To our graduating Teen Advisory Board seniors, thank you for your leadership, passion, and commitment to creating a healthier and stronger Charlotte community. Through your advocacy, service, and willingness to lead meaningful conversations around substance use prevention, behavioral health, and adolescent wellness, you have made a lasting impact on your peers and beyond..
Whether developing awareness campaigns, volunteering in the community, or representing TAB through presentations and outreach, you have embodied the mission of empowering youth leaders to champion positive change. We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished and grateful for the creativity, authenticity, and dedication you brought to the Teen Advisory Board.
Congratulations on your graduation and best wishes for all that lies ahead — your voices and leadership will continue to inspire others for years to come
Celebrating Excellence!
Sophey Cherry | Northwest School of the Arts
Attending Boston University in the fall
“My participation in TAB has immensely impacted me as a teenager in this generation through my pledge of staying alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) free. I have had the opportunity to speak at the international CADCA conference in Dallas, Texas, serve as a panelist at events, and act in a few short films to spread a notion in which I am beyond passionate about. I had the utmost privilege in providing a mentorship to a group of middle school students through our annual summit initiative, and even helped select scholarship recipients to change-making teenage pioneers; all in the aid of spreading the mission of developing and empowering adolescent leaders into making informed decisions due to a conscientious pursuit of a healthy life. This organization has been a driving force in my personal and professional growth by fostering my developing values of leadership, responsibility, and resilience, inspiring me to actively contribute to my community and become a positive influence for others.”
Aniya Dugger | Northwest School of the Arts
Attending Vanderbilt University to study Neuroscience
“My first introduction to Teen Health Connection, I was immediately met with a strong sense of community and bonding. From my time as a 6th grader to now, a graduating senior, I am elated to look back on the unforgettable service opportunities, leadership development, and community-building activities embraced in the Teen Health Connection Teen Advisory Board. My leadership skills have only continued to grow, as I understand the importance of effective leadership and advocacy. My greatest honor has been the community service projects I have participated in whether going to Texas for the CADCA Conference or speaking on iHeart Radio. The unwavering support and mentorship I have received from the Teen Health Connection community have truly impacted me in so many ways. As I embark on my college journey, I am excited to utilize the skills I have obtained by participating in TAB. In the fall, I will be attending Vanderbilt University on a full scholarship, where I will be majoring in neuroscience!”
Eva Adhikari | Ballantyne Ridge HS
Attending the University of South Carolina Honors College, studying International Business and Supply Chain, with a minor in German and Studio Art.
“Being a part of the Teen Advisory Board has given me so many friendships, the chance to make an impact, and something to look forward to every week 😊”
Sinmi Olasimbo |
Attending the University of North Carolina at Greensboro to study Human Health Science on the Pre-Med track.
“TAB has surrounded me with amazing, like-minded individuals and has taught me how to be an advocate and role model for others, my peers!”
Cameron Miller | East Meck High School
Attending Winston-Salem State University in the fall, studying Middle School Education, while minoring in Political Science.
“TAB has allowed me to find my inner voice as a leader and make positive connections that make me a better person and leader within my community. I will always recommend TAB for anyone who wants to make a positive difference in their respective community.”
Maya Tolani | Parkwood High School
Attending the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, studying Psychology with a minor in neuroscience.
“I really enjoyed meeting new friends and learning new skills with such a fun group. I look forward to our meetings each week!”
Austyn Burkett | Fort Mill High School
Attending Duke University and plans on majoring in either Neuroscience or Psychology on the Pre-Med track
“TAB taught me more about the different steps people can take to improve teen mental health. I’ve always been interested in studying psychology and helping others, so learning more about different adolescent issues really deepened my curiosity and showed me ways to support people in my community, as well as how I can continue making a difference in the future.”
