"Hope, resilience, and self-determination are not merely external forces; they emanate from within! 

LaTanya Black's compelling narrative serves as a testament to her passion, love, resilience, and unwavering faith amidst life's formidable challenges. With a diverse background as an executive director, board vice-chair for a statewide nonprofit, dedicated frontline Community Health Worker, and national ambassador, LaTanya provides a unique perspective shaped by profound experiences. Her work includes extensive engagement with adults living with mental health disabilities, along with a deep involvement in geriatric care and end-of-life Hospice services.

​

Despite her notable achievements and respected roles, LaTanya found herself plunged into unimaginable grief on June 13, 2020, receiving a distressing call informing her of her daughter's life being abruptly ended by a single gunshot to the head. In the aftermath of this catastrophic event that forever upended her life, LaTanya discovered an extraordinary inner strength, fueled by her deep faith in God and the unwavering support of her community.

​

This transformative journey has shaped her into a passionate spokesperson for community change and betterment, dedicated to creating a space of health and wellness for all. LaTanya is deeply committed to public safety, actively serving as a gun violence prevention advocate and working with legislation to bring about positive changes. Additionally, she serves as a delegate in her district, emphasizing her dedication to community health and safety.

​

As a keynote speaker, LaTanya offers a profound perspective that goes beyond mere tragedy, serving as a testament to post-traumatic growth and the capacity to thrive after trauma. She has taken her voice and advocacy to notable places, including the Nation's Capitol, "The White House," alongside Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., the founder and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition—an influential civil rights, religious, and political figure in America.

​

In her talks, LaTanya openly discusses the physical and mental health effects of trauma, drawing from her personal experience of hospitalization due to physical health challenges amid the complexities of grief and the traumatic loss of her 23-year-old daughter. Emphasizing the importance of addressing all facets of well-being—physical, mental, and emotional—in the journey of self-discovery and healing, LaTanya asserts that holistic self-care is non-negotiable. She believes individuals actively contribute to their own growth and well-being by integrating comprehensive self-care practices into their transformative journey.

​

In sharing her story, LaTanya provides tools and strategies crucial for moving towards healing from trauma. She encourages reframing and avoiding catastrophizing about the future, advocating for the practice of positive imagery. This involves taking moments in a quiet place to write about what success looks like, envisioning recovery from stumbling, identifying ultimate sources of hope and strength, and creating a detailed mental picture of oneself succeeding. Additionally, she recommends incorporating positive mental imagery into daily routines, visualizing overcoming challenges and achieving personal goals.

​

LaTanya's keynote addresses and offers valuable insights, resilience, and an enriching pilgrimage toward self-awareness and personal growth, highlighting the potential for healing and restoration amid profound darkness. Her message is one of hope, inspiration, and actionable change for organizations seeking a speaker deeply connected with their audience. By authentically sharing her life-lived experiences, LaTanya empowers individuals to approach grief, life hardships, and challenges in a rejuvenating and empowering way.

​

She firmly believes that while inspiration nourishes the soul, providing practical tools is essential to supporting individuals as they navigate life-shaking circumstances. LaTanya demonstrates that finding peace, rediscovering joy, and reclaiming a smile despite life's unexpected hurdles is not only possible but inherent, waiting to resurface. Her presence at your next conference, workshop, organization, or faith-based community setting promises to leave a lasting impact on hearts and minds, fostering empathy, understanding, and a profound commitment to positive growth.