Driven by memories of his beloved grandfather’s persistent cough from smoking cigarettes since childhood, Connor Lam decided to fight Big Tobacco when he was 11 years old – and he hasn’t stopped since. In 2020, he rallied fellow students to testify before his city council, resulting in a new local law that prohibited flavored tobacco sales, banned tobacco retailers near schools and established tobacco retailer licenses. Statewide, Connor was active in the campaign to pass the 2020 California law ending flavored tobacco sales and the subsequent ballot referendum to uphold it. At the federal level, he met with California members of Congress to urge their support for the FDA’s rules to prohibit menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars and for efforts to clear the market of flavored e-cigarettes. Next, Connor wants to take his advocacy global and help his grandfather’s village in the Philippines reduce tobacco use and prevent the devastating health issues that plagued his grandfather.

Given Kapolyo is a passionate young advocate at the forefront of the battle against tobacco use in Africa. Widely known as “the tobacco control warrior," she has recruited, trained and mentored youth throughout her home country of Zambia. Given has played a leading role in advancing Zambia’s comprehensive tobacco control bill, which includes 100% smoke-free public places, pictorial health warnings, regulation of emerging tobacco products and a ban on tobacco advertising. Given's dedication to creating a healthier future for all makes her an inspiration to young advocates across Zambia and all of Africa.

Yessika Hoyos Morales is a human rights lawyer and president of the José Alvear Restrepo Lawyers Collective (Cajar), one of the most respected human rights organizations in Colombia. Working with the Global Health Advocacy Incubator and other Food Policy Program partners, Yessika has challenged unethical practices of the food industry and advocated for the adoption of healthy food policies. Even amid security threats and smear campaigns from powerful entities, Yessika and Cajar, along with other civil society organizations, have successfully advocated for policies including front-of-package warnings and health taxes on ultra-processed products and sugary drinks. Yessika’s commitment to justice and her courage in confronting violence make her an inspiring leader for future generations.