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Generously contributed by Daria and Dmitri Bukhman of Bukhman Philanthropies, the gift will bolster Oxford’s pioneering research and help expand mindfulness-based cognitive therapy – an evidence-based approach that helps people recover from depression, enjoy mental health and flourish.
Housed within the University’s Department of Psychiatry and directed by Professor Willem Kuyken, the Oxford Mindfulness Research Centre has led the field in evidence-based mindfulness programmes for more than two decades.
The Bukhmans’ support will enable Professor Kuyken and his team to maximise the global reach of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). The team will develop collaborations and partnerships that will allow them to scale up MBCT interventions, and work with diverse groups – from young people and their parents to elite athletes, healthcare professionals and underserved communities worldwide – to ensure mindfulness training and resources are available where they are most needed.
Professor Kuyken, Director of the Oxford Mindfulness Research Centre and the Sir John Ritblat Family Foundation Professor of Mindfulness and Psychological Science, said:
This transformative gift from Daria and Dmitri Bukhman will help us to achieve our vision of a world without the devastating effects of depression, where people enjoy mental health and can flourish. By bringing together the very best of modern psychology and ancient wisdom, we can equip people, communities and organisations to meet the challenges of the 21st century."
Daria Bukhman is an educator, health coach and wellbeing expert. Her husband, Dmitri, co-founded Playrix, one of the world’s leading mobile gaming companies. Through their foundation, Bukhman Philanthropies, they support initiatives that create lasting, positive impact, with a focus on neonatal and maternal support; mental health and the wellbeing of children and young adults; and literature.
Daria Bukhman, Co-Founder and Chair of Bukhman Philanthropies, said:
We are delighted to support Oxford University’s efforts to expand mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and increase its global accessibility. Led by Professor Willem Kuyken, this research will explore how to scale and adapt MBCT for diverse populations, test its effectiveness and ensure it remains affordable. Our support aims to advance global mental health by promoting evidence-based mindfulness approaches that empower individuals to prioritise wellbeing and live healthier, more resilient lives."