my alone time: that’s when I focus on my inner thoughts and ideas and to recharge. I don’t like crowds. I enjoy spending my time with one or two people.

Name your biggest strength and your biggest weakness? How has each served you as you fulfill your purpose?

My biggest strength is that I am passionate and committed. I tend to give my all in everything that I set my mind to do and that explains my passion for mental health. My biggest weakness is that I am a feeler. I deeply feel other people’s pain and struggles and that has in the past caused me to have compassion fatigue but I’ve slowly learnt how to separate my needs from those of others and to fill my cup first.

What has been the most difficult season in your life? How did you get through it?

When I lost my father. I mean, that really took a toll on my mental health, and I had a lot of setbacks in life but I was able to get help through therapy and meaningful friendships. Joblessness is also one thing that has been challenging but I’m always that person who looks for opportunities including volunteering opportunities where I can add value and sharpen my skills.

If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?

I would tell myself to focus. As a young person you tend to lose focus sometimes on things that aren’t that important at that time like relationships. The truth is that these things will always be there at there’s a time for everything. It is never that serious.

What makes you feel accomplished?

I always feel accomplished when I make a positive impact on someone’s life. U believe that is my purpose; to win for humanity.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

I see myself as a family woman. I cherish family. I have always thought of starting a foundation that supports mental health especially for the less privileged who cannot access treatment. I’m also looking forward to building my career and become the best Psychologist the world has had.

What’s your parting shot and where can people find you?

Always remember that you are responsible for your mental health so do all you can to protect it and it’s never too late to do what you’ve always wanted to do.

People can find me on all my social media platforms as Edith Wanyonyi (Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter) or email me; edithwanyonyi3@gmail.com.