Specialist Luel Bekele Launches Peer Support Program for African-Born Service Members.
Specialist Luel Bekele, an Ethiopian-born soldier stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, is leading an initiative to improve mental health awareness among African-born service members in the U.S. Army.
Luel, who moved from Addis Ababa to the United States at age 14, understands the cultural stigma around mental health that exists in many African communities. After losing a fellow African-born soldier to suicide, he decided to take action. Partnering with his unit’s behavioral health team, Luel helped design a peer-to-peer support group that addresses the unique cultural challenges African immigrants face while serving in the military.
“Our community often sees mental health struggles as a weakness,” Luel explained. “But in the military, mental resilience is as important as physical strength. We need to normalize seeking help.”
The support program meets twice monthly and includes open discussions, stress management workshops, and culturally tailored counseling. Attendance has grown steadily, with participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and other African nations.
Luel’s efforts have earned praise from both his unit and the AAMP leadership. “What Specialist Bekele is doing is groundbreaking,” said an AAMP spokesperson. “He’s not only helping individuals but also breaking generational barriers around mental health.”
Outside of the program, Luel is pursuing a degree in psychology through the Army’s education benefits program. He hopes to become a licensed counselor focusing on veterans and military families.
His story has resonated with African parents, many of whom see his work as a sign that the next generation of soldiers is not just focused on combat but also on the well-being of their peers.
In recognition of his contributions, AAMP will honor Luel during the upcoming African Military Families Appreciation Day. His message to fellow service members is simple yet powerful: “Asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.”
📸 Help us spread awareness. Email news@aamp.org with mental health stories from your unit.