Ayana – 12th Grade
Project: The Little Hearts Science Crate
Support: Mentorship and Funding
What if a childhood memory and a personal loss could spark a movement? For Ayana, that’s exactly what happened.
After the unexpected passing of her grandmother due to unequal access to proper cardiac care, Ayana was inspired to take action. Drawing on her passion for science, community, and justice, she founded Light on the Heart—a nonprofit raising awareness about disparities in cardiovascular care for marginalized communities.
Her latest initiative, the Little Hearts Science Crate, brings hands-on cardiology-themed STEM learning to underserved kids—free of charge. With funding from Danny’s Place and Fetch, Ayana created over 100 kits featuring interactive activities like the Circulation Game, Blood Compatibility, Modeling the Heart, and even building a working stethoscope. Each crate is designed to spark scientific curiosity and plant seeds of health literacy at an early age.
But this project goes beyond science—it’s about empowering young people to explore, ask questions, and see themselves as future changemakers. Ayana’s work has already received recognition from Acton TV, Women Who Win, and the Simple Acts Podcast, and continues to make a growing impact, both locally and nationally.
Come experience Ayana’s story and project up close!
📍 Join us at the Spring Celebration on June 5th at Danny’s Place.
She’ll be showcasing her work alongside other incredible youth projects.
👉 RSVP today at dannys-place.org/celebration and see what happens when young people lead with heart.