Our Team

Emerson valentina, founder / director

A child performer turned working actor turned mental health advocate turned entrepreneur — Emerson is an artist of the future. A true triple-threat, her passion for storytelling has earned her a career spanning over a decade and filled with emotional depth, vulnerability, and heart.

She’s not just an entertainer — she’s an innovator. Emerson founded BMHF in 2022 and operates the organization in true Renaissance woman fashion; she wears multiple hats including executive director, outreach coordinator, social media manager, and cultivates 100% of BMHF’s artistic and educational endeavors. Her reverence for psychological study and scientific data paired with an acute understanding of musical theatre has positioned Emerson as an empathetic, forward-thinking leader and change-maker.

Emerson is an alumna of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and pursuing her graduate degree in counseling psychology through The New School. Alongside running BMHF, she intends to practice as a NYS licensed mental health counselor and continue her extensive performance career.

Wesley vena, cfo / production management

Wesley brings a unique blend of creativity, precision, and compassion to his role at BMHF. With a BA in Music Business from the Hartt School of Music, he combines financial expertise with a deep understanding of the arts to help guide the organization’s mission with clarity and care.

Outside the office, Wesley is a passionate animal lover and dedicated dog trainer, as well as a dynamic musician. A gifted songwriter, vocalist, drummer, and guitarist, he began as a precocious child instrumentalist — performing at local shows throughout New Jersey before securing a record deal and spots on legendary New York City stages like CBGBs, Don Hill’s, and Pete’s Candy Store.

Whether orchestrating behind-the-scenes logistics, managing budgets, capturing brand content, or captivating a crowd, Wesley brings heart, rhythm, and soul to everything he does.