By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
In a remarkable turn of events, Abdul Karim Sesay, a tenacious mental health advocate, has been crowned the Tech Champion at the 2024 Orange Social Venture Prize (OSVP). His victory is not just a testament to his innovative prowess but also a powerful narrative of resilience and recovery.
Sesay’s journey to this moment was anything but ordinary. Diagnosed with a mental health disorder three years ago, he was forced to withdraw from school and embark on a challenging path toward healing. The road was riddled with battles against suicidal thoughts and emotional turmoil, yet, against all odds, Sesay emerged stronger, driven by a vision to transform the mental health landscape in Sierra Leone.
At the 6th local edition of the OSVP pitch night in Freetown, Sesay shared his deeply personal story with the audience. His raw honesty and passion struck a chord, as he recounted his struggles and the moments that almost broke him. But it was not just his story that captivated the audience; it was his solution. Sesay unveiled Emotions, a cutting-edge mobile application he developed to provide personalized therapeutic solutions for mental health disorders.
Emotions offers a lifeline to those struggling, featuring cognitive exercises, connections to mental health specialists, and a platform for sharing personal stories. The app also includes a variety of therapeutic resources, such as music and movies—elements that played a crucial role in Sesay’s own recovery.
During his pitch, Sesay’s innovative approach to mental health care not only impressed the judges but also resonated deeply with the audience. His vision for Emotions was clear: to challenge the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health in Sierra Leone and provide accessible support to those in need. His efforts were duly recognized, as he was awarded the grand prize of NLe200,000 (approximately $9,000).
Sesay’s victory at the OSVP local edition has now earned him a spot in the upcoming international competition, where he will represent Sierra Leone. His story is one of courage, innovation, and a relentless commitment to improving mental health discourse. As he continues his work, Abdul Karim Sesay is not only a tech champion but also a beacon of hope for many struggling with mental health challenges.
