Lolita-Smith Moore
April 24, 2025
A
t Healthy Teen Network, we believe every young person has the right to make choices about their bodies, relationships, and futures, including if, when, and how to parent—or not. What does it look like when young people receive the support they need? Take it from Lolita Smith-Moore, in her remarks as she accepted the Young Parent Achievement Award at #HealthyTeen24:
I am deeply honored to receive this Young Parent Achievement Award. Today, I stand here not just as an individual, but as a product of a powerful support system that has shaped my journey. I have to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to my mom, who raised my siblings and me with the unwavering belief that there were no limits and no boundaries to what we could achieve. She instilled in us the idea that we were not only capable but destined to be the problem solvers of the world. That conviction has been the driving force behind my personal and professional path.
At 15, I became a young mother—a journey that required resilience, courage, and a determination to create a better future.
At 15, I became a young mother—a journey that required resilience, courage, and a determination to create a better future. There were times when the path ahead seemed uncertain, but I faced those challenges head-on. After the devastating loss of my second child at 18, I earned my GED and pushed forward, pursuing higher education while raising my children. I knew I had to break barriers—not just for myself, but for my children and for other young people who might end up on the journey of being a young parent, who needed to see what was possible beyond their circumstances.
I also want to acknowledge my incredible support system. My brothers and sisters have been my pillars of strength, setting high standards and encouraging me every step of the way. To my children—Ty, Bernard, and Angelica—you’ve been my greatest source of inspiration, giving me a reason to keep striving, even in the toughest times. Thank you for your patience and for teaching me grace as I’ve grown alongside you. And to my best friends and colleagues, your love and encouragement have carried me through countless challenges and triumphs.
I have seen firsthand the power that comes from believing in young people, especially those who don’t see themselves reflected in positions of success or leadership.
The work I do is personal—it’s about creating change, one step at a time, for young people who feel that their circumstances define them. In my roles in maternal and child health, preconception health, health equity, adolescent support, and advocacy, I’ve fought to uplift those who are often overlooked. I have seen firsthand the power that comes from believing in young people, especially those who don’t see themselves reflected in positions of success or leadership. My mission has always been to make sure they know their voices matter, their struggles are valid, and their dreams are achievable.
And now, my journey as a clinical mental health counselor allows me to continue this work on an even deeper level. It’s a privilege to be able to sit and hold space for people whether it be young people, a couple, or a family as they navigate trauma, self-worth, self-love, identity, and any other challenges that they face. I am committed to helping them heal, grow, and discover that they too can thrive despite adversity. For me, my work is about giving others the tools to embrace their own resilience and recognize their limitless potential.
This award is not only a recognition of my past efforts but a celebration of the power of resilience, community, the importance of support, and the belief that no matter where you start, there are no limits to what you can achieve. Thank you so much.
