KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a society where mental health remains a whispered topic, 23-year-old Nowell Lewin Jr is making it impossible to ignore. Both a law student and farmer, Lewin is the driving force behind the Global Integration Society (GIS), a youth-led initiative dedicated to transforming the conversation on mental health in Jamaica.
Building a Movement from the Ground Up
What began as Lewin speaking out on social media has grown into a community of young people willing to confront one of the island’s most persistent stigmas. The organisation uses online campaigns and peer-to-peer advocacy to connect with Jamaicans, especially the youth, who often feel unheard in traditional settings.
“Too often, when young people confide in adults, they’re dismissed as having no real problems,” Lewin explained. “That’s why they turn to us—we listen, we understand, and we take them seriously.”
More Than Just Awareness
Though GIS is not yet equipped to offer formal therapy, it acts as a bridge—linking individuals to national hotlines and trusted organisations. Plans are in motion to train peer counsellors, bring professionals on board, and eventually establish a dedicated space where people can seek help without fear of judgment.
Lewin insists that stigma is the greatest barrier to progress. “Mental health care in Jamaica has been branded as something only for the severely ill. We need to show it’s also about managing stress, anxiety, and early signs of depression.”
A Wake-Up Call from Experience
His advocacy did not come by chance. In 2020, after attending a United Nations youth conference in New York, Lewin returned home just as COVID-19 lockdowns began. Balancing schoolwork and isolation exposed him to the toll mental health struggles could take. Conversations with classmates revealed that many were experiencing the same silent battles.
This awakening pushed him to research, speak up, and ultimately establish GIS—a platform where young Jamaicans could see their struggles reflected and validated.
Shifting Culture, One Conversation at a Time
Lewin argues that schools and families must become central players in this fight. Teachers and parents, he believes, need more training to identify red flags and support those who may be struggling.
“Cultural mindsets still lead many parents to overlook mental health. They provide for their children financially but miss the signs of emotional strain. That needs to change,” he stressed.
The Road Ahead
With a small but determined team, Lewin envisions expanding GIS into an organisation that tackles both prevention and support. Recruiting professional counsellors, setting up physical hubs, and reshaping public perception are all on the horizon.
For now, his message is simple yet powerful:
“Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s courage. Every young person deserves to know they are valued and loved.”
