Youth Ambassadors

Youth Ambassadors

Become a Breakthrough T1D Ambassador and help raise awareness for type 1 diabetes (T1D). Open to anyone ages 4+, ambassadors inspire their communities and support fundraising for T1D research. Participants receive a quarterly newsletter with stories, research updates, and Breakthrough T1D news, and can get involved in ways that work best for them! This includes sharing their story, speaking at events, media opportunities, and advocacy activities. Youth can also build leadership skills and may earn volunteer hours.

Riley Hanson

Red Wing, MN

What helps you be brave when diabetes feels hard?
“Knowing that I still have it so much easier than
those who have come before me – people who
would be absolutely blown away by the innovations
and technology we have at our disposal.”

Lilly Johansen

Two Harbors, MN

What would you like to say to another kid who was just
diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes?
“It’s not as scary as it seems.”

Lillie Boxrud

Lakeville, MN

What has been your favorite BT1D event? Why?
“My favorite was the Gophers basketball game
because I got to go on tv and talk to a lot of people.”

Skylar Powell

Fargo, ND

What is your favorite part about Breakthrough T1D?
“I like that it gives me a chance to advocate and
make voices heard that otherwise might not have
been.”

Khadidja Mahamed

Sioux Falls, SD

Why did you want to become a Youth Ambassador?
“I want to help build a strong community and meet
new people who understand life with Type 1
diabetes. I want to use my voice to support others
and make a difference.”

Bella Asrani

Plymouth, MN

What is something you wish more people knew about
diabetes?
“I wish more people knew the differences between
the types of diabetes so there were less
generalizations and misunderstandings about the
type I have.”

Aletta Auvinen

Lake Elmo, MN

T1D doesn’t stop me from…
“Doing whatever I want.”