Iris Joan Robert

This is part of the efforts thevividvida is making to create awareness of Typhoon Yutu. We've collaborated with several individuals from the Northern Mariana Islands to hear what they've had to say about the typhoon and how others from around the world can help their island homes.

TVV: Hey there! Super excited to have you as a part of this feature. We first connected with you on Instagram after searching through the #typhoonyutu hashtag and seeing your posts. But before we get into our main topic, introduce yourself!

Hi, I'm Iris Joan Robert. I am 22 years old and I am a college student attending Triton College here in Chicago, but soon will be attending Washington State University. My hobbies and interests are Photography and Filmmaking, other than that I also blog about my travel and lifestyle experiences.

TVV: Thank you for sharing. So to the main topic, Typhoon Yutu. For those who don't know, the people of the CNMI went through a very real and life-changing experience this past month. Can you share more of what has happened?

Yes, on the night of October 25th 2018, a category 5 Typhoon named Yutu has struck the island of Saipan. It left a lot of people homeless, which many are family and friends. It was hard to see ad hear all the news, especially when you're far away and can't help the people back home.

TVV: How do you relate to the CNMI? Are you originally from there or have family members currently living there?

I am born and raised in Saipan, I lived there all my life and just about 3 years ago I left the island to seek more opportunities for my education.

TVV: In a few words, can you describe how life was in the CNMI or in your particular island before the storm?

Life in the CNMI, specifically Saipan, the island is very laid back and beautiful. It's not like in the US where everything has to be done in time, people rush to go places, and it's super crowded. Unlike in Saipan, you don't feel the rush and pressure, and everyone is friendly and know each other. Also can't forget the beauty of the island, which can't be found out here in the US.

TVV: And now, after Typhoon Yutu, how would you describe the living conditions of those on island?

After the Typhoon Yutu hit the CNMI, I know it has made living quite difficult because a lot of people lost their homes and supplies got tighter.

TVV: Where were you when you first found out about the Typhoon?

I was getting ready for bed and in Chicago.

TVV: To those who live in our side of the world, the later part of the year is often known as "Typhoon Season". How would you say this Typhoon in particular is different - either by impact on infrastructure or the people there?

I can say it could be both, the impact of the Typhoon really destroyed many homes and caused many to be homeless. Because the past typhoon wasn't as bad as this, it would just flood and hit a bit of their homes, but Typhoon Yutu really got the island.

TVV: Can you briefly explain some parts of typhoon prep that families have to undergo?

Typhoon preparations are so important for families to learn and practice, they should know to pack the basic necessities and emergency kits so that whenever another Typhoon or disaster happens they are prepared.

Click the photo to check out her blog!

TVV: In your post about Saipan, you shared that you started a Facebook fundraiser to help families and friends receive items such as food and gas. What other resources would you say are lacking the most on island?

I'm not too sure what other resources are lacking on the island, because a lot of people off island are contributing so much that it has made life easier for the people where they can have food, water, gas and power.

TVV: Going back to the post on Instagram in which we found you, we went through the rest of your feed and found a bunch of beautiful photos (everybody go check it out - @joannpuspos). In one of them, you shared an image at Micro beach and shared in your caption that city life can never quite compare to island life. What do you miss most about Saipan? And would you ever move back - maybe settle down there?

That's a good, but hard question. What do I miss about Saipan? I miss everything about it, the food, the people and most especially the ocean. The ocean is the only place I can find peace and relaxation. I do plan to move back, once I graduate and build experience out here in the US. I also plan to settle down especially when I start my own family.

TVV: To anybody from the Marianas who isn't home to be with their families to rebuild their villages or communities but wishes to be, what message would you tell them?

All I can say is to pray and just show them that you are strong and with them through this journey because they'll get their strengths from you.

TVV: And lastly, do you have any words of encouragement you'd like to share to our bothers and sisters in the CNMI?

Be strong and have faith, you'll get through this.