Congratulations Hoda! | 2020 HopeBringer Award

Each year, we honor an individual for their exceptional courage and resilience in overcoming mental illness and inspiring others with HOPE on their journey to recovery and well-being. This year, we are delighted to honor Hoda AbouEich with the 2020 Hope Bringer Award.
Hoda is a bright student and a born leader. But when she was in sixth grade, things took a turn for the worst. She was sexually assaulted by a family friend. Thoughts of self-hatred, shame, depression, and suicide consumed Hoda’s every thought for years as she struggled to get through her everyday life. In high school, she finally confided in a teacher and got the help she needed to recover and pursue her dreams. Hoda wanted to share her story to give hope to her fellow students and let them know that no matter what their struggles are, they were not alone. And, she wanted to empower them to speak up and seek help.
As an ASHA Storyteller and the Captain of the My Story MY SUPERPOWER Club at her high school, Westview, Hoda inspired thousands of people - students, staff and community members during the 2019 - 2020 school year. We’d like to share a short film about her impact.