A University of Hawaiʻi at 惭ā苍辞补 social work graduate student is being celebrated for her tireless advocacy and dedication to empowering youth. Tori Ikeda, a master of social work (MSW) candidate at the , has been honored with the Outstanding Youth Mental Health Advocate of the Year award by .
This award recognizes an individual age 24 and younger who demonstrates exceptional leadership in increasing awareness of mental health, improving mental health treatment and services, and reducing stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness.
“Receiving this award represents the many young people and community partners I’ve worked and advocated alongside to create meaningful and lasting changes within the systems that impact our lives,” said Ikeda.
Advocating for youth mental health
Ikeda’s work centers on transitional-age youth, particularly individuals between the ages of 14 and 26, and explores how communities and practitioners can better support youth as they move into adulthood. Through her advocacy, Ikeda aims to create stronger systems of support that help young people navigate mental health challenges, housing instability, and other barriers during critical stages of development.
Entering her second year in the MSW program, Ikeda is specializing in health practice, works full-time as a youth peer support specialist and has firsthand experience supporting youth and young adults navigating mental health challenges and systems of care.
Ikeda advocates for youth wellbeing through several organizations, including the National Youth Advisory Council and the Hawaiʻi Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council Youth Committee, where she helps shape policies prioritizing prevention, diversion, and healing. Additionally, as a fellow with the Collegiate Recovery Leadership Academy through Safe Project, she advances addiction, mental health, and recovery advocacy by implementing an impact project on her campus.
“I have had the opportunity to advise Tori during her time at the Thompson School and have been honored to work with her as a student,” said Francie Julien-Chinn, Department of Social Work MSW chair. “Her recognition highlights the impact young leaders can have in creating positive changes in their communities.”