Her Story
About Lauren
Lauren Hoepp is a photographer who began her work as a hobby before turning it into a business. With assistance from Seacoast Pathways, a nonprofit organization in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, serving adults recovering from mental health issues and brain injuries, she started selling her photographs and participated in three craft fairs. Her current focus includes images of flowers and lighthouses, with plans for her first family photo shoot. She donates proceeds from her sales to nonprofits. Lauren also advocates for inclusion of individuals with disabilities, representing New Hampshire in the Miss Amazing pageant for girls and women with disabilities. She is high-functioning autistic and has mental health challenges, yet emphasizes that disability does not stop her from pursuing her dreams. She promotes self-advocacy and encourages others to follow their hearts despite obstacles. my friends and family are s huge support to me . Advocating for those who doesn’t have a voice or doesn’t want to use their voice , I love to advocate for them to help them make a difference in their lives . So many people with disabilities are bullied including myself and how normal people say things or treat us so disrespectful and very hurtful . I am trying to use my voice and spread more awareness to those and hoping someday we can all along , you never know what that bully is going through sorry to help them before it gets too bad. It’s not worth bullying . please help me get those people who don’t have a voice and help those who need the help sp
eceryone is off the sidelines and everyone is included no matter your age or look .
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lauren
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the hard work I put in everyday to make it better for myself to successfully accomplish my goals and achieve my dreams with accommodations I need to continue to grow in life.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Go for the career you want to grow , have fun, and wake up everyday feeling excited and you can’t wait to get to work because of how much you love it.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Even though I have a disability, it will not stop me from following my dreams. It might be slow, I might have obstacles, but I keep pushing through. Some people might say no, that's a ridiculous thing. But it's not. You need to go for you. Use your voice to advocate for yourself. Follow your heart.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
For my photography , how to get customers and how to get the word out.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Advocate for those who are afraid to use their voice to help them get off the sidelines and have everyone be included whether you have a disability or not.
have a successful support team to help me grow in life and in my business.
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