Jacksonville Seventh Grader Named National Youth Heart Ambassador – Empowering Youth to Advocate for Heart Health
In a heartwarming development, a seventh-grade student from Jacksonville, Florida, has been bestowed with the prestigious title of National Youth Heart Ambassador by the American Heart Association. Anushya Baruah, a 12-year-old student at Julia Landon College Preparatory & Leadership Development School, has been selected as one of 20 volunteer ambassadors for the 2024-2025 school year. This initiative aims to empower young individuals to advocate for heart health and spread awareness about healthy living practices among their peers.
Anushya’s appointment as a Youth Heart Ambassador is particularly significant as it coincides with the American Heart Association’s centennial year, marking a century of lifesaving service. The Association sought nominations from youth across the nation who have been personally impacted by heart disease or stroke. Candidates with a personal diagnosis of heart-related ailments, a family history of cardiovascular disease, or a fervent commitment to promoting heart-healthy lifestyles were encouraged to apply for this esteemed role.
For Anushya, her motivation stems from her grandfather’s battle with heart disease, which has inspired her to drive positive change within her community. Expressing her gratitude for being selected as the 2024-2025 Youth Heart Ambassador, Anushya shared her eagerness to delve deeper into the realm of heart disease awareness and prevention. She views this opportunity as a platform to educate her peers and empower individuals to prioritize their heart health.
As a Youth Heart Ambassador, Anushya will serve a one-year commitment as a volunteer for the American Heart Association, contributing to the organization’s mission of promoting healthier lives for all. Through her advocacy efforts, she will raise awareness about the impact of cardiovascular diseases and encourage her peers to adopt heart-healthy habits. By sharing her personal story and insights, Anushya aims to inspire others to prioritize their cardiovascular well-being.
The American Heart Association’s school engagement programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, will be pivotal platforms for Anushya to engage with her peers and promote heart health initiatives. These programs offer a dynamic blend of service-learning and fundraising activities that educate students on the importance of maintaining optimal health while making a positive impact on others. Through interactive challenges and engaging curriculums, participants learn about congenital heart defects, nutrition security, CPR training, mental well-being, and other critical aspects of heart health.
Amanda Tewey, the school engagement director at the American Heart Association, emphasized the significance of student participation in programs like Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge for fostering a heart-healthy community. By encouraging students to share their personal experiences and motivations, these initiatives inspire peer-to-peer support and drive meaningful change in promoting cardiovascular wellness.
The selection of Anushya as a Youth Heart Ambassador not only highlights her dedication to the cause but also brings pride and excitement to the Jacksonville community. Her role as a national representative underscores the importance of youth involvement in advocating for heart health and combating heart disease and stroke. By showcasing Anushya’s commitment and passion, the American Heart Association aims to inspire others to join the fight against cardiovascular ailments and promote a culture of wellness within their communities.
Schools interested in participating in the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs can now register for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. These initiatives offer a unique opportunity for students to engage in service-learning activities, promote heart health awareness, and contribute to fundraising efforts that support the American Heart Association’s overarching mission of creating a world of longer, healthier lives.
The appointment of Anushya Baruah as a National Youth Heart Ambassador serves as a testament to the American Heart Association’s commitment to empowering youth to advocate for heart health. Through her dedication and passion, Anushya exemplifies the spirit of service and community engagement that lies at the heart of the Association’s mission. As she embarks on her journey as an ambassador, Anushya’s impact is poised to inspire a new generation of young advocates for cardiovascular wellness and healthier living practices.