adminNEWLY-CROWNED Miss University of Zimbabwe, Karen Katsande, has pledged to fight the mental health challenges among the youths in the era of social media.
She will particularly target those affected by social media bullying and abuse.
She wants to create a more supportive community and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Katsande, who is in her third year studying Creative Design Animation and Motion Graphics, believes that her advocacy will not disrupt her studies as she has mastered how to balance her commitments.
She believes social media companies should promote the mental wellbeing of people and remove content that is harmful or triggering to vulnerable users.
Karen said it had always been her dream to advocate for sound mental health and the UZ pageant crown has given her a chance to fulfil her wish.
“I am focusing on charity work, as I want to help youths who have gone through all kinds of social media bullying and abuse.
“A lot of people have been abused on social media, which has affected their mental health, and they now hesitate to use social media for productive things.
“I want people to know that despite social media effects, there are a lot of opportunities that can arise from social media,” said Karen.
The UZ queen said she wants the youths to use social media in a healthy and productive way.
She is prepared to work with different organisations in fighting mental health.
“I managed to connect with several people during auditions, so I want to utilise those connections by helping people through my passion.
“The constant pressure to present a perfect image, the fear of missing out, and the addiction to likes and followers can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues which I am ready to fight during my tenure,” she said.
Online Reporter