The Smile Initiative is a social enterprise created to shake things up within mental health in Aotearoa. This vision was born after we discovered a significant gap within society that we felt was contributing to our poor mental health outcomes : our workplace. This is based on our suicide statistics that show that approximately 50% of Kiwis that have ended their lives were in employment.
We feel passionately that workplaces need more robust education and implementation of mental health training in an attempt to make positive changes in the mental health of employees and their employers.Through our work in inpatient units, crisis teams and community we feel that we have an obligation to use our skill sets and experience to help make this happen.
Our Goal
Our ultimate goal is to create a national movement in which it is the norm for workplaces to have employees that are confident in identifying and supporting each other through mental health issues and distress in addition to services
Your Outcome
We hope that work will become a place where you can bring your whole self through the door, without the fear of stigma or judgement, knowing that somebody has your back and you have theirs.
who we are
Olivia
Known for her loud voice, enthusiasm and goofy humour. Currently working between inpatient and community mental health settings including crisis work afterhours. Passionate about making positive change in the world and fighting against discrimination and stigma towards mental illness. Annoyingly enthusiastic about dogs and strong coffee.
Jordan
Working as an occupational therapist within community mental health team for the last 6 years Jordan loves the challenge of supporting our most vulnerable communities. Loves sunflowers, her dog Puggles and good old fashioned banter.