Walks Of Light Magazine

The "Walks of Light" is an initiative that seeks to elevate(boost) emotional well-being and increase awareness of mental health.The founder and President, Sojey Fernandez and Dr. Luisa Perez the Co-Founder and Vice President are collaborating with SOMOS Community Care, Godwin Medical PC, Hispanas Influyentes, and D&S Agency in this new

To promote mental health consciousness, “Walks of Lights”(WOL) brings together supporters, community leaders, charitable organizations, TV hosts and health care providers that offer free support and guidance.

Based on the data(Statistics) 1 in 5 New Yorkers develops symptoms of issues with mental health.For that same reason Walks Of Light is completely focused to amplify the voices of those who have lost any of their loved one by intensifying the mental health awareness by promoting transparent communication through free public services, WOL also wants to consolidate a project that joins emotional intelligence and wants it to be teached from elementary through secondary grade.

SOJEY FERNANDEZ

Founder & President

Sojey Fernández is a Dominican entrepreneur residing in New York. She is the President & Chief Executive Officer of D&S Agency Corp and Works of Light (WOL). She also holds the position of 2nd Vice President Chair at LEEAD. Sojey began her education in industrial psychology and specializes in small business development, focusing on consumer behavior and marketing. She is also a speaker, co-author, and certified in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). Additionally, she is a passionate advocate for mental health and emotional well-being.

With over 15 years of business experience, Ms. Fernández began her professional career in the Dominican Republic before relocating to the United States. In the U.S., she continued her career in Corporate America. Subsequently, she founded D&S Agency Corp. The agency takes pride in its M/WBE NYC/NYS certification and provides advertising and marketing services to the government and private sectors.

DR. LUISA PÉREZ

Vice President

Dr. Luisa Perez is an Internal Medicine Physician in New York. She was born in Santiago, Dominican Republic and immigrated to New York with her family at a young age. During elementary school she realized that she wanted to pursuit a career in medicine. Having Columbia Presbyterian Hospital across the street from her elementary school it’s hallways were her safe way home after school. Walking thru the hospital served as a safe way from strangers and the weather. It is there that her love for medicine grew. Being exposed to medical care for the people in need.

She saw first hand how the Spanish speaking patients needed someone who would care, speak their language, and knew their cultures. She Made it her mission to serve as that Doctor who was from the community and would be familiar with their needs.

WELCOME

Walks Of Light

We are thrilled to welcome you to the opening of our "Walks of Light" campaign, which has become a non-profit organization, Walks of Light (WOL). This initiative is dedicated to elevating emotional well-being and raising awareness of mental health as a fundamental aspect of integrated health.

Statistics indicate that 1 in 5 New Yorkers experience symptoms of mental health issues. It is for this reason that Walks of Light (WOL) is dedicated to giving voice to those who have lost theirs by increasing awareness of mental health issues, fostering open dialogue and empathy, providing free community resources, and advocating for lasting changes in society and educational policies. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Everyone deserves to feel understood, supported, and receive the help they need without judgment.

We want to thank God first for being the foundation of this initiative. For us as founders, Walks of Light (WOL) holds a special meaning, not just as a calling but also in recognizing the importance of these services. We also want to thank our partners SOMOS Community Care, Godwin Medical PC, Hispanas Influyentes and D&S Agency, volunteers, community leaders, non-profit organizations, ambassadors, television personalities, doctors, and therapists for their contributions in supporting mental health awareness and providing free assistance to the community.

In this vibrant city, we're surrounded by diversity but also stress, pressures, and unique challenges. No one is exempt from experiencing difficult moments that can affect their emotional well-being.

Let's commit to having open and honest conversations, listening without judgment, and offering a friendly hand to those in need.

Thank you for joining us in this important cause.

Warm regards,

Sojey Fernandez, President

Dr. Luisa Perez, Vice President

Luisa Perez

CAMPAIGN

In a world where hustle culture prevails, it's easy to overlook the most important aspect of our lives: mental health. This is your reminder that taking care of your mind is not optional, it's essential.

This campaign seeks to create and help parents and people who live with people with mental health conditions to find support programs and help them deal with everyday situations. Women suffering from anxiety, depression, or any other mental health related condition.

The purpose of this campaign is to create awareness and empathy.

Everything you need in one place.

Sojey Fernández Founder and President

Dr. Luisa Pérez CoFounder and VicePresident

Morales

Frías

COLLABORATORS & SPONSORS

LEGEND

This logo was designed taking into account mental health as the main focus, from where the isotype was born, which seeks to express a journey towards the center, in this case towards the light.

Each circle represents a step, tracing the path to follow. As it gets smaller, it closes because it joins more and more until it ends with the center.

