2020 Amanda Award

The Purple Bench Initiative was founded and is led by Mago Nina. Nina had her first seizure at the age of three and was formally diagnosed with epilepsy at six when she moved to Moscow. A supportive best friend and a school that promoted understanding around epilepsy meant that Nina’s initial school experience was positive. However, that all changed at the age of twelve when she moved back to Uganda. Because of the misunderstanding and stigma around epilepsy in her community, Nina had trouble making and keeping friends. She changed schools frequently and was often bullied, which took a toll on her self-esteem.

Years later, Nina continued to be impacted by seeing people with epilepsy excluded and struggling as she had. She remembered what a positive difference friendship and understanding made in her life. She decided to do something to address this problem and founded the Purple Bench Initiative, which champions inclusivity and productivity of people living with epilepsy as well as their caregivers.

The organization’s vision is, “a society where people living with epilepsy live a dignified, meaningful and highly impactful life.” The Purple Bench Initiative distributes information about epilepsy and provides a support system for individuals, families, communities and institutions. Nina (an excellent communicator with great people skills) speaks in schools, at public events and on radio to inspire and promote change in how epilepsy is understood and treated.