Dr. MoNique Holland

Dr. MoNique Holland: Sound Healing Practitioner and Self-Care Advocate Dr. MoNique is a passionate and skilled sound healing practitioner dedicated to guiding individuals on a transformative journey of self-care and inner harmony. With a deep understanding of the therapeutic power of sound, she creates immersive experiences that promote relaxation, emotional healing, and energetic balance.

Her expertise in sound healing stems from years of study and practice, incorporating techniques such as sound baths, vibrational therapy, and meditation to help clients release stress, reconnect with their authentic selves, and align with their highest potential. Dr. MoNique integrates various sound healing tools, including crystal singing bowls, tuning forks, and chimes, to create a sacred space for personal transformation.

As the founder of Your Healthy MoJo, Dr. MoNique offers unique programs, workshops, and one-on-one sessions that empower individuals to embrace self-care as a holistic lifestyle. Her compassionate approach and intuitive guidance have inspired countless individuals to tap into the profound benefits of sound as a catalyst for emotional and spiritual well-being.

Dr. Holland’s mission is to help others rediscover their inner rhythm, heal through the vibrations of sound, and ignite their path to wholeness and self-love. Whether in group settings or private consultations, she is committed to providing transformative healing experiences that nurture the mind, body, and spirit.

Dr. Harvel Brown

Dr. Harvel Brown – Vice President of Farmer Liaison & Community Development

Dr. Harvel Brown was born into a farming family in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. He obtained his degree from Temple University after serving in the military for six years. He has collaborated with USDA in developing new ways of farming based on a Vertical Integration Method, which involves raising cattle, supporting the soil, producing food for chicken farms, and using the effluent from the chickens to make fuel and food for the fish farms. He has traveled to Nigeria, Liberia, and Grenada to assist in implementing this method. Since 2003, he has done consultant work with USDA and North Star Group, developing new Aquaculture methods. Dr. Brown worked as Executive Director of Economic Development (HUD) with the Chester County Economic Development Corporation in Chester County, PA, from 1998 to 2003. In this role, he was responsible for a strategic partnership to strengthen families of non-custodial dads through job creation in collaboration with various agencies. He also has a PhD in Theology and was Dean of Students at the Downingtown Agricultural & Industrial School in Downingtown, PA, from 1976 to 1985, where he worked with challenged students and developed and implemented special educational, cultural, and farm programs.

Amanda Ayala, BS, COTA/L, CB

Amanda Ayala, BS, COTA, CB
Executive Administrator, The Black Farmers Co-op
Co-Founder, Nu Minds Nu Earth, Inc. (501c3)

Amanda Ayala is a dedicated and dynamic Executive Administrator for The Black Farmers Co-op, where she passionately supports sustainable agriculture, community empowerment, and the advancement of Black farmers. With a strong commitment to environmental and economic equity, Amanda plays a key role in organizing initiatives and building partnerships that align with the Co-op's mission to uplift Black farmers and foster the growth of local, urban agricultural projects.

In her position, Amanda expertly handles a range of administrative tasks, from coordinating events and outreach programs to managing day-to-day operations that contribute to the Co-op's success. She is instrumental in the development and execution of educational initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between agriculture and urban communities. Amanda's work extends beyond logistics, as she is deeply involved in strategic planning and fostering relationships with stakeholders to drive positive change.

In addition to her work with The Black Farmers Co-op, Amanda is also the Co-Founder of Nu Minds Nu Earth, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia. Nu Minds Nu Earth is a transformative force focused on empowering communities through education, environmental stewardship, and social change. The organization addresses key issues like food insecurity, youth empowerment, and community engagement, with a focus on sustainability and cultural education.

Amanda’s dedication to social justice and her passion for uplifting underserved communities through education and entrepreneurship are central to her work with both organizations. Her commitment to creating more inclusive and resilient agricultural sectors, alongside her advocacy for community-based solutions to environmental challenges, is a testament to her leadership and vision.

Dr. Carol Simmons

Executive Director of the Black Farmers Co-Operative (BFC)

Carol Simmons, Ed.D. is a Vegan and she promotes healthy living. Her education includes a Psychology degree, a Master’s, Teaching Certifications, and her Doctorate in Urban Educational Leadership,.

She has been a Vegan/Plant Based for over 50 years and has owned two vegetarian restaurants. She has a host of books which are entitled Faith Through Fearlessness, a Vegetarian Cookbook Eat Vegetables Don’t Become One, three Children’s books and Quotes Through Faith.

Dr. Simmons is the Executive Director of the Black Farmers Co-Operative (BFC). An organization that has launched a transformative initiative to address the urgent need for sustainable agriculture education in urban city food deserts, particularly focusing on Philadelphia. She is the Administrative Director for The International Institute for Advanced Instruction (TIIAI) a Non-Profit and on the board of Elmwood Eastwick Empowerment, Inc (EEE) which is the umbrella for the BFC. For the last decade she has supported Senior Citizens by providing meals. She is committed to the empowerment of the community.