The Bluemind Foundation says that Heal by Hair gained attention from The New York Times in December 2023.

Now, Heal by Hair has once again gained international prominence by being featured in VOGUE's Global Women's Feature issue.

This emphasises its crucial role in promoting the mental health of African women. 

A turning point for Heal by Hair 

Heal by Hair, a movement of hairdresser ambassadors for mental health in Africa, is the Bluemind Foundation's flagship programme. It aims to improve the mental health and well-being of African women, one client at a time, through the hairdresser's chair.

The foundation says that since its launch, the programme has transformed the lives of nearly 54 000 women in:
  • Togo
  • Cameroon, and
  • Ivory Coast.
"Heal by Hair has opened my eyes to the importance of mental health and has given me the tools to support my clients beyond just hairstyling. Being published in Vogue is an extraordinary recognition of our mental health ambassador work. It is a source of pride for our community and our country, Togo," says Adaku Adama Hondeglah, promotion delegate. 

"I am grateful to the Bluemind Foundation for providing me with the knowledge to support my clients' mental well-being through the Heal by Hair training. It is an incredible honour to have the opportunity to share our stories and commitment to mental health in such a prestigious magazine as Vogue," says Hélène Azoyivo, co-delegate.

"Heal by Hair has been more than just training for me. It has been a true revelation about the importance of mental health and community support. Being featured in Vogue shows that our voice and experience matter, even in the biggest circles. It proves that it is possible to start from the neighborhoods of Lomé and land on the pages of major magazines. The New York Times and now Vogue, it's like a dream," says Têlé Akouavi Da Silveira.

The Bluemind Foundation says since its launch, Heal by Hair has received exceptional media coverage, with articles in media outlets such as:
  • The New York Times
  • BBC World
  • Voice of America, and
  • TV5 Afrique.
According to the foundation, this recognition has also translated into strong institutional support, notably from the Ministries of Health of Togo and Ivory Coast, as well as financial partners such as the Fund for Innovation in Development (hosted by the French Development Agency and chaired by Esther Duflo and the European Union). 

The programme has been regularly rewarded, reflecting a growing awareness among stakeholders of the need for innovative, effective and sustainable public health solutions for African populations, in accordance with their socio-cultural reality.

A historic chapter for mental health and the empowerment of African women

While Bluemind Foundation programmes gain influence and social impact, women's mental health remains a major issue in Africa, says the foundation. 

According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, 135 million people suffer from mental health problems in Africa. Among them, women under 25 represent 60% of those with mental health problems (81 million), and 85% of them do not have access to necessary treatment.

Thus, the spotlight on the Heal by Hair programme in VOGUE reflects the importance of continuing efforts to break taboos and promote women's empowerment. The Bluemind Foundation reaffirms its commitment to expanding the programme's impact and supporting African women in accessing better mental health and well-being.

"Today, as we celebrate women's rights, it is crucial to recognise that women's right to good mental health is an essential element of elevating their power and overall well-being. As Heal by Hair and Togo, representing the whole of Africa, are honored in VOGUE, this publication holds singular importance for our organisation as well as for the faithful partners who trust us," says Marie-Alix de Putter, founder and president of the Bluemind Foundation.

"This testifies to the tireless efforts of the Bluemind Foundation teams and underscores the profound impact we have on communities, with transformative results directly impacting the lives of hairdressers and their clients. Our determination to continue our mission to serve the mental well-being of communities only grows stronger," de Putter concludes. 

By 2035, the Bluemind Foundation aims to improve the mental health and well-being of 2 000 000 African women in 20 cities across Africa, says the Bluemind Foundation. 

For more information, visit www.bluemindfoundation.org. You can also follow the Bluemind Foundation on Facebook, X or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of Canva