Tampa Bay teen rallies community for nutrition and heart health, earning national honor

DALLAS, May 19, 2026 - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the No. 1 killer in the United States, and the American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, is working with the next generation to build change. For Tampa Bay-based teen and community advocate Leonardo Oliveira, this mission is deeply personal.

Oliveira's father, a cardiologist, received one of his earliest research grants from the Association. Both of his parents working in health care shaped his belief that small, everyday choices can have an impact on lifelong well-being. He is now being recognized as the 2026 National Teen of Impact Winner for his efforts in raising awareness and funds for lifesaving research, advocacy and education.

"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. It also reminds me that when you set your heart and mind to a goal, and rally those around you, you can accomplish great things."

The Teen of Impact™ campaign - a nine-week, nationwide competition that challenges teens to lead with purpose, build Impact Teams and drive meaningful change in their communities - launched nationwide on National Wear Red Day®, the first Friday in February. The Teen of Impact campaign rallies nearly 65 communities and more than 300 nominees in the fight against heart disease.

CVD has been thought to only affect older generations, but the reality is that heart disease and stroke can affect anyone at any age. By age 18, many adolescents have already developed risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol or Type 2 diabetes. This motivated Oliveira to focus his campaign on nutrition and supporting the Association's work to increase access to nutrient-rich foods in local food deserts.

"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."

As the 2026 National Teen of Impact Winner, Oliveira joins a growing network of advocates proving that anyone can make meaningful change.

"The Teen of Impact campaign brings the mission of the American Heart Association to life in communities across the country," said Lee A. Shapiro, J.D., volunteer chair of the American Heart Association and managing partner and co-founder at 7wireVentures, an investment firm headquartered in Chicago. "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 Teen of Impact, reach out to your local American Heart Association staff.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

For Media Inquiries:

Katie Kwapich: [email protected]

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org