Mary Lawal

Compassionate and faith-driven youth mental health advocate, speaker, and psychology student dedicated to breaking stigma through storytelling, community-building, and youth empowerment. Seeking to uplift others through truth, testimony, and action.

I am an award-winning youth mental health advocate and speaker dedicated to creating inclusive, stigma-free spaces through storytelling, leadership, and global collaboration. As founder of Maryland's first NAMI On Campus club and a recently selected Etherea Global Mental Health Ambassador, I work alongside international experts and youth leaders to empower communities and advance mental health education. My mission is to uplift diverse youth voices and foster healing by bridging faith, culture, and advocacy.

• Outstanding Executive Officer Award, Prince George's Community College, 2023
• Outstanding Executive Officer Award, Prince George's Community College, 2025
• Leadership & Volunteerism Award, Prince George's Community College, 2025
• Notable Newcomer Award, NAMI Baltimore, 2023
• Steal Our Job Award, NAMI Baltimore, 2023
• Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Dedication to Mental Health Awareness, NAMI Maryland, 2023
• Mental Health Change Agent Award, RallyUp, 2023

• Congressional Testimony, Democratic Women's Caucus Hearing, 10/23
• Teen Vogue, CBS Baltimore, LiveNow Fox News, Rotary Magazine, Baltimore Sun
• Nigeria, Mental health in high-pressure careers, India, Student mental wellness and identity

• President & Founder, NAMI On Campus (PGCC), 01/23, Present
• Youth Advisory Board Member, NAMI Next Gen, 01/22, 12/23
• Etherea Global Mental Health Ambassador, 01/25, Present
• Volunteer Advocate, NAMI Baltimore & Maryland, 01/21, Present
• Volunteer Advocate, AFSP, 01/22, Present