Youth leader seeks support to attend WHO conference in Switzerland

Nowell Lewin Jr., a passionate mental health advocate and law student from Jamaica, is calling for public assistance to attend a prestigious World Health Organization (WHO) youth conference in Geneva, Switzerland. Scheduled from October 28 to 31, the event is a collaborative effort between the WHO and the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA), uniting youth leaders, diplomats, and policymakers to address critical global health issues. Lewin, the founder of the mental health organization Global Integration Society, has been selected to join a committee focusing on social connection and mental health—a subject he holds dear. He aims to represent Jamaica and the Caribbean, emphasizing the need for regional voices in international discussions. Participants are tasked with researching their assigned countries’ stances on global health topics, culminating in a resolution paper proposing actionable solutions. Lewin plans to share these recommendations with Jamaica’s Ministries of Health, Education, and Foreign Affairs upon his return. While his conference fee is covered, Lewin requires approximately US$4,060 to cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses. He highlights the broader issue of limited financial support for Jamaican youth attending international events, urging the government and private sector to step up. Lewin also stresses the importance of addressing mental health in Jamaica, noting its intersection with crime, education, and family life. He encourages Jamaicans to support his mission, as it could catalyze greater national awareness and change. Donations can be made to his National Commercial Bank account (May Pen Branch, account number 564741183).