EMEEN Publication:
Nakisa Towfighi, a dynamic young women entrepreneur from Northern Ireland, has been awarded the prestigious “Rising Star Award” at the Ultimate Pitch competition organised by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. Competing before a panel of seasoned professionals and entrepreneurs, Nakisa’s bold presentation of her innovative mental health startup, Well4U, resonated deeply with the audience. For Nakisa, who had never spoken publicly to such a large audience, this recognition represents a significant achievement and a testament to her vision and determination.
Nakisa, a recent graduate of Ulster University’s Product Design (BA Hons) program and current postgraduate student at QUB’s Level 7 Chartered Management course, exemplifies a dynamic blend of creativity, innovation, and resilience. With a background spanning product design, user-centered design, branding, and graphic design, she has cultivated a multifaceted approach to problem-solving. This approach fuels her ambitious startup, Well4U, which tackles the pressing youth mental health crisis in the UK.
Youth mental health is a pressing concern in the UK, as evidenced by the fact that 1 in 6 children aged 5–16 are reported to be grappling with mental health issues, based on data from the National Health Service (NHS). The situation is particularly dire in Northern Ireland, where youth suicide rates rank among the highest in Europe, painting a grim picture of the challenges faced by young individuals in the region. These distressing statistics shed light on the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support and resources tailored to the specific needs of young people.
One of the major obstacles that many young individuals encounter is the extensive waiting times to receive professional help or the perception that their issues are not severe enough to warrant immediate intervention. This dilemma often leads to a worsening of their mental health struggles, as they navigate through feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness. Addressing these systemic barriers and promoting a culture of open dialogue around mental health are crucial steps in ensuring that young people receive the support and assistance they require to overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
Nakisa’s startup, Well4U, seeks to fill this gap. Unlike traditional online resources, Well4U offers a pre-crisis product and digital service tailored to young people’s needs. It aligns with the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment (CCEA)’s emotional well-being strategy and features an inclusive, ASD-friendly design to ensure accessibility. By providing tools and a safe, stigma-free platform for open sharing, Well4U empowers young people to take charge of their mental health proactively.
The “Rising Star Award” not only celebrates Nakisa’s entrepreneurial potential but also highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions like Well4U. Nakisa’s presentation struck a chord with the judges, showcasing her dedication to tackling the youth mental health crisis. She overcame personal fears to deliver a compelling pitch, demonstrating the courage and resilience that drive her work.
Nakisa’s journey is a beacon of hope for youth mental health. Through Well4U, she is paving the way for proactive, inclusive support systems that aim to alleviate the burden on mental health services and inspire positive change for Northern Ireland’s young people. Her win marks the beginning of an impactful journey to revolutionize mental health care, empowering young people to thrive.
Written by: Steve Lazars
