Report: ANI
KARACHI: The two-day Khudi Wellness Carnival 2026, organised to commemorate World Mental Health Day, concluded at Greenwich University Campus, Karachi, under the theme “Better Minds, Brighter Futures.”
Organised by Khudi Wellness in collaboration with Thrive School of Psychology and Greenwich University, the event brought together mental health professionals, academics, healthcare practitioners, social organisations, students and community members to promote emotional wellbeing, inclusion and preventive mental health.
A key highlight was a panel discussion titled “Parenting: Understanding Youth Issues — Bridging the Generation Gap,” moderated by Sarwat N. Shah, Founder of Khudi Wellness and author of Smart Parents Handbook. Professor Shaista Effendi, Dr Minhaj Qidwai, Mufti Abu Talha and DG Honnak Baloch discussed youth challenges, family communication, emotional safety and the importance of early intervention.
A special session on resilience and determination featured acid-attack survivor Ahmer Iqbal and burn survivor Marjan Mashaddi, highlighting dignity, social acceptance and the importance of inclusive support for survivors.
The programme also included a fireside chat on “Holistic Development: The Spiritual Dimension of Growth,” featuring Dr Irfan Qamruddin, author of Unblinded, and hosted by researcher and writer Hamza. Other activities focused on employee wellbeing, breast cancer awareness, patient and caregiver mental health, environmental responsibility, tree plantation and digital therapy.
The carnival also featured a Wellness Showcase, community Drum Circle led by Mohsin Kazi, and stalls showcasing wellness initiatives, student projects and community organisations.
Speaking on the occasion, Sarwat N. Shah said the initiative aimed to make mental health awareness an integral part of everyday life by promoting prevention, reducing stigma and encouraging a culture of empathy, inclusion and collective responsibility.
The organisers acknowledged the support of sponsor Almaraya Water and partners Plant a Million, Dr. Essa Laboratory & Diagnostic Centre, Honest Foods and Artistic Towels. They also appreciated the contributions of speakers, participating organisations, students, volunteers and visitors.
The Khudi Wellness Carnival 2026 reaffirmed the importance of collaboration across mental health, healthcare, education and social inclusion, with a vision to build healthier families, stronger communities and a more compassionate society.
