At just 20 years old, Marsai Martin isn’t just making waves in Hollywood. She is also a powerful advocate for mental health awareness for women. Known for her standout role as Diane Johnson on “Black-ish,” Martin’s advocacy work shines through in her partnership with Kate Spade New York. In the partnership, she’s lending her voice to their mental health initiatives. Her dedication to mental wellness, especially for women who often face barriers to accessing care, has proven that speaking up for mental health can be as impactful as it is stylish.
Marsai Martin’s Stance on Mental Health
In a conversation with 21Ninety, Martin shared her deep connection to mental health. She explained that her own self-care routine centers around balance and support.
“I focus on surrounding myself with people who genuinely uplift me,” she explained.
Whether it’s her family or close friends, maintaining a strong support system is key for her well-being. She emphasized the importance of joy, describing it as essential to mental health.
“For me, ‘joy’ comes from balance, having a strong support system and being intentional about taking care of my mental health,” she shared.
This philosophy aligns perfectly with Kate Spade’s values of optimism and community, making Martin a natural fit for their campaign.
Martin’s work with Kate Spade New York extends beyond just fashion. As a part of their Fall 2024 campaign, she helped launch the Global Fund for Women’s Mental Health. The fund aims to invest in culturally competent mental health care and create community-driven solutions for women worldwide. Martin expressed her passion for the initiative.
“What truly resonates with me is their commitment to making a meaningful impact.”
By partnering with the brand, she hopes to help Black women, who often face additional challenges in accessing mental health resources, feel seen and heard. The initiative, which also includes other inspiring women like Taraji P. Henson and Simone Biles, reinforces Kate Spade’s dedication to mental health being a fundamental human right.
Blooming into Her Style
While mental health advocacy is at the core of this partnership, Marsai’s style plays an equally important role. She’s been a longtime fan of Kate Spade since receiving her first clutch at 12 years old. She shared that she remains enamored by the brand’s signature mix of playfulness and sophistication. Marsai’s personal style reflects these elements both on and off the red carpet, from pairing fun sneakers with elegant dresses to her love for the brand’s iconic bags.
“There’s an exciting dynamic to their design approach—it is playful yet sophisticated,” she says, perfectly summarizing how her own fashion choices have evolved over the years.
As someone who balances a flourishing career with philanthropy, Martin keeps a commitment to advocating for mental health and looking fabulous while doing so. She serves as an inspiring example for young Black women everywhere. She’s making it clear that caring for yourself, both mentally and physically can be done with joy and style.