Haven of Hope
Strength in Resilience, Hope in Healing
Overview
The Haven of Hope project, initiated under the Dongriin
Foundation, is dedicated to empowering refugee
students in Northern Uganda by addressing their mental
health challenges through education, mentorship, and
community support. Recognizing the profound impact of
trauma, displacement, and stress on young refugees,
Haven of Hope provides structured programs that foster
mental resilience, emotional well-being, and self-care. By
integrating mentorship, awareness campaigns, and access
to educational resources, the project ensures that refugee
youth develop the tools they need to navigate life’s
challenges while thriving academically and socially.
Mission
To promote mental health awareness and provide refugee
students with the knowledge, resources, and coping
mechanisms necessary to overcome trauma, stress, and
anxiety, fostering resilience and emotional well-being
Vision
A generation of empowered and mentally resilient refugee
students who can navigate their challenges, break the
stigma surrounding mental health, and contribute
positively to their communities.
Key Programs
Mentorship & Mental Health Education
- Small-group discussions encourage open dialogue and reduce stigma around mental health.
- Trained mentors conduct peer-led workshops on recognizing and managing stress, anxiety, and PTSD.
- Safe spaces are created where students can express their experiences and receive support
Wellness & Coping Strategies
- Hands-on sessions teach mindfulness practices, relaxation techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies.
- Activities like art therapy, music, storytelling, and yoga help students process emotions and build resilience.
- Safe spaces are created where students can express their experiences and receive support
Resource Development & Accessibility
- Mental health awareness materials, including books, videos, and self-help guides, are integrated into the Dongriin Library.
- Collaboration with refugee students at York University to develop culturally relevant mental health content for refugee youth in Uganda
Community Engagement & Advocacy
- “Wellness Wednesday” blog series featuring expert insights, success stories, and interactive discussions.
- Partnerships with local schools and community leaders to integrate mental health literacy into refugee education programs.
PROJECT ROAD MAP
Launch ‘Wellness Wednesday’ blogs (weekly). – Biweekly articles onbullying and its impact.
Biweekly podcasts on peer pressure, featuring guest speakers.
Articles & blogs on substance abuse, relapse prevention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Interactive sessions on mindful exercises & recreational activities (art,music, yoga). – Initiate steps to launch the Haven of Hope website.
Content on PTSD & Trauma, potential podcast with a registered nurse or military personnel.
Workshops and blogs on intellectual disabilities, featuring a gueststudent with dyslexia. – Begin fundraising efforts to support program expansion
Discussions on identity, belonging, and culture shock. Impact assessment: Check-in with the on ground team to evaluate program effectiveness
Interviews with refugee students at York University to develop relatable resources for youth in refugee camps.
Awareness content on Imposter Syndrome, addressing self-doubt and confidence-building.
Awareness campaign on mental health stigma, promoting open conversations. – Execution phase: On-ground team implements
mentorship programs.
Strategies to overcome academic stress, including time management and mental health tips.
Awareness series on eating disorders, focusing on healthy habits and support systems
Meet our Team
Manhoor Chauhan
Co-lead
York University, Ontario,
Canada
Mozhan Yaghmai
Co-lead
York University, Ontario,
Canada
Amer Ayuen Dot
Contributor
University of Manitoba,
Ontario, Canada
Tabassom Sayahan
Contributor
Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
Nicholas Parent
Contributor
University of Western Ontario, Canada
Pardis Raoofnia
Contributor
York University, Ontario,
Canada