Posted: Wednesday, August 6, 2025. 9:32 am CST.
By Zoila Palma: Today, the British High Commission in Belize announced that Lori Cunningham, a passionate advocate for mental health and child protection, is heading to the University of Edinburgh as Belize’s newest Chevening Scholar.
Originally from Southside Belize City, Lori’s journey is marked by nearly a decade of tireless service in social work and public mental health advocacy. She currently leads national mental health initiatives under the Ministry of Public Service’s Employee Assistance Programme, offering psychosocial support to public officers and their families—underscoring her belief that emotionally resilient workers build a stronger Belize.
Lori began her professional journey after earning a Bachelor of Science in Social Work with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies. For eight years, she worked at the Ministry of Human Development, where she played a key role in child protection.
She conducted investigations into abuse and neglect, collaborating with the Belize Police Department, Family and Magistrate Courts, schools, and health professionals to ensure trauma-informed, multidisciplinary care for vulnerable families.
Beyond frontline work, Lori has served as a trainer and mentor for fellow social workers, equipping them with tools to manage burnout and stress in high-pressure environments. She believes that those who support others must also be supported, and her work has contributed to building resilience across Belize’s social services sector. Her commitment to mental wellness is rooted in the belief that early intervention and sustained support can change lives.
Now preparing to study for a Master’s in Mental Health in Children and Young People in the UK, Lori plans to return to Belize with the knowledge to design a national mental health framework.
Her goals include training teachers to spot early signs of distress, supporting caregivers with specialized tools, and empowering parents to break cycles of trauma.
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The post From Southside Belize City to Scotland: Lori Cunningham named Chevening scholar appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Wednesday, August 6, 2025. 9:32 am CST. By Zoila Palma: Today, the British High Commission in Belize announced that Lori Cunningham, a passionate advocate for
The post From Southside Belize City to Scotland: Lori Cunningham named Chevening scholar appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
