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As the conversation around mental health continues to gain momentum in the region, the highly anticipated “mentl awards 2024” are back, bigger and more inspiring than ever before, and for the first time open to people and projects in Saudi Arabia.
The groundbreaking awards — created by mental health consultancy mentl — aim to recognize and celebrate the individuals and organizations, in the public and private sectors, making significant strides in this vital area.
Last year’s awards saw over 70 companies from the UAE reaching the finals at a glittering gala dinner at St. Regis Downtown in Dubai. This year, mentl awards have expanded to welcome entries from across the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, as well as the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. With a commitment to recognizing merit and excellence, these awards shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes and game-changers in workplaces and communities.
Last year’s winner: Adel bin Hdaya Al-Falasi
A standout from last year’s awards was the inspiring Emirati Adel bin Hdaya Al-Falasi, once dubbed “the possessed boy,” who bravely shared his experience with mental illness and who lifted the trophy as a Mental Health Hero. Since winning the award, Al-Falasi has grown into a powerful mental health advocate who challenges stigma, helping others in his community seek help. He returns to the awards this year as a judge.
The awards are open to public and private sectors, from startups and SMEs to major corporates and government departments in Saudi Arabia. The categories cover a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, education, logistics, technology, and more. Each category recognizes outstanding mental health initiatives that have made a significant impact.
Award categories include:
- Best Mental Health Initiative in Saudi Arabia
- Best Mental Health Initiative in the UAE
- Best Mental Health Initiative in Qatar
- Best Mental Health Initiative in Bahrain
- Best Mental Health Initiative in Kuwait
- Best Mental Health Initiative in Oman
- Outstanding Mental Health Initiative in Education
- Most Supportive Technology Company
- Outstanding Mental Health Support in the Public Sector
- Mental Health Heroes: Empathy in Leadership
For a complete list of categories and entry criteria, please visit mentlawards.com.
Independent jury
Recipients of the mentl awards 2024 will be chosen by an independent jury comprising leaders from both the public and private sectors. This panel includes healthcare professionals, mental health champions, CEOs, industry leaders, well-being advocates, and inspiring athletes and adventurers. Their collective expertise ensures that the awards are given purely on merit.
“It is time to honor those who are transforming the way we approach mental health, and the mentl awards 2024 is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at celebrating these champions within corporate environments, public sector institutions, and educational establishments. By recognizing those who have taken a stand to make a difference, we aim to inspire further progress and innovation in the field of mental health,” organizers said in a statement.
Call for entries
Early bird entry — available in July — to each category costs approximately SR560 ($150) inclusive of VAT and bank charges. Organizations can nominate as many projects or initiatives as they feel meet the criteria. Entries are now open, and mentl is encouraging all eligible participants to take this opportunity to showcase their impactful work.
Become a sponsor
Businesses in Saudi Arabia can support the mentl awards 2024 by becoming an official sponsor. They can help mentl amplify its mission and stand out as a champion of mental health. For sponsorship inquiries, please email awards@mentl.space.
Gala awards celebration
Winners will be celebrated at a prestigious gala awards ceremony in Dubai in November.