The WHO Country Office in North Macedonia has teamed up with women leaders from municipalities in the country to raise awareness and prevent mental health issues among young people. Under the WHO–United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) “Joint Programme on Mental Health and Psychosocial Well-being and Development of Children and Adolescents”, over 300 women leaders from Gostivar, Kriva Palanka, Karposh-Skopje and Bitola were trained by mental health experts at a workshop in Skopje. Mental health issues affect everyone, and every child has the right to grow up in a safe and healthy environment. To better protect this right, in 2023 WHO and UNICEF expanded the programme to 3 new countries in the western Balkans – Albania, North Macedonia and Serbia.

The women leaders organized community forums and school visits, sharing strategies and solutions at the local level by engaging with parents, teachers, school staff and health professionals. “At the heart of this initiative is giving children the best start possible, shaping them into resilient adults,” remarked Dr Anne Johansen, Acting Head of the WHO Country Office in North Macedonia, at the opening of the first community-based training for women leaders.

Trusted allies

“In Kriva Palanka, we women leaders play a unique role in preventing mental health problems,” says Izabela Pavlovska, a respected community figure. “Our pride stems from supporting this joint initiative.”

Leaders like Izabela are not just coordinating events, they are becoming trusted allies for children and adolescents facing mental health challenges. They distribute educational leaflets and collaborate with local media to highlight the importance of mental health for young people. Their personal stories are changing lives.

“To support our youngsters, we must educate parents, guardians and everyone involved. Talks, seminars and campaigns make a real difference,” stresses Aferdita Ljudmiu from Gostivar.

Fatima Bajrami from Bitola agrees, advocating for everyone to have their voice heard. “We need to lead by example, break the stigma, and create a culture of openness around mental health. It starts with us,” she says.

The joint programme will continue into 2024, and the WHO Country Office in North Macedonia will focus on building resilient communities.

“These women leaders are not just names, they're the heroes shaping a brighter, mentally healthier future for our children and adolescents,” concludes Dr Johansen. “Their voices matter, making this not just a story of programmes, but a tale of hope and genuine human connection.”