Q&A with Kayla Mahiko, Our New Team Support Manager
Kayla Mahiko (she/her) joined Northwest Health Foundation at the end of October 2023 as our new Team Support Manager. We’re excited to have her as a part of the team, and we wanted to get to know her better, so we asked her a few questions. Here are her answers.
What communities do you consider yourself a part of, and what does community mean to you personally?
I identify with several diverse communities. A lot of aspects of life have shaped my experiences.
I identify as a Native Hawaiian, Asian American, white woman.
I was born and raised in Hawai‘i on the island of O‘ahu, I went to college in Corvallis, Oregon (Go Beavs) and have lived in Beaverton for a little over 5 years now.
I also consider myself a part of the eldest child community.
Community, to me, means a group of people who share a common experience, identity, or background that fosters a strong sense of connection. This connection can create bonds, collective understanding, a support system and sense of belonging.
What excites you about your new role at NWHF? Is there a particular program you are interested in learning more about?
I'm thrilled to join the amazing NWHF team and be a part of the incredible work happening here. What excites me about my new role is the opportunity to help enhance operational structure and processes. I hope to find ways to improve efficiency, making our team's jobs a bit easier, and identifying areas where small changes can have a significant impact on the way we do some of our work. Talking to the team, everyone seems open to help and suggestions.
In terms of programs, it’s tough to pick one but if I HAD to, I’d say I am interested in learning more about the Justice Reinvestment Equity Program. It is probably the work that I am the least familiar with, and I look forward to learning more.
What drives you to work in the field of philanthropy?
I'm in the field of philanthropy, because I've always felt the desire to be a part of organizations that strive to uplift and support communities, especially those of color. I’m from a community of color, and I’ve seen the amazing things that can be done when you provide people with some support and a chance. On the positive side, what keeps me going is seeing the outcome of the work that’s happening and the chance to learn something new from the people and organizations we work with every day. On the flip side, what keeps me going is the realization of how much work remains to be done to support the numerous communities in our region, the awareness of unmet needs and the pressing challenges that these communities still face.
What is something you love in your community, and what is something you’d like to see change?
I live in Beaverton, and I love that it is such a diverse city. I enjoy being able to experience a wide range of cultures through different events and cuisine, and I love seeing people who look like me! I feel a sense of belonging in Beaverton.
However, I'd like to see those diverse voices within our community, especially younger ones, uplifted and amplified even more. It's crucial that we not only celebrate our diversity but also work to ensure that all community members have an equal platform to be heard, contribute and have a say in shaping the community's future.
How have you been practicing self care recently?
When I need a pick-me-up, I like to get outside and go for a walk. I love being outdoors and connecting with nature. I also love a good Netflix marathon of bad reality TV. It's my guilty pleasure. Recently, I have been really trying to practice listening to my body better, giving it the rest it deserves and saying no when my plate is overloaded.
What brings you joy?
What brings me the most joy is being surrounded by the people I love and seeing them thrive. I recently had the privilege of visiting my family in Hawai'i for a few weeks, and being back in my hometown with my loved ones was like a refreshing reset. I also have a small clay earring business that is (usually) a source of great joy for me. I also find joy in cooking or trying new foods, getting lost in a good book and finding hikes that will lead me to any sort of water.