Anil Thapliyal

On April 16th, 2026, in New York City some of the most dedicated minds in mental health and humanitarian work gathered for "Transforming Mental Healthcare with Technology"-an event that marked the formal launch of two major initiatives by the eMental Health International Collaborative (eMHIC). The first, a specialized webinar series designed to support mental health first responders and professionals trained in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS)-the frontline individuals who deliver immediate psychological care and practical support to those affected by emergencies, disasters, conflict, and humanitarian crises, working to reduce distress, promote safety, identify urgent needs, and connect people to ongoing care. The second, eMHIC's Collaborative Learning Hub, a platform built to advance knowledge-sharing across the global mental health community. The room reflected the gravity and urgency of the mission-united by a single purpose: to create a lasting impact on mental health in humanitarian settings. In attendance were representatives from the United Nations, financial institutions, philanthropists, academics, clinicians, NGOs, leading scientists, diplomatic missions, lived experience leaders, and celebrated Broadway artists. This remarkable evening was made possible through the generous support of Dr. Judy Kuriansky, the International Association of Applied Psychology (IAAP), Zeever Baqar, and The Baqar Foundation. The evening featured a powerful humanitarian address from Charles Curie, former Administrator of SAMHSA, stirring performances by Princess Lockeroo and Russell Daisey, and a deeply moving lived-experience address from Nick Yarris, author of “The Fear of 13,” whose stage adaptation opened on Broadway just last week. The Baqar Foundation remains deeply committed to advancing mental health on the global stage, and evenings like this remind us why this work matters and why it must continue.