Catalina Rises
Keynote Speaker | Leadership Trainer | Empowerment MentorCatalina Gonzalez, the force behind Catalina Rises, has traveled a path few could imagine. Abandoned by her father on her seventh birthday, thrust into foster care, and later navigating the precariousness of homelessness, her childhood was marked by instability and separation. Yet from those fractures rose not despair—but a strength that would one day become a beacon for others.Today, Catalina is celebrated as a speaker, leadership trainer, and empowerment mentor who alchemizes her lived experience into tools of hope and transformation. From championing statewide advocacy in Tallahassee to training teams of 200+ professionals, she’s known for facilitating experiences that are both profoundly moving and immediately applicable.Her reach spans across the spectrum of those touched by foster care and beyond: young adults forging their paths, foster parents yearning for encouragement, social workers and agency staff craving renewed heart for the work, and community leaders striving for impact.Whether she’s speaking at a community gathering, leading a professional workshop, or energizing a national audience, Catalina blends storytelling, strategy, and soul—leaving listeners not just inspired by her resilience, but equipped to create their own.Her life stands as proof: adversity doesn’t have the final word. Rising is always possible.
About
MISSION:
At Catalina Rises, the mission is simple yet profound: to prove that adversity does not have the final word. Rising is always possible. Through speaking, training, and mentorship, Catalina helps agencies, schools, and communities strengthen resilience, prevent burnout, and inspire hope where it’s needed most.WHO I WORK WITH:
Catalina partners with organizations nationwide to bring transformation through storytelling, strategy, and soul. Her work supports:Foster Care Agencies – delivering programs that inspire youth, renew staff, and encourage foster parents.Schools & Universities – helping students and educators cultivate resilience, leadership, and courage.Community Organizations & Leaders – equipping teams and changemakers with tools to rise stronger and lead with heart.Programs & Services
Catalina offers a range of programs designed to inspire lasting change:Inspirational Talks & Keynote Sessions – storytelling that moves hearts while providing practical strategies.Workshops & Trainings – interactive sessions for staff, educators, and parents to deepen resilience and prevent burnout.Youth Empowerment Programs – tailored experiences for young adults stepping into independence and self-leadership.Community & Conference Engagements – dynamic presentations that bring people together around a shared mission of growth and healing.IMPACT:
Catalina’s sessions leave audiences with more than inspiration — they walk away with a renewed sense of strength, practical tools they can use immediately, and a clear reminder that their work matters. Whether it’s an agency director, a foster parent, a teacher, or a young adult searching for hope, her message lands where it’s needed most.INVITATION:
If your agency, school, or community is ready to rise stronger, live braver, and lead with heart — Catalina is ready to walk beside you. Together, we can create transformation that lasts.
Contact
Let’s rise together. Whether you’re looking to inspire your staff, encourage foster parents, or bring hope to young adults, Catalina would love to connect. Reach out below to begin the conversation.📍 Location: St. Petersburg, FL
📞 Phone: 727.831.7100
📧 Email: [email protected]