ChangeX and Paramount Launch Second Annual World Mental Health Day Community Fund
On Tuesday 14 October, 2025, change-making platform ChangeX and entertainment company Paramount proudly announced the launch of the second annual World Mental Health Day Community Fund. This initiative aims to support grassroots projects that promote mental health and well-being in communities across the globe.
Following the success of last year’s inaugural fund, which impacted approximately 20,000 people through nearly 100 local projects in 10 countries, the 2025 fund will continue to make a positive impact in communities in Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Germany, Mexico, the Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, and the UK.
This partnership is part of Paramount’s ongoing commitment to supporting mental health and well-being worldwide. Niamh McKenna, co-founder and head of impact at ChangeX, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “At ChangeX, our mission is to empower local communities with the resources they need to create positive change. Partnering with Paramount for a second year will help communities in 10 countries replicate innovative mental health-focused ideas and strengthen well-being in their neighbourhoods.”
One of the successful projects from last year’s fund was Afrikindness, a non-profit organization that hosted a mental health workshop in Leeds. Speaking about the impact of the project, a representative from Afrikindness shared, “The project has had a significant impact on our community by fostering open dialogue about mental health, especially within African and ethnic minority groups. The workshop highlighted the importance of culturally tailored education and created a safe space for sharing stories and practical solutions.”
Community members can apply for funding through the ChangeX website, with options including popular ideas from the 2024 fund and new additions for 2025. Some of the ideas on offer include Sidewalk Talk, Mindful Meals, Mental Health Community Connect, Push for Global Mental Health, and #NotAlone Open Mic.
ChangeX was founded in 2015 with the aim of getting funding and resources directly into the hands of ordinary people to lead impactful projects in their neighbourhoods. The organization works with social innovators to scale proven solutions to environmental, economic, and social issues, and partners with companies and foundations to support local communities with the necessary funding. Its funders include the LEGO Foundation, Microsoft, and Paramount, among others. ChangeX is an international non-profit organization headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, with teams based across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, is a leading global media and entertainment company that encompasses three business segments: Filmed Entertainment, Direct-to-Consumer, and TV Media. The company’s portfolio includes iconic brands such as Paramount Pictures, Paramount Television, CBS, CBS News, CBS Sports, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, Comedy Central, Showtime, Paramount+, Pluto TV, and Skydance’s Animation, Film, Television, Interactive/Games, and Sports divisions.
For more information about the World Mental Health Day Community Fund or to apply for funding, visit www.changex.org/gb/funds/paramount-uk.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.