John,

Meet Carlos Vela.

Carlos received our 2017 National Youth Advocate of the Year award for his passionate advocacy to reduce tobacco use. With his mother being a longtime smoker, Carlos was motivated to learn about the toll tobacco takes on families and communities, and he quickly learned that his voice could make a difference. He fought tirelessly for smoke-free air policies, and he was a leader in efforts to raise the tobacco age to 21 in Texas. Being an advocate bolstered his confidence and allowed him to use his own story to help others. Today, Carlos is forging a career in health care and continuing to fight for a healthier, more equitable future.

“Owning who you are, and owning your story, is what will create real change today.”

As part of our year-long 25th anniversary celebration, our Voices in the Fight profile series showcases the incredible power of advocates we've worked with over the years. Look out for a new profile every other Wednesday through May 2022.

–The Tobacco-Free Kids team