Sunflower Seeds of Healing is more than a nonprofit -it’s a global movement. We empower voices through storytelling, fashion, and advocacy to end the silence surrounding mental health. Every flower we feature, every model we spotlight, carries a message of courage, connection, and healing.

The Soul Behind the
Seeds

At Sunflower Seeds of Healing, we believe that one story, one seed of courage, can spark a global movement. We are a nonprofit organization committed to ending the stigma around mental health through storytelling, fashion, and compassionate outreach.

Our mission is to create safe, empowering spaces where individuals from all walks of life—especially those too often overlooked—can be seen, heard, and celebrated. From high-fashion runways to hospital hallways, we use creativity as a vehicle for healing and advocacy.

With ambassadors and models representing their state or country, each carrying the symbolic flower of their region, we highlight the strength in diversity and the beauty of vulnerability. Together, we plant seeds of awareness, empathy, and hope—transforming pain into purpose and silence into solidarity.
We invite you to join us in cultivating a world where mental wellness is not hidden, but honored.

founders letter 

Berta
Moniz

At Sunflower Seeds of Healing, we are deeply committed to breaking the silence and stigma surrounding mental health. We believe that healing begins when individuals feel safe to share their stories and connect through empathy and creative expression. Our vision is rooted in the powerful idea that every story matters — and that through visibility and compassion, we can inspire hope and resilience in people from all walks of life. With a foundation built on passion and purpose, we are creating a movement that uses art, fashion, and storytelling as vehicles for healing and transformation. Through advocacy, creative projects, and community engagement, we strive to plant seeds of courage, self-worth, and belonging that will grow into a brighter future. We are incredibly grateful for the support of volunteers, artists, models, and community members who believe in this vision. Their passion fuels our collective efforts to foster a world where mental wellness is embraced openly and compassionately. I warmly invite you to join us — by sharing your story, volunteering, or supporting our programs — as we continue spreading hope and healing. Together, we can create a future where mental health is no longer hidden in the shadows but celebrated as an essential part of human well-being.

Berta Moniz

Berta Moniz

Seeds of Strength Members

Behind every movement are the people who nurture it with vision, courage, and dedication. Our Seeds of Strength Members — including our founder, board, and project leaders — are the guiding voices who help Sunflower Seeds of Healing grow.

Project & Event Leadership

Joshua Carvara
Partnership Manager
Joshua Carvara
Partnership Manager

Builds collaborations and community partnerships that strengthen our mission.

Joan Petty
Events Manager
Joan Petty
Events Manager

Organizes and coordinates healing-focused events that bring people together.

George Saadi
special guest judge
George Saadi
special guest judge

Serves as a judge for our fashion shows and Bouquet Magazine models, helping elevate creativity and advocacy through fashion.

Morgan Striggles
Director of Events
Morgan Striggles
Director of Events

Oversees the planning and execution of large-scale events to amplify impact.

Board of Directors 

Rebecca Crowder
Board Member
Rebecca Crowder
Board Member

Provides leadership and guidance to ensure our mission remains strong and impactful.

Samantha Klaburner
Board Member
Samantha Klaburner
Board Member

Supports the vision of Sunflower Seeds of Healing with governance and advocacy.

Joan Petty
Board Member
Gizele Tavares
Board Member

Offers strategic perspective and stewardship to help our organization grow.