The American Heart Association has named Leonardo Oliveira, a Tampa Bay-based teen and community advocate, as the 2026 National Teen of Impact Winner. Oliveira was recognized for his efforts in raising awareness and funds for cardiovascular disease research, advocacy, and education, with a particular focus on nutrition and addressing food deserts in his community.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and the American Heart Association is increasingly engaging younger generations in the fight. Oliveira’s personal connection to the cause stems from his father, a cardiologist who received early research grants from the Association. Growing up with both parents in healthcare, Oliveira developed a belief that small, everyday choices can significantly impact lifelong well-being.
The Teen of Impact campaign is a nine-week, nationwide competition that challenges teens to lead with purpose, build Impact Teams, and drive meaningful change. It launched on National Wear Red Day, the first Friday in February, and involves nearly 65 communities and more than 300 nominees. Oliveira’s campaign focused on nutrition and supporting the Association’s work to increase access to nutrient-rich foods in local food deserts, motivated by the reality that by age 18, many adolescents already have risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, or Type 2 diabetes.
“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.”
The recognition places Oliveira among a growing network of young advocates demonstrating that anyone can make meaningful change. Lee A. Shapiro, J.D., volunteer chair of the American Heart Association and managing partner and co-founder at 7wireVentures, noted, “Leaders like Leonardo are driving change by turning awareness into action and helping build a healthier, more equitable future for their entire generation.”
The American Heart Association, supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, funds groundbreaking research and provides critical resources to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke. The organization has been a leading source of health information for over a century, focusing on equitable health in all communities. For more information about the Teen of Impact campaign or to get involved, visit the American Heart Association’s website at heart.org or contact local staff.
