Founded when she was 12, Mila Henry is now 13 and making waves in the mental health space as the founder of MH Boxes, a non-profit organization she launched in 2023. Her mission is clear: to remove the stigma surrounding mental health among Black girls by providing curated toolboxes that encourage self-care, resilience, and open conversations.
Mila’s journey began with her own experiences managing anxiety. Recognizing a gap in resources and conversations about mental health within her community, she decided to take action. Each care box she creates is filled with carefully selected items that have helped her personally. From essential oils, plush toys, fidget toys, and other resources, every item is chosen with the intention of offering comfort, relief, and a sense of empowerment to other Black girls. These toolboxes serve as a bridge to start much-needed conversations in families and communities about mental health.
Her commitment and passion have not gone unnoticed. Mila was recently awarded a grant from the Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium, in collaboration with the Pete and Thomas Foundation, as part of their 2023 Black Girl Joy Challenge Special Edition. This prestigious grant recognizes Black girls and young women who are creating positive change in their communities and bringing joy through innovative projects. For Mila, this award is a significant milestone, allowing her to expand her impact and continue offering support to Black girls who may feel alone in their mental health journeys.
Mila’s work is about more than just the boxes—it’s about breaking the silence. In many Black communities, mental health remains a taboo subject, often ignored or misunderstood. Mila aims to change that narrative by offering tools and starting conversations that encourage healing and growth. Her initiative is sparking critical dialogues on mental health and proving that even the youngest voices can lead the charge in dismantling stigma.
As MH Boxes grows, Mila continues to inspire others with her dedication and vision. She is not just providing resources—she’s fostering a sense of hope and community among Black girls, reminding them that they are seen, heard, and supported.
Let’s continue to uplift and support Mila as she carries out her mission. You can make a donation, follow MH Boxes on Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay connected with her journey.
