Whole Self Youth Wellness Program

K-12 STEAM education

South LA

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

In Los Angeles, many youth—especially in historically underserved communities—face chronic stress, trauma, and limited access to culturally relevant mental health education. Traditional school systems often overlook the importance of emotional regulation, mindfulness, and physical wellness—foundational elements that support learning across all subjects, including STEAM. Within a 3-mile radius of Zula Den, schools like Virginia Road Elementary (0.2 mi), Coliseum Street Elementary (0.7 mi), and Los Angeles High School (2.4 mi) lack publicly listed wellness programs. While some offer limited SEL resources, most students remain without access to consistent, trauma-informed tools that build cognitive, emotional, and creative resilience. There is a growing need for programs that bridge the gap between academic achievement, holistic health, and the embodied skills that make STEAM education meaningful, inclusive, and effective.

The Whole Self Youth Wellness Program introduces an immersive, community based, and trauma-informed, STEAM-aligned approach to mental and physical well-being for underserved youth in Los Angeles. Hosted at Zula Den and in partnership with nearby schools, this initiative introduces mindfulness, movement, and creative arts expression as core elements of learning and self-development. Through guided breathwork, somatic movement, journaling, visual arts, and stress-relief practices, students will build emotional intelligence and self-regulation skills that support success in all academic areas. Activities like emotion-mapping through art, data visualization of wellness habits, and creative design challenges rooted in empathy (such as developing calming tools or wellness prototypes) help participants embody critical STEAM skills—such as problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation—while rooting them in real-world application. Participants will also explore holistic health practices rooted in cultural relevance and community connection. Facilitated by mental health professionals, educators, and movement specialists, the program includes hands-on workshops, mentorship, community showcases, and culturally responsive tools for holistic growth. By centering well-being in an experiential, STEAM-infused framework, youth are empowered with tools for healing, learning, and leadership—preparing them not only for academic success, but for resilient, purpose-filled lives.

When the Zula Project’s Whole Self Youth Wellness Program is successful, LA County will be home to a more emotionally resilient generation of young Angelenos who are equipped to navigate stress, express themselves, and advocate for their well-being. Youth who might otherwise fall through systemic gaps will develop tools for healing and thriving. We envision this model expanding into additional school sites, libraries, and youth-centered spaces—with ongoing collaboration from holistic wellness organizations, artists, educators, and community healers to deepen its impact. These partnerships will allow for culturally grounded, interdisciplinary wellness offerings that reflect the diverse needs of LA’s youth. Our ultimate vision is a city where trauma-informed, holistic wellness is woven into the fabric of K–12 education and youth development—both during and after school.