CONFERENCE 2024
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CHRISTINA VEGA
PRESIDENT & FOUNDER
Christina is a Philadelphia Native who resides currently in Northeast Philadelphia, but grew up in the heart of North Philadelphia. Christina is a mother to a 15 year old daughter, to whom she has taught the importance of honesty, tenacity and perseverance. Christina has worked with youth of all
ages throughout the School District, and she's worked in various capacities; School Counselor, School Social worker, family liaison, and currently works under the Mayor’s office initiative as a Community School Coordinator, to name a few.
Christina began her mission of spreading awareness of Domestic Violence after a friend was shot and killed by her husband in August, 2018. Being a survivor of 6 years of Domestic Violence herself, Christina thought it was time to end her silence and bring to light the horrible instances of abuse
that she had endured, as a way of allowing current victims the outlet, to seek help from a familiar face.
Since then, Christina has formed her own non-profit which now helps victims of all forms of DV, from helping victims acquire protection from abuse orders, emergency services via the local and state police, to providing funds to victims who need emergency relocation services! Christina and her team have addressed crowds of 200 - 400 at a time, in the community, at local schools, law enforcement agencies and even corporate America sharing their stories of abuse and freedom.
Christina has addressed members of TD Bank, Ally Bank, Congress, and city hall! Christina has been featured in multiple state and local newspapers for her work in Domestic Violence, and in the summer of 2020 was awarded the Powerful Latina Award by El Sol Latino Newspaper, and Health Partners! Christina also represented her organization in front of Senator Bob Casey during his round table discussion on Domestic Violence, and was highlighted in Telemundo’s Women history month, as an influential lady leader last year.
APRIL HERNANDEZ-CASTILLO
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
April Hernandez Castillo's dream became a reality when she booked her first commercial as the “Yo girl” in the Visa Check Card spot starring Yao Ming and Yogi Berra. The commercial would air for the Super Bowl and become a sports classic. April then starred in television shows such as; Law & Order: SVU, The Following, Person of Interest, and Elementary. April garnered a recurring role on Showtime’s Dexter which she was nominated for a SAG nomination for Best Ensemble cast. April is most noted for her powerful portrayal as “Eva Benitez” in the hit movie Freedom Writers starring Oscar winner Hilary Swank. She also has worked on NBC’s popular shows- New Amsterdam, Prodigal Son, and Gossip Girl.
April has also graced a different stage as a public speaker. Her message of resilience, overcoming adversity, and the ability to move beyond trauma has taken April on a journey across the United States and internationally. She is reaching an array of audiences ranging from high schools, universities, conferences, and corporate events. April has spoken on some of the most prestigious stages starting from Harvard University, Q Conference to her most significant stage to date, TEDx.
April released her second book, a memoir titled “ Embracing Me”, a heartfelt, transparent, and witty memoir that explores April’s story of being a survivor of intimate partner violence with the understanding that; we all possess the power to rewrite our story. She takes the audience behind the scenes to some of the most intimate parts of her life. April uses her voice to ignite, empower, and educate her audiences with a dash of humor!
She currently lives in NYC with her husband and two beautiful daughters. They own a production company called LionChaser Media, Inc.
JACLYN RODRIGUEZ
MASTER OF CEREMONY
Jaclyn, also known to many as Jackee, hails from Puerto Rico, but transitioned to North Philadelphia at a very young age. If you know Jackee, you know she brings ENERGY!! Jackee's no 1 tagline reads, "I'm a Latina powerhouse, dancing my way through life!" Jackee can be found in her health and wellness club in northeast Philadelphia, empowering her clients, while also mentoring them through their weightloss journey. If you are in the market for love, Jackee can also be called to make your wedding day momentous, as an ordained wedding officiant.
But Jackee's beginning's were humble, coming from a single parent home, she was determined to take all the steps necessary, to rise above the stereotype. Jackee is successful in her pursuits to leave corporate America, and make a successful way for her daughter and for herself. Jackee is a mogul, a fire starter, an uplifter and she is dedicated to her community!
Jackee can wake up the energy of any room she enters, and is sure to brighten, the worse day!
