Changeworker of the Week #8: Clains Mary Tino: Bringing Mental Wellbeing Into Everyday Life.

Clains Mary Tino, Curator at the Global Shapers Community, Kampala Hub envisions a world where mental wellbeing is prioritized just like physical health: not just in moments of crisis, but as a daily practice supported by families, schools, and communities.

She believes in prevention, open conversation, and collective awareness as powerful tools to transform lives. As a lawyer and storyteller, Clains is just beginning her journey but her vision is clear: a future where no one feels ashamed to seek support, and where mental wellbeing is embraced as a pillar of growth, connection, and justice.

Through the #MyPieceForChange campaign, we invite people to share their unique contributions to collective transformation. This series exists to honor their stories, amplify their voices, and connect them with a wider community of like-minded peers. Today, we’re honored to introduce our Changeworker of the Week: Clains Mary Tino whom we had the pleasure of interviewing for this special spotlight.

What’s your piece for change? 

I envision a future where mental well-being is prioritized and integrated into everyday life, with a strong emphasis on preventive care. Practices that support mental health are taught in schools, nurtured within families and embraced by communities

What inspired you to begin this work or stay committed to it?

My inspiration comes from both personal experience and what I have witnessed in others. I have seen how deeply mental wellbeing affects every part of our lives, our relationships, productivity and sense of self. Having personally navigated these challenges, I know the importance of breaking stigma and creating open conversations. What keeps me committed is the belief that prevention, awareness and support can transform lives. I want to be part of making mental wellbeing something that is not ignored, but embraced as an essential part of our health and growth.Through storytelling, I hope to create awareness and remove stigma, reminding people that they are not alone. I am just starting this journey, but my vision is to grow, connect, and partner with others who share this mission.

What’s one hope or vision you hold for the future?

One hope I hold for the future is that mental wellbeing will be approached with the same importance as physical health, with a strong focus on preventive care. I envision a time when communities all actively teach and practice tools that support mental wellbeing so that care is not only sought in moments of crisis, but embedded in everyday life

What support or connection are you currently looking for?

I’m currently looking to connect with other changemakers who are passionate about mental wellbeing and community impact. I would love to learn about their work and explore ways we can collaborate or support each other’s efforts.

What’s one thing about your field or topic you wish more people knew, considered, or acted on?

I wish more people understood that mental illness is just like any other health condition, it can affect anyone, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Just as we seek care for physical health, we should normalize seeking help for our mental wellbeing. As a lawyer, I also believe that policies play a critical role in driving progress by shaping systems that ensure access and support for those who need it.

Where can people learn more about your work or connect with you?

• LinkedIn: Mary Clains Tino
• Email: [email protected]

The Parayma community is rooted in authentic, supportive relationships. 

If Clains’ story resonates with you, reach out, share reflections, or co-create new possibilities together.

Thank you, Clains, for sharing your #PieceForChange and for championing a future where mental wellbeing is no longer a silent struggle, but a shared commitment.

Stay tuned for next week’s Changeworker feature, and if you’d like to be highlighted, join the campaign and tick the box to express your interest.