Ms. Juneteenth contestant finds her niche as mental health advocate

Social worker is on a mission to create more access for community

In the heart of our bustling community, where the diverse tapestry of humanity thrives, Ms. Aihomon Ebojie stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. With over eight years of dedicated service in the mental health field, she has carved a niche for herself as an advocate for marginalized populations. 

Her journey from an aspiring student to an influential social worker, coupled with her recent nomination as a candidate in the Ms. Juneteenth Pageant this summer, is a testament to her commitment and resilience.

Ebojie’s profound impact is deeply rooted in her academic foundation. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work, she has utilized her knowledge to address the multi-faceted challenges faced by underrepresented communities. Her passion for mental health advocacy is palpable, especially in her efforts to implement policy changes aimed at inclusivity and equitable access to mental health services.

Focus on youth and holistic care

Throughout her career, Ebojie has observed a concerning trend: a significant rise in mental health issues among African Americans, particularly young adults between the ages of 19 and 24. This age range, often marked by the onset of severe mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, has become a focal point for her advocacy. Ebojie emphasizes that early identification and intervention are crucial in mitigating long-term mental health challenges.

One of the most compelling aspects of Ebojie’s work is her focus on holistic care. She has extensively worked with individuals experiencing physical disabilities, including those with cerebral palsy and paraplegia. Her approach transcends traditional therapy, integrating physical care with mental health support to address the overall well-being of her clients. 

Ebojie’s empathetic and inclusive perspective ensures that her clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. “The data shows that between ages 19-24 African Americans have higher rates of mental illnesses but seek help at a much lower rate than whites,” she explained. “This is in part due to the stigma among our communities—we don’t want to appear crazy, or simply ‘don’t want folk in our business,’” 

Central to Ebojie’s advocacy is the belief in proactive mental health management. She underscores the importance of recognizing early warning signs of mental illness, which often go unnoticed, especially in underrepresented communities. Ebojie advocates for better training for healthcare professionals to detect these signs early and stresses the need for public awareness campaigns to educate communities about mental health.

“Education is the cornerstone of mental health advocacy,” Ebojie remarks. “By empowering individuals with knowledge, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help without fear of judgment.” 

Vision for the future

Ebojie’s dedication extends beyond her professional endeavors. Her involvement in the community is equally impressive. As a candidate for the state’s first Ms. Juneteenth Pageant, Ebojie is poised to use her platform to highlight the significance of mental health, particularly within the Black community. The pageant, a celebration of Black culture and heritage, provides a vital stage for Ebojie to amplify her message and inspire others to join the fight for mental health equity.

Her vision for the future is both ambitious and inspiring. She aims to spearhead policy changes that will facilitate better mental health support for diverse and underrepresented communities. By collaborating with policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders, Ebojie hopes to create a more inclusive mental healthcare system that caters to the unique needs of every individual.

“Policy change is essential for sustainable impact,” Ebojie asserts. “We need to address systemic barriers that prevent marginalized populations from accessing quality mental health care. This includes increasing funding for mental health services, improving cultural competency training for healthcare providers, and implementing community-based support programs.”

Ebojie’s story powerfully reminds us of the impact one individual can have on a community. Her unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy and relentless pursuit of equity and inclusion inspire many. As she continues her journey as a social worker and a community leader, Ebojie remains focused on her mission to better the lives of those who have been overlooked and underserved.

Mental health care for all

In a world where mental health challenges are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among young adults, Aihomon Ebojie’s work is not just important—it is vital. Her efforts to break down barriers and create a more inclusive society are paving the way for a future where mental health care is accessible to all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. 

Whether she’s serving healthcare clients, being the secretary of the Minneapolis NAACP, or stepping into the spotlight at the Ms. Juneteenth Pageant, Ebojie carries with her the hopes and dreams of countless individuals whose lives she has touched, embodying the true spirit of a compassionate and transformative advocate.

But throughout her many endeavors, mental health remains her focus. “Almost everyone is dealing with some form of mental illness—whether stress, depression, anxiety… But if we get the help we need, we can heal ourselves.”

If you have mental health questions about the African American community or other matters for the NAACP, please call 612-806-7801. The Miss Juneteenth State Pageant will take place June 8, 2024, at Sundin Music Hall on the campus of Hamline University in St. Paul.