We are a coalition of 27 Ethiopian students across six secondary schools in Addis Ababa, united by one belief: no student should struggle with their mental health in silence.
We believe every Ethiopian student deserves access to mental health support that is peer-led, culturally sensitive, and judgment-free.
To break the silence surrounding youth mental health in Ethiopia by building peer support networks within schools, creating open conversations through storytelling, and training young people to be the first line of mental health support for their classmates.
We operate on a simple truth: students listen to students.
A future where every secondary school in Ethiopia has a student-led mental health support system. Where asking for help is seen as strength.
We envision mental health being discussed as openly as physical health in Ethiopian schools. Not as a Western import but as a fundamental human need that transcends all cultures.
Everything we do is guided by these principles.
We lead with understanding. Every interaction begins with listening, not judging. We believe every feeling is valid.
We honor Ethiopian values while challenging harmful stigma. Mental health support must work within our cultural context.
Students supporting students through shared experience and mutual understanding. We trust the power of peers.
Trust is the foundation. What students share stays private, with safety exceptions only when someone is at risk.
From professional training to personal reflection, we commit to becoming better supporters and advocates every day.
Mental health affects everyone regardless of background. Our support is available to all students willing to reach out.
The students leading ROVI's work across Addis Ababa.
Founded ROVI at age 18. Leads content creation, strategy, and outreach.
Manages peer counselor training programs and school partnerships.
Leads student engagement efforts, supports team organization, and assists with program implementation.
Organize events, recruit members, and bridge students to ROVI's network.
Biniyam publishes his first personal story about mental health. Classmates begin sharing their own experiences privately.
Five students from three schools join. The first peer counselor training session takes place. ROVI officially forms.
The coalition grows to 27 members across six schools. Blog readership passes 2,000. Workshops begin.
Fourteen fully trained peer counselors are active. The blog reaches over 4,100 readers.
Students from these six secondary schools form the backbone of our coalition.
