Who We Are

Our vision is of a compassionate world, free of suicide.

Suicide is a global public health and social issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across the world. Suicide Prevention Foundation (SPF) is a global organization committed to preventing suicide, promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma, and creating communities where people feel supported, heard, and valued.
Founded in Ghana, SPF has grown into a global movement working across countries and communities through awareness campaigns, education, outreach programs, research, advocacy, peer support, and collaboration. Our work brings together people with lived experience, volunteers, professionals, advocates, organizations, and communities who share a commitment to saving lives and strengthening mental well-being.
We believe suicide prevention is a shared responsibility. Through our growing global network and country chapters, we work to increase understanding, challenge harmful stigma, strengthen support systems, and empower communities to take meaningful action toward suicide prevention and mental health.

Our Story

Suicide Prevention Foundation was born out of a deeply personal experience and a passion for change. In September 2013, Jesus Panti-Founder, then an adolescent about to begin Senior High School, was admitted to Kade Government Hospital due to a serious medical condition. From the moment he was informed of his admission, panic set in. The situation worsened when he noticed that he would be the only patient admitted that day, surrounded by over 11 unoccupied beds. This fear was fueled by thoughts ingrained in him while growing up—he had often heard that “people who get admitted to hospitals do not come back home.” These beliefs played heavily on his mind, creating an overwhelming sense of despair. Convinced that he would never leave the hospital, Jesus resolved to end his life that evening.

However, later that day, another patient was admitted to the hospital. Their presence broke the silence and fear that had consumed Jesus. Realizing, “I’m not there alone,” he felt a spark of hope. The two shared their struggles, and this connection gave Jesus the strength to push through his challenges.

This life-changing experience inspired Jesus Panti to dedicate his life to helping others who face similar struggles. Motivated by a deep desire to make a difference, he pursued a degree in Community Mental Health at the College of Health and Well-being, Kintampo, from 2017 to 2021. His studies provided him with a deeper understanding of the psychopathology of suicide, as well as the alarming statistics surrounding the number of lives lost to suicide each year. This knowledge fueled his determination to create meaningful change.

After completing his studies, Jesus undertook a one-year mandatory internship at Pantang Hospital, a renowned psychiatric facility, from 2021 to 2022. During this time, his passion for advocacy grew even stronger. He joined a research team that explored various mental health issues, including suicide, which broadened his understanding of the complexities surrounding these struggles. This experience allowed him to explore how research could generate new insights and strategies to prevent suicide, further fueling his vision.

This vision became a reality on October 10, 2022, coinciding with World Mental Health Day. Suicide Prevention Foundation launched its first awareness campaign at Pantang Junior High School with the support of three dedicated volunteers: Dorothy Owusua Kwaa, Emmanuel Asante, and Abigail Kutordjoe.

Since that humble beginning, the foundation has grown exponentially. From an initial team of just four volunteers, it now boasts a network of over 500 committed individuals from diverse professional and educational backgrounds. Together, we have reached over 100,000 people through awareness campaigns, counseling services, and outreach programs.

Our Vision

To create a nurturing community dedicated to promoting mental health and holistic well-being, fostering awareness, prevention, and support for suicide prevention, substance use, and overall wellness.

Our Mission

We are committed to cultivating a compassionate environment that prioritizes mental health and holistic wellness.

Our Impact

Suicide Prevention Foundation (SPF) is a global, non-governmental, non-denominational, non-profit organization committed to suicide prevention, mental health awareness, education, advocacy, and community support. Founded in Ghana in October 2022, SPF has grown from a small team of four volunteers into a growing international movement with chapters and representatives working across Africa, North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.
Through school and community outreach, mental health education, awareness campaigns, youth engagement, support groups, advocacy, research, and digital initiatives, we continue to reach people across different communities and cultures.

