KINGSTON, Jamaica — Suzette Buchanan, chief executive officer of Bellevue Hospital, has been named International Mental Health Advocate of the Year by the Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA).

Buchanan will travel to Melbourne on October 4, to accept the award at the 8th Annual Australian Mental Health Awards, held during the country’s observance of National Multicultural Mental Health Month.

Buchanan is one of six awardees recognised this year for outstanding contributions to mental health awareness and stigma reduction.

Her leadership at Bellevue Hospital, along with her role as host of the pioneering mental health television series MindSet, were highlighted in the award citation.

With over 14 years in governance and leadership across health, media, and public service, Buchanan has driven national reforms and challenged mental health stigma through both storytelling and policy.

A Harvard trainee in Mental Health Leadership, she blends strategic vision with lived experience and compassion. Her work spans boardrooms to communities, always putting people first.

“This award is deeply personal. My work at Bellevue, the creation of MindSet, and supporting my daughter living with bipolar disorder have fuelled my mission to break the silence and dismantle stigma,” Buchanan said, reflecting on the award.

“I share this honour with every person and family navigating mental health challenges, including the more than 400 social cases at Bellevue Hospital who lack support. It strengthens my resolve to keep advocating for awareness, compassion, and healing,” she added.

Her recognition underscores Jamaica’s growing role in global mental health advocacy, positioning the country as a contributor to international conversations on care, resilience, and stigma reduction.

The Mental Health Foundation Australia is the country’s oldest mental health association, dedicated to promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and supporting initiatives that foster resilience and well-being across diverse communities.

Its awards honour individuals and organisations whose work demonstrates innovative approaches and effective leadership in mental health. By recognising contributions such as Buchanan’s, the foundation amplifies the importance of cross-cultural collaboration and diverse voices in shaping mental health strategies worldwide.