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More than a dozen creatives have pledged to use their platforms to promote suicide prevention and support vulnerable groups as part of the Save a Life Conference held in West Yorkshire.
The conference, hosted by Oluwaseun Dosunmu, a Bradford-based mental health, arts and well-being accelerator, centered on the global suicide prevention theme “Changing the Narratives.”
Dosunmu in a statement on Monday said creatives occupy a vital role in shaping messages of hope and resilience.
“We need to be emotionally sensitive; as creatives, we have the opportunity and responsibility to use our platforms efficiently to spread messages of hope,” he said in a statement on Monday.
At the event, over 12 creatives were recognized as Suicide Prevention Ambassadors, making a commitment to provide intentional support to friends, colleagues, and community workers.
Highlights included the presentation of two unique artworks, Thread of Hope by visual artist Lateefat Tobun, and another artpiece by Olubunmi Ebisemiju titled Bruised Canvas which was handed to the Wellbeing, Arts and Culture Centre to symbolize solidarity with suicide prevention efforts.
In her keynote speech, Olubunmi Elizabeth Ebisemiju, a mental health visual artist and business consultant emphasized the power of storytelling and creativity in addressing suicide stigma.
“So many people around us are silently struggling. Suicide prevention begins when we change how we speak, how we listen, and how we create spaces where people feel safe enough to be seen” she said.
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Participants also shared personal experiences and struggles within the creative industry that affect mental health.
Visual artist Jorokee Kamuvete pointed out that rejection remains a major challenge for many creatives.
“Rejection in the creative industry is a big issue that affects one’s mental health. We must remain resilient, focus on our art, and continue to believe in ourselves,” she said.
Glowria Osedeba, a runway model and actor, said rejection and bullying often leave new entrants in the industry doubting their abilities.
“Bullying and rejection negatively impact confidence, and if these feelings aren’t managed well, they can lead to suicidal thoughts and, sadly, suicide itself,” she explained.
Namibian lifestyle content creator Jorokee recounted how cyberbullying forced her to take a break from work.
“I was insulted and mocked online because of my African accent. This online bullying affected my mental health and made me doubt the craft I once enjoyed doing,” she said.
Musicians also lent their voices. Dayo Sax, a drummer and saxophonist, recalled being publicly criticized by a respected figure.
“I was told I wasn’t good enough to play. That experience hurt deeply, but I’ve learned to keep going,” he shared.
