HEAL Corner

NURSYARAFANA BINTE MOHAMED KHIR – Where there is empowerment there is career fulfilment

“As an advocate, I spread awareness regarding mental illness and support those who struggle with its challenges.”

A bubbly girl-next-door, Nursyarafana Binte Mohamed Khir, 22, developed a mental health condition in her late teens. Affectionately called Syara, she had to resign from her job as a librarian soon after being diagnosed with depression and early-stage anxiety. Her illness affected her productivity and her relationship with her family.

Syara sought counselling and rehabilitation at Club HEAL to recover her zest for life. She was also active in Club HEAL's Our Healing Voice and Back to Work programmes. After two years of its support, Syara, has bounced back from her challenges and is a passionate mental health advocate. Since September 2021, she is an Assistant Programme Executive and supports seniors living with dementia and their caregivers, in Club HEAL’s Dementia Wellness Programme.

Fun-loving and creative, she is a well-loved colleague who values her vocation and inspires the community through sharing her lived experience in the mainstream media.

Said Syara, “My job makes me a wiser person and boosts my confidence to serve the needs of different people. As an advocate, I spread awareness regarding mental illness and support those who struggle with its challenges. I feel contented because this is a journey I choose, and it gives me the chance to give back to society and provide love and empathy.”

Click below for more information on Club HEAL’s Empowerment programmes:

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