Direct Impact

Outreach Impact

Indirect Impact

For every person we educate on suicide, four members of
his/her family feel the benefits

1.48 Million

People indirectly benefiting from schools and
community outreach effects

Meet Our Team

Jesus Sarkwah Panti

Executive
Director and Founder

Jesus Sarkwah Panti, a person with lived experience  suicide attempt survivor is a passionate advocate for mental health, driven by his own journey to make a lasting impact in his community. He holds a BSc in Community Mental Health from the College of Health and Well-being, Kintampo. Since 2021, Jesus has worked with Pantang Hospital and R&P Research Firm, gaining extensive experience in both quantitative and qualitative research through advanced methodologies. Inspired by his journey, Jesus is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and improving access to mental health services. He is currently collaborating with software engineers to create Tellmonifa, an app that provides mental health counseling and fosters a supportive community.  Alongside his professional endeavors, Jesus volunteers with multiple organizations, leads impactful research initiatives, and contributes to several academic papers. His work is especially focused on supporting adolescents facing mental health challenges, advocating for a world where those struggling with mental illness can find hope, understanding, and care.

Mr. Prince Kelvin Gyampomah

Board Member

Prince Kelvin is a dedicated advocate for mental health and a proud Patron of  Suicide Prevention Foundation. With a strong background in history, politics, and public policy, he provides valuable perspectives on mental health issues. He envisions a world where individuals can navigate mental health challenges with dignity and receive the support they need. Join him in supporting the Foundation’s mission to raise awareness and expand mental health resources for everyone. Together, we can create a brighter and more compassionate future.

Hajia Alimatu Saadia Yakubu

Board Member

Hajia Alimatu Saadia Yakubu is a trained teacher. She holds a post Diploma in Bachelor of Arts (Social Studies Education), M’ED in Counselling Psychology and a current Mphil student in Counselling Psychology in University of Education, Winneba, Ghana. Hajia Saadia is a wife, a mother and a devoted Moslem. She believes in the uniqueness of every individual and that translate into her passion and care for people struggling with mental health issues. She is a strong advocate of suicide prevention and her favourite suicide prevention quote is “The world is a beautiful place with you in it “.

Mr. Martin Laud

Board Member

Martin Laud is a mining engineer serves as the Country Director for Orica Ghana Limited. He is a father and a staunch Christian with the Methodist church- Ghana and served with the Ghana Methodist Union during his time at the University of Mines and Technology. He aspires for no one to perish by knowing Christ, which extends to his care for people living with mental illness.

Mr. Emmanuel Boadi

Board Member

Boadi Emmanuel is a driven and compassionate individual with a academic background in Social Sciences from the University of Cape Coast. Professionally, Boadi has excelled as a Sales Executive and Auditor at Mponua Rural Bank Ltd for the time been. His passion for community development drives his advocacy for mental health awareness and support. Boadi aims to promote education, reduce stigma, and champion inclusive support systems for mental health

Philemon Ashirifie Ofei

Board Member

Philemon is a skilled financial professional with extensive experience in finance, data analysis, and research. As the CEO of R&P Research Consult, he champions mental health by promoting financial wellness, recognizing its impact on reducing stress, supporting informed decision-making, and enhancing overall well-being.

Executives

Nicole Chappell

Diasporan Chapter Leader

Emerson Frost

Deputy Leader Diasporan Chapter and Director USA Chapter.

Ebenezer Sarkwah Panti

Deputy Director, Substance Abuse and Prevention

Grace Morkporkpor Fosu

Programs Coordinator

Country Leaders

Emerson Frost

SPF USA Leader

Emerson Frost is an international speaker on youth and adult suicide prevention, mental wellness and coping skills.
She is a galleried fine arts photographer with an emphasis on anthropomorphic macrophotography, as well as being a published children’s author.
Emerson Frost has survived three suicide attempts as well as multiple domestic violence situations.
Emerson is still here spreading hope to those who suffer from depression and suicidal ideations

Lloyd Rosen

Director of Finance and Administration

Lloyd is a survivor of fifty-seven years of living with major depression and two attempts at completing his suicide. He came to realize God had other plans. After getting healthy in 2006 he went back to school and got a B.A. degree in Social Sciences. He made a promise to himself that he would help people, so he wrote his autobiography to help people understand that they do not suffer alone. He has spoken before the Geogia and South Carolina annual PTA conferences, to make people aware of how important it is to recognize the signs of depression. He has been certified as a Peer Support Specialist. He lives by the motto that he is one person in the world, but he may be the world to one person.

