You do not have to be old enough to vote to make your voice heard.
For teens living with alopecia areata, sharing a personal experience can help policymakers understand what statistics alone cannot capture. A story about school, friendships, confidence, or navigating daily life can put a human face on the issues affecting the community.
The National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) is recruiting participants for its 2027 Teen Advocacy Fellows (TAF) program, giving young people an opportunity to turn their experiences into advocacy. Applications close October 31, 2026.
A Place for Teen Voices
The program brings together teens ages 13–17 to share their stories with lawmakers and advocate for change. It recognizes that young people have valuable perspectives—and deserve opportunities to participate in conversations that affect their lives.
For a teen who has wondered, “What difference could I make?” this fellowship offers a place to begin.
Advocacy does not require having every answer. It starts with explaining what matters to you, listening to others, and learning how to ask for support.
What Fellows Will Do
The fellowship is a one-year commitment, with the 2027 term beginning January 1. Participants organize and attend meetings with their members of Congress and learn to communicate their experiences in ways that support meaningful change.
NAAF sets a goal for fellows to meet with both of their U.S. senators and their congressional representative. Throughout the year, participants connect with other fellows to learn about advocacy, exchange ideas, ask questions, and discuss their progress. Mentorship is provided by volunteer Fellowship Coordinator Abby TerHaar.
More Than a Resume Builder
The fellowship can provide meaningful experience to include on an academic resume, but its value extends beyond an application.
Preparing for a meeting, organizing ideas, and explaining a personal experience are opportunities to practice communication and leadership. Working toward an advocacy goal can also help teens recognize that their perspective has value.
The program creates space to connect with peers who understand why alopecia areata advocacy matters. Those connections can offer encouragement as participants learn to speak up for themselves and their community.
Awareness Should Lead to Action
Alopecia Areata Awareness Month helps start important conversations. Programs like TAF offer a way to carry those conversations forward throughout the year.
For parents, caregivers, educators, and community members, sharing this opportunity is a practical way to support a young person’s interest in leadership. Sometimes, encouragement begins with a simple message: “Your voice matters, and this could be an opportunity for you.”
Apply or Share the Opportunity
If you are a teen interested in making your voice heard, explore NAAF’s application information and program requirements. If you know someone who might be interested, pass the opportunity along.
Applications for the 2027 Teen Advocacy Fellows program are open through October 31, 2026.
Learn more and apply through NAAF.
Your experience is worth sharing. It could help someone else understand and inspire them to act.
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