Help Erika Raise Mental Health Awareness Through Miss Philippines USA 2025

Hi everyone, and thank you for visiting my GoFundMe page.

My name is Erika, and I’m a proud Filipina—born and raised in the Philippines. I moved to the U.S. at the age of 20, starting out in Illinois and now living in the Greater Thousand Oaks area of California.

For over 15 years, I’ve worked as a nurse, caring for patients with both acute physical illnesses and mental health challenges. I’ve also seen loved ones struggle silently through life-altering battles with mental health—struggles that could have been eased with early support and proper care.

That’s why mental health awareness is more than a cause for me—it’s a mission. And today, I’ve been blessed with an incredible opportunity to bring this mission to a larger stage.

I’ve been selected to participate in the Miss Philippines USA 2025 competition, in the Empress category. This prestigious event is the longest-running Filipino-American beauty pageant in the U.S., now celebrating its 14th year. More than a competition, it’s a platform to spotlight purposeful advocacy, cultural pride, and community leadership.

Why I Need Your Help

Preparing for Miss Philippines USA requires significant time, training, and financial resources. I’m currently fundraising to help cover the expenses involved in the competition, which runs from July 2025 to August 2025.

Your generous support will help cover:

• Registration and training fees

• Wardrobe, hair, and makeup

• Photoshoots and promotional materials

• Advocacy campaign development

What This Means to Me

This isn’t just about a crown—it’s about using this platform to speak openly about mental health, break the stigma, and advocate for accessible, compassionate, and personalized care. So many lives are affected by mental health issues, yet too many still suffer in silence. I want to help change that narrative, starting with this platform.

How You Can Help

Every donation—big or small—brings me one step closer to sharing this important message with a wider audience. If you’re unable to give financially, sharing this page with your network is just as powerful.

Together, we can create a future where no one feels alone in their mental health journey.

Maraming salamat po for your time, your kindness, and your support. ❤️

With gratitude,

Erika