FOUNDERS

Aidan Andrews

Founder & CEO

I was born in Jacksonville, Florida, and have experienced a blend of cultures and lifestyles from living Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Los Angeles, California. As a Black hockey player from Iowa, I have faced my share of adversity, which has only fueled my determination to overcome challenges and make a difference in the world.

Throughout my life, family, friends, and community have been my pillars of support, guiding me through tough times and helping me recognize the power of human connection. Two pivotal events have shaped my life:

The heartbreaking loss of my dear friend and teammate, Max Madison, to suicide. Max's untimely death shook me to the core, teaching me the importance of cherishing every moment we share with our loved ones. It made me realize that we never truly know the struggles others face and that it's essential to approach each relationship with sensitivity, care, and empathy. It was this harrowing experience that inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others and ensure no one ever feels alone in their battles.

And secondly, a debilitating hockey injury that threatened my mobility and independence. The hockey injury, a brachial plexus injury to my C4 and C5 nerves, brought my athletic career to a screeching halt. It forced me to confront my vulnerability and come to terms with the fact that my life would never be the same. However, through patience, persistence, and resilience, I discovered the inner strength to adapt and grow, recognizing that adversity could make me a stronger, more compassionate person.

Motivated by these life-changing experiences, I co-founded the clothing brand "nvralone" with Omela and Langdon. Our mission is to promote mental health awareness and support by using our personal journeys to empower and uplift others. We are passionate about breaking down barriers and stigmas associated with mental health, and through our brand, we aim to create a supportive community for those who need it most.

By wearing nvralone merchandise, you join our community of mental health advocates, uniting to create a future where conversations about mental health are as common and accepted as discussing physical health. We are dedicated to spreading messages of love, empathy, and unity, believing that together, we can overcome adversity and build a brighter tomorrow.

My life has been shaped by the challenges I've faced, the love and support of my family and friends, and my unwavering commitment to making a difference. Through nvralone I strive to create a world where mental health is recognized, understood, and supported, and where everyone has a chance to grow from adversity and find strength in community. #nvralone

Langdon Rogers

Co-Founder & COO

I am mixed, half Japanese and half Alaskan-Native, and was born amidst the rugged beauty of Anchorage, Alaska, a place that hides the painful truth of having the second-highest suicide rate in the U.S., my life has been an awakening journey toward understanding mental health. A wanderer at heart, I've called Florida, Tennessee, and Utah home, but one constant persisted, the mental health challenges that impacted those I cherished most.

My life has been a tapestry of both personal and shared experiences with mental health struggles. From a sibling who attempted suicide to close relatives who sought professional help, I've been a witness to the silent battles so many faces. I've learned that mental health issues don't have a specific "look"; anyone could be suffering silently without support.

Determined to make a change, I joined forces with Aidan Andrews and Omela Rainizanakolona to co-found nvralone. Together our shared vision took flight: to break stigmas and foster a community where everyone feels welcomed and safe to share their mental health journey. 

Wearing nvralone signifies belonging to a community committed to supporting one another on their mental health journeys. We aim to educate, support, and raise awareness for mental health, working towards a future where we stand united. It's not necessary to fully understand everyone's pain; our role is to listen, support, and acknowledge each other's journey. Through nvralone, we're building a community that recognizes and assists everyone in their mental health battles. As our community grows, we move closer to a future where we all stand together, guiding one another through life's ups and downs. With nvralone, we're building a haven where mental health conversations thrive, and every person knows that they are truly #nvralone!

Omela Rainizanakolona

Co-Founder

I was born in the DRC Congo, where 88% of the population lives in poverty without electricity or clean water, my life has been a journey of resilience and determination. Growing up, my parents showered me with love and protection, despite the challenging environment. Our daily 45-minute walks to school were difficult, but they strengthened the bond between my siblings and me.

As my father found success in his career, my parents made the difficult decision to send me to the United States for a better future. I initially attended Missouri Military Academy, where I faced a harsh culture shock and struggled with the language barrier. My mother's unwavering support and frequent visits helped me persevere through those dark times.

I eventually moved to a middle school in Boston, Massachusetts, where I met people who helped me discover hidden strengths within myself. These newfound connections gave me the hope I needed to carry on. After two years, I graduated and enrolled in Vermont Academy, where I met a close friend, Aidan, who became like a brother to me. My relationship with my mother continued to flourish, and we spoke almost daily.

During a summer visit back home, my mother revealed that she needed surgery in South Africa. Although anxious, I trusted her reassurances and said our goodbyes. However, the unthinkable happened—while my father and I were en route to my sister's graduation in the US, we received the devastating news of my mother's passing.

Her loss left a void in my heart and a deep appreciation for the love and support of family and friends. It is these connections that shape who we are and give us the strength to face life's challenges. In the face of adversity, we learn to cherish the people around us, unite as a community, and find solace in the fact that we are never alone.

My journey, marked by both hardship and love, has taught me the true value of family, the importance of standing strong in the face of life's trials, and the power of human connection. Through the struggles of immigrating to the United States, overcoming language barriers, and dealing with adversity, I've grown and learned to appreciate the support of my loved ones. My mother's love and guidance will always remain a beacon of hope and strength in my life.