Pictured is (L-R): Artist Carly Wright, Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Ald Gerardine Mulvenna, and Director of Turning Point NI, Trudi Power
Local mental health charity Turning Point NI has recently announced its new ambassador for the organisation, Ballymena artist Carly Wright.
Carly, whose distinctive works of art have become increasingly recognised and respected over the last few years, described the opportunity to work along with the charity as the "biggest, most amazing feeling".
Well-known Carly has known herself the challenges and struggles of finding her way in life, in an environment where drugs offered escape from pain and lack of purpose, but also escalated the struggle of negative emotions in the mind of a young girl with little sense of self-worth and feelings of having found no place in this world, having left school with no qualifications.
It was in 2018 however, only five years ago, that Carly began her journey into art, discovering personal freedom as she embarked on a journey of healing, finding expression for her emotions in her paintbrushes.
Carly desires to do what she can in helping to turn the tide of a generation struggling with ill mental health.
Commenting on the appointment of the charity's new ambassador, director of Turning Point NI, Trudi Power, said:
"We are excited to announce that local artist Carly Wright has joined Turning Point NI team as our ambassador.
"Carly is an inspirational young woman who through her use of art challenges the stigma around mental health, a cause that is part of Turning Point NI's vision.
"We felt there was no better person to team up with and represent the fight and vision we have!"
Trudi says that she looks forward to working with Carly moving forward and is excited for what's to come. She added:
"Carly will bring so much to Turning Point as she has done for the whole town. Breaking the barriers down in mental health is vital and I want to reach those in the communities that need us, whether that be through our talking therapies, exercise classes or getting a paint brush, we want you to reach out and start your journey with us.
"We have a lot planned for this incoming year, so keep any eye out."
Artist Carly Wright
Commenting on her appointment with the organisation, artist Carly said:
"It is an amazing honour to be asked by Trudi to represent Turning Point NI as an ambassador.
"Trudi built the organisation from the ground up and I feel very privileged to be asked to become a part of this vital work.
"I am excited to work with others, helping them to express their emotions and feelings through art classes in Ballymena - full of fun and freedom!"
Established in May 2015, Turning Point NI began as a grass roots organisation to reach out to those within the community experiencing crisis.
Eight years on the highly valued organisation has continued to grow while adapting to local need, and remaining grounded within the community. The charity operates as a mental health hub for those experiencing any form mental health crisis, from its premises on Mill Street in the town.
The organisation through its partnership with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust aims to:
• reduce the prevalence of suicide and self harming behaviours within the area
• promoting positive mental well being
• provide resilience and support to families who have been bereaved by suicide.
Find out more by clicking HERE.