This showcase of unity, resilience, and tribute to those affected by violence will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 5 PM to 10 PM at Whitgift School in South Croydon.
The event, organised by the Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation for Mental Health, promises to be a beacon of hope and a platform for positive change.
A Rising Star with a Purpose
Aché Abrahams, 25, has quickly become a prominent figure in the international pageant scene. Her journey from a local beauty queen to an international ambassador for change is a testament to her dedication, talent, and passion for making a difference. Abrahams’ participation in the “Love Not Hate” event aligns perfectly with her ongoing advocacy work, particularly in the realm of mental health awareness. At the 71st Miss World pageant held in Mumbai, India, on March 9, 2024, Abrahams showcased her exceptional talents and commitment to social causes. She not only secured the title of Miss World Caribbean 2024 but also achieved a remarkable top-three finish in the overall competition. This achievement places her among the most successful contestants from Trinidad and Tobago in the pageant’s history.
The “Love Not Hate” Movement
The “Love Not Hate” movement, which began in 2016 as a response to rising hate crimes, has evolved to address various forms of violence, including knife crime. The upcoming event in February 2025 is expected to feature a diverse range of performances, panel discussions, and community engagement activities, similar to previous iterations.
The Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation for Mental Health, the organiser of this event, is a well-established charity founded in 2017. Registered under the charity number 1176447, the foundation has been dedicated to promoting mental well-being and combating stigma surrounding mental illness. The organisation’s focus aligns seamlessly with Abrahams’ own advocacy work, particularly her “Invisible Scars Project,” which addresses mental health awareness.
A Multifaceted Approach to Mental Health
The Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation takes a comprehensive approach to mental health support. Their activities include:
- Intergenerational Care: Bringing together old and young to foster understanding of how isolation impacts mental health.
- Mindfulness Programs: Offering yoga, meditation, laughter yoga, and stress management sessions.
- Mental Health Awareness: Conducting sessions to educate the public about various aspects of mental well-being.
The foundation’s work extends beyond awareness campaigns. They provide practical support to the community, looking after 80 people in Croydon every month by providing food and clothes to the homeless, refugees, elderly, and differently-abled individuals.
Aché Abrahams: More Than a Beauty Queen
Abrahams’ involvement in the “Love Not Hate” event is a natural extension of her ongoing work in mental health advocacy. Her “Invisible Scars Project” aims to address the hidden emotional and psychological wounds that people carry, often stemming from childhood traumas, grief, insecurities, and societal pressures. Throughout her Miss World journey, Abrahams has used her platform to shed light on important conversations surrounding mental health, women’s empowerment, and equality. Her project was recognized as one of the top ten Beauty with a Purpose initiatives at the Miss World pageant, highlighting its significance and potential impact.
The Power of Youth in Driving Change
The “Young Stars of London” event is not just a showcase of talent; it’s a powerful statement about the role of youth in driving positive change. By bringing together young performers, speakers, and advocates like Abrahams, the event aims to inspire a new generation of change-makers. Attendees can anticipate an evening filled with inspiring performances, thought-provoking discussions, and a strong message of hope and unity. The event serves as a platform for important conversations about mental health, community resilience, and the fight against violence.
A Foundation Built on Compassion
The Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation’s work goes beyond organizing events. Since its establishment, the charity has worked with numerous organizations, from other charities to businesses, transforming Croydon and helping local residents, especially the most vulnerable in the community. Some of the organisations they have collaborated with include Age UK, Mind in Croydon, Croydon University Hospital, West Croydon Methodist Church, Parchmore Medical Centre, Croydon BME Forum, Asian Resource Centre of Croydon, Heartfulness UK, and Dementia Action Alliance.
The Impact of Community-Driven Initiatives
The foundation’s approach is rooted in community feedback and needs. They organize events that meet community requirements, promote mental health awareness and mindfulness, and address mental health stigma head-on. This grassroots approach ensures that their work remains relevant and impactful. Over the years, the foundation has successfully organized more than 300 mental health-related events aimed at physical and mental wellbeing for people from all walks of life. These activities include Adult Mental Health First Aid Trainings, Youth Mental Health First Aid Courses, Suicide First Aid Training, confidential counseling services, and even a Dementia Café.
Looking Ahead: The Significance of the February 2025 Event
The upcoming “Love Not Hate Presents: Young Stars of London” event in February 2025 is poised to be a milestone in the foundation’s journey. With Aché Abrahams’ participation, the event gains not only star power but also a powerful advocate for mental health awareness on an international stage. As Miss World Caribbean 2024, Abrahams brings a unique perspective to the event. Her experiences on the global stage, combined with her deep-rooted commitment to mental health advocacy, will undoubtedly inspire attendees and fellow participants alike.
A Call to Action
The “Love Not Hate” event is more than just a one-night affair; it’s a call to action for the community. It encourages attendees to take an active role in promoting mental health awareness, combating violence, and fostering a more inclusive society. For those interested in attending or supporting the cause, it’s recommended to keep an eye on the Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation’s official channels for ticket information and updates as the event date approaches.
As the date for the “Love Not Hate Presents: Young Stars of London” event draws near, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an inspiring and impactful evening. With Aché Abrahams lending her voice and platform to the cause, alongside the dedicated efforts of the Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation, the event stands as a testament to the power of community, youth engagement, and mental health advocacy. In a world often divided by differences, events like these serve as crucial reminders of our shared humanity and the strength we find in unity. As attendees gather at Whitgift School on that February evening, they will not only be witnesses to young talent but also participants in a larger movement towards a more compassionate, understanding, and mentally healthy society. The “Love Not Hate” event, with its powerful message and diverse lineup, exemplifies the positive change that can occur when communities come together with a shared purpose. It’s a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a future where mental health is prioritised, violence is addressed, and every individual feels valued and supported.