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 of California 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 path to make a meaningful impact on her community. She earned her Master’s in Public Administration with a focus on Policy Analysis and Management in May 2025 and is committed to driving positive change through policy creation, systems reform, and community empowerment. Building on both her legal foundation and policy expertise, Nadia will begin law school in Fall 2026 with the goal of continuing her advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence and ultimately pursuing a career as a prosecutor. Through this path, she aims to hold perpetrators accountable while advancing trauma-informed and survivor-centered justice within the legal system.

Nadia is not only a dedicated advocate but also a survivor who has faced personal challenges, including sexual assault. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2014, she 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, using her lived experience to inform compassionate, equitable advocacy.

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 is a platform to extend a helping hand to others, reminding them that they are not alone. Through her own experiences, Nadia aims to inspire hope and foster solidarity among survivors and individuals facing mental health challenges.

Since 2015, Nadia has participated in and created over 15 community drives aimed at supporting homeless individuals, women, and low-income families. These initiatives have included distributing hygiene kits, collecting new and gently used clothing, and providing holiday gifts to families who might otherwise go without; reflecting her long-standing commitment to dignity, care, and justice for underserved communities.