OLIVIA ZHANG
Olivia Zhang is the Founder and CEO of Cancer Kids First (CKF). Launched when she was just 14, CKF empowers young people to support pediatric cancer patients by normalizing the hospital environment and providing a loving community. Sparked by the loss of her grandfather and elementary school teacher to cancer, Olivia channeled her grief into action—building what is now the largest youth-led force in pediatric cancer support, with over 40,500 volunteers across 80 countries.
Cancer Kids First’s Arts Program provides encouragement and community for patients through personalized motivational cards and crafts, hospital support for low-income patients, and monthly virtual events to help pediatric cancer patients connect and socialize with volunteers.
Since 2019, CKF has donated $600,000+ in medical resources and supplies to 74 hospitals, supported over 10,000 patients in 22 countries, and launched 110 chapters worldwide.
Olivia's work has earned recognition by the Diana Legacy Award, named the youngest ever WEGO Health patient leader, and received media features in People, CBS News, New York Times Upfront, and Business Insider.
Beyond CKF, Olivia is the author of the upcoming book YOUth: The Young Person’s Guide to Starting a Nonprofit to help young changemakers launch impact-driven organizations. Olivia is currently a full-time student at Harvard University, continuing to redefine what’s possible when young people lead.
EXPLORE OLIVIA’S SPECIAL MOMENTS
