About Our Founder

Let’s Talk: End the Silence was started by Alissa Fernandez in 2022. It was named ‘Let’s Talk: End the Silence’ because she believes one of the effective ways of reducing the stigma and marginalization those with mental illness face is to foster conversation about mental illness itself. In doing so, ending the silence that surrounds the diagnosis of a mental illness, especially the diagnosis of a severe mental illness. She believes by providing research-supported materials and educational opportunities to the community for individuals of all ages, that talking about mental health no matter who you are, will no longer be shameful.

Alissa has experience working with individuals with a severe mental illness in the state psychiatric hospital and considers it a gift to have had the opportunity to have aided in their treatment. She is passionate about using her own power and privilege to empower marginalized individuals and communities.