Our Advocates: Voices for Community Health

Our Advocates: Voices for Community Health highlights inspiring stories from health advocates, community leaders, and cultural practitioners worldwide who promote practical and inclusive health initiatives. From grassroots organizers to overseas workers, these voices share personal experiences and strategies that improve prevention, wellness, and care in diverse communities across the globe. Explore how health promotion happens beyond clinics—through cultural traditions, local projects, and everyday resilience.

*All interviews featured in Our Advocates: Voices for Community Health section are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace professional medical, mental health, or healthcare advice.

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Help Us Make A Difference! Send us a message to discuss how we can work together. Email healthpromotion4all@gmail.com

Voices for Community Health: An Advocate's Journey into Fitness

"My commitment comes from experience. When I was 20, I suffered a serious accident that resulted in multiple spinal fractures and a long recovery period. Being immobilized for over a year led to weight gain and fear of movement, but overcoming that period taught me how important physical health truly is."

In this feature, we highlight the voice of a health promotion advocate who has been committed to regular gym attendance since 2022. Mr. Thaier's journey reflects how personal choices around physical can evolve into sustained health behaviors that inspire others. Through a guided interview, we explored the motivations, beliefs, and social influences that support his commitment to exercise and shape how he promotes healthy living within the community.

The interview questions were informed by the Theory of Reasoned Action, a well- established health behavior framework that helps explain how attitudes and social influences affect health decisions. Using this approach allowed us to better understand not only what motivates consistent physical activity, but why these behaviors are maintained over time and shared with others as part of community health promotion. Read full interview here Journey into Fitness

Advocate for Mental Health: Dr. Elnora Rose Celis- Clinical Psychologist

In this Voices for Community Health interview, Dr. Elnora Rose Celis, Clinical Psychologist, talks with us about the stress high school students often face and offers real-world coping strategies that families, schools, and young people can use. We hope this conversation inspires understanding, connection, and positive well-being for all who read it.

What coping skills help students manage stress?

"Teens should be taught to benefit greatly from practical coping skills such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and time management. Physical activities like sports or dance are also powerful stress relievers. Journaling, talking to a trusted person, and minimizing social media when overwhelmed also help them stay grounded.

One of the most important coping skills is learning how to rest properly, good sleep habits dramatically improve their emotional stability.” ~Dr. Celis

Read Full Interview here Tips About Effective Coping...

Dr. Elnora Rose Celis is a Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Global Chief Academic Officer of Richmindale College. She is also the Mrs. Grand International Tourism Ambassador 2025.

Picture of Dr. Socarras caring for our future.

Advocate for Preventive Care: Dr. Rasciel Socarras — Pediatrician

For over 32 years, Dr. Rasciel Socarras has dedicated his practice to supporting children’s health and guiding families through every stage of development. His work reflects a deep commitment to early prevention, mental well-being, and strengthening the partnership between families and healthcare providers.

In this Voices for Community Health interview, Dr. Socarras shares the overlooked risks facing children and adolescents today, as well as practical strategies families can use to build healthy routines.

Download Q&A: Interview with Dr. Socarras

Pediatric Care in Action

Dr. Rasciel Socarras reminds us that children’s health thrives when prevention, compassion, and family partnership come together. His insights reinforce the mission of Health Promotion 4 All: empowering families with information, encouragement, and accessible strategies to build healthier futures. Read Interview with Dr. Socarras

Voices for Community Health: Supporting Engagement in Skilled Nursing Facilities

At Health Promotion 4 All, we believe that staying active and engaged is essential to health and well-being at every stage of life.

In our latest Voices for Community Health feature, we spoke with staff members from a skilled nursing facility about how they support residents in remaining physically, mentally, and socially active.

From encouraging participation to tailoring activities for a variety of abilities, their insights highlight the thoughtful strategies used to enhance health and quality of life in long-term care settings.

Here’s a closer look at their approaches and experiences: Read full Q&A

Picture of Guro Antonio “Bong” Estrada Jr. Founder of the FMA-Arnis Tirada System and President of the Philippines Cats Claw Martial Arts Association in Kuwait.

Guro Bong- Martial Arts Coach

A dedicated martial artist and teacher, he promotes physical activity and cultural connection through Arnis, guiding both Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and a diverse group of students, including Kuwaitis and other nationalities.

We’re honored to introduce Guro Bong, a Filipino martial arts instructor and Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) based in Kuwait. As the founder of the Arnis Tirada system, Guro Bong combines traditional Filipino martial arts with an inclusive approach that supports people of all health conditions.

"As long as we understand their condition, we can guide them

safely."

"Basta alam mo kondisyon ng student mo, kaya siyang alalayan."