Meet Moses Lopez | Freelance creative, Arts & Entertainment Enthusiast & DEI advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Moses Lopez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Moses, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Over the past 7 years I saw my dad battle cancer, win and then in less than a month lose him to COVID. The amount of pain my family and I have endured can’t be put into words. We would be justified to give up, to throw in the towel, but we have not. Has it been easy? Absolutely not! I believe that the love we have for each other plus God has kept us afloat even if at times we can barely keep our heads above water. We and by we I am referring to myself, my mom and sister have found different ways to cope with grief. I make lifestyle content that includes coffeeshops to K-pop to fashion. This has helped so much as it gives me the opportunity to heal by creating content that I love and want to share with others. By sharing with others, I don’t feel alone in my pain. I mention to friends, family and peers that when I go to a coffeeshop, I deposit pain and the weight of the world feels less. In terms of K-pop content, the lyrics of the songs help bandage my soul and give it new life. With fashion content, I am able to showcase that despite the pain I am still able to look good and feel good. My dad always said that the moment you stop trying, is the moment you stop living. I have not stopped living and everyday is a blessing and new opportunity to continue to learn and grow. Further, I want to be able to be of help to those who have experienced pain to the degree I have and sometimes it believe can be as simple as saying hi because in doing so you acknowledged not just their pain but their existence.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a freelance creative that makes content about coffeeshops, small businesses, K-pop, fitness and fashion. In summary, I am a lifestyle content creator. I love telling stories and through content I have the best avenue to do so. It all took shape and meaning after the tragic loss of my father. Creating content has helped me cope with grief. By sharing what I love through my content I don’t feel alone in my pain. Further, my heart heals when I am able to share what I love whether that is K-pop or coffeeshops. I enjoy spending hours creating content and sharing it with everyone. I value more that I am able to share of piece of myself and who I am then the likes or follows. It has been said that when you are a creative and enjoy your craft, as it portrays who you are, then whether or not others like or acknowledge takes less precedence. My focus is to create content that I love and in that way perhaps someone else might like it too and appreciate it as much as I do. Moving on, I consider having two full time jobs that of a creative and also my position as DEI and Program Coordinator for the Hispanic Center of Excellence in Pharmacy at Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy. I get to create content and also work with students. I feel so blessed that I am able to do both. I have always wanted to immerse myself in a career that allows me to mentor, coach and help people especially students. I know how important mentors were to me while I was both in undergrad and graduate school and want to return the favor. Further, as DEI coordinator I have influence in helping create an environment that allows everyone to belong and feel part of a community and family. Everyone matters and contributes to our world sometimes they just need someone to tell them or help them get there. As a creative and DEI advocate I hope I can do that whether big or small, all contributes toward making the world a better place.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Melrose District is by far my favorite part of Los Angeles. I feel that the whole world converges there. From coffeeshops to restaurants to fashion, all in one, in one place at the same time. Further, that is not to mention the proximity to celebrities, artists and influencers a like as some live near, around or in the area. The chances of running into one are higher in this area, but not a guarantee either. I myself I am not vegan or vegetarian, but The Butcher’s Daughter could have a say in changing that. From their Classic Butcher’s Burger with the amazing Beet and Aqua Kelp patty to the Best Egg Sandwich which is to die for. Further, the aesthetic and vibes are second to none. To chill and continue to vibe I would then go to Community Goods, the best coffeeshop in L.A. in my opinion whether on 710 N. Edinburgh or the Pacific Design Center. Whether you are feeling like trying their signature Matcha’s with vanilla or Einspanner or breakfast sliders, all is well at Community Goods. You may or may not run into a celebrity, just saying. In general, walking down Melrose avenue is a treat in itself, from designer stores to enjoying the modern architecture and art or the famous pink wall that is Instagram worthy. Did I mention that most places in Melrose District are dog friendly!? How awesome is that!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom and sister are the pillars and foundation that keep me going. Since the loss of my dad, we have all had to adjust to a new reality and to say it has been difficult is an understatement. They are always honest, transparent and loving above all. Further, they keep me grounded but also uplift me everyday not just by words but actions. Both through their lives are a living testament of what it means to not give up, serve your community and love unconditionally. I am grateful to be a son to my mom and a brother to my sister. They are the greatest titles I could ever have. No degree or position would even come close. I can always count on them for advice, help or just about anything. They continuously encourage my creativity when it comes to creating content about coffeeshops, K-pop or fitness fashion. My mom and sister are my number one fans and will always see the best in me even when I don’t. The world is a better place because of them, my world is a better place because of them. They are God’s gift to this world and mine. I hope to make them proud and be a pillar for them as they are to me. Grateful to do life along side them as they are not just family but also my best friends. I love them so much and I have made it a goal to tell them that everyday. I am so blessed and grateful for my mom and sister, they truly are the best of what I am and will become.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m0_0ses/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moses-lopez-mba-83132199/