Victoria finds that the beauty of storytelling is in the compassion and empathy that exists and connects strangers. And it is with this motivation that she creates through different mediums: in words and images. As a photographer and writer, her creativity comes from a natural inclination of communication and self-expression.
Freelance editor, photographer and writer – did you always intend to work in a creative field? How do the dots connect to now?
Absolutely. I have always loved the art of communication–how one can display such a powerful message through writing or through imagery. It all comes down to having a base for storytelling. I love how the world of communications is so diverse, and I’ve thankfully been able to refine my crafts by first understanding all the realms of skills once can portray as a communicator.
Why does storytelling matter?
Storytelling is a reflection of human existence. With it, we are able to relate to one another, encourage one another and understand truth. It matters because humans matter. You matter; I matter. Our stories make us who we are while giving context to the world around us. It bridges the gap of empathy between two strangers and reminds us we are not alone.
Of all the places you’ve visited, which has been the most memorable? Do you have a favourite travel story to share?
Ah, this is a hard question for me to answer. Every place I’ve visited has a special reason to love. My favorite this far has been Iceland. During my trip there, I hiked through the natural landscaping of the Golden Circle and completely fell in love. I enjoy any chance I get to sight see and breathe in air from the tops of majestic mountains. It’s breathtaking. My favorite memory is being able to drink hot cocoa under the night’s display of the aurora bourealis lights. Everyone must truly experience this. I felt as though I was dreaming. It was incredibly cold, and I was bundled up in several layers. I was surrounded by great friends as we got lost in the beauty. We were on a tour at like 2 in the morning chasing after the Northern Lights’ activity.
Best advice you’ve been given?
“Always remember people are never interruptions–only opportunities.”
What is one question you wished people asked you more often?
What can I do or better yet–how can I serve? It’s easy to get caught up in egotism and think the world is all about us. But when we surrender our time to help others, we realize the power of community. We need the help of one another. The more we live life wanting to serve others, the more we experience a richer fulfillment.
How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as someone who loved others well. Many times people strive to be a millionaire or have a lot of material things. However, for me, it’s my interactions with people that will matter the most at the end of my life. I want to be remembered as someone who served others relentlessly and someone who faced her greatest fears with laughter and gumption.
We are inspired by the motivations that ground Victoria’s creativity and are proud to have her as a Fieldtester, a group of inspiring individuals that test MATTER products in their everyday journeys of passion, to help us improve durability and design. Victoria is wearing the All Day Jumpsuit in Horizon Blu, Size 1. All photos were taken by Ashley Cheshire.