Young Innovator in Behavioral Health Awardee

Juan Acosta is a first-generation Mexican immigrant who grew up in Woodland, California. He is a Mental Health advocate, LGBTQ Activist, Content Creator, and public speaker. At 21, Juan drafted a historic LGBTQ proclamation for his hometown of Woodland. His work is focused on underserved communities specifically on the LGBTQ, Immigrant and Latinx communities. He has served on various national mental health committees, and his speaking engagements have included: United Nations Side Events and the first-ever Youth Mental Health Action Forum White House Event where he spoke alongside Dr. Jill Biden, Selena Gomez, and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. Juan contributed to the New York Times bestselling book, Channel Kindness: Stories of Kindness and Community with musical artist and actress Lady Gaga and other Born This Way Foundation reporters. His work has been featured by MTV, Yahoo, LGBTQ Nation, Out Magazine and more. In 2023 Acosta was recognized on STAT News 2023 STATUS list for his influential work in life sciences and on The Advocate Magazine 2023, 30 Under 30 List.