Cindy Richard

Director of Programs and Community Engagement

Cindy is a retired social worker with more than 45 years of experience supporting individuals and families. As co‑founder of Suicide Prevention of York, she has been a driving force behind local and regional efforts to promote mental health awareness and compassionate intervention since 2007.
Her work extends into education through her online youth suicide prevention courses at McDaniel College, where she equips future professionals with the tools to foster resilience and empathy in young people.
When she’s not teaching or advocating, she is a proud mother of 2 grown sons. Cindy enjoys traveling and exploring new places with her family in her spare time.

Dr. Alayna Freeman

Director of Partnerships and Strategic Development

Dr. Alayna Freeman is a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist. She completed her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the Yale Child Study Center, where she served as Chief Fellow of the New Haven track. Dr. Freeman received her bachelor’s degree from Xavier University, where she was recognized with a 40 Under 40 award. Dr Freeman serves as Co-Executive Director of Rising Youth, a nonprofit that brings mental health education to predominantly Black and Brown high school students. Dr Freeman collaborates with the University of Pittsburgh to develop peer-led fatherhood mentorship programs. Her work focuses on global and community mental health, military and youth advocacy, and trauma-informed care to advance equitable mental health services for underserved youth and families.

Karl Olson

SPF UK Leader

Karl Olson is a passionate mental health and suicide prevention advocate based in the United Kingdom.

He works as a Community Services Manager with Northamptonshire Mind, supporting the delivery and development of community-based mental health services and working alongside
staff, volunteers, and local communities.

Drawing on both his professional experience and his lived experience as a survivor of multiple suicide attempts, Karl has a deeply personal understanding of the importance of suicide prevention, early intervention, and compassionate support. His own journey has strengthened his passion for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide, encouraging open and honest conversations, and helping to create spaces where
people feel heard, valued, and supported.

Solomon Gyamfi

Solomon brings a background in mental health and substance misuse support to his work with SPF. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Community Mental Health and currently works within a drug and alcohol service, where he has developed particular experience in substance misuse and dual diagnosis—supporting people navigating the overlap between mental health conditions and addiction.

Throughout his career, he has drawn on approaches like harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing, always working to meet people where they are rather than where he might expect them to be. This person-centred approach has shaped not only his clinical work but his broader belief in the importance of listening, patience, and genuine connection.

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Arlene “Coach A”

SPF Philippines Leader

Arlene “Coach A” is a transformational life coach, speaker, and founder of The Inside Job, a movement dedicated to helping women heal, rediscover themselves, and build emotionally healthy lives through self-awareness and inner work. With over two decades of leadership experience, Arlene combines lived experience with compassionate coaching to create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. Her work focuses on emotional resilience, healing from adversity, and guiding women toward becoming self-led rather than fear-led. She is passionate about mental health advocacy and believes that meaningful conversations have the power to restore hope, strengthen communities, and remind people that they are never alone. Arlene is currently writing her first memoir, Road to Home, an invitation for every woman who has spent years searching for home in other people, only to discover that the longest journey is the road back to herself. Personal Philosophy: The most important job you’ll ever have is The Inside Job. Life Motto: This Life is a Privilege. 

Join Us in Making a Difference

 By partnering with us, you’ll help bring hope and resources to those in need. Let’s work together to create a brighter future. Become a sponsor today and join our mission to save lives

Partner with Us
Become a Sponsor

Education And Awareness

LEARN

Warning Signs of Suicide

 

Recognizing the warning signs, risk factors, and protective factors related to suicide is crucial for identifying individuals who may be at risk. Suicide is a multifaceted issue shaped by numerous factors, and although no single cause can fully explain it, certain common signs are often linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

Contact your local crisis or emergency service if you believe someone may be in immediate danger, or if you see or hear signs such as:

  • Verbal expressions of feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless, such as “There’s no way out,” or “I have no reason to live.”
  • Uncharacteristic behavior such as increased substance abuse, reckless actions, or a drastic change in routine.
  • Isolating from friends, family, and activities they once enjoyed.
  • Frequently talking about death, dying, or wanting to end their life.
  • Giving away valuable or sentimental belongings as if they no longer need them.

