Sekia Um Lor

My work centers around education, community, and creativity. I'm an academic advisor supporting nursing students, a Hmong community organizer in Colorado, and the owner of Miss Bubbly Balloons, where I bring creativity to community celebrations and events.

What are you currently working on or most proud of right now?

One thing I'm most proud of right now is developing a Colorado youth program called Hmong Roots Rising. The program focuses on helping youth learn about Hmong history, culture, and art while building pride in their identity. I'm passionate about creating spaces where young people can stay connected to their culture and feel empowered in their community.

How did you begin this work, business, or path? What motivated you to start?

When I started college, I was awarded a scholarship that supported first-generation college students in navigating the college process. At first, I thought everyone received the same guidance, but I quickly realized that wasn't the case. I saw many Hmong students struggle to navigate college, and some eventually dropped out. That pushed me to become an orientation leader on campus so I could learn more about the resources available and share that knowledge with other Hmong students. That experience eventually led me to pursue a master's degree in Higher Education Administration. Through my research and work with students, I realized that college access and confidence really start much earlier. That realization pushed me to begin working with Hmong youth, many of whom were the same age as my younger siblings, so they could grow up with the support, confidence, and opportunities that many of us didn't have.

"My Hmong identity influences everything I do. It guides my work because I focus on Hmong youth, creating opportunities and support I wish I had growing up."

What has surprised you most about your journey so far?

So far, the greatest surprise has been all the external support I've received in developing Hmong Roots Rising.

How does your work serve or impact your community, clients, or the people around you?

One of the biggest impacts of my work is seeing the youth I support, especially my volunteers, succeed. So far, 7 youth I've worked with have gone on to attend college. Being able to guide them, share resources, and show them what's possible has a ripple effect, not just for them, but for their families and the Hmong community as a whole.

"Being able to guide them, share resources, and show them what's possible has a ripple effect, not just for them, but for their families and the Hmong community as a whole."

In what ways does your Hmong identity influence your work, leadership, or perspective (if at all)?

My Hmong identity influences everything I do. It guides my work because I focus on Hmong youth, creating opportunities and support I wish I had growing up. It shapes my leadership by giving me the perspective to advocate for my community, especially in spaces where few Hmong voices are present. And it influences my perspective by keeping me grounded in my culture, my values, and the importance of community and connection in all that I do.

What lessons have you learned that you wish you had known earlier?

One lesson I've learned is that not everyone who listens is listening for the right reasons, and not everyone in your circle is truly a friend. Betrayal or doubt can happen, and that's okay, it's part of learning how to navigate relationships and trust. If I had known this earlier, I think I would have been more intentional about who I shared my ideas and energy with, while still staying focused on my goals and purpose.

What has helped you stay grounded, motivated, or resilient during difficult moments?

What helps me stay grounded and resilient is reminding myself why I do this work and the impact it has on my community. I also turn to mentors for guidance and rely on a strong support system, which has been incredibly powerful in keeping me motivated during difficult moments.

What are you currently working toward or hoping to build next?

I'm currently working on finalizing the programming for Hmong Roots Rising, a youth program focused on Hmong history, culture, and art. My goal is to create long-lasting impacts in the community by giving youth a space to connect with their culture, build confidence, and see what's possible for their futures.

How would you like people to understand or remember your work?

I want people to remember my work as fun, creative, and meaningful. I hope they see that while it's enjoyable, it's also designed to inspire, empower, and support Hmong youth and the community.

"I want people to remember my work as fun, creative, and meaningful. I hope they see that while it's enjoyable, it's also designed to inspire, empower, and support Hmong youth and the community."

What advice or encouragement would you offer other Hmong women navigating their own paths?

My advice for other Hmong women is to find like-minded people and build a strong support system. This work is hard to do alone, and having a community of people who understand and support you makes all the difference.