I am Angela Nsimbi, an author of two books and still counting. My second book, Arise and Shine, was nominated for the ACABA/CLC Kenya 2024 awards. To my surprise and delight, I was honored as the Winner of the Book Cover of the Year 2024!
This recognition was unexpected, making it one of the beautiful surprises God has given me this year. My book cover was voted the best out of over 100 entries, which is both humbling and a great privilege.
My Journey as an Author
My writing journey began with my first book, Breaking Free, which chronicles my recovery from bipolar disorder, a form of mental illness. The book is available on:
In 2022, I was an ACABA nominee, and my book cover design ranked 7th out of 75 entries. Fast forward to 2024, Arise and Shine has received remarkable recognition, strengthening my mission to impact lives through mental health advocacy.
Leading with My Books
As a Mental Health Activist, I am passionate about creating awareness on mental health and emotional well-being. Drawing from my personal struggles, I share my journey to encourage others and provide hope.
Through my books, I:
- Reach out to people and communities through the Heart2Heart Chat Mental Health Program under Natamba Wellness Support.
- Champion human rights for people with mental health challenges through My Story Initiative, an organization I co-founded.
- Advocate for mental health awareness within Uganda and beyond, using books as tools for healing and transformation.
Both my books, Breaking Free and Arise and Shine, are interconnected, emphasizing the importance of mental and emotional well-being. I create safe spaces where people can openly discuss mental health challenges and learn how to thrive.
Collaborations and Advocacy
I work closely with various stakeholders to promote mental health awareness, including:
- The Ministry of Health (Mental Health Department)
- Cope Uganda
- Vision Group
- Crown Beverages Limited
- Esther’s Ventures
- Divine Touch
One of my key initiatives is the Keturah Mental Health Awards, an annual event held on World Mental Health Day (October 10th) to celebrate individuals and organizations transforming lives in the mental health space.
This year, CLC Kenya partnered with me for the pre-event, hosting a mental health webinar on World Suicide Prevention Awareness Day (September 10th). The theme was “Family-Centered Mental Health Care and Support”, moderated by Dr. Mercy Omukhango Muthoni.
Beyond Books: Mental Health Guide & Training Programs
Through Breaking Free, I launched the Mental Health Guide, an annual resource featuring:
- Poetry and articles on mental health
- Stories of award winners
- A directory of mental health service providers
This guide provides a platform for expression for people with mental health challenges, free from stigma or discrimination.
Additionally, ACABA/CLC Kenya has helped me expand my impact through various training programs. Recently, I completed the School of Healing and Freedom (SOHAF) Training, led by Dr. Mercy Omukhango Muthoni (Kenya) and Dr. Steve Pidd (Australia).
This training empowered me to:
- Support women’s resilience in their personal and professional roles.
- Administer healing and deliverance using Biblical principles.
- Equip communities, marriages, and workplaces with mental health solutions.
The Role of ACABA in My Growth
ACABA has become my family of African Christian Authors, equipping me to think beyond book sales and design tailored solutions for Africa’s unique challenges. It has:
- Built my confidence to develop more programs.
- Amplified my reach as an author and mental health advocate.
- Connected me with enriching partnerships to further my mission.
Through ACABA, I see God showcasing African talent and raising authors who will transform generations. I look forward to expanding my partnerships and continuing to Arise and Shine for God’s glory.
Final Thoughts
Like the title of my book says, Arise and Shine, Africa! God’s glory is rising upon us, and through mental health advocacy, faith, and storytelling, we can build stronger, healthier communities.