When Bearing Witness: Becoming a Trauma-Informed Storyteller

Creating Trauma-Informed Spaces with Frank Velásquez Jr.

Maria Bryan Season 1 Episode 14

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Are you ready for a masterclass in trauma-informed space holding? 

In this episode of When Bearing Witness, we are joined by Frank Velásquez Jr., founder of 4 the Hood and creator of the Ascending Leaders in Color Fellowship program

Frank pulls back the curtain on how he creates protected spaces for leaders of color to connect, grow, and authentically express themselves without filters. We also discussed the crucial need for these spaces, given the historical lack of representation in leadership roles and the challenges people of color face in predominantly white workplaces.


About Frank Velásquez Jr.

Meet Frank Velásquez Jr.: Storyteller Extraordinaire, Social Justice Warrior, and Community Trailblazer. With a heart as big as his vision, Frank dances on the frontlines of change, armed with an unshakeable belief in racial and gender equity. As the founder of 4 Da Hood and the mastermind behind the Ascending Leaders in Color Fellowship program, Frank is forging paths for people of color to lead with authenticity, courage, and joy! For Frank, advancing equity isn't just a job—it's a movement toward building generational wealth for communities of color!


Connect with Frank Velásquez Jr.

4 Da Hood | Ascending Leaders in Color Fellowship program| LinkedIn | Instagram

About Host Maria Bryan

Maria Bryan is a trauma-informed storytelling trainer. She helps nonprofit leaders tell powerful and impactful stories that resist harm. Maria has over fifteen years in marketing communications in the public sector. She has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, and is professionally certified in Trauma & Resilience, Trauma-Informed Space Holding, and Somatic Embodiment & Regulation. Maria is a firm believer that storytellers make the world a healthier, safer, cleaner, and happier place.


Connect with Maria

Speaking & Training | LinkedIn | Email

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