Joseph Bamisile didn’t want to create just another app that people use once in a while. Together with co-founder Nabil Rezqui, he aimed to revolutionize how people perceive mental health in the digital world. The result was Maunda—a social media app designed to make a real difference. Maunda isn’t about likes, shares, or filters; it’s about something much deeper: mental health.
Bamisile’s path to Maunda did not start in a tech lab with a computer but on the basketball court. As one of the most remarkable players at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), he experienced increased pressure on and off the court, transferring schools several times in a relatively short period. This constant upheaval was affecting him in the form of anxiety and loneliness. Bamisile decided to turn to therapy, which opened his eyes to the broader issue of mental health – something that does not receive as much focus in the social media-crazy society.
This personal struggle developed into the seed for something much bigger. As part of his interdisciplinary studies capstone project at VCU, Bamisile decided to develop Maunda, a platform designed from scratch with a focus on mental health. Unlike other social media applications that have been known to worsen stress and anxiety, Maunda is built to assist in the management of these issues. There is no virality, no algorithm, and no need to be a version of yourself that does not exist in real life.
Maunda uplifts its users by promoting authentic connections over numbers and prioritizing genuine engagement over superficial metrics. Users gain “supporters” rather than followers, and unlike conventional platforms, they cannot view the supporter count, likes, or comments on other profiles. Free from algorithms and the race for virality, Maunda centers on sincerity, making it a refreshing alternative to platforms like X.
A key feature, “Uplift,” serves as a thoughtful, positive feed designed to build an authentic community. As social media often turns into a hostile environment, “Uplift” differs from other platforms by lacking photos and video-based content (although external links can be posted). Here, users can share random thoughts or inspiring messages without the pressure to gain likes or comments. Interactions are supportive and encourage mindfulness.
Uplift is also designed to reward users with 2 Maunda points for every post they make. This promotes uplifting posts while discouraging users from making posts to gain the popularity common on most social media platforms. It helps shape the culture of the community by turning Maunda into a platform more about the exchange of positive energy.
Additionally, the “Vanishing Journal,” where entries disappear after being written, encourages users to let go of past concerns and embrace the present. Maunda also offers diverse meditation options, from solo to group sessions, allowing users to break from daily stress. The app’s “Streak System,” “Points System,” and “Leaderboard” add motivation, encouraging users to stay committed to their mental wellness journey.
The creation of Maunda means a lot to Bamisile personally. He knows that mental health is not just about individual well-being; it’s about connection. “Isolation,” he says, “can be just as damaging as any other mental health issue.” That’s why Maunda isn’t just a set of tools—it’s a community. This platform allows users to post their stories, engage with the community, and help one another overcome their struggles.
Currently, Bamisile is pursuing a master’s degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling at VCU and is more committed than ever to the cause. Maunda is still in its early stages, but the vision behind it is clear: to bring a new line of combating mental health issues more effectively in an increasingly digital world.
Joseph Bamisile’s story is not just about creating an application; it is about making a change. It is about acknowledging that in a society that encourages people to look at the outside, there is a desperate need for people to prioritize inner well-being. Maunda is his answer—a simple but effective counter to the prevailing issues that contribute to poor mental health. As more people continue to find this platform and join the trend, it confirms the notion that Bamisile has positive prospects for the future.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or professional advice. While the article discusses features of a mental health-focused app and the benefits of certain mental wellness tools, it should not be considered a substitute for professional mental health services or therapeutic intervention. Individuals experiencing mental health concerns are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified mental health professionals. Any reliance on the information provided is at the reader’s own discretion, and no responsibility is assumed for outcomes based on this content.
Published By: Aize Perez
