World Happiness Fest lights up Miami (includes video story)

World Happiness Fest started Thursday at Florida International University’s Biscayne Bay campus. The annual three-day event promotes happiness and mental health worldwide 

Dozens of life coaches gathered with hundreds of attendees eager to learn about being happy in the workplace and protecting their inner peace and tranquillity. The life coaches encouraged everyone to express their emotions by painting, making connections and talking their hearts out. 

FIU President Kenneth A. Jessel as well as the mascot Roary and some cheerleader lifted everyone’s spirits when they showed up and took pictures with the participants. 

“Happiness is good not only for your health,” yoga instructor Sri Sudarshan. “Your physical functions are increased with the vibrations and the high frequency of happiness, but it also promotes the clarity of mind.”

 The event concludes Saturday.

Samantha Gutierrez is a Latina freshman majoring in Digital Communication and Media. She is bilingual and enjoys covering stories about the environment and local events. She is passionate about broadcasting and aspires to pursue a career in anchoring.

Layan Abu Tarboush is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in international relations. She is an international student from Jordan interested in reporting on middle eastern politics and affairs. She also likes singing, writing and watching movies.