The Maitri Youth Convention in Cupertino highlighted the importance of mental health awareness among youth, featuring discussions on emotional well-being and community support.
CUPERTINO, CA – On February 8, youth leaders, mental health professionals, and families convened at the Cupertino Public Library for the Maitri Youth Convention, a forum dedicated to emotional well-being and mental health awareness. Hosted by Maitri, the event aimed to empower young voices and foster open discussions about the pressures impacting their lives.
The convention was inaugurated by Cupertino Councilmember Sheila Mohan, who emphasized the significance of community spaces that uplift youth. Her remarks set a positive tone for an afternoon filled with dialogue, understanding, and a collective sense of responsibility.
Keynote speaker Shalini Dayal, a licensed Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist, provided valuable insights into the distinctions between stress, anxiety, and depression. She encouraged attendees to recognize early warning signs and seek support when needed. Dayal stressed the importance of open communication within families as a means to prevent emotional buildup and nurture healthier relationships. Through interactive engagement, she equipped the audience with practical tools for emotional regulation and resilience.
Guest speaker Preet Sabharwal, a licensed clinical psychologist, addressed the unique challenges faced by South Asian youth in the United States. He discussed the complexities of balancing dual cultural identities while navigating societal and familial expectations. Sabharwal offered strategies for maintaining emotional health amidst competing pressures, highlighting that unresolved identity conflicts can exacerbate stress.
Throughout the afternoon, youth speakers shared personal stories and reflections, emphasizing the vital role of family support during challenging times. They called for an end to the stigma surrounding therapy and mental health care within the Desi community. Students candidly discussed their experiences with academic competition, relationship dynamics, and the importance of building emotional resilience.
Several speakers highlighted the influence of digital media, influencer culture, and toxic masculinity on young men’s mental health. They urged their peers to challenge harmful norms and foster a supportive environment for one another. Others focused on youth advocacy and leadership, encouraging attendees to actively participate in creating healthier school and community settings.
The program featured question-and-answer sessions, open mic talks, and peer-to-peer conversations, which organizers described as a safe and empowering space. A recurring theme throughout the event was that youth mental health is not solely an individual concern but a shared responsibility within the community.
Community partners, including Moms Demand Action and the California Women’s Hygiene Initiative, hosted resource tables, offering attendees information and connections to local support services.
The event was emceed by Amber Mishra, who facilitated discussions and introduced speakers while encouraging student participation.
Maitri is a free and confidential nonprofit organization based in the San Francisco Bay Area, primarily serving South Asian families and individuals facing domestic violence, emotional abuse, cultural alienation, or family conflict. The convention served as a vital platform for raising awareness about mental health and fostering a supportive community for youth.
According to India-West, the Maitri Youth Convention successfully highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and the need for community support among young people.