I view social media as a critical tool in advocacy work. Often we hear celebrities talk about their “platforms”. We may hear them say how grateful they are to have one or how they feel that they are obligated to use it. What the general public fails to realize is that they have platforms too.

Social media has gifted everyone in the world a powerful tool of communication. We now have the ability to influence people on a much larger scale than ever before. For example, if you have 500 Instagram followers, and you post a picture in a mask, you have reached a good portion of your audience and made them aware that you think mask-wearing is critical. While you may not be taking a direct political stance, you are still utilizing your platform to demonstrate what you think is important.

Overall, whether it's Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, or Facebook, we all spread messages that have power. We all have influence.

- Maddie Ahmadi, Essex High School, Class of 2023

Masks4Missions has been fortunate to have some stellar high school Social Media Ambassadors helping us grow our community! Get to know two of our phenomenal SMAs here:

I am a sophomore at Burlington High School with a special interest in music. I have played the piano since third grade and the violin since sixth grade. One of my favorite artists these days is the pianist Hayato Sumino, more commonly known as “Cateen” on Youtube, because I feel like he is bringing the world closer to classical music even if they have little prior knowledge. As a student I am often busy with homework, but when I get some free time I like to read and write. When I visit China to see my family I love to eat hotpot, but here in Burlington I really like Morning Light Bakery for their bubble tea and red bean paste buns (who by the way support Masks4Missions!). That is a brief overview of who I am, thanks for reading about me!

-Laura Zhou-Hackett

Hey everyone! My name is Maddie Ahmadi and I am currently a sophomore at Essex High School.

When I first heard about the social media ambassador program at Masks4Missions I knew it was something I wanted to do. I have a strong interest in social media and advocacy work. The social media ambassador program is an excellent blend of the two.

In the past, I worked at 101.3 The Game as a social media intern where I learned how to generate and promote content for a radio show, I have participated in local writing workshops at the Governor’s Institute of Vermont, and I have taken classes with the New York Times summer program to sharpen my communication and writing skills.

Advocacy is extremely important to me. I care about creating and maintaining safe schools and communities where people don’t feel afraid to walk down the street or attend school. I volunteer with Students Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and currently serve as a National Advisory Board member and leader with the organization. We work to promote common-sense gun legislation and actively examine and implement strategies to combat gun violence.

At Masks4Missions, I have been able to couple social media and advocacy to create change. As a student, I am anxious to return to normal and enjoy my high school experience, and while it feels as though COVID-19 has weakened that experience, I know that masks are one of the key tools to returning to normal. I am grateful that I get to advocate for them.

-Maddie Ahmadi

One of our Social Media Ambassadors, Maddie, has some advice on how to get through this difficult time. Please read on for some tips on how to cope through the pandemic...

Sometimes reality TV and a pint of Ben & Jerry's makes everything better.

Let’s face it, the Covid-19 pandemic has made life hard. Less gatherings, events, and fun. However, many things haven’t been diminished and have thrived throughout this global tragedy. They may help you cope with what is otherwise a devastating time.

The Bachelor Franchise

I don’t know how they do it, but Chris Harrison continues to facilitate the most dramatic seasons ever in some of the most dramatic times ever.

Ben & Jerry's

Ben & Jerry's continues to produce brand new flavors of the most delicious ice cream. When you are feeling sad, have a scoop, or two, okay… the whole pint.

Phone Banking

Not only is the stress of a deadly virus cause for an influx of anxiety, but the current political climate also contributes. One simple way to feel like you are helping the world while also taking a break from your daily tasks, is phone banking. You will connect with people across the country. We are all in this together.

Streaming services

Apple TV+, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, etc. If you don’t have them, you may want to get them.

Masks

Masks are your superpower. Imagine them as a real life shield being used to protect you from the bad guys. Not only are masks a healthy tip to keep you safe, but they should also help ease your nerves about contracting Covid-19.

- Maddie Ahmadi, Essex High School, Class of 2023

In the spirit of the presidential inauguration that took place yesterday, we are excited to share our Social Media Ambassador Laura Zhou-Hackett’s perspective on President Biden’s push for immediate legislation to respond to the growing public health and economic crisis caused by Covid-19. Biden’s proposed ‘Biden-Harris plan to beat Covid-19’ calls for implementing mask mandates nationwide, expanding coronavirus testing resources, as well as for increasing the country’s capacity to make personal protective equipment by leveraging the Defense Production Act.

January 20, 2021 was a big day for all Americans, with the inauguration of President Joe Biden, and the first ever female to serve as Vice President, Kamala Harris. Biden’s strategy for handling the pandemic includes plans to ensure free and accessible testing, the elimination of cost barriers of Covid-19 treatment, and quickly administering the vaccine. He also plans on working with businesses to produce more masks and alcohol-based hand sanitizers. But while more mask production and faster access to the vaccine are coming, Biden also wants everyone to be patient and do their part by wearing masks in public spaces.

As a high school student, I am grateful that Biden cares about wearing masks because it allows me to go to school, even if for just a little bit each week. Vermont has been applauded as a ‘model state” because people are vigilant about following safety guidelines and wearing their masks wherever they go. I go walking sometimes and see people wearing a mask even when nobody is around them, and know Vermonters will continue to care for each other.

-Laura Zhou-Hackett, Burlington High School Class of 2023

I’m excited to introduce Masks4Missions’ 2021 Winter Social Media Ambassadors! Our team now has three exceptional Vermont high school students and public safety advocates who will be sharing their stories and experiences around why mask-wearing is important, as well as highlighting organizations doing great work in this area.

For their blog debut, each has shared their personal reflection on the importance of mask-wearing.

Promoting mask wearing is important to me because everyone, especially elders, will be protected when people do the simple act of putting on a mask before going outside. A few days after I heard "covid-19" for the first time, I thought that I didn't need a mask because I am still young. A few seconds after voicing this thought out loud at school, I immediately learned that anyone can carry germs around that will infect those more vulnerable. By wearing a mask, you are consciously choosing to protect the people around you. Wearing a mask is also cool because who wears masks? Superheroes! Superheroes save people and I love that masks give everyone the opportunity to keep the community safe and be a superhero. I promote mask wearing as a way to give back to the community, and to encourage others to do the same.

-Laura Zhou-Hackett, Burlington High School Class of 2023

Mask wearing is a simple yet powerful tool in fighting all aspects of the Covid-19 Pandemic. New, stricter guidelines come with their own set of challenges. Restricting the amount of people one can see, cancelling sports, and closing restaurants, are some of the repercussions of rising cases. These limitations can be damaging to the mental health of students and can result in pandemic fatigue. Adhering to the state's guidelines and staying masked in necessary places will quickly free us of this second-hand burden. Masks are simple yet powerful tools in slowing the spread of tragedy. While it may feel like masks are an inconvenience, they are the best way to ensure that life returns to normal. When we follow state guidelines we are aiding ourselves in the race to renewed safety and self-care.

-Maddie Ahmadi, Essex High School, Class of 2023

I care about adhering to public health guidelines and wearing masks because I care about the lives of others. So many people have already suffered so much because of the selfishness of others. Wearing masks and following guidelines are simple, accessible ways for people to save lives and make a difference. Spending a few minutes washing your hands, respecting others by wearing a mask, and avoiding large gatherings can be inconvenient, but doing so means protecting yourself and those around you. We live in a time when everyone can be a hero and make the choice to save lives. I choose to wear a mask because wearing is caring.

-Emelia McCalla, Class of 2022