Teen holds fundraiser for mental health awareness

“I organised a Christmas fundraiser in collaboration with Vatsal Chaya Trust, a reputed non-governmental organisation working for underprivileged children and women. Under this initiative, ‘Sakushal’, meaning well-being, funds are being raised through the event for mental health awareness. After meeting operational expenses, the remaining proceeds will be donated to Vatsal Chaya Trust to support its mental health programmes,” Shaina said.

She added that as part of the year-long Sakushal Project, she would work closely with Sangeeta Vardhan, founder of Vatsal Chaya Trust, to conduct a series of podcasts, webinars and awareness sessions, both online and offline, across schools and colleges. “These sessions will address mental health issues that are particularly relevant to today’s youth,” she said.

Shaina pointed out that young adults today are heavily exposed to social media and live in a fast-paced environment where instant gratification has become the norm. As a result, she said, struggle and resilience often take a backseat, partly due to overprotective environments created unknowingly by parents.

Responding to a question, she said, “Teenagers today are constantly under pressure to look perfect, achieve instantly and never fail. I have lived through that pressure, and I want to tell them that it is okay to struggle and okay to slow down. My journey taught me that courage is not the absence of fear. It is choosing to move forward despite it.”
Drawing on her expertise in event management, Shaina curated the fundraiser with 10 diverse stalls featuring food, lifestyle brands and essential products and services. “The exhibition is designed not just as a community experience but also as a platform to spark meaningful conversations on mental health,” she added.

The event also featured live musical performances by various bands, adding vibrancy to the cause. A social night with popular DJs was organised to further enhance community engagement and bring people together in support of the initiative.