Our Story
Our journey began with a simple idea: to make the world a better place through compassion and action. What started as a small peer support group on WhatsApp has grown into a movement that touches thousands of lives every year. We believe that everyone deserves to live their full potential.
Area of Operation
We operate in Nairobi, working with schools, churches, hospitals and grassroot organizations.
Our Values – BRAVE
Belief
We believe in every individual’s strength to overcome.
Resilience
Setbacks happen, we grow from them.
Acceptance
Struggles don't define our worth.
Vulnerability
It takes strength to be open.
Empathy
We meet people where they are, with compassion.
Our Founding Story
In 2015, I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after years of struggling with postpartum depression following the loss of my son in 2010. The diagnosis came during a difficult season of my life-I had dropped out of university, lost job opportunities, and felt isolated when friends pulled away. These experiences opened my eyes to the lack of safe, supportive spaces for those navigating emotional and mental health challenges, especially children and caregivers.
With a background in psychology and community development, I founded Stand Out 4 Mental Health in 2019. We use art, play, and storytelling to help children especially those with autism from communities with limited access to mental health services. We help them explore their emotions in joyful, playful, and culturally grounded ways. What started as a small WhatsApp peer support group has evolved into a growing movement, now supporting more than 10,000 children and families, 500 youths, and 5 schools.
Today, I mentor young advocates and peer supporters, showing that healing can be creative and local, through one drawing, one movement, and one conversation at a time.
Founded in 2019 by Christine Ombima, Stand Out 4 Mental Health was born from lived experience and a bold vision: to make healing creative, inclusive, and community-led. Her own experience with bipolar disorder and stigma highlighted the need for safe spaces where children and families with limited support can process emotions with dignity.
“Healing doesn’t have to be clinical and cold — it can be local, colorful, and full of life.”
What began as a small WhatsApp peer support group has grown into a vibrant movement that uses expressive art, play and peer support to promote emotional healing. Over 10,000 children and caregivers have participated in our programs, with more than 500 youth connected to affordable mental health services.
Initiatives like ArtvistaMtaani, TutazidiHangouts, and BipolarBeacon bring healing closer to home, amplify youth voices, and create brave spaces for men.
Our strength comes from the partnerships we've built with schools, hospitals, local leaders, and families. Together, we're shifting mindsets, creating safe, joyful communities where emotional expression is embraced. Because healing doesn't have to be clinical and cold it can be local, colorful, and full of life.
We're not just shifting mindsets we're building safe, joyful communities where emotional expression is celebrated. Because healing doesn't have to be clinical and cold it can be local, colorful, and full of life.
The Team Behind the Vision
Meet the passionate individuals driving our mission forward.
Christine Ombima
Founder & Executive Director
Christine leads with vision and heart, creating safe spaces that empower individuals through creative wellness.
Stand Out 4 Mental Health Volunteers
Meet the passionate volunteers behind our mission — the heart of Stand Out 4 Mental Health.
These dedicated individuals bring our programs to life, supporting communities, leading with empathy, and championing mental wellness every day.
Reuben Ng'ang'a
Sports & Fitness Coach
Reuben champions movement and play as tools for mental wellness, encouraging active, joyful, and healthy communities.
Agnes Muchiri
Head of Training
Agnes strengthens communities by equipping caregivers and educators with practical mental health skills.
Nancy Kaunda
Growth & Partnerships Lead
Nancy forges partnerships that expand our reach and connect more communities to mental health support.
Camilla Odhiambo
Visual Artist
Camilla inspires creativity and expression, using art to help children and families explore and process their emotions.
Irene Wainaina
Lead Psychologist
Irene ensures our programs are safe, compassionate, and grounded in sound psychological practice.
Reuben Ng'ang'a
Sports & Fitness Coach
Reuben champions movement and play as tools for mental wellness, encouraging active, joyful, and healthy communities.
Agnes Muchiri
Head of Training
Agnes strengthens communities by equipping caregivers and educators with practical mental health skills.
Nancy Kaunda
Growth & Partnerships Lead
Nancy forges partnerships that expand our reach and connect more communities to mental health support.
Camilla Odhiambo
Visual Artist
Camilla inspires creativity and expression, using art to help children and families explore and process their emotions.
Irene Wainaina
Lead Psychologist
Irene ensures our programs are safe, compassionate, and grounded in sound psychological practice.
Community Support
Volunteers facilitate safe spaces for connection, healing, and resilience.
Creative Leadership
From art to movement, they lead expressive activities that build confidence.
Everyday Champions
They amplify mental wellness and climate-conscious living in their communities.
Want to make a difference too? Join our movement and help create safe, creative spaces where everyone can thrive.