Healing in Community: Every Voice, Every Story💙
- Christiana Omaku
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This May, Mental Health Awareness Month was more than a calendar theme, it became the rhythm of our work, our conversations, and our commitment. From open circles at the Expo Center to quiet moments of truth in community spaces, EXPOSE has been present listening, learning, and standing with those navigating mental and emotional challenges.
As we reflect on this powerful month, let us honor the courage it takes to speak up and the importance of staying connected. Healing begins with conversation and we are healing together.
May Highlights: Mental Wellness in Action
All month long, our wellness workshops created intentional spaces for vulnerability, learning, and hope. These gatherings reminded us that mental health is not just a personal journey it’s a shared responsibility, woven into the fabric of our collective well-being.
One of the standout moments this month was the mental health workshop held at the Expo Center, in collaboration with Hive of Hope.
That gathering was more than an event, it was a moment of truth, where stories were shared, support systems formed, and healing began.
From stress management tools to candid conversations about trauma and recovery, the experience left a lasting impact.
Deepening the Work: Partnership and Presence
Our partnership with Hive of Hope has been a vital force in shaping these sessions with compassion, clarity, and cultural sensitivity. Their expertise allowed us to dive deeper, especially in communities where mental health conversations are often silenced or misunderstood. Together, we created spaces where healing could begin and trust could grow.
And the work continues. Our mental health programming extends beyond May because this commitment is not seasonal; it is foundational. Every workshop, every shared story, and every listening ear moves us closer to a world where mental health support is accessible, respected, and stigma-free.
Community Spotlight: Thousand Oaks
This month, EXPOSE brought its energy and heart to the community of Thousand Oaks, at the ZOW event for a family-friendly event filled with fun activities, wellness resources, and moments of meaningful connection.
From mindfulness games provided by Hive of Hope to emotional wellness tools, the event created a welcoming space where families could relax, learn, and engage with topics that are often overlooked. The response from the community was inspiring. People showed up with open hearts and a willingness to explore new ways of caring for themselves and one another.
Moments like these remind us that when communities are supported, uplifted, and included, real transformation begins.
Changing the Narrative Around Mental Health
There was a time when silence ruled, when conversations about mental health were buried under shame, fear, and misunderstanding. That silence cost lives.
Today, we are writing a new chapter.
We are encouraging people to speak up, to seek help without hesitation, and to stand in their truth without shame. We are redefining strength not as silent endurance but as the courage to say, “I need support.”
At EXPOSE, we believe no one should have to walk this road alone. And together, we are making sure they never do.
A Word From Our Founder
Mental health is a journey we all share. At EXPOSE, we believe in the power of connection, care, and community to bring hope and healing.
This work is deeply personal, and so is our commitment to walking alongside every person who needs support.
Thank you for being part of this movement. Together, we are creating real change, one conversation at a time.
Monalisa Okojie
Founder, EXPOSE
Mental Health Resources You Can Trust
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait. Help is available.
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or Text 988 | 988lifeline.org
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741 | crisistextline.org
Keep these resources close. You never know who might need them, or when.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
We would love to hear from you. What does mental health mean to you? What support has made a difference in your life? Your voice matters, and your story might be the encouragement someone else is waiting for.
Reply to this email, or tag us online with your reflections. Let’s continue to speak up, lift one another, and build a future where mental wellness is the norm, not the exception.
Thank you for standing with us.
Because of you, this month was more than awareness, it was action.💙
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