We Will Rise Consulting

A proud native of East Harlem (El Barrio), Ayo Mendez-Torres has dedicated over two decades to advancing educational equity, youth empowerment, public health advocacy, and community healing in New York City. With more than 24 years of professional experience, she currently serves as an Assistant Principal in District 4, leading a 3K–5th grade school grounded in inclusive learning environments, culturally responsive pedagogy, and strong family-school-community partnerships.

Ayo began her career as a paraprofessional at her alma mater, JHS 50 (The Vito Marcantonio School), and has since served as a classroom special education teacher,and field supervisor—bringing a rare, comprehensive understanding of the NYC public school system. She also worked under former NYC Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña, contributing to the development of educator support systems across the city.

She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University and brings extensive expertise in mental health, youth development, trauma-informed care, and family systems work. Ayo serves as Associate Director of Mental Health & Enrichment at Bethel Gospel Assembly, where she leads Friday Night Youth Services, mental wellness initiatives, and large-scale community outreach efforts including food distributions, clothing drives, and educational resource events in collaboration with elected officials and civic leaders.

Ayo is the Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of We Will Rise Consulting, LLC, a community-centered organization committed to empowering youth, families, and communities through transformative education, leadership development, and civic engagement. Its vision is to create a world where every family and young person has the tools, opportunities, and community support needed to rise above systemic barriers and thrive. Its mission is to advance equity by providing culturally responsive professional development, youth and family empowerment programs, and community-building initiatives that foster healing, resilience, and collective action.

Expanding this work, she co-launched We Will Rise Community Empowerment Incorporated, the nonprofit arm dedicated to direct service, advocacy, and sustainable community impact. The organization’s vision is to cultivate empowered communities where justice, opportunity, healing, and restoration are accessible to all. Its mission is to provide advocacy, educational enrichment, youth leadership development, reentry and family support services, and culturally grounded programming that strengthens families and advances long-term community empowerment.

In addition to her educational and nonprofit leadership, Ayo proudly serves as a Community Advisory Board (CAB) Member for Metropolitan Hospital. In this role, she helps bridge communication between hospital leadership and the East Harlem community, advocating for equitable healthcare access, culturally responsive services, and stronger public health partnerships that uplift underserved communities.

She also serves as Corresponding Secretary of the 25th Precinct Community Council, supporting public safety dialogue and collaborative problem-solving between residents and law enforcement. Her leadership has been recognized by Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine for her service to the SAVE initiative promoting gun-violence awareness, and she was honored as an “Unsung Hero of District 8” for her transformative advocacy and community impact.

Above all, Ayo believes in the power of love, service, justice, and collective action to bring lasting change. Whether leading in schools, strengthening families, advocating for health equity, or organizing joyful community-centered events, she remains committed to excellence—and to inspiring the next generation to rise with purpose, pride, and hope.

Richard Torres is a dynamic entrepreneur, mentor, hip-hop music artist, basketball trainer, artist developer, and motivational leader dedicated to inspiring others through discipline, resilience, authenticity, and purpose-driven living. His brand and message represent individuality, perseverance, and the mindset of standing apart from the crowd while remaining committed to excellence, leadership, and personal growth.

Richard is not only a respected entrepreneur and mentor, but also a talented hip-hop music artist and creative visionary with extensive experience in artist development and the music industry. He has played an instrumental role in developing emerging hip-hop artists while collaborating and working alongside respected names in music such as Vinny Idol and S. Dinero. Through his creativity, lyrical expression, vision, and dedication to authentic storytelling, Richard continues to inspire and help shape the next generation of artists and creatives.

In addition to music, Richard is a highly respected basketball skills and conditioning coach who has trained and developed talented athletes, including players who have advanced to the semi-professional level. His work with elite and up-and-coming athletes — including respected basketball street legend and influencer @illberightback — reflects his passion for developing not only athletic ability, but also confidence, discipline, leadership, and mental toughness both on and off the court.

As the visionary behind Kut From A Different Cloth, Richard Torres continues to use fashion, fitness, music, mentorship, and entrepreneurship as platforms to empower others to embrace their uniqueness, overcome adversity, and pursue greatness unapologetically. His impact extends far beyond business — reflecting a lifelong commitment to uplifting communities, inspiring youth, and building a legacy rooted in authenticity, purpose, and empowerment.