Author: Vrinda Iyengar

As misinformation, especially health-related misinformation continues to spread and veers a growing number of people towards making un- and incorrectly-informed decisions about their health, the importance proper, accessible health education grows increasingly apparent. In this article, we interviewed Angela Tuazon, a young student and founder of Better Health and Science, an organization focused on “creating a smarter, healthier community.” Read about Angela and Better Health and Science below:

Q: What prompted you to start Better Health and Science?
Angela: Better Health and Science started off as an 8th grade Civic Seal of Engagement project to receive a special diploma. However throughout the process, I realized this organization was much bigger than a certificate. At first I only created this nonprofit because of my passion for science, but it ended up growing a lot. I decided to expand on it and to continue building it further, as well as growing the Better Health and Science team.

Q: What has been your favorite experience you’ve had so far with Better Health and Science?
Angela: My favorite thing about Better Health and Science is definitely seeing the light switch on in people’s brains. To be specific, I was explaining how germs worked to a girl and her face lit up. She seemed so genuinely passionate about wanting to learn more through my lesson on how germs produce and spread. The sounds of her “Oo’s” and “Aah’s” felt so rewarding, as it seemed like I was able to share what I love with someone who will appreciate it just as much me

Q: What are some of your goals/things you hope to accomplish with Better Health and Science?
Angela: There are so, so many plans for Better Health and Science spanning from days away all the way to years in the future. Some huge things I’d love to accomplish though are creating a bigger community, creating accessible educational boxes, a website, and to host events for all people!

Q: According to your instagram bio, your organization is focused on using science to educate your community. How do you go about selecting issues/topics to focus on?
Angela: It’s definitely hard to pick specific things to talk about, as there are always things that people should be educated on, however the diversity of science allows us to pick loads of varying topics. As a youth-led nonprofit, our target audience is the youth. As a result, we brainstorm what affects/affected us. These topics are usually mental health, physical health, and learning how to be more educated on the world around us!

Q: How do you go about making sure the science you include in your initiatives is digestible and understandable by everyone in your community?
Angela: Our educational boxes and events target different age groups within the youth, ensuring that everyone has something fit just for them.

You learn more about and support Better Health and Science via their Instagram (@better.health.and.science) and through their LinkTree.