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When young people face conflict, displacement and uncertainty, knowing that someone nearby is ready to listen can help them take the first step towards seeking support.
In July 2026, Association SEMBE organised a four-day training for 45 volunteer community lay counsellors, strengthening local capacity to support young people experiencing psychological distress.
The participants, women and men, including several young people with lived experience of mental health challenges came from nine communities in Cameroon’s Far North Region, including Makoulahe, Kolofata, Kourgui, Mabass, Ouro-Kessoum, Koza, Meskine, Pitoare and Salak.
Practical skills rooted in care
The training strengthened participants’ knowledge of mental health and psychosocial support, with a particular focus on Psychological First Aid and trauma-informed approaches. These approaches emphasise listening with empathy, respecting people’s experiences and responding to distress without judgement or pressure.
For community counsellors, this means offering basic support while recognising when a young person needs additional help.
“Sometimes, a young person needs someone who will listen patiently. I want to help them feel comfortable speaking about what they are going through.”- a ârticipant said.
The involvement of young people with lived experience also brought an important perspective to the training, creating opportunities to draw on their understanding of seeking support and navigating mental health challenges.
Building support within communities
Community lay counsellors help bring basic mental health support closer to where young people live. Their presence can make it easier to open conversations, challenge stigma and encourage people to seek help.
“I want young people in my community to know that they do not have to face their difficulties alone, and that asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of.” – another participant said.
The training forms part of SEMBE’s Youth Mental Health Project, which aims to improve the wellbeing of young people affected by conflict, forced displacement and other forms of vulnerability.
Since 2021, Sembe has trained some 150 community lay counselors, enabling the provision of lay counseling services to about 10,000 young people aged 10-24.
