Our Voice 256 Reloaded

At Twogere, we believe that mental health advocacy is most impactful when it resonates deeply with our communities' lived realities. To that end, we have pioneered an innovative grassroots movement called “Our Voice 256 Reloaded,” a bold, unapologetic, and community-centred approach to destigmatizing mental health.

What is Our Voice 256 Reloaded?

It is an innovation by Twogere that brings individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges into the heart of Ugandan communities—on the streets, in marketplaces, and public spaces—equipped with a simple but powerful tool: the "mwekalakasa", a Megaphone.

This approach is unique in its spontaneity and authenticity. There are no pre-arranged invitations, no formal mobilization, and no elaborate stage setups. Instead, our activists show up unannounced, use their megaphone to amplify their stories, and initiate open conversations with passersby about mental health, stigma, and the importance of seeking help.

How Does It Work?

Individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges—trained in public speaking and storytelling—take to the streets as advocates. These individuals draw on their personal journeys to connect with others on an emotional and relatable level.
Spontaneous Engagement: The process is deliberately organic. Activists appear in busy, high-traffic areas such as:
- City streets
- Urban centers
- Local markets
  They begin speaking through the mwekalakasa, using relatable language to discuss topics such as:
- Mental health awareness
- Signs and symptoms of common mental health issues
- Support options
- Coping strategies and recovery.
As people gather to listen, conversations unfold naturally. Passersby are encouraged to ask questions, share their perspectives, and engage in dialogue.
In addition to the verbal education, we distribute simple, easy-to-read pamphlets in local languages, providing information on where to seek mental health support and access care.

Why This Approach Works

Authenticity: Hearing directly from someone who has experienced mental health challenges creates a genuine and relatable connection.
Accessibility: By bringing the message to everyday spaces where people gather, we break down barriers to accessing mental health education.
Spontaneity: The absence of formal invitations or mobilization ensures inclusivity—everyone within earshot becomes part of the conversation.
Cultural Relevance: Using the mwekalakasa reflects a local, grassroots approach that resonates with Ugandan cultural contexts, making the message more relatable and impactful.

Target Outcomes

Our ultimate aim is to foster a society where mental health is understood, respected, and prioritized. The Our Voice 256 Reloaded strives to achieve the following outcomes:

Increased mental health Awareness: Empower communities with accurate knowledge about mental health conditions, their causes, and available treatment options.
Reduced Stigma: Encourage open dialogue to challenge harmful myths, misconceptions, and societal stigma surrounding mental health.
Promoted Help-Seeking Behavior: Inspire individuals experiencing mental health challenges to seek help without fear of judgment.
Community Empowerment: Equip community members with information they can share with others, creating a ripple effect of awareness and advocacy.
Policy Advocacy: Amplify the voices of individuals with lived experiences, urging policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize mental health in public health strategies.

Join Us in This Movement

The Our Voice 256 Reloaded is more than an activity; it’s a call to action. Every story shared, every question answered, and every misconception challenged moves us closer to a society where mental health is embraced as an essential part of overall well-being.

While this movement thrives on spontaneity, the ripple effects are carefully cultivated. Whether you encounter us in a market, on a busy street, or in your local community, the message is clear: Mental health matters. We are here to amplify that message, one conversation at a time.

Send us an email if you would wish to collaborate with us at info@twogereug.org