By: Dalgis Mosqueda
I awaited the Hope in Harlem Conference with anticipation and excitement, and I am happy to say that the conference not only met but surpassed my expectations. The Hope in Harlem conference took place on September 14, 2024. Keynotes on mental health initiatives in Harlem and beyond, youth wellness, community building, and the intersection of sports and mental health were the conference’s focus. We had the privilege of hearing from mental health experts, educators, youth leaders, sports legends and community partners. The conference was followed by a vibrant Wellness Fair with many local community resources.
While the hook for many might have been the keynote speeches by an Olympic Gold Medalist and well known NBA players, the true beauty of the conference was the humble and vulnerable anecdotes and life lessons shared by all speakers. It was a gift that the speakers opened themselves to the audience and shared their individual and loved one’s experiences with mental health challenges. These personal stories were moving, because despite some of them being very sad, they were followed by a resounding message of hope.
This was impactful because it closely aligns with the mission and passion of the Flawless Foundation. Responding to adversity with hope and determination is key to creating a more flawless world. This effort does not go unnoticed as it takes bravery, compassion, and drive to do so.
An initial panel at the conference that captivated me featured youth leaders who are student-athletes. It was key to feature student-athletes because as Dr. Lena Green, the Executive Director of the Hope Center, shared, “sports is one of the many ways we can address youth mental health in a culturally relevant and accessible way in POC communities.” This panel amplified the voices of two high school student athletes. They were proud of their achievements and were grateful to have their families support them through their journeys. They pointed to how sports is a healthy outlet that allows them to express themselves. While I am not an athlete, I do appreciate that physical activity is a great way to unplug. I was encouraged to continue my daily walks and trips to the gym as self-care!
A second panel that was fascinating featured NBA stars Allan Houston and Derek L. Anderson Sr., Olympic Gold Medalist and Psychologist Natasha Hastings, and NBA Mental Health Expert Dr. William Parham. The conversation with these panelists was educational and motivating. They shared how sports is a powerful way to cope with the challenges life throws at us, but how it can also create stressors. Therefore, finding a healthy balance and practicing wellness is crucial when practicing athleticism at a high level. This message was reinforced by the Hope Center’s Medical Director, Dr.Sydney Hankerson who moderated the panel. Dr. Hankerson is the Vice Chair of Psychiatry and Director of Mental Health Equity Research at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He also serves as an advisor to the NFL and NBA. It was inspiring to see that the most accomplished athletes are being supported and counseled by a brilliant thought leader like Dr. Hankerson. The panelists’ and moderator’s call to action was to fortify your support system, always ask for help and to approach life with positivity.
Overall, the conference was incredibly inspiring and I am glad I had the opportunity to hear from the youth and experts alike. The Hope in Harlem conference provided an excellent example of how leaders who truly represent their community can drive lasting positive change. I was moved by the overarching call to action to take care of myself, my community, and to always consider my mental health as “mental health wealth.”