EDWIN DESAMOUR
SPEAKER
Born and raised in north Philadelphia, Edwin Desamour lived a life similar to many youth who are currently living in the city. These experiences have ultimately led him down a path
that has caused him to see both significant difficulty and blinding hope. It is these experiences, both the positive and negative, that have inspired him to pursue a career that
has brought him back to his community to empower and serve the youth who are growing up where he did.
As a young man growing up in Philadelphia, Edwin experienced many difficulties, which ultimately led him to falling victim to the struggles of the streets where he grew up. After overcoming almost insurmountable odds, Edwin made it his personal mission to support young men experiencing the same struggles he did as a teenager. Through involvement
with Philadelphia Anti-Drug Anti-violence Network (PAAN), Women Organized Against Rape (WOAR), and Congreso, he was able to use his skills and knowledge to support his
community by becoming a role model and an advocate for Juvenile Justice. He has, in his own words, become the man for others that he needed when he was a teen.
Today you can find Edwin once again serving his community in his role as Director of the Lighthouse Sports Complex, where he is able to continue his mission of positive outreach to
Philadelphia youth. He is also a successful entrepreneur, opening his own business in the fall of 2019.
Edwin Desamour is a man who has risen up from adversity and come out triumphant. Like the phoenix, Edwin endured the fire so he could rise from the ashes and become the man
he is today. He is a uniquely remarkable man who has made a significant difference in the community that raised him- a constant guiding light and a quiet force who inspires anyone
near him to be their best self.
WORKSHOP SPEAKERS
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
Meet Jessica “Jay” Narvaez, hailing proudly from North Philadelphia. As a devoted wife and mother of three wonderful children and also The Live Life Financial Coach and Educator, Jessica's personal journey has been deeply intertwined with her commitment to securing a better future for her family and community. With an enthusiasm for emp
Meet Jessica “Jay” Narvaez, hailing proudly from North Philadelphia. As a devoted wife and mother of three wonderful children and also The Live Life Financial Coach and Educator, Jessica's personal journey has been deeply intertwined with her commitment to securing a better future for her family and community. With an enthusiasm for empowering individuals and families, Jessica's journey toward financial literacy began from humble beginnings. Having earned three degrees from esteemed institutions – an Associate in Arts in Business from the Community College of Philadelphia, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems from Temple University, and a Master's in Strategic Leadership from Rosemont College – her academic pursuits laid a solid foundation for her mission-driven career.
In 2017, Jessica found herself navigating the complexities of finances as part of a low-income family. Burdened by 9 maxed out credit cards, a car lease, medical debt, and student loans, the struggle of living paycheck to paycheck weighed heavily. Determined to break the cycle, Jessica and her family embarked on a transformative financial journey. Over four years, they not only triumphantly cleared $54k in debt but also diligently saved $50k, a testament to their resilience, unwavering commitment and disciplined approach.
Motivated by the lack of financial education within minority communities, Jessica recognized the pressing need for actionable guidance and support. Thus, The Live Life Financial Coach and Educator was born —a platform aimed at empowering families to achieve their financial aspirations, one step at a time. Jessica firmly believes that true financial success is not merely about stability, but about crafting a holistic plan to truly LIVE LIFE to its fullest potential.
As a devoted wife and mother, Jessica understands firsthand the importance of financial security for families. Her personal experiences fuel her passion to guide others in similar situations, aiming to create a brighter, financially empowered future for all. Through personalized coaching, education, and a compassionate approach, Jessica advocates for financial empowerment, emphasizing the importance of each individual's unique path toward financial freedom. Her mission is clear: to equip families with the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to conquer financial hurdles and embrace a life of abundance.
Join Jessica, where expertise meets empathy. Here, families find not just financial guidance but a supportive partner in their journey toward prosperity. Her unwavering commitment to fostering financial wellness underscores her belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, irrespective of their circumstances. Jessica just wants to be your beacon toward a fulfilling and abundant life, where the focus isn't just on financial success but on cultivating a fulfilling life, one well-planned step at a time."
“The most important part of this journey is to create a plan to LIVE LIFE!” ~ Jessica “Jay” Narvaez
monica parrilla
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
Hello, I'm Monica Parrilla, a proud resident of Hunting Park North Philadelphia. As a dedicated mother of four, my journey has been defined by a commitment to my community and a passion for small businesses.
