Sandton City Partners With Riky Rick Foundation to Launch Mental Health Campaign Focused on Youth Wellness

The Riky Rick Foundation was established to honour the life of the late rapper and to promote "artivism," the intersection of artistic expression and activism. Through its work, the Foundation advocates for mental wellness, creativity and social awareness, particularly among South Africa's youth, says Sandton City.

A Platform for Healing Through Words

Mental health continues to affect many South Africans, especially young people, with over 60% of the youth in South Africa reporting challenges in this area. Through 'Words That Heal', Sandton City aims to create a space where individuals can offer support to others by sharing personal messages of encouragement to anyone struggling mentally, says the retail destination.

To participate, members of the public can submit a voice note via WhatsApp 063 980 5816 to help uplift someone who needs it. Messages received before Friday, 8 August, will be considered for inclusion in a curated song of hope that will be released on streaming platforms later this year, in an effort to raise funds to provide free therapy for the youth, driven through the Riky Rick Foundation, adds the retail destination.

Phase Two to Launch During Mental Health Month

Next, during September and October, the second phase of the initiative will take the project into a more immersive space. Shoppers at Sandton City will be encouraged to listen to the song that was created or to listen to Riky Rick's final album as a tribute to his life and legacy, says the retail destination.

Here, a pop-up retail space will open in the centre, featuring limited-edition merchandise with the option to personalise items on site in collaboration with artist Samurai Farai. All proceeds from merchandise sales and supporting pledges from corporate partners will go to the Riky Rick Foundation to continue their work in creating safe spaces for youth and promoting creative expression as a tool for healing. The date for this activation will be announced in due course, adds the retail destination.

Inspiring Words for a New Generation

As former Riky Rick once said, "Please believe in young people.?Give them as many opportunities as they need to prove themselves." The campaign builds on that belief, using words and creativity to change lives and raise awareness about mental health in an accessible, impactful way, says the retail destination.

Individuals are encouraged to join the healing movement here.

For more information, visit www.sandtoncity.com. You can also follow Sandton City on Facebook, X, or on Instagram. 

*Image courtesy of contributor