UNJSPF staff successfully organized the Fund’s Second Mental Health & Well-being Week, held from 6 to 10 October 2025. Conducted entirely online and aligned with World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the initiative brought colleagues together to reflect, learn, and support one another.

Reinforcing the week’s purpose, the World Health Organization reminds us that mental health is essential for everyone, everywhere. In this context, the initiative offered practical tools and shared experiences to promote individual and collective well-being.

The week opened on Monday, 6 October with a session moderated by Chief of Human Resources Sonia Beharovic and Human Resources Assistant Daniela Lima.

Chief Executive of Pension Administration, Rosemarie McClean, the Acting Representative of the Secretary-General for the Investment of UNJSPF Assets Robert van der Zee, and Staff Representative Melinda George delivered opening remarks, followed by an intention-setting activity.

A video message from Brazilian ballerina and activist Ingrid Silva, a member of the SDG Circle of Supporters, celebrated representation and resilience. “Comparison can be someone’s worst enemy,” Ms. Silva noted, adding that she sees mental health as “hope.”

On Tuesday, 7 October, guest speaker Dr. Maria Phalime led “Mindfulness at Work,” sharing evidence-informed strategies to integrate presence and focus into daily routines.

Wednesday, 8 October featured a restorative Chair Yoga session with UNDSS volunteer Vicky Lymperopoulou, where participants explored gentle movement and breathwork to reduce tension and improve posture.

On Thursday, 9 October, motivational speaker and dancer Misty Tripoli, creator of the Body Groove movement, joined, with Deputy Chief Executive of Pension Administration, Dino Cataldo Dell’Accio highlighting the importance of mental health.
The initiative concluded on Friday, 10 October with psychiatrist, researcher, and bestselling author Dr. Judith Joseph, who spoke on “The Science of Happiness.” She invited participants to take a purpose-first perspective, asking: “If you had only fifteen minutes left on this Earth, what would you do?” She also encouraged colleagues to seek everyday joy through the “5 V’s,” Validation, Venting, Values, Vitals, and Vision.

“World Mental Health Day carried special significance for the Fund, not only for its global call to raise awareness, but also because, for the first time, we extended our invitation beyond our immediate circle,” said Rosemarie McClean, as the series concluded.

UNJSPF extends sincere thanks to all volunteers, speakers, and colleagues who made this year’s Mental Health & Well-being Week a success, especially moderators Dani Lima and Sonia Beharovic, and to the Fund’s leadership for their continued support.