Charlotte Ruwona
Charlotte Siya Ruwona is a Motswana mental health advocate, public speaker and youth leader. She is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Valor Mental Health Foundation (VMHF), an organization established in 2017 that promotes awareness and education on mental health in Botswana. Ruwona also serves as Vice Chairperson of the Botswana National Youth Council, where she has been active in youth development and public advocacy.
Early life and education
She has spoken about her personal experiences with bipolar disorder and anxiety, which influenced her decision to establish a mental health foundation and advocate against stigma. Ruwona has also pursued training in psychology and youth leadership roles.
Career
Ruwona co-founded the Valor Mental Health Foundation in 2017 with her husband, Chris Ruwona. The foundation’s mission is to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma and provide education and outreach services in Botswana. VMHF has conducted campaigns, workshops and school visits across the country to encourage open conversations about mental health.
Ruwona was Vice Chairperson of the Botswana National Youth Council, where she represented young people in national forums and advocated for the inclusion of mental health in development policies. She has also addressed issues of technology, sustainable development and youth innovation during national observances such as International Youth Day.
Advocacy and public engagement
Ruwona’s advocacy emphasizes access to mental health resources, youth empowerment and the dignity of people living with mental illness. She has been recognized in local media as one of Botswana’s leading women in the field of mental health awareness.
Recognition
- Profiled by Botswana Youth Magazine as one of “three top women in Botswana at the pinnacle of mental health.”
- Featured in interviews and coverage highlighting her role in tackling mental health stigma and promoting education.