Meet Audris B. Torres

Founder | Community Builder | Strategist

Audris B. Torres is a visionary leader with over a decade of experience in community building, event management, corporate responsibility, and branding.

As the founder of Y.S.S. Network, she combines her strategic expertise and passion for driving meaningful change to help organizations streamline operations, enhance public image, and foster deeper connections with their audiences.

In Her Words

“My mission is to inspire change and bring ideas to life. Through Y.S.S. Network, I create tailored solutions that amplify impact and drive sustainable success. Whether I'm leading a festival, consulting on strategy, or helping a growing business build its brand, I’m committed to delivering results with purpose and heart.”

My Journey

Y.S.S. Network was born from a desire to bridge gaps—between businesses and communities, ideas and action, and challenges and solutions. From organizing eco-festivals to creating corporate social responsibility programs, my mission has always been to lead with purpose and empower others to do the same.

Along the way, I’ve:

Built a CBD wellness brand rooted in advocacy and innovation.
Helped nonprofits strengthen their community impact through tailored strategies.
Guided organizations to align their branding with their mission and values.
Organized impactful events that bring people together and drive change.

My Approach

I believe in personalized solutions that reflect the unique needs of my clients. Every project begins with understanding your vision and crafting a plan to bring it to life. My process combines creative strategy with hands-on execution to deliver results that matter.

Beyond Y.S.S. Network

When I’m not working with clients, you’ll find me leading yoga classes, advocating for social equity, or connecting with my community. As the first openly queer elected district leader for Newark’s 35th district, I’m proud to use my platform to amplify voices and build a better future.

Let’s Connect

Whether you’re looking to build a stronger brand, create sustainable impact, or plan your next big event, I’d love to help. Together, we can make your ideas a reality.

Certifications & Expertise

New Jersey State Required Cannabis Handler Course

WSET Level 1 (Wine & Spirits Education Trust)

Certified Yoga Instructor (Ashtanga & Vinyasa)

Event Management Specialist

Compliance with New Jersey’s cannabis handling regulations, covering proper cannabis handling, storage, and safety procedures in the industry.

Offering expert insights in wine-infused product development.

Bringing holistic wellness practices to community engagement.

Proven track record of securing sponsorships, managing logistics, and delivering large-scale events.

Social Media Marketing & Digital Strategy

Event Management Specialist

Bringing holistic wellness practices to community engagement.

Proven track record of securing sponsorships, managing logistics, and delivering large-scale events.

Google Project Management Certification

Proficiency in project management skills, including initiating, planning, executing, and closing projects, with a focus on ensuring timely delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.

Google AdWords Certification

Expertise in Google Ads (formerly AdWords), with a focus on creating, optimizing, and managing paid search campaigns to drive business growth and improve online visibility.

Canva to Design Digital Course Collateral

Fundamentals of using Canva for designing visually appealing and professional digital course materials, helping create engaging and effective learning experiences.

Leadership and Management Skills for Women

Understanding of leadership principles tailored for women, focusing on communication, negotiation, and strategic decision-making skills in management roles.

Key Achievements

Leadership Milestones:

Pioneering Political Leadership: First openly queer afro-latina elected District Leader in Newark’s 35th District, West Ward—breaking barriers and amplifying underrepresented voices in local politics.
City-Wide Impact: Appointed LGBTQ Commissioner for the City of Newark, NJ, driving systemic change and creating a more inclusive community.
Catalyst for Change: Successfully spearheaded major initiatives like the Newark Pride Festival and GreenFest, establishing them as premier events that shape Newark’s cultural and environmental landscape.

Business Accomplishments:

Entrepreneurial Vision: Co-founder of Web Infusion, a cutting-edge wellness brand specializing in CBD-infused products, achieving a 50% growth in sales within its first year and building a loyal customer base.
Strategic Partnerships: Forged key partnerships with Black-owned farms to source high-quality, sustainable CBD, positioning the brand as a leader in both wellness and social equity.
Innovative Product Development: Led the design and launch of Web Infusion’s flagship products, garnering attention in both the wellness and cannabis industries for their unique blend of efficacy and sustainability.

Community Contributions:

Neighborhood Revitalization Leadership: Managed the Love Your Block program, empowering local residents to improve their communities by connecting them with essential resources and city departments.
Strategic Collaborations for Sustainability: Partnered with influential organizations like Lumin Ecosystems and SolarOne, driving impactful projects focused on sustainability, clean energy, and social equity for marginalized communities.

Advocacy & Education:

Thought Leadership in Social Justice: Led high-profile workshops and panels on critical issues including environmental justice, branding, and community development, inspiring and educating community leaders and entrepreneurs.
Champion for DEI: Actively advocated for diversity, equity, and inclusion across the private and nonprofit sectors, ensuring that equity-driven strategies are embedded in organizational structures and community outreach.