Humble + Hungry: 2018 Camelback Fellow Yulkendy Valdez Talks Mental Health & Entrepreneurship

 
 
 

Humble + Hungry featuring 2018 Camelback Fellow Yulkendy Valdez

July is #NationalMinorityMentalHealthAwareness Month, and Camelback Ventures is shining a light on the mental health journeys of diverse entrepreneurs as part of our Humble + Hungry series. Camelback's Selam Kebrom and 2018 Camelback Fellow Yulkendy Valdez sit down to talk about the highs and lows of navigating entrepreneurship. They both share their stories that serve as a powerful reminder of resilience, community, and the importance of mental health support.

Here are some of key takeaways from Selam and Yulkendy’s conversation - you can also watch the full Youtube conversation now!

Mental health challenges in entrepreneurship

  • Entrepreneurship is both exciting and terrifying, with high highs and low lows.

  • Entrepreneurs of color often face unique mental health challenges, exacerbated by the pressure to succeed against systemic barriers​.

  • There is a significant burden of responsibility on BIPOC entrepreneurs to address issues in their communities, which can contribute to mental health struggles​.

    cultural stigma and access to mental health resources

  • Mental health care can be stigmatized in BIPOC communities, with some viewing therapy as unnecessary unless in crisis​.

  • Access to culturally competent therapists, such as those who speak the same language or understand cultural backgrounds, can improve mental health support​.

    role of technology in mental health support

  • Technology, particularly AI, can help alleviate some mental health burdens by providing more accessible and affordable mental health care​.

  • Platforms that connect users with therapists who share their language and cultural background are valuable resources​.

    Importance of Community and Holistic Approaches:

  • Community support, such as wellness groups and healing circles, can be crucial for mental health.

  • Taking time for wellness exercises and breaks can lead to more creativity and productivity.

    ADVICE FOR FOUNDERS

  • Founders are encouraged to focus on self-care, prioritize wellness, and recognize that overworking is not a sustainable path to success​.

  • Confidence and well-being are critical to the success of a venture​.

 
 

Humble + Hungry is one of Camelback’s core values. This series featuring the inspirational stories and advice of diverse entrepreneurs who are a part of the Camelback Fellowship enacting change within undervalued communities.
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