In this episode you will find:
. How the universe pulled him to make a change
. Compassionate leader
. Cultural competency
. Being the change
. Support system
Show notes:
Lorenzo takes us back to his childhood and how it led him to where he is today. The Confess Project is committed to changing the narrative of mental health for young men of color and their families at the place where we believe it or not we feel the most comfortable talking and expressing ourselves emotionally and mentally. This place is the barbershop! He saw a combination of narratives where men of color talk about mental health as well as how they receive care. He explains care in the frontlines of the African American community. He trains barbers and teachers as frontline supporters to help young people be the change. He talks about what a support system is and who to be supported by. Lorenzo speaks from the soul and truly is here to help you! You can support the Confess Project by following them at on Instagram at @theconfessproject
short term goals: use innovation and technology to best of knowledge to help around the globe for virtual learning on advocates on mental health
Long term goals: reaching across other countries and have barber coalition on a global initiative
About Guest:
Lorenzo has been featured in the “Great Big Story”, author ofJumping Over Life's Hurdles and Staying in the Race", and is the Founder of The Confess Project. About The Confess Project- “In May 2016, we answered the call. Arkansas Ranks 47th in the nation for individuals determined to have high prevalence of Mental Illness, and ranks 44th for poor access to services. This has not been an easy task and in fact this has been a rollercoaster for us all; the moments of success, has been sporadic but kept us all motivated to keep pushing along the journey. The disappointment has allowed us to remain optimistic while staying motivated to show up for our allies when needed. We are glad to call Little Rock home, our deep southern roots has allowed us to be authentic and faith driven. We are also honored to know that we are the FIRST in the nation that truly addresses the Mental Health Challenges for Boys, Men of Color, and their Families through a grassroots movement. Change is never easy, and taking some of the most world’s critical problems under one mission is just not enough to drive change. The L&J Empowerment Inc. Management Team has contributed blood, sweat and tears to making a solid difference even when things didn’t add up. We even took on the responsibilities of educate professionals, educators and frontline support staff when working to improve the life outcomes for Boys, Men of Color, and their Families through a culturally specific lens. We are grateful for those that will continue leading with us in the years to come, The late Dr. Martin Luther King stated “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, Only Light can do that” We must continue to live in the light and through uneven circumstances let our light be the veal that exhibits our inner peace and passion. I have ultimate confidence when speaking power to Building a Culture of Mental Health and that long-term change will be effective. The Confess Project will remain committed to promoting positive mental health while transforming institutions, communities, and systems that will be applicable for men and their loved ones.”
Find more at:
Website: https://www.theconfessproject.com/
Instagram: @theconfessproject
Instagram: @lorenzoplewis
Enjoy, and looking forward to your feedback and support on this episode.
