Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Mauritius, a non-profit organization, has initiated a groundbreaking project called Maison Sunflower, aimed at providing comprehensive support to individuals with invisible disabilities. The organization, founded in 2025, has been working tirelessly to promote inclusion and understanding of hidden disabilities. Maison Sunflower, set to open in 2027, will offer a safe space for people to share their experiences and receive professional guidance.
The organization has been conducting support groups and psychoeducation sessions for individuals with bipolar disorder, and now plans to expand its services to cater to other mental health conditions. According to Nadjah Abbasakoor, founder of The Sunflower Charitable Foundation, the new initiative seeks to address the limitations of current support systems. Maison Sunflower will provide a stable and secure environment, staffed by professionals, to help individuals cope with their conditions.
The need for Maison Sunflower arose from the limitations of current support systems, which often rely on volunteers and are unable to provide consistent, long-term care. The organization has been working with approximately 25 beneficiaries per month, but demand far exceeds capacity. Maison Sunflower aims to accommodate 50 beneficiaries per week, offering a more structured and professional support system.
Maison Sunflower will offer a range of services, including support groups, psychoeducation sessions, and creative therapy workshops. The organization plans to recruit a full-time coordinator and a clinical psychologist to oversee the services. These services will focus on conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The new facility will provide a holistic approach to care, incorporating clinical services, creative therapies, and wellness activities. This approach aims to address the complex needs of individuals with invisible disabilities, promoting overall well-being and social inclusion.
A crowdfunding campaign has been launched on the Small Step Matters platform to raise funds for the project. The organization is working to create a sustainable and inclusive support system, which will have a positive impact on the lives of individuals with invisible disabilities in Mauritius.
The initiative has been welcomed by the community, with many recognizing the importance of addressing mental health and invisible disabilities. Maison Sunflower is expected to become a vital resource for individuals and families affected by these conditions, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Key points
- Maison Sunflower will offer a range of services, including support groups and creative therapy workshops.
- The organization plans to recruit a full-time coordinator and a clinical psychologist to oversee the services.
- A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to raise funds for the project.
