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The Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing (WISH) has been selected as one of 100 global grantees of the UNESCO x SEVENTEEN ‘Going Together – For Youth Creativity and Well-Being’ initiative. This prestigious grant recognizes the innovative and impactful work of WISH in advancing mental health and well-being in Antigua and Barbuda.
The grant program, made possible by a $1 million USD donation from SEVENTEEN, UNESCO’s first-ever Goodwill Ambassador for Youth, supports youth-led projects that address critical global challenges. With over 2300 applications from 140 countries, WISH’s selection highlights its unique approach to fostering self-care and mental health awareness in the Caribbean.
WISH was founded by Chaneil Imhoff, an award-winning entrepreneur, communications specialist, and mental health advocate. Ms. Imhoff, who serves as the organization’s Mental Health Advocate and Head of Strategic Partnerships, has been instrumental in reshaping mental health narratives in Antigua and Barbuda. Her professional expertise in communications and her dedication to mental health advocacy have allowed WISH to reach diverse audiences and create meaningful impact.
“This grant is not just a win for WISH; it’s a victory for Antigua and Barbuda,” said Ms. Imhoff. “It reaffirms the importance of addressing mental health as a community and inspires us to continue breaking the silence and shattering stigmas around mental health in the region.”
The WISH team brings together a multidisciplinary group of professionals dedicated to holistic mental health solutions:
Police Constable Blaire Cornwall brings a crucial law enforcement perspective and crisis intervention expertise to our team. Her experience in handling community crises and understanding of emergency response protocols strengthens our ability to develop effective crisis intervention strategies.
Raisa Charles, our Gender and Communications Specialist, ensures our programs address the intersection of gender and mental health while maintaining effective communication with all stakeholders. Her expertise in gender-sensitive programming helps ensure our mental health support strategies are accessible and appropriate for all community members.
Makeida Antonio, our Public Relations Professional, manages our external communications. Her expertise in public relations ensures consistent, professional communication with stakeholders while building public awareness of mental health issues. Ms. Antonio’s work strengthens our community presence and helps maintain productive relationships with partners and supporters.
The UNESCO x SEVENTEEN grant will support WISH’s ongoing programs, including mental health workshops, public awareness campaigns, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at empowering individuals to prioritize self-care and healing. As part of the grant, WISH will also benefit from training sessions and mentorship to amplify its impact and sustainability.
This recognition follows a series of achievements by WISH, which was launched on October 10, 2024. Under Ms. Imhoff’s leadership, WISH continues to revolutionize mental health care and foster a culture of well-being in Antigua and Barbuda.
Congrats. It is always a pleasure to see young people doing something positive with themselves.
Hello Mrs. Chaniel Imhoff & Team Members of WISH,
KUDOS AND CONGRATS to You And Your Team of Young and Up-Coming Professionals who Form the Backbone of W I S H (Wadadli Initiative for Self-Care & Healing)❤️🩹
The Selection by UNESCO of This Group of Young ANU/BAR Entrepreneurs for A Sizeable Grant to Pursue their DREAMS of Making Positive CONTRIBUTIONS to the Mental Health of Children Youth and Families generally in Our Nation is HUGE!!!!!
WISH has been SELECTED from more than 2,300 Applications from 140 Countries Worldwide …… quite A Feat for Our Twin Island State of 108 Square Miles in Size …….. WOW!!!! 🤩 THIS Speaks Very Highly of Our Youth and Young People ….. We are So Very Proud of Your FANTASTIC Achievement ….
Please continue to Grow and Network WORLDWIDE bringing to our Shores ALL We NEED to Support and Improve the Mental Health Progress in Our Children, Youth, Adults and Families…. as you help our Children to learn and foster HABITS that will Surely Improve the Mental Health of Our Families in ANU/BAR.
Perhaps you could Link Up with A Young Author Who has Excellent Training in Many Areas presently affecting Children and Youth in the Area of BULLYING (she presented On VOP — Observer Radio Today …… interviewed by Franz) NETWORKING IS KEY for PROGRESS in THIS Field …..
Young People please Continue to SHOW us How Your Talents, Abilities, Hard Work And Dedication Will Make Our Nation and Nations Worldwide A BETTER Place for ALL OF US…… KUDOS AND CONTINUING CONGRATULATIONS ….. 🎉🎈🎊 💫🕊️
Health issues in Antigua Barbuda over the years has been a taboo with a certain amount of shame and embarrassment attached to it I am glad to know that over time it has come to be recognized as a sickness that can affect anyone. Congrats to Miss Imhoff and your team on your recent achievements