James Haven is a passionate champion for the defenseless, with decades of experience addressing mental health, child exploitation, and substance abuse on a global scale. As Director of Innovation, he brings bold ideas and deep empathy to Haz La Diferencia’s mission—drawing from personal trauma education and an Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) score of 9 out of 10.

James has worked alongside three U.S. Presidential administrations, global leaders, federal agencies, NGOs, and multinational corporations to spotlight the root causes of suffering and advocate for lasting change. He serves as an Honorary Advisor on Global Issues for the Montessori Model United Nations, helping shape conversations around children’s education and mental health worldwide.

Driven by lived experience and a commitment to systemic healing, James believes that every child deserves safety, dignity, and a future free from exploitation. Through Haz La Diferencia, he continues to educate, equip, and empower communities to break cycles of trauma and build pathways to hope.