THE Northern Marianas Protection & Advocacy Systems, Inc. proudly presents “Advocacy Amplified,” a podcast series dedicated to providing a platform to empower and educate the community on the importance of disability advocacy and awareness. Hosted by NMPASI’s Projects Specialists Tiava To’omata and Joshua Meneses, “Advocacy Amplified” offers listeners a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of advocacy work. Through candid conversations, the podcast sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the resources available to support them.
Why a podcast, you may ask? We believe that a podcast is an excellent source of outreach for several reasons. Firstly, it’s accessible. In a digital age where information is at our fingertips, a podcast allows listeners to engage with content at their convenience, whether they’re at home, commuting, or on the go. This accessibility ensures that our message reaches a wide and diverse audience, including those who may face barriers to traditional forms of communication. With the use of accessible features, an example being close captions, we can convey our message to both the disability community and the general public.
Secondly, a podcast is a powerful storytelling tool. By sharing both personal and professional experiences and insights, “Advocacy Amplified” connects with listeners on a deeper level, fostering empathy, understanding, and solidarity. Through the medium of audio, we have the opportunity to humanize advocacy work, making it relatable and relevant to our community, and to prove that everyone can be an advocate. This interactive aspect fosters engagement and collaboration, turning passive listeners into active participants in the advocacy journey.
In the upcoming episode scheduled to drop this coming May 1st, 2024, “Advocacy Amplified” will focus on NMPASI’s Protection & Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness program, as well as Mental Health Awareness Month. Featuring Philip Santos, the Lead Family Coordinator at the Commonwealth Health Center — Community Guidance Center, and the lead for CNMI Mental Health Awareness Month planning, the episode promises to be both informative and inspiring. Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or someone eager to learn more, “Advocacy Amplified” hopes to offer valuable insights for all.
So mark your calendars and join us on May 1st as we amplify disability advocacy and mental health awareness. Together, let’s raise our voices and make a difference in our community. For more information and to listen to previous episodes, visit NMPASI’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NMPASI or our Instagram profile @NMPASI670/. Additionally, you can contact NMPASI on our office numbers at (670) 235-7273/74.
TIAVA TO’OMATA
NMPASI Projects Specialist
