By: Freddy Flores
With only hours to go until a groundbreaking mental health conference takes center stage on Broadway at The Theater Center, we caught up with Rahul K. Maharaj, CEO of “Your Trauma Talks.” His response was nothing short of inspiring: “With my host being none other than Lovari, who is the talked-about figure right now, I couldn’t be more at ease. Along with my amazing lineup of speakers, we will bring light to ‘Your Trauma Talks.’”
Lovari, a multi-talented singer and actor, has made waves in the entertainment industry. He reached the Top 25 on the Billboard Dance Club Play charts with his hit song “No Day Like Today” from his album “Moment of Love,” which peaked at #2 on the iTunes US Electronic Albums chart. Lovari has also immersed himself in the horror genre, taking on supporting roles in films like “The Barn”, “Clown Motel”, and the “Terror Toons” franchises. His appearances on shows such as “Wheel of Fortune” and “The Match Game” further showcase his versatility. Recently, Lovari went viral after a performance mishap at a Trump-themed fashion show was featured on Jimmy Kimmel, leading to a wave of social media bullying. Despite this, he stands resilient and ready to empower others.
When asked about the trauma topics attendees can expect, Rah excitedly replied, “Wow, the topics are mind-blowing and will resonate with everyone. One significant focus is ‘Trauma in the Workplace,’ which many can connect with.”
Other vital topics include:
Anxiety Disorders: Understanding different types and coping mechanisms.
Burnout: Discussing signs, symptoms, and prevention strategies.
Depression: Addressing various forms and their daily life effects.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Exploring benefits for mental well-being.
Social Media and Mental Health: Examining their relationship.
Coping with Grief: Strategies for dealing with loss.
The Importance of Therapy: How therapy can help manage challenges.
Resilience and Mental Health: Developing resilience and its role.
Stigma Around Mental Health: Discussing stigma and ways to combat it.
Rah passionately emphasized, “Many talk about supporting mental health but fail to act upon it. I know mental health is more complex than just holding conferences, which is why we are thrilled that NAMI NYC has collaborated with us. They will be present to provide resources for those seeking help.”
Expressing his disappointment with some events that don’t genuinely address mental health, Rah stated, “I’ve attended mental health gatherings that felt more like small parties than actual mental health conferences. As an international motivational speaker, I’ve spent hours at these events only to speak for 3-5 minutes without recognition and respect for who I am. But this conference is different—it’s happening in a theater on Broadway in Times Square, not in a basement.”
Rah went on to highlight the stories from the lineup of speakers, emphasizing that their journeys are not just narratives but testimonies of survival, strength, and success. It’s about “from where they were from to where they are today”, triumphing over trauma, he explained, reflecting his passion for mental health advocacy.
He expressed gratitude to his sole sponsor, Dr. Cecelia Hawkins, CEO and founder of “Wings of Dorcas Inc.,” for her unwavering support. “I think people see this as just another mental health gathering, but they miss the point that this is happening on Broadway. It’s not just drama but trauma. People pay top dollar to see musicals here, and we’re bringing trauma stories and music to the stage. Keynote speaker SueZee will introduce sound healing, and Lovari and I will light up the audience with some beautiful songs.”
Rah reassured attendees that the conference is not meant to trigger anyone. “We understand that some stories may evoke strong emotions, but we’re here to show you that you are not alone. This is not just about trauma; it’s about changing your mindset and recognizing that you can make it happen for yourself.”
Although this is technically Rah’s fourth mental health conference, it is the first of its kind in a theater, akin to a TED Talk but uniquely branded as “Your Trauma Talks.” He urges everyone not to miss this event.
The conference will be live-streamed, allowing friends and family of speakers like Yanick Séïde and Nancy Sievert from Canada, who cannot travel to NYC, to support them online. The lineup also features Tiffany West, who recently joined the speaker roster, and Dr. Nyempu Karmue-Hall from Liberia, a pioneer addressing nurse burnout with her nonprofit “Pioneers of Nurses in Charge.” Co-host Brettney Perr is also excited to share her trauma story, having traveled from Los Angeles for this impactful event.
There is still time to get tickets! Follow Rah at [ylewrah.com/your-trauma-talks](https://ylewrah.com/your-trauma-talks/) and connect with him on Instagram @ylewrah and on Facebook and YouTube under “Your Life Experiences with Rah.”
Join this amazing event in New York City on October 3rd from 10 AM to 3 PM for the groundbreaking mental health conference, “Your Trauma Talks.” Be part of this monumental movement toward healing and resilience.
Published by: Holy Minoza
