Zoraida de Souza
PETERGAY & ZORAIDA DE SOUZA
Two generations, listening to each other
My mother, Petergay de Souza, and I share the stage to explore courage, emotional intelligence, and life’s uncertain moments. Together, we blend her seasoned expertise as a coach with my fresh perspective as a youth advocate to bridge generational gaps.
Through our shared dialogue, we provide a warm yet professional space to discuss mental health and leadership. Our combined voices offer a unique look at how different ages can learn from one another while speaking at venues across the nation.
Where we’ve shared the stage.
Slick Kicks Foundation. We addressed the power of philanthropy and taking the first step toward impactful community change through dedicated service.
University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. We engaged with the academic community on topics of authentic leadership and the importance of advocating for one’s self.
South Dakota. During a student leadership summit, we discussed finding courage in the face of the unknown and building resilience for the future.
Albany, New York. We facilitated a session for industry leaders focus on enhancing collaborative communication and fostering deeper professional connections.
California. We presented on the psychology of decision-making, highlighting the pivotal moment when intuition and action meet to create progress.
OUR CORE MISSION
We strive to inspire audiences by demonstrating that when two generations truly listen, they can create a powerful dialogue that leads to meaningful social change and personal growth for all.
FINDING MY OWN VOICE
Youth leadership, service and teen mental health.
I also speak on my own about youth leadership, service, and teen mental health. At a HandsOn South Florida youth camp, I shared my experience as a Changemaker and what young people can do when they act on an idea. In 2026, I won the Learning to Be Heard Global Public Speaking Challenge and earned a scholarship to TED Summer School in London. Future engagements include the Rotary Club and local schools, where I speak about T.H.R.I.V.E., practical tools for a healthy mind, and what it means to be a changemaker. I welcome invitations across the United States and internationally. I hope people leave with a question they can act on and the courage to take a first step.
ON STAGE
In conversation, in person.
Moments from Zoraida’s talks and speaking engagements.
Triple M Institute ESSA Conference
Hands On South Florida
The Slick Kicks Foundation Charity Gala
Fresno, California
Study Council Leadership Conference South Dakota
Every room is a chance to connect.
Zoraida brings her perspective to the stage and to conversations with new audiences.
Beyond the event
The University of Wisconsin–La Crosse lectern
MEDIA MOMENTS
Stories reaching wider audiences.
Selected moments from the news and television studio.
Beds for Jamaica on local news
At the news desk
Sharing Whispers of Innocence
Read the stories behind the work.
Explore independent reporting and features on T.H.R.I.V.E., youth leadership and Beds for Jamaica. Each story opens on the publisher’s website.
SELECTED COVERAGE
