At Walks of Light, we believe that speaking about mental health is an act of courage, connection, and love. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in the Bronx, NY, our mission is to foster open conversations about mental health, encourage empathy, provide free tools to the community, and promote long-term societal and policy changes. This includes advocating for the integration of emotional education programs from early childhood through high school — ensuring future generations are equipped to manage stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges.

That’s why we were deeply honored to take part in the Women’s Forum hosted by the National Supermarkets Association (NSA) — a powerful gathering that brought together women leaders committed to emotional well-being and the creation of safe, healing spaces. With the support of Goya Cares, an initiative that actively contributes to mental health education in schools across the U.S. and Latin America, the forum underscored the importance of collective action.

A safe space for authentic connection

The forum offered a meaningful space for women to share, reflect, and support one another on emotional well-being. Our founder, Sojey Fernández, shared a powerful message about the importance of reshaping how we talk about mental health — emphasizing the value of education, connection, and collective action. Verónica Rosario, keynote speaker and media professional, also offered a moving reflection on her experience as a first-generation Latina in the industry, inspiring attendees to embrace their identity and use their voice with purpose. These messages served as a powerful reminder of why conversations around mental health matter — not just personally, but systemically.

That urgency is reflected in the data: nearly 1 in 4 NYC adults face mental health challenges each year, with 34% not receiving the care they need due to stigma, cost, or access barriers. Among teens, 48% report depressive symptoms and 11% live with severe depression. At Walks of Light, we are committed to closing these gaps by providing free resources, educational workshops, and school-based programs that prioritize prevention, awareness, and early emotional support.

NSA Women’s Forum 2025 brought together a powerful lineup of speakers, panelists, and leaders. Hosted by Emmy award-winning journalist Nicole Johnson, the event featured dynamic conversations on inclusion, resilience, and leadership. Opening remarks from Seny Taveras, Samuel Collado, and Anthony Peña set the tone for a day grounded in advocacy and empowerment.

A surprise visit by Rhode Island Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos closed the event, highlighting the importance of representation in leadership. Together, these voices made the forum a memorable and unifying experience.

In partnership with Goya Cares

This impactful event would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship of Goya Cares,  a global initiative deeply committed to mental health advocacy, human trafficking prevention, and emotional education for youth. Through strategic partnerships, educational programs, and widespread awareness campaigns, Goya Cares works to empower families and communities with the tools they need to support emotional well-being.

At the NSA Women’s Forum, their unwavering support helped create a space for reflection, empathy, and growth — reinforcing the importance of standing together to combat mental health stigma. The presence of Natalia Rosario, Public Relations and Partnerships Specialist at Goya Foods, highlighted how private-sector partnerships can play a pivotal role in tackling public health challenges. By investing in community-based solutions and promoting early emotional education, Goya Cares amplifies a message that Walks of Light shares deeply: that healing begins with awareness, education, and collective support.

Together, our partnership is a step forward in building more compassionate, informed, and emotionally resilient communities across the U.S. and Latin America.

Why this matters

Mental health should never be a taboo subject. At Walks of Light, we work tirelessly to break down stigmas, build safe spaces, and provide tools that illuminate the path toward a fuller, healthier life. We believe that true healing happens when individuals feel seen, heard, and supported — and that begins with open, honest conversations.

This forum was a powerful reminder that healing is a collective journey. It’s not always linear, and it certainly isn’t something we have to navigate alone. By sharing our stories, we offer others permission to do the same. We share our challenges, our growth, and ultimately, our light — creating a ripple effect of understanding and empathy that can reach far beyond the walls of any one event.

Because when we show up for ourselves and for each other, we begin to create the kind of world where mental wellness is not a luxury, but a priority.

Our ongoing commitment

As a nonprofit foundation, we are dedicated to educating, connecting, and advocating for mental health and holistic well-being within our communities. We believe that to speak is to heal — and that together, we are stronger.

Thank you to the NSA for the opportunity, and to Goya Cares for believing in this mission.

Being different isn’t just a superpower — it is ours too.