John,

Meet Rukaya Alrubaye.

Rukaya Alrubaye, a high school senior from Fayetteville, Arkansas, always knew that she found the joy from helping people and improving her community. As a substance use prevention specialist, she brings empathy and compassion to her work with her peers, helping them make informed, healthy decisions.

That experience also translates directly into Rukaya’s tobacco prevention work as a Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids National Youth Ambassador, where she’s advocated for increased tobacco prevention funding at the state and federal level. We recently recognized Rukaya for her tremendous impact when we named her one of our 2022 Youth Advocates of the Year. Outside of her advocacy work, she also enjoys painting, singing and spending time with her family – including her cats!

“I believe a leader and an advocate should definitely have the ability to listen to others ... as well as sympathy and the determination to help people.”

Our National Youth Ambassadors are high school students who have demonstrated leadership in fighting tobacco in their communities. These advocates are chosen annually as representatives of their state through a competitive application process. They receive training and participate in activities throughout the year. This profile series showcases their incredible work! 

Look out for a new profile every other Wednesday.

– Alex