Maria Gonzales

Company

Virtara Solutions

Description

Diplomatic disruptor who advocates for change

Location
Event Availability

Conference, Online, University, Networking, TEDx, Workshop

Biography

I am a public health professional, speaker, and founder dedicated to advancing health and equity through connection, lived experience, and purpose-driven work. With over 15 years of experience developing programs and research that improve outcomes for underserved communities, my work is grounded in both evidence and real life.

I connect most deeply with women, military spouses, caregivers, trauma survivors, and mental health providers. These are communities I understand personally and professionally, which allows me to build trust quickly and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood.

People invite me to speak because I show up as my full self. I am authentic, vulnerable, and relatable. I do not just share information, I share truth. I speak with passion about mental health, resilience, and the power we each have to create meaningful change in our lives and communities.

What makes my approach unique is how I bridge research with real experience. I am both a professional and a person who has navigated complex roles and challenges. My style is honest, grounded, and engaging. I do not speak at people; I connect with them. I create conversations that move people from reflection to action, and from isolation to connection.

Education

Community Health, Bachelor of Science (BS), UT San Antonio / Public Health, Master of Science (MS), UT San Antonio / Doctor of Public Health (DrPH), Capella University