A Powerful Moment of Connection at the New Zealand Embassy

RtHonSirTrevorMallard-EoinByrne- Senator Alison Comyn-MiaByrne-DaveSouthern-BrentPope-EITR-NZEmbassy

the Elephant in the Room movement had the honour of unveiling a very special sculpture at the New Zealand Embassy in Ireland — a moment that beautifully reflected the spirit of international solidarity, shared purpose, and the importance of mental health awareness.

RtHonSirTrevorMallard-Senator Alison Comyn-BrentPope-EITR-NZEmbassy

Our newest Ellie, hand-painted by the talented Mia Byrne, now stands proudly within the embassy walls, carrying the signatures of none other than the legendary All Blacks team. This unique piece represents far more than just paint on a sculpture — it represents resilience, global friendship, and a commitment to breaking down the stigma around mental health.

RtHonSirTrevorMallardBrentPope-EITR-NZEmbassy

The event was a heartfelt morning gathering hosted by Rt Hon Sir Trevor Mallard and attended by a number of incredible advocates and supporters of the movement. Among them were Senator Alison Comyn, Brent Pope, Eoin Byrne, Dave Southern, and our team at Elephant in the Room. There was an authentic and deeply human conversation shared between our organisations, with a focus on what it means to create space for open dialogue about mental health in both Ireland and Aotearoa New Zealand.

This Ellie — which now lives in the heart of the New Zealand Embassy — acts as a symbol and a signpost. For visitors, dignitaries, and staff alike, it quietly reminds us that mental well-being matters. That it’s okay not to be okay. And that no matter where we come from, we all carry things we don’t always speak about — the elephant in the room.

We're also deeply proud that this Ellie carries the signatures of players from one of the most respected sports teams in the world. To have the support of the All Blacks — a team known not just for excellence on the pitch but for humility, leadership, and unity — is an extraordinary show of solidarity.

This event also signals an exciting expansion of the movement, as we continue to grow our international reach. From schools and workplaces to government buildings and embassies, each Ellie marks a new chapter in our mission to change how society speaks about mental health — one sculpture at a time.

To everyone who helped make this happen — thank you. And to those we met on the day, thank you for opening your hearts, your spaces, and your voices to support our shared vision.

Let’s keep the conversation going.

If you are part of a school, workplace, or community group interested in hosting an Elephant in the Room, we’d love to hear from you.

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