During my summer internship with Tinada Youth Action Africa in Kisumu, Kenya, I observed and engaged with the implementation of youth mental health interventions, specifically through the Shamiri project, which utilizes a near-peer psychotherapy model. In this model, young lay-providers deliver brief, accessible mental health interventions to address common mental health challenges. My role focused on observing how these interventions were applied in community settings, providing insights into the real-world impact of low-touch, evidence-based mental health support.

Beyond the Shamiri project, I witnessed how Tinada’s broader mission of integrated mental health services—spanning psychosocial support, rehabilitation, gender-based violence interventions, and disaster preparedness—aligned with the work I observed on the ground. Data-driven tools, such as mental health dashboards, informed decision-making, while strong stakeholder engagement ensured that interventions were culturally relevant and sustainable.

Through my experiences, I gained a deeper understanding of the logistical, cultural, and community dynamics involved in delivering mental health care in a low-resource setting. These observations highlighted the importance of integrating local knowledge and stakeholder collaboration in developing sustainable mental health solutions for youth.