Established in 2014, we specialize in developing highly influential brands and their digital advertising strategies, and our goal is to make your brand successful. We have a unique offering as a full-service bilingual Advertising Consulting Agency M/WBE certified by NYC & NYS. Additionally, we are focused on corporate branding, marketing, and social media content. We help our clients by providing innovative and creative solutions. When you work with us, you will experience exceptional service from our detail-oriented professionals.

“We are a dynamic group of specialists from different fields of the industry, dedicated to guiding you through the process of creating effective advertising for your business idea.”

We're here to empower your brand and create lasting connections with your audience. Let's amplify your business together.

Lili Paredes

En octubre de 2023, la revista Forbes en su edición para República Dominicana publicó su lista anual de las “50 mujeres poderosas”, que busca exaltar la labor de mujeres dominicanas en campos como los negocios, el periodismo, la salud y las relaciones públicas.

Lili Paredes, una empresaria dominicana con más de una década de experiencia en el mundo del entretenimiento que siempre ha buscado dejar en alto el nombre de la comunidad dominicana en los Estados Unidos, aparece en esta importante lista como una pieza clave del “empoderamiento en la industria latina del entretenimiento”.

¿Cómo llegó hasta allí? Te invitamos a conocer un poco sobre su trayectoria, desde sus primeros años en su natal República Dominicana hasta su llegada a los Estados Unidos. Este es el recorrido al éxito de Lili Paredes

Lili Paredes nació el 31 de enero de 1982 en Santo Domingo. Interesada en seguir una carrera en medicina, se inscribió en la Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo. Sin embargo, su destino profesional estaría ligado al mundo del entretenimiento y los medios de comunicación.

Todavía viviendo en su país natal, en 2002 presidió el Movimiento de la Juventud para la candidatura a diputado de Manolo Alsina en representación del Partido Reformista Social Cristiano PRSC. Posteriormente, tuvo la posibilidad de mudarse a los Estados Unidos, país en el que pudo encaminar su carrera en los medios de comunicación.

Luego de prepararse a nivel técnico en diferentes áreas como las relaciones humanas, las ventas y el mercadeo, Lili figuró como locutora a mediados de la década de 2010 en un programa radial en la ciudad de Nueva York. La repercusión obtenida en este medio de comunicación y el afán por promover la cultura dominicana y latina en el país norteamericano la llevaron a convertirse en 2018 en la Directora y Productora General del certamen de belleza Miss Quisqueya.

Dr. Riquelmy Lamour

Riquelmy Lamour, LCSS. Dorector of Behavioral Health for SOMOS Community Care and therapist in private practice.

Dr. Corina Báez

Nutritional counseling

nutritional counselor , A brief overview of the growing importance of mental health today, especially in a context where technology and digital life play a central role, and how conscious nutrition can be a fundamental tool to improve mental and emotional well-being.

Dr. Andy García Psychotherapist, Trauma Specialist

My name is Andy Garcia and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have been a psychotherapist for over 10 years, licensed in both New York and New Jersey. I have my own virtual private practice and I treat adults who are experiencing challenges such as anxiety, depression as a result of past traumatic experiences. During the event I'd like to discuss the effects of trauma and the forms of treatment available.

Dr. Donaida Castillo

I am Donaida Castillo Cruz, Master Life Coach and Inspirational speaker, I've been working with women for more than 10 years, helping they to overcome the emotional disorders, setting their crystal clear goals and achieving their objectives. Building self-confidence to shine and start a new life.

Dr. María D. Mejía Psychiatry

My name is Maria D. Mejia, I'm an adult psychiatrist working at Godwin Medical. I treat patients with anxiety disorders, depression and trauma. I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation, diagnosing mental health disorders, and facilitating evidence-based treatment plans, including medication management and psychotherapy.

Dr. Rodney Campos

Substance Rehabilitation and Behavioral Health Treatment

Rodney Campos, MD. Substance rehabilitation psychiatry. Many people experiment with substance use both those without a history of psychiatric illness and those who do not. However each year more and more psychiatry emergency room visit are secondary to the impact that substance use has on both groups of individuals. In addition, we are seeing more and more accidental and intentional overdose victims arriving at our local hospitals. Instead of shunning those in our communities because of their mental health or substance use lets reach out and help them find a healthier way to live.

Dr. Adriana Rodríguez

General Medicine

My name is Adriana Rodriguez, I’ve been practicing medicine for over 25 years. I graduated as a medical doctor from UNIBE (Universidad Iberoamericana) in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. I also graduated from Mercy University with a Masters in Physician Associate degree. I work in a Primary Care environment in the community. As our geriatric community grows more in number, their mental health and well being is of utmost importance.

