Area student named National Youth Heart Ambassador

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The American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service in 2024, has named a seventh-grade student at Julia Landon College Preparatory & Leadership Development School as one of 20 volunteer national Youth Heart Ambassadors for the 2024-25 school year.

Anushya Baruah, 12, of Jacksonville will collaborate with the American Heart Association’s school engagement programs, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, to spread heart health awareness among her peers.

The American Heart Association accepted nominations nationwide from young people who have been impacted by heart disease or stroke. Youth with a personal diagnosis, a family history of cardiovascular disease or a passion for leading a heart-healthy life were encouraged to apply for the Youth Heart Ambassador role. Anushya’s grandfather battled heart disease, and she is motivated to enact change among her peers and to empower people to lead healthy lives.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity to be the 2024-25 Youth Heart Ambassador and learn more about heart disease,” Baruah said.

The Youth Heart Ambassadors serve a one-year commitment as a volunteer of the American Heart Association assisting the organization to be a relentless force for healthier lives for all. The position gives youth a voice to encourage, advocate and emphasize the need to raise critical funding in their local communities as they share the impact cardiovascular disease has had on their lives. 

“Schools participating in our free community service-learning programs, Kids Heart and American Heart Challenge, is so important for fostering a heart-healthy community,” said Amanda Tewey, school engagement director at the American Heart Association. “When students have the opportunity to share their personal why, they inspire their peers and drive change.”

The Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge are dynamic service-learning fundraising programs that teach students how to improve their overall health while making a positive impact on others. Through engaging curriculums and interactive challenges, students get active, have fun and raise essential funds for congenital heart defects, nutrition security, CPR training, mental well-being and more. These efforts support the American Heart Association’s mission to create a world of longer, healthier lives.

“We are excited to announce that a local student has been selected to represent the American Heart Association nationally,” Tewey said. “This not only highlights her dedication but also brings immense pride and excitement to our community, encouraging others to join the fight against heart disease and stroke.”

Schools interested in participating in either Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge can register now at heart.org/en/professional/educator/school-programs for the 2024-25 school year. More information about the Youth Heart Ambassadors can be found at heart.org/youthambassadors.