By: Freddy Flores
Broadway Theater Center, Times Square, NYC | June 12–13, 2025
In the heart of Times Square, where Broadway lights shine brightest, a significant event is set to challenge and reshape the conversation around trauma and healing. Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown is not just another conference; it is an initiative that seeks to shift the narrative of personal struggle into one of resilience and transformation. Set within the iconic Broadway Theater Center, this event invites attendees to explore profound healing through personal stories and insights shared by an exceptional lineup of global speakers.
Rahul K. Maharaj: Leading Trauma Advocacy Through Art
Rahul K. Maharaj, known as Mr. Trauma Talks, has long been a passionate advocate for transforming trauma into a meaningful catalyst for healing. Through his work, he has created a platform that brings difficult, often stigmatized conversations about trauma into the open, while connecting with people through the arts. In a recent interview, Rahul shared his dedication to this cause, stating, “We bring our truths to a place of art—a stage that has always celebrated drama—and now it tells the story of our resilience.”
For the past seven years, Rahul has worked tirelessly to challenge the stigma surrounding trauma, speaking openly about issues such as suicide, abuse, and struggles faced by individuals on the streets of New York City. His Your Life Experiences with Rah platform has been pivotal in creating open spaces for these difficult conversations, bringing together influential voices such as Dominique T.A.R. Jackson, star of Netflix’s Pose, and Lovari, who is once again hosting the event this year. Rahul’s commitment to healing and advocacy continues to evolve, marked by the success of his previous conferences on Broadway, and Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown marks his fifth conference in this transformative series.
Although Gheefunny (Eric R. Lawton) is not part of the speaker lineup, his contribution to the event is still deeply valued, as his insights and experiences have played a crucial role in shaping the ongoing discussions around trauma and resilience.
A Diverse Lineup of Global Speakers
At Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown, attendees will hear from 16 speakers from around the world who will share their personal experiences of trauma and recovery. Each speaker offers unique insights that challenge common misconceptions about trauma and healing, providing valuable perspectives for anyone navigating their own path to recovery.
- Sofia Nordgren suggests that healing is often not straightforward: “Healing isn’t linear—no single therapist or method can mend every wound. We must embrace the complex, layered nature of our journeys.”
- Nina V. Garza addresses the emotional complexity of recovery, emphasizing the importance of creating spaces where people can express themselves freely: “Recovery can be messy and emotional. I create safe spaces where people express their truths naturally, without the pressure to appear perfect.”
- Brettney Perr highlights the strength found in confronting pain directly: “True strength is facing pain head-on. I help people reclaim clarity and turn their deepest struggles into real power.”
- Ellen Pellegrino shares her intuitive approach to healing: “Healing is a natural process. Through my intuitive, quantum-based work, I guide people to rediscover their inherent worth.”
- Michael Jacobs emphasizes that trauma is not always visible: “Not all trauma is visible. Recognizing both external and internal wounds sparks the true path to recovery.”
- Susan ‘SueZee’ Finley focuses on sound therapy to help individuals reconnect with their natural healing abilities: “Medication can mute the noise, but authentic healing comes from within. My sound therapy awakens the body’s natural capacity to heal.”
- Tammy De Mirza speaks on the power of transformation: “Pain isn’t a flaw—it’s the beginning of a breakthrough. I help uncover the roots of suffering to reveal the potential for transformation.”
- Vasa Mestha believes in a holistic approach: “We must move past the reliance on quick fixes. Holistic techniques like the Art of Living, Sudarshan Kriya, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming can truly lead to healing.”
- Ranjanna Hvenegaard challenges the myth of perfection: “There’s a misconception that you have to appear ‘perfect’ to be successful. I create spaces where vulnerability is celebrated and authenticity reigns.”
- Evelyn Taylor advocates for alternative methods to overcome isolation: “Too often, we think drugs are the only answer. My nonprofit, Advocates of Healthy Minds, shows there are alternative ways to overcome isolation and despair.”
- Dr. Cecelia Hawkins emphasizes the need for understanding trauma’s roots: “We’re only beginning to understand how trauma shapes our lives. Recognizing its roots, whether innate or acquired, is the first step toward transformation.”
- Steve Vaccaro advocates for personal empowerment: “Empowerment is about defining ourselves by our passions and skills, not by limiting labels. My work through Chapters Network provides that safe platform for individual excellence.”
- Bhavna Srivastava offers a holistic healing approach: “My Golden Light Method dispels the myths around trauma, offering holistic support that nurtures resilience and hope.”
- Donna McGrath speaks about transformation through natural remedies: “A diagnosis isn’t a life sentence. Through energetic transformation and natural remedies like flower essences, even the deepest wounds can heal.”
Each of these speakers offers invaluable insight into overcoming trauma and finding strength in adversity, ensuring that attendees walk away with a more comprehensive and enriched understanding of their healing journeys.
Healing Through Community and Connection
One of the most notable aspects of Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown is the sense of community that is cultivated during the event. Beyond the impactful stories shared on stage, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with others who have shared similar experiences. In this environment, healing is framed not just as an individual pursuit but as a collective journey. Participants will leave the event with actionable insights, tools for growth, and a deepened sense of connection to others on their healing journeys.
The event also partners with NAMI NYC to offer attendees free resources and personalized support. This collaboration ensures that attendees leave with practical tools and support, allowing them to continue their healing process well beyond the conference. Additionally, a special performance by a group of children who have overcome significant challenges will serve as a symbol of hope, demonstrating that healing is a journey that can continue to unfold in powerful ways.
A Call to Reclaim the Pieces of Ourselves
Rahul’s message resonates deeply: “What is meant for you shall never pass you by, and what passes you by was never meant for you.” This belief encapsulates the essence of Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown—that hardships are not necessarily barriers but opportunities for growth and change. Through this transformative event, participants will be encouraged to reclaim the lost pieces of themselves, turning pain into strength and suffering into empowerment.
The event is not intended to offer immediate solutions, but rather to provide a platform for shifting perspectives and redefining what it means to heal. With a focus on vulnerability, authenticity, and personal empowerment, Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown offers an opportunity for transformation.
An Experience to Remember
For those looking to explore their own healing journey, Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown provides a variety of ticket options, including General Admission (buy one, get one free) and VIP Award Gala Experience (buy one, get one half price). These options are designed to ensure an intimate and impactful experience for all attendees, allowing them to fully engage with the event’s offerings.
As Rahul Maharaj continues to lead the charge in trauma advocacy, Your Trauma Talks: Into the Unknown stands as a testament to the power of sharing stories, embracing vulnerability, and connecting through collective healing. For more information about the event and to secure your seat, please visit the official website at mrtraumatalks.com or purchase tickets directly through Eventbrite.
Contact Information
For additional inquiries or media requests, please contact:
Mr. Trauma Talks
Website: mrtraumatalks.com
Email: info@mrtraumatalks.com
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not constitute professional advice. The event details, opinions, and insights shared are not intended to replace or substitute for professional guidance. Readers should consult appropriate professionals for advice or guidance related to trauma, healing, or any other personal matters discussed.
