Hi everyone! My name is Tutaleva but I go by Tuta, & I'm the coordinator for Mind in Motion. As a first-generation Tongan American, I am passionate about fostering community & promoting overall well-being. I am currently a second-year at the College of San Mateo majoring in kinesiology, with a strong interest in pursuing a career in physical therapy. I work on-campus as a Mental Health Peer Educator (MHPE) & off-campus as a Physical Therapy Aide at West Bay Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Center in San Mateo.

My passion for kinesiology stems from my deep love for sports. Growing up, I spent much of my youth playing basketball, & when my playing days ended, I found joy in watching sports, particularly football, basketball, & occasionally boxing & rugby.

This passion deepened when I experienced an injury myself & went through physical therapy. I realized that recovery isn't just physical, it's mental too. The challenges of injury taught me to be mindful of my mental well-being & reinforced my belief in the connection between the body & mind.

Through physical therapy, I hope to help others not only regain their physical strength but also navigate the mental challenges that come with injury & recovery. My goal is to support individuals on their journey back to doing what they love while also fostering a greater awareness of the connection between physical & mental well-being.

I believe mental health is a vital component of self-care, & a great way to nurture it is by recognizing the powerful connection between our mental & physical health. Whether it's walking, running, lifting, or playing sports, physical movement has been proven to boost mood & reduce stress. Engaging in regular movement not only strengthens the body but also fosters resilience, sharpens the mind, & builds a sense of community.

Through this walk, my goal is to create a welcoming & supportive space where individuals can come together, engage in movement, & raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being. By walking side by side, we strengthen both our physical & mental well-being while reinforcing the idea that no one has to navigate their mental health journey alone.