It is important for youth to be active participants in advocating for their health because the voice is a powerful weapon. By remaining silent you give the authority to someone else to dictate what they believe is best for you, when only you know what is best for you.

Sesen is a college senior and a member of the International Youth Leadership Council.

A couple of years ago, I had the opportunity to work for a non-profit organization called the Young Women’s Project. I worked with a team of young women to draft proposals on how to improve the foster care system. Through this same organization, I gained exposure to disparities when it comes to health education. The culmination of both of my experiences helped to spark my interest in health advocacy. My motivation stems from the compassion that has been instilled in me from an early age. From an early age, I have had immense interest in medicine and science and how the knowledge I have can generate a positive impact: knowledge is power.

I have always believed that knowledge is worthless if not shared with others, which is why I wish to be more vocal when it comes to the health field. I hope that my generation and the next come to appreciate the infinite amount of resources that are available to them, but they must take the initiative to obtain them and utilize them because it is our responsibility. It is important for youth to be active participants in advocating for their health because the voice is a powerful weapon. By remaining silent you give the authority to someone else to dictate what they believe is best for you, when only you know what is best for you.