Meet Your Hosts:
Sofia Seitchik and Karen Putz

Bio: Melissa Elmira Yingst is a dedicated professional passionate about uncovering hidden narratives and promoting social awareness, with roots in Southern California that shaped her commitment to community engagement. With a Bachelor's in Psychology from Gallaudet University and a Master's in Social Work from Arizona State University, she has served as a social worker and school counselor in New York City and Phoenix, while teaching as adjunct faculty at various universities. Currently a consultant with Innivee Strategies, Melissa drives organizational change and development while advocating for community empowerment. She serves on the board of the Gallaudet University Alumni Association and is actively involved with Council de Manos, working to end injustice within the Deaf Latinx community. Through her show MELMIRA, Melissa fosters important conversations on social issues, creating meaningful community dialogue. Based in New York City and recognized by her signature red lipstick—a symbol of her strength and commitment—she continues to make a positive impact in all her endeavors.

A creative and candid session about dropping the act and tuning into the version of you that actually resonates.

Bio: Tate Tullier is best known for his creative, vibrant art and photography. When he was 12, he picked up his mother's camera and fell in love with life through a lens.

Tate loves taking photos, but more than anything else, he loves creativity. Tate loves being around art, whether or not he makes it. Tate paints, draws, and creates t-shirts (which he sells at Cosmic Sobbing), Tate loves to read and study spiritual stuff.

"I support my fellow artists, and I remind myself constantly to never take my privilege and fortune for granted," says Tate. "I have worked hard for my success, but I will never assume it’s always for me to have. Every day is a new day to learn something new."

How to Use Your Trauma Trigger to Shift Your Vibration. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but what if you could transform your pain into power? In this inspiring presentation, Rochella Jones shares her personal journey of overcoming deep loss and financial hardship. She will reveal how she reframed trauma triggers, shifted her mindset, and found inner peace. Attendees will learn practical strategies to elevate their energy, break free from emotional stressors, and create a more empowered, high-vibrational life.

Bio: Rochella Jones was born and raised in Minnesota as the youngest of five children in a Deaf family. She spent her summers on an organic farm and attended a Deaf school in the city during the school year. With a deep passion for holistic wellness, she became a holistic nutritionist and founded Blue Organic Kitchen, a supplement company she has successfully run for 11 years. Rochella also serves as the president of the MSAD Foundation, where she helps create opportunities for Deaf students. On Instagram (@LifeLessonASL), she shares her personal journey, offering insights on grief, budgeting, and home improvement. In her free time, Rochella loves reading books, collecting anything related to elephants, baking organic desserts, gardening, and giving back to the Deaf community. She lives with her Deaf husband, Deaf daughter, and their three beloved pets.

When life throws you a challenge, that's when you dig in and RAISE your vibe. Embrace your truth, set high standards, and refuse to shrink yourself for anything or anyone.

Bio: Ebony is a Black deaf woman of Puerto Rican descent, blending technical expertise and creative passion. With over 8 years at a Fortune 500 tech company as a Technical Specialist, Software Engineering Project Manager, and Accessibility Champion, she has dedicated her career to innovation and inclusivity. Outside of tech, she is a Footwear Designer and Creative Director, channeling her artistry into unique designs. She holds degrees from the Rochester Institute of Technology and the New York Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design, where she continues to explore the intersection of creativity, technology, and design.

Bio: Sofia Seitchik is a certified transformational coach, speaker, author, and visionary leader dedicated to empowering individuals through mindshift transformation, entrepreneurship, and community-building. As the founder of Global Deaf Women, she has spent over 15 years coaching and mentoring Deaf women entrepreneurs, helping them cultivate their visions and achieve personal and professional breakthroughs.

Sofia is the award-winning author of The Light of Deaf Women: Inspirational Stories From Visionaries, Artists, Founders & Entrepreneurs, a powerful collection of stories celebrating resilience, creativity, and leadership. She also co-authored Raise Your Vibe. Workbook: Create a High Energy Life with More Joy and Fun and Raise Your Vibe: An Interactive Journal, both available on Amazon.

Bio:
Karen is known as "The Passion Mentor." She is the author of multiple books, including the bestselling "Unwrapping Your Passion, Creating the Life You Truly Want." Karen teaches "Finding Your Passion" and "Stress Management" at RIT. She is a Mindvalley Life Coach and Passion Coach.

Karen is the founder of The Passion School, Deaf Academy, and The Parent Circle.