Bioneers 2025 Conference

Benja Mertz

Performer, Educator, Folklorist, and Song-Leader

www.benjasoul.com

Benja Mertz

Benja Mertz, a performer, educator, public speaker, folklorist, and song-leader, is Board Chair of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity, an immigrant rights and anti-incarceration nonprofit organization. Also founder and Director of Joyful Noise! Gospel Singers in Sonoma County, Benja trained in song-leading through legendary programs such as Dr. Ysaye Barnwell’s Vocal Community and Bobby McFerrin’s CircleSong Schools and is part of a long tradition of writers and musicians at the forefront of social change in America.



Panel Presentations:

Interactive Session – Practicing Joy and Grief in Challenging Times

March 28th | 3:00 pm to 4:15 pm