Mindwise AGM 2023
MindWise Annual General Meeting was held on November 23rd at Lansdowne Hotel, Belfast. A heartwarming gathering, with over 90 attendees enjoying festive songs and engaging activities. The atmosphere was cheerful as people explored information stalls on volunteering, youth programs, and financial advice. Colin McMinn, Chair of MindWise Board of Trustees, set a positive tone, sharing the organisation's impactful work.
Siobhan Weiniger, Finance Director, provided an encouraging overview of the Annual Report and Financial Statement. Anne Doherty, MindWise CEO, reflected on a year of achievements with a vision where mental health becomes everyone's business. Colm McGurnaghan, a MindWise volunteer, introduced guest speakers Richard Moore, founder of Children in Crossfire, who inspired with a story of resilience and forgiveness, highlighting the importance of accepting support.
Phil Hughes MBE, Co-lead Regional Mental Health Services Workstream and Martin Daly, Service User Consultant for BHSCT delivered insightful presentations on regional mental health services. Martin emphasised the significance of recognising the person beyond the diagnosis and advocating for the citizen's voice in mental health discussions. Journalist Leona O'Neill also spoke at the event, focusing on normalising conversations about mental health with the wise words, "In the broken places is where the light shines."
The gathering celebrated MindWise's achievements to date while looking to the future as an organisation committed to its values of Passion, Respect, Empathy, Togetherness, Openness and Transparency.