Tampa Bay Teen Wins National Teen of Impact Award for Heart Health Advocacy

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, but a new generation of advocates is stepping up to change that. The American Heart Association has named Leonardo Oliveira, a Tampa Bay-based teen, as the 2026 National Teen of Impact Winner for his efforts to raise awareness and funds for nutrition and heart health initiatives. Oliveira’s campaign focused on improving access to healthy foods in local food deserts, a critical issue given that by age 18, many adolescents already develop risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol or Type 2 diabetes.

Oliveira’s connection to the American Heart Association is deeply personal. His father, a cardiologist, received one of his earliest research grants from the organization. Growing up with both parents in health care, Oliveira learned that small, everyday choices can have a lasting impact on well-being. “Being able to give back to an organization that has had such a meaningful impact on my family is truly special to me,” Oliveira said. “This experience has helped me think more intentionally about the future I want to help create, one that is more equitable and healthier.”

The Teen of Impact campaign is a nine-week nationwide competition that challenges teens to build Impact Teams and drive change in their communities. Launched on National Wear Red Day, the campaign engaged nearly 65 communities and more than 300 nominees in the fight against heart disease. Oliveira’s efforts have now earned him the national title, joining a growing network of young advocates proving that anyone can make a difference.

“Heart health matters because the habits we build as teens shape our lifelong well-being,” Oliveira said. “By learning your family history, making healthy choices and encouraging your friends to do the same, we can create a foundation of wellness that will carry with us as we head into college, careers and adulthood.”

Lee A. Shapiro, volunteer chair of the American Heart Association and managing partner at 7wireVentures, praised Oliveira’s leadership. “The Teen of Impact campaign brings the mission of the American Heart Association to life in communities across the country. Leaders like Leonardo are driving change by turning awareness into action and helping build a healthier, more equitable future for their entire generation.”

To get involved in future Teen of Impact campaigns, individuals can reach out to their local American Heart Association staff.

The American Heart Association continues to fund groundbreaking research and advocate for public health. For more information, visit heart.org.