“Strength, Mindfulness, and Clarity” is a youth program established by The Big Silence Foundation with the purpose of bringing a message of hope that supports and inspires our youth’s mental health and wellness. Through a combination of physical and athletic activity and a curriculum that emphasizes cultivating mental health, The Big Silence (TBS) will provide experiences, tools and resources that have a lasting impact on the mental health and lives of young people. The program is led and created by Karena Dawn and friends of The Big Silence, including Debbie Whitehead, TBS board member and Licensed Professional Counselor (M.Ed., LPC).  

Karena Dawn is a mental health advocate, co-founder of the leading women’s fitness and lifestyle community, Tone It Up, and New York Times best-selling author. For over a decade Dawn has used her platform and influence to inspire millions around the world through fitness, mindfulness and spiritual empowerment. 

Based on Karena’s experience and expertise as a leading mental health advocate and fitness champion, as well as knowledge and insights from licensed mental health professionals, this program takes an approach to integrate mental and physical strength, mindfulness, and clarity.

Karena experienced significant trauma throughout her life, from growing up with a mother who was diagnosed with, and lived with, untreated schizophrenia and depression. As a girl, Karena struggled to find any resources to help with her mental health, and she attempted to end her life. Eventually she overcame a dark period of depression, anxiety and substance abuse in her teens and 20s, was able to forge a path to self-discovery, build a nurturing community that has helped millions, and ultimately find peace. 

Karena is passionate about breaking the silence and ending the stigmas surrounding mental health. She shares her journey of hopelessness to healing in her memoir, The Big Silence. On her podcast, she hosts psychologists, spiritual leaders, wellness influencers, public figures and anyone who wants to share their story for in-depth and open conversations that inspire compassion and help provide guidance on important mental health topics. Karena serves on the board of advisors for NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) and has dedicated her time to helping youth to better navigate their mental wellness through programs like “Ending the Silence” and “Girls on the Run.”