Launch of “Walks of Light” Wellness Rally

Daniel Cruz has dedicated the past eight years to the field of drug and alcohol addiction recovery. His career began in 2016 as a counselor, and for the past two years, he has served as the Program Director for The PAC Program, a substance abuse treatment initiative.

With a deep passion for helping others, Daniel continuously strives to connect individuals with the resources they need to overcome addiction. His expertise extends beyond counseling, encompassing community partnership development and effective leadership skills.

Currently, Daniel is expanding his knowledge and professional experience in the social services sector while pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration at Pace University, specializing in Not-For-Profit Management. His long-term goal is to hold an executive leadership position in a nonprofit organization or establish one of his own to further serve the community.

Beyond his professional commitments, Daniel enjoys working out and listening to podcasts in his free time.

Kelsie Morales, M.A., NCSP is a dedicated school psychologist with several years of experience working in diverse educational settings. After beginning her career in charter schools and state agencies, Kelsie is currently employed by the New York City Department of Education, where she provides comprehensive psychological and counseling services to elementary students. In addition to her clinical work, Kelsie is pursuing a doctoral degree to further their expertise and eventually open a private practice. Throughout her career, Kelsie has demonstrated a passion for advocating for the mental health needs of underserved student populations. She has been working closely with the Bronx community, drawing on their ability to understand diverse cultural backgrounds and tailor their support accordingly.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based practices, Kelsie specializes in supporting the social-emotional, behavioral, and academic development of students from pre-K through 12th grade. Her holistic, culturally responsive approach has earned the trust and respect of the school communities they have served. Through her volunteer efforts with Walks of Light, Kelsie is able to extend her expertise and passion for advocacy to a wider audience, ensuring that all individuals have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

Psychologist specializing in mental health crises and the holistic balance of soul, body, and mind. As the founder and CEO of the Eres de Bendición Foundation, Johanny leads an organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children in underprivileged communities by providing comprehensive support and fostering their personal and spiritual development.

Under her leadership, the foundation promotes the Campos Blancos program, focused on establishing new churches with the aim of educating, guiding, and creating opportunities for children. This initiative helps them reach their full potential while promoting values rooted in faith and the word of God.

With a profound calling to serve, Johanny combines her professional expertise with her passion for emotional and spiritual well-being to make a meaningful impact in vulnerable communities, changing the lives of those who need it most.

Milka Medina has dedicated the past 25 years to serving her community in various capacities. Her career has been driven by a passion for education, advocacy, and community building. As a New York State Certified Teacher in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6) and Students with Disabilities (All Grades), she has committed herself to positively impacting the lives of her students.

In addition to her work in education, Milka has also been an advocate and caseworker for at-risk youth and the homeless population, demonstrating her dedication to making a difference beyond the classroom. One of her most significant achievements was the creation of a Parent Resource Center aimed at fostering stronger connections between parents, community leaders, and organizations to support student success.

As the Founder and CEO of Primitive Inc., Kelly leads a dedicated team in designing, planning, and executing successful media campaigns, brand strategies, and special events with a focus on creating meaningful, lasting social impact.

Kelly holds a degree in Marketing from Pontificia Bolivariana University in Medellin, Colombia, where their career began, working on city projects aimed at transforming local communities. A career highlight includes working with the Government of Colombia and the Municipality of Medellin to bring the World Urban Forum UN-Habitat to life in April 2014. Additionally, Kelly has extensive experience in campaign development and city communications in Medellin, with a strong focus on driving social impact initiatives.

Yaneli Sosa is a television host, writer, and certified life coach known for her transformational speaking. She founded the book series Hispanas Influyentes and has

After relocating to New York in 2012, she continued to build her media career while also hosting her Instagram-based show Desde New York Live, interviewing celebrities and politicians. Yaneli has covered major events like the Latin Grammy Awards and continues to inspire her community through impactful conferences in New York.

Karen Espinal, Dominican, journalist, speaker, and advisor in protocol and public image. She holds a degree in Social Communication and Journalism from William Paterson University in New Jersey. Karen also has an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Passaic County Community College. She is the director of the Personal Refinement Academy for children, which bears her name, located in Clifton, New Jersey.

Karen is also a certified protocol advisor from the Public Image University in Mexico, the International School of Protocol in Madrid, and The British School of Excellence in London, England.

Julissa Pimentel,
Secretary.

