Weinglo Family International hosts Smash the Stigma 2026 tennis rally to promote mental health awareness

Weinglo Family International has held the second edition of its Smash the Stigma – Rally for Mental Health, bringing together about 150 participants, eight tennis clubs and mental health professionals to raise awareness and challenge stigma surrounding mental health.

The event, held on October 10, 2026, to mark World Mental Health Day, combined tennis competition with mental health education, screening, fundraising and networking to encourage open conversations about emotional well-being.

The rally featured a celebrity exhibition match involving former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan, adding excitement to the event and drawing attention to the campaign’s message that mental health deserves the same attention as physical well-being.

Founder of Weinglo Family International, Gloria Boatemaa Andoh, welcomed participants and underscored the importance of collective action in building supportive communities where people can discuss mental health challenges without fear of stigma.

The programme also featured remarks from Nana Antwi Awuah Darkwa, Director of the Kofi Annan Training Centre, and Isaac Duah, President of the Ghana Tennis Federation.

A panel discussion featuring medical doctor Dr Isaac Newman, clinical psychologist Ophelia Awinboma Azure and specialist psychiatrist Dr Akuorkor Quartey explored the importance of prioritising mental health, recognising when professional help is needed and making emotional well-being part of everyday life.

Moderated by the Executive Director of Weinglo Family International, the discussion included an interactive question-and-answer session that allowed participants to engage with the specialists on mental health concerns.

Participants also benefited from mental health screening to promote awareness and encourage access to appropriate professional support.

The event further featured a fundraising session led by Jerry Andoh, Board Chairman of Weinglo Family International, to mobilise resources for the organisation’s Love All Fund, which supports its mental health programmes and outreach initiatives.

Through the rally, Weinglo Family International sought to demonstrate how sports can serve as a platform for education, social connection and collective action on mental health, bringing together athletes, professionals, community leaders and the public around a shared cause.

The organisation expressed appreciation to its sponsors, partners, participating clubs, panelists, volunteers and media partners for contributing to the event.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to mental health advocacy, suicide prevention and community well-being through awareness creation, education and partnerships.