Finding Cultural Connection: Young Filipinos Navigate Mental Health in Rural Alaska

For young adults in rural Alaska, maintaining a positive mental health outlook often means finding connections to peers, community, and culture. Fostering these social connections and cultivating relationships creates a sense of belonging and purpose, essentially enhancing one’s overall health and well-being. Ketchikan Kapamilya has seen this happening firsthand through the various projects offered in the community. Since 2021, Ketchikan’s revitalization of Filipino cultural enrichment programs demonstrates how connecting through dance, music, and art has been uplifting youth’s confidence and spirit.

Research shows that young adults in rural Alaska face significant mental health challenges. A 2024 survey revealed that 19% of Alaska youths reported attempting suicide at least once in the past year, an increase from 8.7% in 2011 (ADN, 2024). These alarming statistics highlight the need for strong social connections and community support systems like those fostered by Ketchikan Kapamilya.

The Struggle of Starting Over

When Roseann Bruce first arrived in Ketchikan towards the end of her Freshman year, the isolation felt overwhelming. “At first, I was so scared because I didn’t know there were that many Filipinos in the United States,” she recalls. “So I’m like, how will I fit in?”

This sense of disconnection is a common challenge for young people in rural Alaska, particularly those from minority communities. Students who transfer to the US in their teens appear to experience more challenges to create new friendships outside their own ethnic background in order to feel more “American”. Since many people living in a small rural town have developed friendships with peers since the early years of primary school, those who moved at a later age feel like they are starting over.

Not only was Roseann new to Ketchikan, but she was new to this type of school system. From a new grading system structure to different teacher/student interactions; from speaking native language to hoping her English was proficient and understandable; creating an elevated sense of anxiety, fear, and lack of acceptance. The challenges that new students face adjusting to life in Ketchikan are not uncommon.

From Shame to Pride: A Mental Health Journey

For Zofia Volkmann, a 13-year-old middle school student, participating in Magsayawan Ketchikan and cultural activities transformed her relationship with her Filipino identity and mental well-being. “Before the dance group, I wouldn’t tell people I’m Filipino,” Zofia shares. “Now… I feel proud! The dance group is such a positive community with no negative energy.” Zofia has both Filipino and European roots, having been exposed to both cultures throughout her childhood. However, it was not until joining Magsayawan Ketchikan did she feel a stronger connection to being Filipina. Research published in the Journal of Community Psychology shows that community engagement fosters positive youth development, increasing resilience and a sense of purpose (PMC, 2024).

This shift from shame to pride represents more than just cultural appreciation – it’s about developing the confidence and emotional resilience needed for good mental health. Jalia Rodriguez, a Filipino-American high school senior, explains how cultural connection helped her overcome feelings of isolation: “Learning different Filipino dances made me think more about who I am in my culture, and I feel closer to my culture now.” Jalia is the youngest of four in her family and the only one born in the US. Although she was not raised in the Philippines, she can find ways to connect through cultural dance.

Cultural connection is more than just an expression of heritage; it’s a critical tool for mental well-being. Studies indicate that participating in cultural activities can significantly enhance self-esteem and emotional resilience among youth, particularly those in rural areas (PMC, 2024).

Creating Safe Spaces for Mental Wellness

Ketchikan Kapamilya community has created what mental health professionals call “safe space”; environments where young people can be authentic and vulnerable. Czarina Cabillo, a Filipino-American community advisor, notes that these spaces allow youth to “feel safe to speak my own language” and embrace their identity. Czarina came to the United States at 14, with Tagalog as her first language. She had a difficult time finding a safe space to be herself and honor her culture. It was then, in 2020, that Czarina established a FIL-AM Club at Ketchikan High School to help create a space for fellow students with similar experiences to come together. The club continues to thrive and remains involved in various community events and civic engagements.

Leadership as Healing

One powerful way the community supports youth mental health is by empowering them to become teachers and leaders themselves. Roseann describes the joy of teaching younger students: “It feels wonderful because a lot of kids were looking up to you, ‘hey, Ate, how do you do this one?'” This responsibility and mentorship role helps build confidence and self-worth – key components of mental wellness.

After graduating in 2023, Czarina began working for Ketchikan Wellness Coalition’s Sama Sama Tayo sa Kalusugan program. She completed an online certification for Tagalog interpretation and translation. Czarina shares that her work as a Community Health Liaison “helps my people take a step forward to sharing their problems because sometimes clients won’t tell the doctor or nurse the truth about what they feel.” Czarina had no idea how important her services were, however now she says “all I think about is helping more Filipinos that are not confident about speaking their concerns.” This valuable skill has opened up opportunities to collaborate with other local agencies and partners to ensure Ketchikan’s Filipino community has access to resources. She has learned that speaking her native language is empowering herself to be a community leader, and allowing other Filipinos to have a “voice” of their own.

Taking on leadership roles has a profound impact on young people’s mental health. Studies in the Journal of Community Psychology show that mentorship builds confidence and self-worth—two key elements in maintaining mental well-being (PMC, 2024).

Building Community Support Networks

Alma Manabat Parker, founder of Magsayawan Ketchikan and Filipino community advocate, reminds us: “It’s never too late to reconnect… always keep that opportunity open.” Alma has lived in Ketchikan for 43 years and has witnessed the presence of Filipino heritage shift up and down. However, since 2021 Ketchikan’s Filipino culture has been reignited and can be felt, seen, and heard through dance classes, cultural celebrations, and mentorship programs. For young people, the message of connection and hope is even stronger with these support systems in place. “It makes me feel like… I’m back in the Philippines. The community is one of the best cultures out there,” Zofia reflects. Her words highlight how cultural programs not only preserve traditions – they create support networks, build confidence, and help young people develop the emotional tools they need to thrive.

These research-backed findings emphasize that fostering cultural connections, providing safe spaces, and encouraging youth leadership are not just beneficial—they are essential to improving mental health in rural Alaska.

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT GROUPS (988 LIFELINE CALL / TEXT / CHAT)

It is valuable to know the multiple resources that can help with mental health struggles. Alaska’s 988 Lifeline FREE, confidential and available 24 hours/day everyday. Counselors will provide the compassionate support you may need in times of crisis or stress.

FIL-AM CLUB Ketchikan High School

Instagram: KHS FIL-AM CLUB

MAGSAYAWAN Ketchikan

More info at: ketchikankapamilya.org

Text: 907.821.4818

KETCHIKAN123

Website: KETCHIKAN123

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