Olivia Zhang, Founder and Executive Director of Cancer Kids First, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“This morning, I opened my inbox and saw something that once lived only on my 2025 vision board: Forbes 30 Under 30.
At 20 years old—and the youngest in my category this year—I made the 2026 Forbes 30 Under 30 list for Social Impact. This is one of the most surreal, humbling moments of my life.
Six years ago, as a freshman in high school, I began building Cancer Kids First, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization honoring my grandfather and elementary school teacher who both passed away from cancer.
Over the years, through countless all-nighters and sacrifices, I built CKF (cancerkidsfirst.org) into what is now the world’s largest youth-led cancer nonprofit with 40,000 volunteers in 80 countries to support 10,000 patients in 22 countries. I’ve spent every day advocating for pediatric cancer patients, mentoring youth leaders, and proving that age is not a barrier to impact—all while balancing being a full-time student at Harvard University.
Coming from an immigrant family, I struggled to juggle responsibilities and navigate my path. But, along the way, I found an incredible community of mentors, friends, and adults who believed in me.
To every person who has stood alongside me, pushed me to grow, extended opportunities, or simply believed in what young people can do—thank you. This honor is yours as much as it is mine.
And to every young woman who has been underestimated, overlooked, or told to ‘wait your turn’: Keep going. Your community is out there—and your vision board might become your reality sooner than you think.
Thank you, Forbes, for recognizing our work and amplifying the mission.
The very best ending to 2025! Off to pick my jaw off the floor.”
