T1D Youth Ambassador Program
Powered by Youth. Focused on T1D.
The Kopp Foundation Youth Ambassador Program is a national initiative that empowers young people ages 14–22 to take leadership in the fight against Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Our Ambassadors are more than advocates—they are innovators, educators, storytellers, and changemakers shaping the future of care, equity, and awareness.
Whether they live with T1D themselves or support someone who does, each Ambassador brings purpose and passion to this growing youth-led movement.
What Youth Ambassadors Do
📚 Educate & Raise Awareness
- Lead school assemblies, health fairs, and digital campaigns on T1D signs, stigma, and support
- Create original content—videos, podcasts, zines—to share lived experiences and spark conversation
- Organize screening events in partnership with our Healthy Futures Campaign
🧪 Innovate & Build
- Join hackathons and design sprints to develop T1D-friendly tech tools and health apps
- Collaborate with researchers and engineers on usability testing and idea co-design
- Compete for mini-grants to pilot youth-created solutions in their own communities
🗣 Advocate for Equity
- Meet with policymakers to push for affordable insulin, CGM access, and youth-centered school policies
- Share their stories at conferences, in op-eds, and on national advocacy days
- Participate in leadership bootcamps and media training workshops
❤️ Support Each Other
- Mentor peers newly diagnosed with T1D
- Facilitate community check-ins, wellness groups, and mental health peer forums
- Represent KFD at public events, fundraisers, and national convenings
What Ambassadors Receive
Leadership development and professional mentoring
Internship and fellowship opportunities with top research institutions and nonprofits
Seed funding for projects and social impact campaigns
National visibility and speaking opportunities
Lifelong friendships and a powerful youth network
Eligibility & Application
Applicants must:
- Be 14–22 years old
- Have a connection to T1D (personally or through a family member)
- Demonstrate a passion for health equity, innovation, and service
How to Apply:
- Complete our short application form
- Submit a creative introduction (video, essay, artwork, or slide deck)
- Interview with a current youth leader or KFD staff member
Join a growing network of young leaders changing what it means to live with—and fight for a cure for—T1D.
