Connie Pertuz Meza, a Colombian American writer and two-decade-long NYC public school educator, mother of two teenagers, and wife. Connie’s writing has appeared in The Rumpus, Kweli Literary Journal, and elsewhere, as well as several anthologies. Connie is a three-time VONA alum and board member secretary, a three-time Tin House participant, a 2021 Aspen Words Ricardo Salinas Latinx recipient, a 2022 Pen America Emerging Fellow, and 2023 We Need Diverse Books Mentorship Finalist.
What do you get out of the community: Community, like-minded folks, and knowledge.
Offerings: I am a writer, educator, and yogi. I love talking about, self growth, books, signs from the universe, and love sky gazing. I never come alone, I be rollin with my ancestors, who guide me and steer me to the path of true SELF.
Timothy is a Jay Shetty certified mindfulness coach and educator at heart with over 20 years of dynamic experience honoring unique individuality and nurturing innate curiosity. An avid researcher of epigenetics, human psychology, and the new human biology, he allows a love for learning and growth to fuel his zest for life. Timothy is a 200-h RYT with training in the foundations of Yin and trauma-sensitive yoga. Timothy teaches an Everyday Mindfulness & Meditation course, works with individuals and groups looking to explore how mindfulness can neutralize effects of stress and modern living, and offers embodied movement classes including yoga and capoeira. Timothy enjoys training and teaching, travel, and exploring the contrast of being deeply drawn to nature while embracing the hustle and bustle of New York City.
What do you get out of the community: The collective has become a community for me. A refuge to find not only resources for healing, but a community of people uniquely sharing their light.
Offerings:
Mariah Texidor is an artist and educator. Working in Photography, she shows connection within and between those she photographs and continues to push that we all deserve to be remembered.
What do you get out of the community: Being a part of the collective, I get community! I get reassurance and opportunity to reflect as to whether I’m in alignment with my wants and pivot as needed, all within a community of encouraging and open-minded people.
Offering: Portrait Sessions, Headshots, One on One photography lessons, photo course, and fine art printing services.
Doa is a certified yoga instructor, community builder, and teacher of transcendental and Islamic meditation. A Religious studies major in college, Doa focuses on Sufism as well as mysticism in the different faith traditions. She also teaches Quran & Arabic classes and runs workshops, courses, and retreats online and in-person in the New York Area. Her work is centered around the importance of safe, authentic community spaces and the relationship between healing and spirituality
What do you get out of the community: It’s a beautiful regular check-in for me. A safe community of people who know and get me. Also, the ability to read beautiful texts and learn and grow together, plus workshops on topics of interest. Many times, the collective has been my sanity. So grateful for the beautiful friendships I’ve made through it.
Offering: Quran & Arabic classes, yoga & meditation, 1:1 spiritual & emotional wellness coaching, online workshops and courses, in-person events, and retreats.