In 2016, my husband and I took a bold step by becoming owners of Marz Auto Central, an enterprise that reflects our dedication to ent
Hello, I'm Monica Parrilla, a proud resident of Hunting Park North Philadelphia. As a dedicated mother of four, my journey has been defined by a commitment to my community and a passion for small businesses.
In 2016, my husband and I took a bold step by becoming owners of Marz Auto Central, an enterprise that reflects our dedication to entrepreneurship. My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in International Business and Finance from Temple University, and I'm currently pursuing a Master's degree in Public Policy.
My involvement extends beyond business, as I serve as the President of the Hunting Park Business Association. In this role, I assist members with various issues and bridge language barriers, ensuring a smooth interaction with city-related requests.
Community service holds a special place in my heart. As the Area Finance Coordinator of Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., I devote countless hours to impactful initiatives. Additionally, I proudly serve as the Board President of the Lighthouse Inc., Philadelphia's oldest non-profit organization.
With a fervor for politics, I actively encourage and empower women to engage in civic activities. Recently appointed as the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Commissioner for Latino Affairs under Governor Josh Shapiro's Administration, I am excited to contribute to the betterment of our community.
JAIME MILLER
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
JAIME MILLER
Jamie Miller, a dynamic professional speaker, esteemed self-defense instructor, and a fervent advocate against domestic violence. My journey from a competitive MMA fighter to a champion for change is driven by over 18 years of dedicated martial arts training and a profound commitment to empowering individuals and communities.
As an MMA
Jamie Miller, a dynamic professional speaker, esteemed self-defense instructor, and a fervent advocate against domestic violence. My journey from a competitive MMA fighter to a champion for change is driven by over 18 years of dedicated martial arts training and a profound commitment to empowering individuals and communities.
As an MMA fighter, I proudly finished my career with a record of 5-4, claiming a championship title along the way. I currently hold a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a testament to my discipline and passion for martial arts.
Transitioning from the ring to the classroom, I've dedicated myself to teaching self-defense, sharing the invaluable skills and confidence I've accumulated to help others protect themselves and their loved ones.
Beyond the physical, my personal experience as a survivor of domestic violence has motivated me into action. Serving as a board member for Women Against Abuse, the largest non-profit domestic violence service provider in Pennsylvania, I leverage my voice and platform to advocate for those in need, partnering with organizations, schools, and events across the nation to inspire and empower survivors.
My Mission
My narrative is more than my own; it's a beacon of hope and a call to action. I believe in the extraordinary potential within each of us to face our fears, pursue our dreams, and enact positive change. Through my speaking engagements, workshops, and advocacy, I aim to inspire resilience, courage, and transformation, encouraging everyone to rise above their circumstances and advocate for a safer, more just world.
Connect with me for inspiring talks, self-defense workshops, and advocacy efforts. Together, let's empower, inspire, and change lives!
#SelfDefense #DomesticViolenceAdvocacy #PublicSpeaking #Empowerment #ChangeMaker
SHEILA AMO
Jessica Narvaez Toledo
JAIME MILLER
Sheila Amo is the founder and Chief Executive Officer at The Perry Perspective, LLC. A
former HR Executive, Sheila’s transitioned to consultant and coach specializing in radical, disruptive authenticity. She works both business-to-business (B2B) and
business-to-consumer (B2C). She supports organizations in aligning on strategy, fostering au
Sheila Amo is the founder and Chief Executive Officer at The Perry Perspective, LLC. A
former HR Executive, Sheila’s transitioned to consultant and coach specializing in radical, disruptive authenticity. She works both business-to-business (B2B) and
business-to-consumer (B2C). She supports organizations in aligning on strategy, fostering authentic leadership, and nurturing a culture of genuine connection and empowerment.
In addition to her work with businesses, Sheila is deeply passionate about empowering
women. As a style coach and presence facilitator, she teaches women to embrace and optimize the power of presence. Through tailored coaching, she guides them to align their outer presentation with their inner brilliance so they can confidently take up space and express their expertise with authenticity and visibility.
Sheila is a certified Senior Professional of Human Resources, Inner Presence Coach and Certified Executive Culture Coach.
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