Surrey KPU Instructor Leads Youth Mental Health Project in Uganda
A Surrey-based instructor from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is making a global impact by helping young people in northern Uganda build mental resilience and emotional well-being.
Dr. Kyle Matsuba, a KPU psychology instructor, was recently invited to present his research to Members of Parliament in Ottawa on October 6, at a showcase hosted by Grand Challenges Canada. His work — the Wang Oo Relit Project (WORP) — uses Uganda’s cultural traditions to strengthen youth mental health.
Launched in 2022, WORP takes inspiration from the Ugandan tradition of Wang Oo, where communities gather around a bonfire to share stories and cultural wisdom.
“During our programs, we held Wang Oos where youth, elders, and community members shared knowledge on weekly themes,” Matsuba explained. “Even though the programs focused on youth, elders felt renewed purpose in passing on traditions to younger generations who often knew little about their culture.”
The initiative was supported by Grand Challenges Canada funding and involved KPU students, who helped design training materials — with one student even travelling to Uganda to lead workshops.
WORP emphasizes a “by youth, for youth” approach, empowering Ugandan participants to become peer educators. Youth leaders were trained in mindfulness, emotional learning, and stress management to help others navigate mental health challenges.
“We wanted youth leaders to develop their own programs and teach their peers,” said Matsuba. “It’s about empowering young people to heal their communities from within.”
Ongoing research through interviews and surveys showed notable improvements in well-being, resilience, and emotional stability, along with reduced anxiety, depression, and stress levels among participants.
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