fbpx  

Inspiration

, , , , , ,

GoFish 2024 Kick-Off at Clackamette Park: Embracing Culture and Heritage

Amidst the natural splendor of Clackamette Park, the Living Islands team embarked on a dual-purpose mission: capturing compelling footage for our Superfund PSAs and kick-starting the GoFish Ambassadors program.

This day was a significant milestone, as it not only contributed to our ongoing efforts to raise environmental awareness but also marked the beginning of a journey towards forming a state-wide Pacific Islander advisory council in February 2024!

By weaving in elements of our shared fashion and the rich history of fishing deeply rooted in Pacific Islander culture, we aimed to connect with our community on a profound level. The GoFish Ambassadors program is a testament to our commitment to engage with our community through culturally aware channels. It’s designed to empower members, enabling them to represent and advocate for our collective interests and heritage. This initiative represents more than just a meeting; it’s the foundation of a movement that will bring together voices from across the state, ensuring that the unique perspectives and needs of Pacific Islanders are heard and addressed.

As we wrapped up the day’s filming, we felt a surge of pride and anticipation for this program’s impact in strengthening our community ties and preserving our cultural legacy.

Read More
, , , , , ,

Marshallese Cultural Health Forum 2023: Bridging Communities Through Cross-Cultural Education

The Marshallese Cultural Health Forum was a transformative experience, where attendees gathered to foster a deeper understanding of health needs within the Marshallese community and beyond. This unique event featured insightful presentations and distinguished speakers, providing invaluable insights into the cultural nuances that influenced healthcare practices.

The forum served as a vital platform for individuals, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to come together and engage in meaningful dialogue. Through cross-cultural education, we aimed to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their cultural background, received the support they deserved.

Highlights of the event included:

Engaging Presentations: Expert speakers delved into various aspects of Marshallese culture, shedding light on traditional health practices, beliefs, and the challenges faced by the community in accessing quality healthcare.

Interactive Exhibits: Attendees immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Marshallese culture through interactive exhibits showcasing art, music, and cuisine, providing a sensory experience that deepened their understanding of this vibrant community.

Networking Opportunities: Participants connected with like-minded individuals, healthcare professionals, and community leaders who shared a passion for improving health outcomes and promoting cultural inclusivity.

Those who attended the Marshallese Cultural Health Forum gained valuable insights that empowered them to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of Marshallese individuals, and by extension, contributed to a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for all.

The event was a significant step towards creating a healthier, more culturally sensitive future for our communities. It was an opportunity for attendees to be part of a movement dedicated to positive change.

 

 

Read More
, , ,

PI Voices Meeting about Hoops for Hope 24

 

 

Reflecting on Hoops for Hope Dinner and Future Plans

On July 11th 2024, Living Islands hosted a Hoops for Hope community dinner that gathered individuals that played a vital role in the process. They discusses the transformative power of basketball in the lives of Pacific Islander youth. Attendees came together to share their thoughts on the event’s success and to brainstorm ideas for its continued evolution.

Guests unanimously praised the event for providing a nurturing environment where young individuals could explore their potential and envision diverse paths to success. The combination of panel discussions and basketball games was particularly well-received, fostering not only skill development but also a strong sense of community and belonging among participants. As conversations unfolded, there was a shared enthusiasm for expanding the scope of the event in the coming year, with attendees expressing a keen desire to deepen their involvement and explore new opportunities for collaboration. In particular, discussions with Jay, sparked excitement about the possibility of incorporating a tour of Nike into next year’s program, offering young athletes exposure to new horizons and inspiration for their future endeavors.

As guests departed, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to empowering Pacific Islander youth through the transformative power of basketball. With a shared vision for the future and a commitment to continued collaboration, attendees left the dinner inspired to make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals within the community.

Read More