I am Saim, a senior at Arrowhead Park Early College High School and a member of Evolvement. I am also a member of the Leadership Team which has given me an opportunity for building on leadership skills this year. This blog entry will detail my experience in presenting the 24/7 Campaign to classes throughout my school. The presentations were done during the usual site visit at our school and the purpose was to recruit more youth advocates. Presenting these lessons is helping me help others learn what having a tobacco-free school means. It also helps students understand that when they are in school, such policies and programs create a healthier environment and protect student health.

It was my first time presenting to several different classes and I was thrilled as I walked into each classroom knowing that I would be sending each student an important message. My presentation covered the 24/7 Campaign for tobacco-free schools and why it is necessary to keep them free from tobacco 365 days a year. Part of my presentation included why having a tobacco-free school benefits the health and wellness of students as well as creates a better environment for all students. I provided examples of the ways that students could get involved with the campaign, which included: meeting with principals, presenting at school board meetings and running booths and tables at school events. I also discussed how it is possible for young people to be an advocate for themselves and why their opinions matter. Some of the classes I presented to were very quiet at first, but after I went through the details of my presentation about the campaign as well as my personal experience, the students were more engaged and started asking questions. After each presentation, I felt satisfied that I had taught more students how they can make a difference and how they can take action through the campaign.

I believe presenting my work has helped me develop my ability as a leader and communicator. Presenting has allowed me to develop skills needed to present to various audiences of students, alter my tone when appropriate, and keep my audience engaged. The 24/7 Campaign has benefited from these presentations by expanding its reach to additional students and encouraging them to participate. I hope that the students in the classes I presented to have learned, through these presentations, to think more deeply about the effects of nicotine products and the purpose of strong tobacco-use preventative policies at schools.

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2. Empowering Students Through Advocacy: My Journey With the 24/7 Campaign