Yangmee Lor

Right now, I am most proud of continuing to grow Hmong Women Lead as a platform that highlights the voices and stories of Hmong women across communities and generations. Through storytelling, leadership visibility, and conversations around healing and resilience, we are creating spaces where women feel seen, heard, and supported.

Each story shared becomes a reminder of the strength within our community. Seeing women step forward, share their journeys, and encourage others along the way has been one of the most meaningful parts of this work.

My journey into this work began through my own lived experiences. As a domestic violence and suicide survivor, I understand how isolating pain and trauma can feel, especially when those experiences are rarely talked about openly.

I started Hmong Women Lead because I wanted to create a space where women could share their stories without shame or fear. I wanted other women to know they are not alone and that their voices matter.

What began as a personal effort to create space for healing has grown into a platform that uplifts the strength, resilience, and leadership of Hmong women.

One of the challenges has been navigating the vulnerability that comes with sharing personal experiences and creating space for difficult conversations. In many communities, topics like domestic violence, mental health, and suicide are still difficult to talk about openly.

I have learned to navigate these challenges by staying grounded in purpose. I remind myself that creating space for honest conversations can help others feel less alone. Resilience has come from remembering why this work matters and from the courage of the women who continue to share their own stories.

What has surprised me most is how many women have quietly carried similar experiences but never had a place to share them.

When one woman speaks, it often opens the door for many others to realize they are not alone. Seeing women find their voice, confidence, and strength through storytelling has been incredibly powerful. It has shown me that stories have the ability to create connection, healing, and understanding.

Hmong Women Lead serves the community by creating a platform where the experiences of Hmong women can be shared and valued. Through storytelling and leadership visibility, we help bring attention to experiences that are often overlooked or kept silent.

By amplifying these voices, the work encourages dialogue, understanding, and healing within our communities. It also provides a space where women can support one another and where younger generations can see examples of resilience and leadership.

My Hmong identity deeply influences how I approach this work. Our community carries a history shaped by resilience, survival, and strong cultural values around family and community responsibility.

These values guide how I lead. I approach this work with a deep respect for community, a commitment to uplifting others, and an understanding that our stories are part of a larger collective history. Being Hmong reminds me that many of our stories have not always been documented or heard widely, especially the stories of women. This work helps ensure those voices are seen and valued.

Leadership, to me, means creating space for others. It is not about titles or recognition. It is about using your experiences and voice to open doors for others and to support those who may feel unseen or unheard.

Based on my lived experience, leadership is rooted in empathy, courage, and a willingness to stand in truth even when it is difficult.

One of the most important lessons I have learned is that healing and growth take time. Earlier in my life, I believed strength meant pushing forward without acknowledging pain.

Over time, I realized that true strength includes allowing yourself to heal, asking for help, and trusting the process. I have also learned that our lived experiences are not weaknesses. They can become powerful sources of wisdom and leadership.

What helps me stay grounded is remembering the purpose behind the work. When I hear from women who say that a story helped them feel less alone, it reminds me why this work matters.

Connection to community, reflection, and continuing my own healing journey have also helped me stay resilient. Even during difficult moments, I remind myself that healing and growth are ongoing processes.

I hope to continue growing Hmong Women Lead as a space where women can share their stories, connect with one another, and support each other through leadership and healing.

My vision is to continue amplifying the voices of Hmong women across generations and experiences, creating a lasting platform where stories, resilience, and leadership can continue to inspire others.

I would encourage other Hmong women to trust their voice and honor their experiences. Your story matters, even if it feels difficult or uncertain to share. Our journeys carry wisdom and strength that can inspire others.

You do not have to follow a path that others expect for you. It is okay to move at your own pace and define success in a way that aligns with your purpose and well-being.