Lina'la Initiative

The Lina'la Initiative is a Community-driven movement dedicated and rooted in Compassion, Culture, and Resilience empowering families in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands who are facing financial hardship. Recognizing that many individuals possess valuable skills but lack the resources to formally start a business, this initiative provides practical support and mentorship to help them generate income through their talents. Participants are guided in product creation, basic financial literacy, and accountability practices to prepare them for future business compliance. Lina'la Initiative is not about bypassing regulations—it is about survival, compassion, and creating a pathway toward self-sufficiency and long-term stability within our island communities.

The Lina'la Initiative was created in response to the growing number of families in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands who face economic hardship. While the systems in place aim to support us, many still fall through the cracks — not due to lack of talent, but lack of access. This initiative exists to fill that gap — to empower our people to take action when survival cannot wait. With full respect to our government leaders, we believe there are times when compassion must outweigh red tape, and humanity must lead the way. Lina’la (meaning life in Chamorro) is our call to uplift each other, using the skills we already have to rebuild stability, together. This initiative was named by its founder, Rowina Ogo, and co-founded in partnership with her goddaughter, Ruslin Fitial, who grew up around Rowina and was influenced by her many talents and creative skills. Together, they share a vision to uplift others through community, culture, and empowerment.

• Empower individuals and families with practical skills to create income-generating products or services from what they know and can do.
• Provide mentorship and guidance in areas such as product development, budgeting, and basic financial literacy.
• Support long-term growth by introducing accountability practices and preparing participants for eventual compliance and formal business registration when ready.
• Strengthen community bonds through shared knowledge, skill-sharing, and cultural exchange rooted in our Chamorro and Carolinian heritage.
• Host uplifting gatherings that foster alignment, consideration, resilience, and the spirit of rising together.

• Immediate relief and support for those facing financial struggles, without waiting for formal systems to catch up.
• Restoration of dignity by helping individuals see their value and talents as tools for survival and growth.
• A community-driven safety net built on love, culture, and shared strength.
• A bridge to sustainability, helping individuals grow from informal sellers to empowered micro-entrepreneurs.
• A movement of hope, reminding people they are not alone — and that there’s always a way forward.

If you’re facing challenges or want to be part of this empowering journey, you are welcome to join us. Whether you need support or have something to offer — and we’re here to walk with you, we'd love to support you.

Email: linala@rowinaogo.com
Facebook: Rowina Ogo or Ruslin Fitial

Add us on Instagram: Linala Initiative

Let’s rise, together!