The fellowships are considered one of the most successful US programmes in combating the stigma associated with mental illnesses and applications may now be made for the 2010/2011 period to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group. The deadline for applications is 16 April 2010
These fellowships look for proposals that will help reduce stigma and discrimination by informing the public about mental health issues and experiences. The South African fellows are awarded grants of R50 000 to study and report on a particular issue within the mental health field for one year as well as two expenses-paid trips to Atlanta, US
The programme was founded by former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, who has been a driving force in the field of mental health throughout her public service career. Today, she continues her leadership through the Carter Centre's Mental Health Programme in Atlanta, Georgia.
In September 2010, Fellows will go to centre to meet advisers, task force members and other fellows to discuss their project plans. The second visit comes in the following September, at the end of the fellowship year, when fellows present their completed projects and discuss challenges and successes in mental health reporting.
For more information on applying for the fellowship, call Marion Scher on cell +27 (0) 82 467 6046, email or go to
www.cartercenter.org/health/mental_health/fellowships/index.html, however applications must be made through the South African Depression & Anxiety group.
