AmEnough Society, a Vancouver-based registered charity founded by mental health advocate and nurse Anna Akinmolayan, is making strides in providing culturally appropriate mental health support and empowerment programs for migrants and refugees. Born from grassroots efforts during the pandemic, AmEnough addresses the stigma surrounding mental health in newcomer communities, offering safe spaces, trauma-healing retreats, youth mentorship, and more. With a mission to foster integration and success, the organization continues to grow, hosting events like the upcoming Holiday Season of Smiles on December 21st, while seeking community support to expand its reach.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
AmEnough Society is a registered charity in British Columbia that provides culturally appropriate mental health support, community resources, and empowerment programs for migrants and refugees. We focus on destigmatizing mental health, fostering integration, and creating pathways for success.
What problem does it aim to solve?
We aim to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in newcomer, migrant and refugee communities, and address the barriers to accessing culturally appropriate support. By fostering understanding and offering safe spaces, we encourage individuals to seek help and thrive emotionally, socially, and economically.
When did you start/join it?
The idea for AmEnough Society began during the COVID-19 pandemic, as I witnessed an increasing need for mental health support among newcomers struggling with isolation and systemic barriers. The organization was incorporated in September 2023 and quickly recognized by the CRA as a registered charity.
What made you want to get involved?
As a Mental Health and Addiction Nurse with Vancouver Coastal Health, I’ve seen the devastating impact of stigma and cultural barriers on individuals seeking help. My passion for creating safe spaces and providing culturally appropriate support inspired me to found AmEnough Society.
What was the situation like when you started?
AmEnough began as an informal network supporting individuals with counselling, mental health check-ins, and food security during the pandemic. These grassroots efforts highlighted the significant gaps in accessible, culturally relevant mental health resources.
How has it changed since?
We have formalized into a registered charity with expanded programming, including trauma-healing retreats for refugee women, the Books Without Borders literacy initiative, youth mentorship, and counselling services.
What more needs to be done?
We need sustained funding to scale our programs, secure a dedicated space, and reach more communities. Destigmatizing mental health and building awareness remains a long-term goal.
How can our readers help?
Readers can support us by donating, volunteering, or sharing our mission. Partnerships with local businesses and organizations are invaluable for expanding our impact.
Do you have any events coming up?
Yes, we’re hosting a Holiday Season of Smiles on December 21st at Century House in New Westminster, offering food, clothing, gifts to children of migrants and refugees that we support and mental health resources to families in need.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
I deeply admire the work Thrive-4-Blacks. Though they are a non-profit organisation that places a strong emphasis on youth-focused initiatives. Their mission is to empower the younger generation by offering opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive.