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The Foundation El Secreto de un Futuro Mejor: Inspiring and Empowering Women's Leadership from the Love of God

In the heart of the Big Apple, the Foundation "The Secret to a Better Future" shines like a beacon of hope and empowerment for Latina women. Founded in 2017 by Yanilda Estrella, this community has blossomed into a space where women's leadership is cultivated and strengthened, driven by love and faith in God.

With a clear mission of empowering women's leadership, the Foundation accompanies women on their path to becoming their best selves. From inspiration to action, the Foundation offers training in

Yanilda Estrella, founder and president of the Foundation, is a woman of deep conviction and leadership. With her experience as a mother, wife and entrepreneur, Yanilda has become an invaluable mentor for many women seeking to achieve their goals and dreams. Her life story, marked by the courage to immigrate in search of a better future, is a living testimony of overcoming and perseverance. Recognized for her hard community work, Yanilda Estrella has been honored by various institutions for her dedication and commitment. During the pandemic, her support and motivation were essential for many single mothers facing difficult times.

The vision of the Foundation "The Secret to a Better Future" is to be an inspiration in designing a world where women shine and communities flourish. With values such as love, faith, empathy, excellence, gratitude and unity as a guide, the Foundation continues to leave positive footprints in the Spanish-speaking Latino community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FOUNDATION AND ITS PROGRAMS VISIT:

DR. RAMÓN TALLAJ

Dr. Ramon Tallaj is a highly experienced board-certified internist, graduating with honors from Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena (Unphu) in the Dominican Republic. He completed his residency at St Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City and has since held various government positions, including undersecretary of public health and social services. Dr. Tallaj moved to the United States to provide medical care to Hispanic immigrant communities and founded SOMOS Community Care in 2015, a network of healthcare providers serving over a million Medicaid and Medicare beneficiaries in New York City. He has been a vocal advocate for improving health outcomes through a pay-for-performance model and has saved New York taxpayers over $336 million by reducing ER and hospital admissions. Dr. Tallaj has been instrumental in addressing the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on marginalized communities, operating numerous testing sites and providing free healthcare and meals during the pandemic. He was appointed as the co-chairman of New York City’s COVID-19 Recovery Roundtable and Health Equity Task Force, advising on healthcare access and equity policies.

On behalf of the Walks Of Light campaign for mental health awareness, we extend our deepest gratitude for your support and participation. Your dedication to improving healthcare access and equity, particularly in marginalized communities, is truly inspiring. Your contributions to SOMOS Community Care and your advocacy for mental health have had a profound impact on countless individuals. Thank you for joining us in this important cause. Together, we can continue to shine a light on mental health and create a brighter, more compassionate world for all.”

We would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to these personalities for their invaluable support during the Walks Of Light campaign. Your dedication and commitment have been fundamental to bringing hope and awareness to those who need it most.

Thank you for being part of this important movement towards positive mental health.

Pepa García

Bárbara Plaza Image Consultant

Lili Paredes

Massiel Méndez Founder Oraciones con Propósito

TV Personality

#YOURMHMATTER

1 (888) 692-9355

This is a confidential helpline that provides crisis counseling, mental health referrals, and information and support for individuals and families.

CHILD MIND INSTITUTE

1 (212) 308-3118

The Child Mind Institute offers mental health services for children and adolescents, including evaluations, therapy, and psychiatric treatment.

NYC DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND MENTAL HYGIENE:

1 (866) 692-9355

The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene provides information and referrals for mental health services for individuals and families.

ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS (NAMI) NYC HELPLINE:

1 (212) 684-3264

NAMI NYC offers support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness.

ADMINISTRATION FOR CHILDREN'S SERVICES (ACS) HELPLINE:

The ACS Helpline provides information and referrals for families in crisis, including mental health services.

1 (833).SOMOSNY

2910 Exterior Street, First Floor Bronx, NY 10463

Email: info@somoscommunitycare.org, Phone: 1.833.SOMOSNY, Fax: (212) 477-9328

SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE: 1 (212) 341-0900

1 (800) 273-TALK

This is a 24/7 hotline that provides free and confidential support for people in distress, as well as prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones.

Yudy is a mental health correspondent at Univision, raising awareness about mental health. At Montefiore Medical Center, she develops programs for emotional well-being and healthy relationships. Yudy is also a clinical therapist, offering strategies for communication and conflict resolution. She empowers individuals and couples to cultivate fulfilling relationships and experience greater well-being. Dr. Yudy is dedicated to improving lives through mental health and healthy relationships

WHY MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID?

how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults.