Youth Ambassador 2024 Nominees
Jenny Tham - 2024 Winner!
Jenny Tham is a rising sophomore majoring in nursing at Emory University, aspiring to become a nurse practitioner focused on mitigating healthcare disparities. As a George W. Jenkins Scholar, Jenny has demonstrated academic excellence and leadership. She was the valedictorian and STAR student of her Cross Keys High School class.
At Emory, Jenny participates in Graduation Generation, mentoring high school students and facilitating college readiness workshops. She is also involved with Rural Area Remote, providing free healthcare through mobile clinics, and MedLife, serving underserved communities in Latin America and Africa. During spring break, she participated in the Refugee and Migrant project in Barcelona, offering social support and essential services to refugees.
This summer, Jenny will intern with the International Rescue Committee as a Youth Futures Intern, developing programs for refugee youths at Clarkston High School. In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, and watching K-dramas.
Sam Kim
Sam Kim is a rising senior at North Gwinnett High School with a strong commitment to equitable healthcare access for minority teens and youth. He is the founder of Equity Minds, a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing health disparities and promoting educational opportunities for minority communities. Through this initiative, Sam aims to empower individuals and families to achieve better health outcomes and brighter futures.
In addition to his non-profit work, Sam actively engages in extracurricular activities focused on minority health awareness. He has contributed to the Yale Daily News Journal, authoring articles that highlight the importance of health equity and commemorate National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.
Outside of his advocacy efforts, Sam is an accomplished fencer and violinist. He is a member of the varsity fencing team and the All-State Orchestra. His deep interest in mental health drives his advocacy, and he is committed to representing the voices of teens across Georgia.
Emily Saenz-Carvajal
Emily Saenz-Carvajal is a graduating senior from Cartersville High School and an incoming freshman at the University of Georgia. She has served on the Georgia Department of Education Student Advisory Council under Superintendent Richard Woods and was President of the Hispanic Organization Promoting Education. Emily also gained valuable experience as an intern with Play for Change, a data collection company. Her work reflects a strong commitment to psychology, mental health awareness, and supporting Hispanic and diverse communities.