Well! We have had an eventful few weeks here at Foundation HQ, with not one, but two MHW Awards ceremonies in two nations. The 2026 Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards in Wales and Belfast brought together some truly wonderful people, all working hard to support mental health and wellbeing.
For a small not-for-profit like the Ajuda Foundation, putting on two events of this size is no small feat. The team worked incredibly hard from start to finish to make sure everything ran smoothly, and we’re so proud of what we achieved with the resources we have.
A huge thank you to our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and everyone who helped make it happen. From henna tattooing to essential oils, our exhibitors brought a brilliant mix of organisations and ideas to the events. It was also an ideal opportunity for us to be able to tell people about our community projects: The Restart a Heart Project, and our free monthly webinars. All profits raised by the awards support these community projects, and enable people to access free information and training.
Most importantly, congratulations to all our nominees and worthy winners! From Workplace Wellbeing and Impact in the Community to Inspirational Leader, Inspiring Individual and Wellbeing Champion, we celebrated people who are making a real difference.
There were inspiring stories, expert advice and some wonderful moments. In Wales, one of our 2025 Inspiring Individuals, Aim Davies, led us in a rousing post-lunch rendition of Yma o Hyd, while Rosie Keaney had everyone up dancing in Belfast. Just what we needed after our lunch!
Both events were MCed by Bobbie Allen, who gave it her all and was thoroughly cream crackered by the end. The awards may be over, but she’s still recovering!
But why do these awards matter? You may well ask! People don’t do this work for recognition, so why do we put so much time and effort into organising these big events? Because, while we know people do what they do because they care, isn’t it lovely when they get a little recognition for it? We think so, and that’s exactly why we do it. For someone who’s been through a challenging time with their mental health, or a young person who needs a bit of encouragement, that moment of recognition could make a world of difference.
So, thank you to everyone who played a part. We’re already looking forward to 2027!
Start thinking about who you’d like to nominate. It could be a colleague, a community champion or a young person who deserves a little encouragement. We’d love to hear about them.
See you next year!
To book your free place on our monthly mental health and wellbeing webinars, follow this link: The Ajuda Foundation Free Webinars