Julissa is a passionate mental health advocate who brings creativity, compassion, and expertise to Walks of Light. As the founder of Redome Wellness, Julissa promotes integrative well-being by combining traditional and alternative therapies. Committed to breaking down mental health stigmas, Julissa strives to ensure accessible support systems for all. With a dedication to fostering kindness, understanding, and inclusivity, Julissa works to create positive change in every endeavor.

Annie Morales-Rojas,
Program Development.

Annie Morales-Rojas is a valued member of the Board of Directors for Walks of Light Mental Health Campaign, contributing her background in medicine and her dedication to health equity. With a Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Science, Annie supports Walks of Light’s mission to make mental health resources accessible and community-centered.

Starting as Clinical Outreach Coordinator, Annie collaborated with healthcare providers and community leaders to strengthen mental health programming, advocating for tailored, holistic approaches to care. Her commitment to bridging gaps in care and fostering inclusive health initiatives makes her an essential contributor to Walks of Light’s vision of mental health advocacy and education.

Katherine Baez,
Treasurer.

Katherine Baez is a dedicated community volunteer and currently serves as the Treasurer for Walks of Light, where she has been instrumental in managing financial resources and ensuring fiscal responsibility. With a background in finance and a passion for service, Katherine has played a crucial role in guiding the organization’s budgetary planning and financial strategies.

In addition to her role as Treasurer, Katherine is a valued member of the Board of Directors, contributing strategic insights and fostering connections that enhance the organization’s mission. Her commitment to transparency and community engagement has helped build trust among stakeholders and promote sustainable practices within Walks of Light.

Katherine holds a degree in Finance from the University of Hartford and has extensive experience in Financial Planning and Analysis.

With a strong belief in the power of collaboration and responsible stewardship, Katherine continues to inspire others to engage in volunteerism and support the mission of Walks of Light.

Dr. Luisa Perez MD,
Co-Founder & 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.

Sojey Fernandez, Founder-President

Sojey Fernández is an entrepreneur and business advisor with over 15 years of experience in business management. As the CEO of D&S Agency Corp, a M/WBE NYC/NYS-certified firm, she leads the company in providing advertising services to both government and private sectors. Sojey began her academic journey in industrial psychology at Universidad Católica de Santo Domingo and is certified in business leadership and small business development, with a focus on consumer behavior.

A co-author, speaker, and podcast host, she is also a certified entrepreneur through the Goldman Sachs Businesses program and has studied Technological Innovation and Global Business Politics. Additionally, Sojey is certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, empowering her to inspire and lead with purpose.

Jennifer J. Dietsch holds a master’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing and has over 20 years of experience in business development and growth strategies. She is an entrepreneur, investor, business consultant, and certified NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) practitioner.

Jennifer co-founded and serves as CFO of the Center for Adult Medicine and Preventive Care** in Passaic, New Jersey, which has been serving the Hispanic community since 2008. She is also the co-founder and U.S. Director of Cor Unum Missio USA, a nonprofit supporting underserved communities through nutrition and spiritual education in Colombia.

Through her work, Jennifer remains dedicated to advancing personal finance education and holistic development.

Katherine Baez
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Adriana Rodriguez, MPAS, CCRP
Adriana Rodriguez is a highly skilled healthcare professional with a degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Mercy University. She has extensive experience as a Clinical Coordinator at prestigious institutions like Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center and Mount Sinai Medical Center. Adriana’s career is centered on women’s health and senior care, particularly in underserved communities in Upper Manhattan and The Bronx.
As a fluent speaker of both English and Spanish, Adriana is dedicated to bridging communication gaps and providing compassionate, culturally sensitive care. She is also a proud member of the Relay for Life Harlem chapter, contributing to the American Cancer Society’s mission to fight cancer.

Dr. Maria D. Mejia is a highly experienced psychiatrist with over 30 years of expertise, currently practicing at Godwin Medical, PC. Throughout her career, she has provided mental health care to a diverse, multicultural population, addressing conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and the psychosocial stressors of life, including loss, divorce, and unemployment. Dr. Mejia is trained in trauma and domestic violence, equipping her to serve those in critical need, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has severely impacted mental health worldwide.

Dr. Mejia conducts comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses mental health disorders, and develops evidence-based treatment plans that include medication management and psychotherapy. She is deeply committed to the well-being and safety of her patients, fostering trust and a supportive treatment environment.

Passionate about breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness, Dr. Mejia emphasizes the importance of mental health in improving her patients’ lives and is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in their journey toward recovery and well-being.