MAPPA adopts Elephant for Mount Anville Secondary School
I’m excited and proud to announce that MAPPA has partnered with the Elephant in The Room Movement and Brent Pope to adopt an elephant for our school—a meaningful step in raising awareness about mental health and encouraging open, stigma-free conversations.
This initiative is particularly close to my heart and the MAPPA community. Monty the elephant has officially joined the Elephant in The Room Movement and yesterday morning (Tuesday 7th January 2025), Brent spoke to two assemblies at Mount Anville Secondary School. First, he addressed the 1st to 3rd years followed by the 4th to 6th years. Brent shared a deeply personal account of his struggles with anxiety, panic attacks and feelings of inadequacy and isolation—experiences that resonate with many. His message to the approximately 700 young women and girls was powerful: mental illness doesn’t discriminate, regardless of gender, height, or age. It’s okay not to be okay. If you’re struggling, talk to someone and if someone opens up to you, be sure to listen. Through these simple acts, we can all help save lives.
Last year, I had the privilege of hearing Brent speak passionately about this vital cause. His dedication made it clear that Mount Anville needed to join this important movement. One powerful message that resonated deeply with me was, “It’s not weak to speak.” This mantra is something I believe we all need to carry into 2025 and beyond.
In addition, we’re thrilled that the Art Department, led by Andrew Rice, will be running a school-wide competition to design and decorate our elephant—aptly named Monty! I can’t wait to return in a few months for the grand reveal.
A huge thank you to Principal Sinead Nolan, Vice Principal Elaine Kelly and all the teachers and staff at Mount Anville for their unwavering support in launching this incredible initiative. I’d also like to express my gratitude to past pupil Amanda Daly and her husband Karl Daly for introducing us to this inspiring movement.
Together, we can make a lasting difference in mental health awareness and foster a community where every voice is heard.
Christina Torsney Class of 2008
MAPPA President
