Let’s Unpack It (LUI) is a youth-led, mental health-focused civil society organization, based in Barbados. Incorporating psychoeducation, advocacy, resource development, and safe, honest conversations, Let’s Unpack It mobilizes children and youth to end stigma, build hope, and demand action to make mental health a lived reality for all. Since its launch by Mr. David Johnson in 2020, LUI has expanded its reach across the Caribbean, as far west as Belize and south into Guyana and Suriname.

LUI’s work in the community has highlighted that perspectives on mental health are divided along generational lines. So, a critical part of the organization’s awareness efforts is facilitating intergenerational conversations, and helping everyone to appreciate that by right, every man, woman, boy, and girl, regardless of age or background, is entitled to enjoy holistic health and wellness.

The youth-centered organization also works closely with key civil-society partners to demand leadership and intervention from policymakers and other key players to prioritize youth mental health; find innovative ways to finance programmes; and develop policy that mitigates poor mental health outcomes amongst children and youth. Team LUI’s work in the advocacy space has led to their active contribution to Barbados’ Mental Health Action Plan 2024-2030; their partnership with the Healthy Caribbean Coalition and other NGOs to design and implement the 2022-2023 Caribbean Youth Mental Health Call to Action; and to the launch of the Caribbean National Mental Health Focal Points Network, in partnership with UNICEF – an initiative that convenes young people from 17 Caribbean islands and territories, to mobilize regional action on mental health.

In a society where the youth voice is often silenced and excluded, Let’s Unpack It stands as a key example of the power that can be unlocked when youth are actively engaged and regarded as leaders and experts in their own right.