Article by Phoenix writer Allison Cortese ’26:
On February 28th, senior Alexa Mazzamuto had the opportunity to speak at an online conference for the NGO Committee on Sustainable Development-NY. The NGO CSD-NY is a non-profit organization affiliated with the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs as well as the UN Department of Global Communications. The seminar was titled “The UN & Youth Impacting Our Sustainable Future,” and it dealt with advocating the awareness and prevention of cancer.
Alexa has always been passionate about fighting cancer. Her mother was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, which resulted in her spending months receiving numerous rounds of radioactive iodine treatments. Miraculously, Alexa’s mother successfully overcame her cancer, but shortly afterwards, she was diagnosed with breast tumors which had to be removed through a large surgery. Alexa was with her mother through these scary times, and she recognized the difficulty that her mother was facing. She admired the strength her mother had in order to overcome these challenges.
The inspiration Alexa gained from this led her to take her action to the next level. She worked with Georgetown University’s Chief of Breast Surgery, Dr. Eleni Tousimis, for her Girl Scout Silver Award on Breast Cancer Awareness. With her help, Alexa designed a presentation that focused on facts, treatments, and prevention processes regarding breast cancer.
Alexa’s work did not stop here, as she is now working on a cancer prevention based Girl Scout Gold Award. In addition, Alexa is working to develop a section in the school curriculum where students can learn about cancer prevention. Her goal is to inspire other young individuals to join her in raising cancer awareness.
During the NGO CAD-NY conference, Alexa highlighted her story, projects, and advocacy, stating, “Spreading knowledge on cancer awareness and prevention is very dear to me, and it is a passion I anticipate to continue to grow.” She looks forward to continuing her advocacy, and she hopes to raise more awareness as time goes on.
Alexa’s persistent work in raising cancer awareness is truly remarkable.
Mrs. Marconi, the Assistant Principal of Guidance at Kellenberg, said, “Alexa’s kind of service, dedication, and leadership are hallmarks of a Kellenberg senior.”
Alexa’s work has already garnered a fair amount of praise, as she was granted the title of an Honorary Advisor of Youth Leadership and Advocate for Cancer Awareness and Prevention within the UN Ambassadors.
Her passion will never go unnoticed as she continues to make such a significant impact on the community.