Today we’d like to introduce you to LaTonya Duncan

LaTonya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

I have always harbored a deep passion for helping others, a drive that intertwines seamlessly with my love for fashion. From a young age, I found immense joy in offering assistance and making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. This innate desire to help others has shaped my path and directed my energies towards meaningful pursuits. Simultaneously, my fascination with fashion has allowed me to explore creativity and self-expression, merging style with purpose. By combining these two passions, I aspire to not only enhance the confidence and well-being of individuals through thoughtful fashion choices but also to promote a sense of community and support. Whether it’s through styling someone for a special occasion, organizing clothing drives for those in need, or simply offering a listening ear and a helping hand, my goal is to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, all while celebrating the transformative power of fashion.

Starting a nonprofit dedicated to educating others on serious health issues is a deeply meaningful endeavor that combines my passion for helping others with a commitment to fostering awareness and understanding. My vision for this nonprofit is to create a platform where individuals can access reliable, comprehensive information about various health conditions, empowering them to make informed decisions about their well-being. Through workshops, seminars, and online resources, we aim to demystify complex health topics, provide support for those affected, and advocate for preventive measures and early detection.

Education is the cornerstone of better health outcomes, and by addressing gaps in knowledge, we can reduce the stigma and misinformation often associated with serious health issues. Our programs will target diverse communities, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders, our nonprofit will strive to create a supportive network that not only educates but also fosters a sense of community and shared responsibility.

Ultimately, the goal is to equip individuals with the tools they need to take control of their health, advocate for themselves and others, and contribute to a healthier, more informed society. By dedicating ourselves to this mission, we can make a lasting impact and inspire positive change in the realm of public health.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

Having the support from the public has been challenging, but I will not stop. Despite the obstacles and setbacks, my commitment to starting a nonprofit dedicated to educating others on serious health issues remains unwavering. The journey is not easy, but each small victory and every bit of progress fuels my determination. I believe in the power of knowledge and the difference it can make in people’s lives.

Every challenge encountered is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I am dedicated to finding innovative ways to engage the public and build a strong foundation for this cause. My passion for helping others and my vision for a healthier, better-informed society drive me forward. I will continue to reach out, share stories, and raise awareness, knowing that persistence and resilience are key to achieving meaningful change. Together, with unwavering determination, we can overcome these challenges and make a significant impact.

My own health issues have tried to slow me down, but they have also deepened my resolve to make a difference. Navigating my personal health challenges has given me a unique perspective and a profound empathy for others facing similar struggles. It has reinforced my belief in the importance of education and support, driving me to push forward with even greater determination.

Every setback has only strengthened my commitment to starting a nonprofit dedicated to educating others about serious health issues. I understand firsthand the confusion and fear that can accompany a health diagnosis, and I want to empower others with knowledge and resources to navigate their journeys. My experiences have made me more resilient and more passionate about this mission. I will continue to advocate, educate, and support, undeterred by the obstacles, because I know the impact we can make together is worth every challenge faced along the way.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

The idea of educating others on health issues through fashion combines entertainment with learning in a unique and engaging way. 1 Heart Health and Wellness, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, embodies this innovative approach. Our events provide a platform where survivors and those with personal connections to serious health conditions can come together, share their experiences, and learn in an inspiring environment. By integrating fashion into our educational initiatives, we create memorable experiences that captivate and inform participants.

Fashion is the name, and education is the focus. Through runway shows, styling workshops, and themed fashion events, we highlight critical health topics such as heart health, mental wellness, and preventive care. Each event is designed to be both informative and enjoyable, ensuring that attendees leave with valuable knowledge and a sense of empowerment. Our goal is to make learning about health issues accessible and engaging, breaking down barriers and fostering a community of informed, proactive individuals.

Incorporating fashion into our mission not only adds an element of fun but also allows us to reach a broader audience. It serves as a powerful reminder that taking care of one’s health is always in style. Together, we can transform lives by combining the elegance of fashion with the vital importance of health education.

The donations we receive are crucial in providing the resources needed to make a meaningful impact. What sets 1 Heart Health and Wellness apart is our transparency and genuine passion for giving back. Donors can always see exactly who their contributions are helping, as we maintain a close-knit community where every participant’s story is known and valued.

Our passion for giving back is at the core of everything we do. We are deeply committed to supporting survivors and those with loved ones affected by serious health issues, ensuring they have access to vital education and resources. Our events are not just about raising awareness; they are about fostering real connections and offering tangible support.

By combining fashion and education, we create a unique space where learning about health becomes an engaging and memorable experience. Our dedication to this cause is evident in the personal relationships we build with those we help and the heartfelt stories shared at our events. This personal touch and unwavering commitment to our mission make us stand out and drive us to continue making a positive difference in the lives of many.

Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?

We need people to work with us, collaborate with us, and support our mission at 1 Heart Health and Wellness. Our vision of educating others on serious health issues through the creative medium of fashion is ambitious and impactful, but we cannot do it alone. We invite passionate individuals, healthcare professionals, fashion enthusiasts, and community leaders to join us in this unique endeavor.

Collaboration is key to expanding our reach and enhancing the effectiveness of our programs. By partnering with experts in health and wellness, we can ensure the information we provide is accurate and comprehensive. Working with fashion industry professionals allows us to create captivating and meaningful events that draw attention and inspire action. Community support and involvement are essential in fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Your support, whether through volunteering, donations, or spreading the word, is invaluable. Together, we can break down the barriers to health education, making it accessible and engaging for all. Join us in our mission to combine fashion with education, and help us create a healthier, better-informed community. With your help, we can make a lasting impact and change lives for the better.

Image Credits

Michael Moore
Nystasha Kelly
Charles Williams
Emmanuel Elkins