Psychologist Peterson Anténor recently announced on Facebook his new role as a research officer for the Ustawi project, an initiative of the Forum Jeunesse Afro-Québécois (FJAQ). This project aims to demystify mental health among Black youth aged 18 to 35 in Quebec, focusing on concrete, community-driven, and inclusive actions.
“Ustawi,” which means “well-being” in Swahili, seeks to understand and address the impacts of racism on the mental health of Afro-descendant youth. Anténor will conduct in-depth research on this topic, drawing on the work of researchers like Jude Mary Cénat and Daniel Derivois, while bringing a local and current perspective.
The Forum Jeunesse Afro-Québécois, a non-profit organization based in Quebec, promotes the civic participation of Afro-descendant youth by equipping them to face socio-professional integration challenges and encouraging intercultural dialogue.
Anténor expressed his gratitude for this opportunity to contribute to a vital reflection on the well-being of Black communities and invites anyone interested to share their ideas, resources, or experiences on the topic.
This initiative comes at a time when acknowledging the effects of systemic racism on mental health is increasingly critical, and when concrete actions are needed to support Afro-descendant youth in their life journeys.
