Advocate Spotlight: Nayan Sapers

We’re proud to highlight the incredible work of American Heart Association Heart Powered advocates who are driving change in their communities. Today, we’re shining a light on Nayan Sapers, a passionate youth leader and Heart Powered advocate. Nayan wears many hats—he’s a member of the Massachusetts State Advocacy Committee and the leader of the Crimson EMS High School Ambassador CPR Program.

In his own words, Nayan shares what advocacy means to him: “I have always been intrigued by the paradox of science: discovery without access is just potential but not progress. I experienced that paradox firsthand when I learned that Massachusetts, despite being home to one of the strongest health systems in the nation, was one of nine states without mandated CPR education in schools. A skill that can be mastered in under 45 minutes and can double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest, was not reaching students in my state.”

What began as a few outreach emails grew into the CPR Ambassador Program, which equips high school students across Massachusetts to teach CPR in their own schools and communities. Since then, more than 100 students have joined the program, and seven municipalities, including Boston, Cambridge, Lowell, and Brockton, have passed resolutions supporting CPR education. Alongside training peers, the cohort has testified before policymakers and strengthened the program’s curriculum. Our message is simple, but its impact has stretched far beyond the slides that first carried it.

I continue this advocacy—teaching others to do the same—so that the possibilities born in science can grow into the world; so that lifesaving knowledge is not confined to labs and hospitals, but carried in the hands of every student.”

Nayan’s journey is a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy. In Fall 2024, he authored our national civic engagement message, encouraging volunteers to make a plan to vote. His writing was not only compelling—it was deeply personal and resonated with volunteers across the country. Nayan has a gift for connecting with people, and that authenticity made his message truly powerful.

Even when faced with setbacks—like the CPR in Schools bill not making it to the governor’s desk in 2024—Nayan didn’t give up. He returned to testify again in July and is now helping to lead a new cohort of students this fall. His tenacity and commitment to long-term change are nothing short of inspiring.

Nayan reminds us that advocacy is not just about policy—it’s about people. It’s about making sure lifesaving knowledge reaches every student, every classroom, and every community.