Last week was quite the doozy. There has always been an intersection between the Asian Identity and Mental Health; and with pain and exhaustion, it was triggered once again by inappropriate influence. We need to keep reminding ourselves that we are all effected by the same toxic systems that try to tear us down but now more then ever, we need to unite as a community and work together into building social change, where asking for equality shouldn’t have to be questioned. And no matter your age, gender or background — everyone has a seat at the table.

I like to believe that good influence outweighs the bad and to that note, in Cambodian folklore, Tidah means daughter of the gods; her duty is to block out any evil spirits coming into houses or temples. I guess there’s no surprise that my middle name suggests a lot of my character! But as trust is hard to come by these days, I thought I’d say, I’m always going to make a commitment into doing good influential things whether that’s advocating for self-care and mental health, fighting the good fight in grassroots activism or being a support system and friend to my fellow Asian community. Hate and violence has no place in our world and it’s the time we stand up and say we won’t tolerate being invisible anymore.

I’m sending lots of love to anyone that needs it right now. Be proud of who you are, your identity, your roots, and where you come from. I’ve never felt as connected as I do to mine so here are some beautiful shots of my family, ones that you might recognise as humans being too.

Also thought I should note, I am now fully vaccinated! That means you're in safe and sound hands when working together. Here’s to catching up IRL soon in safe spaces, perhaps over yum cha, herbal tea, and good conversations. You can always sit with me xoxo