Black Mental Health, Identity & Wellbeing

Hosted by the Young Champions at the Black Curriculum, this event explores mental health, identity, and wellbeing through a culturally responsive and community-centred lens. Facilitated by J’shawn Cook, Senior Assistant Psychologist and Mental Health Professional and Sapphire Francis, Assistant Psychologist, the session will explore:

• Understanding mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Challenging common myths and stigma around mental health
• The relationship between identity, culture and wellbeing
• How racism, social pressures and life experiences can impact mental health
• Practical strategies for managing wellbeing and building resilience
• Where and how to access support

Through interactive guided discussion, reflection and practical tools, participants will be encouraged to develop greater confidence in talking about mental health and strengthening their emotional literacy. Whether you are looking to better understand your own wellbeing or simply want to learn more about black mental health in a supportive and engaging environment, this session offers an opportunity to learn, build confidence and develop practical resources for everyday wellbeing.

Join us for an honest conversation that centres wellbeing, community and the importance of looking after ourselves.

Who is this for?

• Young people (18-25) who want to explore black mental health in a space that acknowledges the role of identity, culture, community and lived experience
• Young people looking to build confidence in supporting their own wellbeing and that of others
• Those interested in mental health, wellbeing, leadership, community and personal development.
• Young leaders, advocates, changemakers

Session Facilitators:

J’shawn Cook: Senior Assistant Psychologist 

J’shawn (he/him) is a mental health professional with experience supporting both adults and children across a range of settings. He is passionate about creating accessible, culturally responsive mental health spaces where individuals from all backgrounds feel seen, heard, and supported.

His ethos is rooted in advocacy, education, and community engagement, with a particular focus on mental health awareness and equity for underrepresented communities including Black, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and other marginalised groups.

J'shawn values sparking open and honest conversations around mental health within the Black community, drawing on both professional insight and personal lived experience. Holding space for intersectionality, inclusivity, and authenticity is central to the work he does.

Through therapeutic and holistic approaches, J’shawn strives to empower communities with the knowledge, language, and confidence to navigate their mental wellbeing.

Sapphire Francis: Assistant Psychologist 

Sapphire Francis (she/her) BSc, MSc is a psychological professional committed to addressing inequalities, and embedding culturally responsive and anti-racist practice within psychology and the wider mental health sector. She is a published research author with an interest in systems change, and brings over five years’ experience working with students in higher education.

As an experienced speaker and group facilitator, she creates thoughtful, engaging spaces for learning and reflection, drawing on principles of systemic and narrative approaches. As a believer that there is no inclusion without intersectionality, Sapphire continues to advocate for holistic approaches to supporting people in minority groups.

Ultimately, Sapphire believes in sharing knowledge and practical tools to empower members of the black community, recognising the challenges of communicating both unique and shared needs to access effective support. At the core of her work is a commitment to valuing lived experience and peer support. She seeks to help normalise conversations around mental health and encourage people to actively pursue their own wellbeing in a world and culture that often teaches us not to.