Peleti's life embodies a powerful journey of resilience, self-discovery, and a relentless pursuit of healing not only himself but others. Through challenging personal experiences, including the tragic loss of his brother to suicide, Peleti has become a leader of hope and change.

Coming from a traditional Samoan background, Peleti witnessed a community grappling with his brother’s tragic loss in different ways, from indifference to blame, all shadowed by the church's silence.

Peleti dreams of a cultural shift, urging families to break the cycle of silence and embrace therapy and open conversations about trauma. He envisions a world where healing starts at home, where anyone, regardless of their struggles, finds the courage to seek inner peace.

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Originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Vira’s journey to Aotearoa as an asylum seeker marked a radical shift from a communal, family-centric upbringing to a society starkly different in its individualistic values. Accompanied by her elder sister and mother upon arrival in New Zealand, her father joined them later in her adolescence.

Vira vividly recalls her mother's struggles, enduring biases in the workforce and facing societal prejudices while she, as a child, faced racial discrimination in school. These experiences left lasting impressions, fueling Vira's determination to create awareness about the unique mental health challenges faced by migrants and refugees.

Through her experiences, Vira emphasises the significance of vulnerability and seeking support. She encourages others to lean on their communities, share their experiences, and understand that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Grateful for her family's unwavering support, especially her mother's influential role, Vira stands as an inspiration, urging others to confront challenges with resilience and optimism, knowing that brighter days await.

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Vikram's life has been one of navigating love, loss, and an unyielding pursuit of hope. Born and raised in Singapore, his heart was intertwined with his family, especially his beloved mum, who imparted values of resilience and compassion. Vikram's world shattered at the age of 12 when his mother passed away, leaving him feeling lost in a society that rarely discussed mental health. Amidst more heartaches, including the loss of his father at the age of 21, Vikram was reminded that life is short, and every moment with loved ones is precious.

In search of a new beginning, Vikram found himself drawn to Aotearoa, enticed by the prospect of a community that embraced open conversations about emotional and mental well-being. New Zealand provided a place where he could confront his pain and grapple with his profound loss.

Vikram's message is powerful in its simplicity: "It's okay not to feel okay. Seek help, embrace your journey, and treasure every moment, for your strength emerges from the challenges you face."

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Before anything else, Rachel is a loving mum and partner, a social worker, a DJ and a champion for social justice. Rachel describes her upbringing as “colourful and challenging”. Rachel faced adversities that shaped her life, including experiences of sexual violence and the onset of a methamphetamine addiction at the remarkably young age of fourteen. She fell into a world of substance abuse and found solace among a group of individuals sharing similar traumas. The path led her through crime, toxic relationships and entrenched in a dangerous lifestyle. As she embarked on her journey of healing, Rachel underwent rehab and therapy, emphasising the importance of self-love and personal responsibility in the healing process.

Her story is an anthem to activism and community service, a profound reminder of the human capacity to heal from trauma and use it to create meaningful change for both ourselves and others.

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Fresh out of high school, eighteen-year-old Quinn from Dannevirke dove eagerly into farm work. But as his dedication consumed him, Quinn found himself spiraling into a dark place, overworked and overwhelmed by feelings of being a burden on those around him. He planned to end his life and sent a goodbye text to his friends. Fortunately, Quinn's friends immediately responded to his message, showing up for him when he needed it the most. Their unwavering support made him realise he wasn't alone and that he deserved the help and care surrounding him.

Quinn's life reflects the hidden struggles that many in the rural community face, especially within the farming world. In these tight-knit circles, expressing feelings often takes a backseat to the pressures of practicality. The expectation to toughen up and ‘get on with it’ casts a shadow over those battling mental health challenges.

Quinn emphasises the power of community, urging others to recognise that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing.

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Quack was raised in Panmure with their mother and four siblings. Quack’s father resided up north and his appearances were scarce, typically reserved for funerals or confrontations with their mother. Quack, a twin and the youngest in their whānau struggled to understand the complexities of their parents' relationship.

They navigated a childhood of displacement and a longing for connection to their Māori heritage. Their memories of childhood are painted in shades of “dark blue—a time tinted with chilliness despite scorching summers, encapsulated by a moldy room and a $2 shop blanket.”

Their narrative reflects a profound understanding of the intersections between mental health, cultural identity, and activism.

Quack's path to embracing their Māori heritage and identity as Takatāpui has become a foundation in their healing journey. Through their work, they aim to disrupt systems of oppression, empower rangatahi (youth), and safeguard mental health by intertwining kaitiakitanga (guardianship) of the whenua (land) with the well-being of the people.

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Semi's upbringing was complex and challenging, weaving elements of both a regular childhood and the awareness of not fitting into societal norms. Having albinism meant that Semi looked markedly different, often leading to instances where others stared, made comments, or passed judgments.

Societal perceptions were not often like the support she received at home, leaving Semi to grapple with mental health challenges and confidence issues. Depression crept in due to various physical setbacks, including health conditions like thyroid autoimmune disease. While her family provided practical support, emotions and mental health were rarely discussed within her Korean culture.

In confronting her mental health, Semi discovered the therapeutic value of creative endeavors. Returning to writing and venturing into stand-up comedy became outlets that nourished her emotional well-being. Expressing herself creatively became a pivotal strategy in managing her mental health, along with riding horses.

Semi encourages individuals facing similar struggles to embrace their uniqueness, acknowledging that everyone's journey is different.

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Lissy and Rudi are building a community for intergenerational healing. Crochet, initially a craft, soon evolved into a —a tangible medium through which they honour their tūpuna and the diversity of life experience, to foster community. Their hands weave threads that carry stories from previous generations, each stitch an ode to resilience and interconnectedness. Their home, an extension of their vibrant spirits, full of colour, patterns, and artwork—a testament to their unapologetic self-expression. 

"Through every stitch, we thread the stories of our ancestors, weaving a tapestry of resilience, healing, and celebration—a vibrant legacy for generations yet to come."

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