First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens! This week, we are still discussing this month’s theme, Taking Risks as a First Gen. Last time we chatted, I shared some more of my story and the risks I have taken. This week, we are chatting with Vicky Winkler, the founder of Wildly Creative Wellness, a space where creativity is used as a tool for self-care, healing, and joy.
Vicky Winkler
Vicky grew up in a household shaped by her family’s immigration journey from the former USSR. After going through such a tough journey to get to the U.S., her parents naturally adopted a survival mindset, something we might all be a little too familiar with. Taking risks wasn’t really encouraged unless it felt super safe or stable. Like many of us, Vicki grew up thinking success meant being secure, not necessarily being happy or fulfilled.
Vicky, however, loved being creative. She loved rearranging rooms, playing with design, and making things just for fun. She never considered herself an artist or thought of this as a career path. Vicky ultimately followed a safer path and studied IT and multimedia. Even though parts of it were enjoyable, something always felt off. It wasn’t until she rediscovered art journaling that everything changed. Tapping into creativity without pressure or perfection helped her reconnect with herself in a powerful way.
Taking Risks as a First Gen
Now, she helps others do the same through workshops, one-on-one sessions, and group experiences. Her mission is all about helping people find calm and confidence through creativity. Her business, Wildly Creative Wellness, is rooted in the belief that creativity can be a tool for healing and self-discovery, especially for first gens navigating identity and belonging.
Vicky reminds us that taking risks doesn’t always have to mean leaving your job or starting a business. Sometimes the biggest risk is giving yourself the space to be more of who you are. If you’re feeling stuck or disconnected, take some advice from Vicky and try doodling on a blank page. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours! You can learn more about Vicky and her work here: https://www.wildlycreativewellness.com/
The First Gen Madrina/The Social Work Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to your needs.
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
Also, in case you have missed it, I recently announced a new branch of The First Gen Madrina called The Social Work Madrina. The Social Work Madrina will bring intentional support to social workers and more programming on mental health. Within TSWM, you will find The Madrina Network: A Community for Social Workers!
Our community deserves more support, guidance and resources.
Soooooo are you ready? Here are some highlights of the community!
Monthly zoom calls to discuss the successes, challenges and needs of the social work community.
Opportunity to network with fellow social workers from all over the U.S!
Monthly workshops with different social work-related themes.
Optional coaching time with me for additional support!
Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for more information! Check out thefirstgenmadrina.com/themadrinanetwork for more information soon!
¡Hasta pronto!
