Athalia Flanagan founded Thetha Nathi, meaning "talk to us", in 2022 after conversations with her daughters highlighted the disparities in support for vulnerable children. The initiative brings direct counselling services to public schools in KuGompo City, reaching pupils who lack resources available in private institutions. Flanagan's dedication to child welfare drives the project, which aims to normalise mental health care and break the stigma surrounding counselling.
Thetha Nathi provides counselling services directly in public schools, where pupils often have limited access to professional support. Flanagan noted that private schools have readily available services, but public schools lack them. The initiative seeks to challenge the perception that counselling is only for affluent families. By making services accessible, Thetha Nathi aims to address the unique needs of public school pupils.
The programme has identified urgent challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, trauma, abuse, and substance misuse. Flanagan highlighted that neglect, abuse, and substance abuse are prevalent, especially in primary schools. Unresolved trauma also affects many pupils. Thetha Nathi's expansion to 12 schools demonstrates its potential to address these issues.
Flanagan's passion for the work motivates her to continue despite the emotional demands. She believes that loving what one does is essential to persevering in such roles. Thetha Nathi's growth from one to 12 schools is a testament to Flanagan's commitment to child welfare and the need for accessible counselling services.
The initiative's goal is to expand to every public school in KuGompo City. With 12 schools already on board, Thetha Nathi is making progress toward this objective. By providing direct counselling services, the programme helps pupils access professional support, promoting their well-being and academic success.
Thetha Nathi's approach focuses on normalising mental health care and breaking stigmas surrounding counselling. By making services accessible and directly available in public schools, the initiative encourages pupils to seek help without fear of judgment. This approach has the potential to positively impact the lives of many children in KuGompo City.
As Thetha Nathi continues to grow, it may serve as a model for similar initiatives in other South African cities. The programme's success demonstrates the importance of accessible counselling services in public schools. With continued support and expansion, Thetha Nathi can make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children in KuGompo City and beyond.
Key points
- Thetha Nathi aims to expand to every public school in KuGompo City, providing accessible mental health services to vulnerable children.
