2022 Shortlisted Nominee
Positive Role Model Award: Age
Tanya is a young person who pioneered youth mental health awareness during the pandemic from her bedroom. From a young age, Tanya struggled with her mental health as a result of developing long-term health conditions. Navigating support as a young female in the South Asian community was a challenge due to the stigma and superstitions attached to mental health. In March 2021 and despite receiving no funding or formal support, Tanya set up a youth-led non-profit organisation Championing Youth Minds. Championing Youth Minds provides free online resources, workshops and a safe space to over 600 young people globally. This initiative bridges the gaps in our education system surrounding mental health education and shine a light on the topics that affect young people today. Tanya has since been speaking at large scale events across the UK about youth mental health, non-visible disabilities and EDI.