OUR TEAM
COMPASSION IS OUR PASSION
Executive Officers
EMMA SALAMANCA - FOUNDER/CEO
Born and raised in Mexico, Emma Salamanca arrived in the United States in 1984 with a clear vision: to live a life of purpose, impact, and legacy. Every step of her journey has been guided by a deep calling to uplift others and create lasting change. Emma’s mission extends far beyond business. In 2004, driven by compassion and a strong sense of purpose, she founded Haz La Diferencia, a nonprofit organization committed to equipping children, youth, and adults—particularly those from underserved communities—with the skills and opportunities to lead, grow, and thrive. Through education, leadership development, and personal growth initiatives, Haz La Diferencia creates pathways to a future filled with hope and possibility.
CRISTINA LOZA - TREASURER
Cristina Loza joined Haz La Diferencia because of its strong focus on mental health and education. She believe that through education, a meaningful and lasting difference can be made in the lives of children that help shape a better future for our communities. As a dedicated and detail-oriented administrative professional with over 25 years of experience supporting small businesses with bookkeeping, office management, payroll, and financial reporting, her reliability, organization skills, and proactive management of day-to-day operations helps ensure accurate financial stability and responsible allocation of funds.
VIVIANA SHUI - BOARD MEMBER
Vivian Shui is a clinical laboratory scientist, medical science liaison, and lifestyle medicine coach with a remarkable track record. She knows firsthand how foods can hijack mental health, draining energy, clouding focus, and fueling anxiety and depression. Conventional medicine often addresses symptoms while ignoring root causes, like genetic vulnerabilities, methylation issues, and the powerful role food plays in keeping people stuck. That’s why her mission to educate, equip, and empower individuals to break free, reclaim hope, and thrive mind, body, and spirit within this transformative community.
ADRIANA ROSS - INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As a Costa Rican activist, recognized in the field of human rights, Adriana Ross has distinguished herself through her tireless work in mental health and suicide prevention. Over the past several years, she has focused her efforts on strengthening mental health policies and programs in Costa Rica, working closely with members of the national legislature and the current government. True to her principles, Adriana firmly believes in the power of serving and contributing from any possible front and brings that passion to Haz La Diferencia.
ARACELI GONZALEZ MATTHEWS - MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
Araceli Gonzalez Matthews is an East LA native, a Mental Health professional, and a mentor who supervises grad-student interns. As an advocate for Haz La Diferencia and Fight 4 Hope Campaign she is motivated by the mission to help those who are mentally challenged, encountering crises, and in need of vital resources and support. In her previous employment with the Los Angeles Department and Children and Family Services (DCFS) for over 27, she worked in emergency response protecting children and working with families.
Advocates
MICHELLE MEHTA - ADVOCATE
Michelle Mehta is a renowned TEDx Speaker, Teen Confidence Expert, and International Bestselling Author. She has overcome unthinkable obstacles and is considered to be one of the most successful teen coaches today. Yahoo Finance named her as one of “The top 11 female coaches to follow.” She speaks to teens and women all over the country about overcoming peer pressure, bullying, and low self-worth by increasing their confidence to live a life they fully love and admire themselves every single day. She has worked with organizations like Morgan Stanley, Mass Mutual, and Wells Fargo.
JAMES HAVEN - ADVOCATE
What drives James Haven is his years of trauma immersed education specifically his in-depth knowledge of Adverse Childhood Experiences. James has worked with three US Presidential Administrations, Global Leaders, Government Agencies, Federal Departments, NGOs, and Multinational Corporations to address Mental Health Issues. Director of Innovation, Champion of the Defenseless, Child Exploitation, and Mental Health James focuses on improving mental health, and ending drug and alcohol abuse. Honorary Advisor on Global Issues that impact childhood to adulthood. Honorary Advisor on Global Issues affecting Children’s Education Worldwide. with the Montessori Model United Nations.
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