Become A Volunteer

At Suicide Prevention Foundation, we believe in the power of community and the importance of bringing together a dedicated team to address the urgent issue of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. We are seeking passionate and committed individuals to join our mission and  help us make a meaningful impact on the lives of those struggling with mental health challenges. Below are the key volunteer roles we are looking to fill.

Volunteer Roles

Join Our Mission to Save Lives or become a partner and make a lasting impact.

Grant Writer

As a grant writer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that our foundation has the financial support necessary to continue our life-saving programs. You will help us identify funding opportunities, write compelling proposals, and secure the resources needed to expand our reach and effectiveness. Your work will directly impact our ability to continue our efforts in suicide prevention and mental health education.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Research and identify funding opportunities by finding grants and other sources of financial support that align with our mission.
    Write and submit proposals by crafting well-researched, persuasive documents to secure financial backing.
    • Track grant progress by monitoring the status of funded projects and ensuring proper reporting on fund usage.
    • Collaborate with internal teams to understand program needs and tailor proposals to reflect these needs accurately and effectively.
Join Us

Counselor

As a counselor with Suicide Prevention Foundation, you will be pivotal in providing vital mental health support to individuals at risk of suicide. Your role will involve offering compassionate, non-judgmental, and professional care to those experiencing mental health challenges, including crisis intervention, therapy, and long-term support. Your expertise in fields such as psychology, social work, psychiatry, mental health counseling, and related professions will enable you to make a profound impact. You will work with psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists, mental health counselors, clinical psychologists, licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFTs), psychiatric nurses, and clinical social workers to create an environment of support and understanding, helping individuals rediscover hope and healing during their most vulnerable moments lost.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide therapeutic services by offering individual or group counseling to those facing suicidal thoughts or mental health challenges.
    Provide crisis intervention by assisting individuals in immediate crisis, offering support during critical moments.
    • Raise awareness by helping reduce stigma around mental health through public education efforts and campaigns.
    • Maintain confidential documentation by ensuring detailed and ethical records of sessions are kept.
    • Collaborate with other mental health professionals to ensure comprehensive care for clients, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery.
Join Us

Outreach Coordinator

Outreach coordinators will help us spread the word about suicide prevention and mental health awareness. You’ll be responsible for organizing events and community outreach activities, building partnerships, and creating educational opportunities. Through your efforts, you’ll help us build a stronger, more connected community focused on mental well-being.

Key Responsibilities:

Plan and organize events by coordinating awareness campaigns, workshops, and outreach activities.
• Engage with community stakeholders by building and maintaining partnerships with local organizations, schools, and businesses to expand our reach.
• Create educational materials by working with the team to design and distribute materials that promote mental health and suicide prevention.
• Monitor outreach success by tracking the outcomes of our outreach programs and reporting on their effectiveness.
• Manage volunteers by recruiting and supporting individuals who assist with outreach activities.

Join Us

Social Media Managers

Social media managers will be key in amplifying our message and reaching a wider audience. You will help manage our online presence by creating engaging, educational content that helps to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health. Your work will be essential in spreading hope and informing individuals about the support available to them.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Create content by developing and posting engaging material for our social media platforms to raise awareness about mental health.
    Monitor and manage social platforms by regularly updating social media accounts, engaging with followers, and answering inquiries.
    • Promote campaigns by helping publicize mental health initiatives, fundraising efforts, and events.
    • Analyze engagement by tracking social media performance and adjusting content strategies based on audience interaction.
    • Collaborate across teams to ensure consistent messaging by working with outreach and content teams.
Join Us

Fund Raiser

Fundraisers are critical to our foundation’s sustainability. By organizing events and campaigns, you will help us raise the financial resources needed to continue and grow our suicide prevention programs. Your efforts will make it possible for us to reach more individuals and offer them the support they need.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Organize fundraising events by planning and executing events like charity runs, online donation drives, and benefit galas.
  • Identify and engage donors by connecting with potential donors and sponsors who are aligned with our mission.
  • Develop campaigns by creating engaging fundraising strategies to communicate the impact of donations.
  • Track donations by ensuring all donations are recorded and reported transparently.
    Build long-term relationships with donors to foster ongoing support for our work.
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Join Us

