Our Story
We know what it feels like to be told to fit in. To change your tone, to soften your edges, to pick a niche, to stay in your lane. To walk into rooms and quietly make yourself smaller so others could feel more comfortable.
Over time, through our art, our work, our communities, and our stories—we found our way back to ourselves. And in doing so, we found each other.
We the Storytellers was born from a simple belief that our stories are not just personal, but universal. They are historical, cultural, political. They are documentation of our lived experience. They are a living archive. They are our legacy.
While we are living in a moment where diverse voices and stories are being silenced—particularly those of us who are Black, Indigineous, and people of color—we believe the most powerful thing we can do right now is tell our own stories. In our own words and on our own terms.
We believe you don't have to choose.
You don't have to pick one gift, one identity, one lane. You can be a filmmaker and a poet. A builder and a dreamer. A strategist and an artist. A caretaker and a creator. All of it is you. All of it belongs in your story.
We believe your multiple dimensions are not a distraction.
These different skills, interests, and ideas are your greatest strength. The through-line that connects every seemingly unrelated thing you love is the most honest story you will ever tell.
We also believe that storytelling is a tool for healing.
That when we name our experiences, we reclaim them. That when we witness each other's stories, we build belonging. That when we document this moment in history, we ensure our narratives will not be erased.
How We Got Here
In 2015, what is now We The Storytellers began as something much smaller — a few inspiring Instagram posts under the name Coffee & Convos, connecting us with a community that was hungry for exactly this kind of space.
What started as a spark grew into something we couldn't have predicted. A blog. A podcast. Intimate in-person gatherings. Each evolution was rooted in the same intention — to bring people together through shared conversation, shared space, and shared story.
We spent time nourishing that vision. Deepening it. Making sure that when we stepped into this next chapter, we were ready to hold the full weight of what this community deserves. That time was not wasted. It brought us here — more grounded, more intentional, and more committed than ever.
We believe in the power of vulnerability. In stepping into our power. In elevating our awareness and the awareness of those around us. Because when we share our stories — imperfect as they may be — we create a ripple effect. We give the people around us permission to do the same.
Every story deserves a space to be held and recognized. And every story is only the beginning.
Now we're building the next iteration — through gatherings, a growing community platform, and stories that document this moment in history. Together.
We are the stewards of our own narratives. We are the archivists of this moment. We are the culture-makers, the dreamers, the multi-hyphenates, the ones who refused to be boxed in.
We are We The Storytellers.
Our Team
Alyssa Mopia
FounderAlyssa Mopia is a Producer known for her passion for storytelling, specifically documenting stories of artists and entrepreneurs as well as short narrative stories centering on minority voices. She is the co-founder of Future’s Past, a POC-owned full-service Video & Film Production studio with a reputation for creating cinematic, engaging, and original content.
Her mission is to continue fueling this era of creativity and filmmaking in San Diego, Los Angeles, and beyond, bringing together the most gifted and empowering individuals in our communities to provide the tools they need to produce quality entertainment that leaves an impact.
Lead CreativeJessie Aparte
As a multi-passionate creative and entrepreneur, Jessie has been on a journey of self-discovery through an array of mediums. With roles as diverse as traditional artist, painter, baker, and now filmmaker, she channels her deep understanding of authenticity and creativity as tools for healing, connection, and free expression.
Drawing inspiration from her own upbringing marked by trauma and the pressures of societal norms, Jessie has never been one to limit herself to a single niche. Her empathetic approach focuses on helping others embrace their vulnerabilities, strengthening their personal growth, and fostering meaningful community connections.
Weaving authentic stories across art, visual media, and creative brand strategy, her mission is to empower creatives to find and express their unique voices. She aims to nurture a supportive and safe community where individuals can collaborate, grow, and reconnect with what truly matters— honoring their genuine selves and unique narratives.