TINIAN — On April 27, 2023, the power of poetry was used to amplify the voices of Tinian’s youth, focusing on mental health and identity in the Tinian Junior Senior High School Cafeteria. The PSS Mental Health’s Youth Poetry Slam invited students to step into a safe space and express themselves freely, combating stigmas surrounding mental health and fostering resilience.
In a remarkable display of courage, five poets shared their art, their thoughts touching on critical societal issues such as mental health, identity, and emotional resilience.
One of the highlights was Jianna Jireh Cruz, the first-place winner, who urged for societal change by saying, “If we truly want to change the effect our society has on our children, we would have to listen to them.”
Tehya Santos, the third-place participant, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the ripple effect of youth expression, “When the youth speak up, not only do they help themselves, they also create a positive change for others. It’s a win-win scenario.”
This event was brought to life by a panel of esteemed judges, including Chairman of the Board of Education Antonio L. Borja, Vice Chairwoman of the Tinian Municipal Council Marie San Nicolas, Councilman Steven Cabrera, Board of Education Student Representative Ryan Nuera, and PSS Mental Health School Community Council member Melanie B. Cruz.
Frank Lee Borja, PSS Mental Health project manager and Poetry Slam organizer, commented on the transformative potential of such events. He shared, “in carving out a safe enough space and opportunity like this slam, we help others to see the humanity and complexity of mental health challenges and create a more compassionate and supportive community.”
Mary Hocog-Brazzle, PSS Mental Health behavioral health specialist, praised the bravery of the student poets: “It was an honor to witness the poets share powerful stories of the challenges that many students face, but often find difficult to express due to the stigma attached to mental health. Our students must know that it’s okay to not be okay, help is available, and your counselors and PSS Mental Health are here to support you.”
The Tinian Mental Health team anticipates making this a yearly event to usher in Mental Health Awareness Month, reinforcing the importance of open dialogue and creating safe spaces for expression.
For more information and updates on their events, activities, and social media challenges for Mental Health Awareness Month, follow them on social media on @haligi.aware on Instagram and Haligi Aware on Facebook or contact Dr. Bobby Cruz, state education agency director for PSS Mental Health at bobby.cruz@cnmipss.org/.
Youth Poetry Slam contestants pose for a photo with the PSS Mental Health Team and competition judges. From left, Kelvin Shrestha, Jianna Jireh Cruz (1st Place), Ava John (2nd Place), Quiana Manglona (3rd Place), Tehya Santos (3rd Place).