Administrative Support

Administrative volunteers will provide essential support in the daily operations of the foundation. From scheduling meetings to organizing documentation, you will help ensure the smooth and efficient running of our activities, enabling us to focus on what matters most saving lives.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with scheduling and coordination by managing calendars, meetings, and events to keep the foundation organized.
  • Handle communications by responding to inquiries and managing emails and phone calls.
  • Assist with documentation by maintaining records, files, and important documents.
  • Provide support for event coordination and materials preparation.

Ensure office efficiency by streamlining office systems and processes to enhance productivity

Join Us

Researchers

Researchers will help us gather valuable data on suicide prevention and mental health. Your work will directly contribute to shaping the foundation’s strategies and improving the effectiveness of our programs.  

Key Responsibilities:

  • Gather data on suicide prevention and mental health trends through surveys and interviews.
    Assist in creating surveys, questionnaires, and other tools for data collection.
    • Conduct literature reviews to stay updated on the latest research in mental health and suicide prevention.
    • Prepare reports by analyzing data and preparing research findings for internal use and public sharing.
    • Collaborate with partners by working with other organizations and mental health professionals to share insights and develop new strategies.
Join Us

On-Site Outreach Volunteers

Our on-site outreach volunteers are essential to driving the success of our awareness campaigns. These volunteers actively engage with the public, provide information, distribute resources, and foster meaningful conversations about suicide prevention and mental health awareness. You will be part of an exciting and rewarding team that directly interacts with individuals and spreads essential messages of hope and resilience.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Engage with community members, students, teachers during awareness events by offering support, answering questions, and providing mental health resources.
    • Assist with event setup, organizing materials, managing booths, and ensuring all logistics are in place for smooth event operations.
    • Distribute educational materials to attendees, including brochures, flyers, and information about suicide prevention and mental health support.
    • Foster open conversations on mental health, reducing stigma, and educating the public about the importance of suicide prevention.
    • Promote well-being practices and encourage individuals to seek help, emphasizing self-care and mental health support.
    • Collect feedback from participants to assess the effectiveness of outreach activities and help improve future events.
    • Offer emotional support to individuals who may be experiencing distress or hesitance to speak about their struggles.
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Join Us

Partnership Expert

We believe that collaboration is key to achieving our mission of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Our partnerships are vital in amplifying our efforts and creating sustainable change. We are seeking to partner with organizations, institutions, and businesses who share our commitment to mental health. Together, we can expand our reach, impact, and resources to create a safer and more supportive environment for all.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Establish and maintain meaningful relationships with external organizations, ensuring mutually beneficial partnerships.
    • Collaborate on joint initiatives, events, and programs to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health.
    • Share resources and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing projects and campaigns.
    • Participate in the development of collaborative funding proposals to support mental health initiatives.
    • Provide guidance and support for new partners to align with our organization’s goals and mission
Join Us

Corporate Support

Corporate support is crucial for the growth and success of our programs. By partnering with businesses, we can increase the resources available for our outreach efforts, fund educational campaigns, and create lasting impact in the communities we serve. Corporate partners can support us through sponsorships, donations, and employee engagement initiatives, helping us spread the message of suicide prevention and mental health awareness on a larger scale.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide financial and in-kind donations to support the foundation’s programs and events.
    • Offer sponsorship for events, such as awareness campaigns, mental health workshops, and fundraising activities.
    • Facilitate employee volunteer opportunities to engage your workforce in mental health advocacy.
    • Promote corporate partnerships through your business channels to raise awareness and encourage others to support the cause.
    • Develop long-term relationships with corporate partners to secure continued support and engagement.
Join Us

Through our various outreach programs, your organization’s efforts will be acknowledged, allowing your commitment to suicide prevention and mental health awareness to reach a wider audience. We will ensure that your support is recognized during community events, awareness campaigns, and through our digital platforms.