I have pursued an advanced degree for AGPCNP and graduated in 2021. After losing 3 family members this past year all suffering from mental health issues and substance abuse, including my own brother. I have switched gears toward that of mental health advocacy. Coming from an Indo-Caribbean background I have personally seen the financial and mental strain faced by people of my community. Unfortunately, mental health stigma comes from those closest to us and was even considered taboo in my household. I strive to change the mental health narrative for colored populations in the Queens and Brooklyn area. I am currently a graduate student for a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certificate to advocate for mental health support and substance abuse in children and adolescents of underserved communities.