Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Wanda Lopez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Wanda Lopez, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
HerStoryInASmile Movement, previously the HerStoryInASmile Project in 2020, originated during my internship at the YesSheCan Campaign, a non-profit organization dedicated to women. Within their Climb Tour Program, I was to submit a draft for a project that came with creating an idea that would uplift or inspire a community. This task led me to deep reflection, contemplating how I could make a meaningful impact. As part of a women-focused organization, I naturally concentrated on women’s issues. While pursuing my Bachelor’s in Psychology and with a keen interest in Photography, I was captivated by the question: “What lies behind my smile?” or more poignantly, “What lies behind HER smile?”
In this time, as I balanced my academic and professional endeavors, I faced significant personal challenges that affected my mental health and forced me to confront silent struggles with past and ongoing traumas. Observing a photograph of a smiling woman, or anyone smiling, prompted me to question what we truly observe. Is it just a smile, or is there more hidden behind it? What stories, pains, and struggles are masked by that smile?
There’s a saying that “A picture is worth a thousand words,” and this is especially true for a woman’s smile.
This epiphany drove me to advocate for women’s mental health and trauma recovery through narrative and photography. I encouraged women to share their stories and a photo, addressing mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or experiences of trauma and abuse, including domestic violence and sexual assault. The aim was to reassure other women that they are not alone, that they don’t have to perpetually conceal their struggles behind a smile. It served as a reminder that they have the right to own their voice and truth, and that their stories matter, no matter how far removed or recent their experiences. Countless women have been silenced by their suffering, and this initiative seeks to give them a voice.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Wanda Lopez, a 31-year-old First-Generation Latina of Mexican and Nicaraguan heritage. As a single mother of two boys, I am deeply committed to both my family and my career. I currently work as a Behavior Technician, supporting children with autism, ADHD, and other developmental challenges. Alongside my work, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, which I am on track to complete early next year, having already earned an Associate’s Degree in Social Sciences and Human Services.
In my spare time, I immerse myself in nature and wildlife photography, outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, and content creation. My diverse interests and experiences have fueled my passion for making a meaningful impact, especially among women. This passion led to the creation of my women’s trauma movement, HerStoryInASmile.
HerStoryInASmile aims to reach out to women, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. As an advocate for Women’s Trauma and Mental Health, I believe in the power of our voices, especially when they tremble. One story can create an impact, and thousands can spark a movement. I never pressure anyone to share their story, understanding that it took me over 20 years to do so. There are no deadlines for submissions, only gentle reminders to feature at least one survivor monthly.
I don’t edit their stories; I simply correct grammar and curate the posts to make them shine. My goal is to keep the stories as RAW as possible, like journal entries instead this time is shared with the world. While I do require a photo to convey the power behind a photograph, I respect the wishes of women who prefer not to show their faces or names. When a survivor shares their story, I encourage them to see it as a therapeutic release, a way to acknowledge all they have survived and overcome. This work comes from the heart.
I don’t see myself as a business; I am a MOVEMENT!
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
One lesson I’ve had to reconsider is the notion that “Just because you can tolerate something, doesn’t mean you should.” This idea has permeated all areas of my life, including personal challenges, relationships, and everyday interactions.
To explain further, each of us possesses distinct traits, such as behavioral characteristics, that define who we are. Take myself, for instance: I have a natural tendency to be generous and helpful; I am quick to offer assistance, particularly when there’s an immediate need or when someone hesitates to request help. However, this inclination can sometimes make me unaware that not everyone appreciates the time and effort given. I often end up exhausted, placing others’ needs before my own out of instinct. This can be frustrating, as my time, effort, and concern go to someone who may not value it, even though it wasn’t solicited. There are those who might continuously take without considering the giver’s feelings. Additionally, some individuals are difficult to deal with, yet one might feel compelled to keep providing support and kindness. Unfortunately, such people may assume this kindness is their due, not realizing it’s given freely, and may not understand that no one is obligated to endure poor treatment or attitudes simply because they haven’t voiced their disapproval.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Book :
The Audacity to Be You: Learning to Love Your Horrible, Rotten, Self
by Brad M. Reedy
Is a powerful exploration of how our relationships with others are deeply connected to our relationship with ourselves. Reedy emphasizes that understanding and unraveling our unique childhood history is crucial for building intimacy with partners, effective parenting, and finding meaning in our lives. This book offers a bold and counterintuitive perspective on what makes us human and why happiness and connection can be elusive.
For creatives, this book is a must-read as it provides an intimate look into mental health and healing through stories from Reedy’s decades of experience as a therapist. It explains how our personalities are built and how understanding oneself can lead to authentic connections with others. Reedy also debunks common toxic myths and teaches that good therapy goes beyond problem-solving, focusing on becoming a true “self.”
If you aim to enhance your grasp of mental health, better your relationships, and embrace every aspect of yourself—the good, the bad, and the unsavory—then this book is essential. It’s about relinquishing the need to be right in favor of the liberation that comes with self-understanding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Linktr.ee/herstoryinasmile
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herstoryinasmile
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wanda-lopez-64ba38132/
- Twitter: www.YouTube.com/@herstoryinasmile
- Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/@herstoryinasmile
- Other: Email: herstoryinasmile@gmail.com
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