Breaking Barriers: Miss Universe Puerto Rico's Powerful Voice for Mental Health

In this compelling video, Karla Guilfú Acevedo, the 72nd Miss Universe Puerto Rico, addresses a pressing issue that affects the heart of her community - suicide. With a deep commitment to social impact, Karla unveils her official entry into the 72nd Miss Universe Voice for Change contest, a collaboration between Mouawad and CI Talks.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health & Well-being, Reduced Inequalities, Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Mental Health Matters: A Call to Action for Change

In Puerto Rico, suicide stands as the third leading cause of violent death, marking a social and public health crisis. Karla Guilfú Acevedo, armed with the title of Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2023, is on a mission to break the silence surrounding this critical issue.

"Let's Begin to Heal" - A Program of Impact

Karla's organization, "Let's Begin to Heal," introduces the transformative program, "It's okay to Not Be okay." Focused primarily on adolescents, this initiative leverages the power of social networks, the Miss Universe national platform, and schools to address the root causes of mental health challenges.

1. Destigmatizing Emotions: Three Key Elements

Karla emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health struggles. Through the influence of social networks, she aims to spread awareness on three fundamental self-care steps: validate emotions, manage emotions, and seek help when necessary.

2. Miss Universe National Platform: Catalyzing Change

With the Miss Universe national platform, Karla collaborates with representatives from different municipalities to create a sustainable impact program. These representatives, numbering around 30, are being trained to utilize their social networks for education and outreach.

3. Empowering Schools and Organized Groups: A Nationwide Initiative

Karla envisions a nationwide movement where her program reaches schools and organized groups, fostering dialogue on the importance of active listening, validation, breaking the stigma, and building supportive networks. This, she believes, is the key to healing and igniting lives.

A Global Call to Action

Karla Guilfú Acevedo dreams of a chain reaction, a global movement breaking down barriers and silencing the stigma surrounding mental health. By encouraging open conversations, seeking help, and inspiring change, she believes in the power within each individual to make a global impact.

As Karla rightly proclaimed on her crowning night, "Look into the mirror, seek help and be inspired. Because the power that lies within you, the universe needs it!" This video is not just an entry; it's a testament to the transformative power of one woman's voice on a mission to drive positive change. Join the movement, because it's okay to not be okay.