SAMA, derived from the Philippine language, embodies the spirit of unity and collective support. SAMA stands for Survivors Advocating for Mental health Awareness. In Tagalog, "Sama Sama" translates to "coming together," which resonates with our nonprofit’s core philosophy. At SAMA, we aim to foster a sense of togetherness and solidarity within the community of survivors and individuals facing mental health challenges. Our organization serves as an advocate, striving to amplify the voices of those who have experienced sexual assault, domestic violence, or mental illness. SAMA envisions itself as more than just a support network; we aspire to catalyze positive change within the broader community. By coming together, we can break down barriers, eliminate stigma, and create a compassionate and understanding space for everyone impacted by these issues. Join us on this journey of unity, resilience, and advocacy at SAMA.

Nadia Kristine Padilla is a passionate advocate and graduate of San Francisco State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts with a double major in Philosophy (with an emphasis in law) and Liberal Arts, complemented by a minor in Labor and Employment Studies. Initially drawn to the legal field, Nadia's journey led her to intern with JusticeCorps, gaining valuable experience in family law, domestic violence cases, and restraining orders.

During her senior year, Nadia expanded her horizons as an intern for the Judicial Council's public affairs department, contributing to initiatives led by Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye. Post-graduation, she pursued her interest in law by working as a paralegal at a law firm in Pleasanton. However, it was her subsequent role in a nonprofit supporting homeless individuals and low-income families that sparked a deep sense of purpose and belonging.

Recognizing her true calling, Nadia embarked on a new path to make a meaningful impact on her community. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Administration with a focus on health policy, aiming to contribute to positive change through policy creation and community empowerment. She is expected to graduate in May 2025.

Nadia is not only a dedicated advocate but also a survivor who has faced personal challenges, such as sexual assault. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2014, Nadia embarked on a journey to find the right balance of medication and therapy. Her resilience and determination led her to overcome these hurdles and emerge stronger.

Recognizing the power of community and the need for support, Nadia has become a champion for survivors through her involvement with SAMA. For her, SAMA is more than an organization—it's a platform to extend a helping hand to others in the community, reminding them that they are not alone. Through her own experiences, Nadia aims to inspire hope and foster a sense of solidarity among survivors and individuals facing mental health challenges.

Since 2015, Nadia has participated and created over 15 different drives that aim to help homeless individuals, women and low-income families. Many of these drives involved hygiene kits, collecting new and used clothes and finding gifts for families who may not have a gift for the holidays.