Dr. Anjali Taneja and Sophia Weatherly
Con Alma Health Foundation
Con Alma Health Foundation celebrated the 2024 Heroes of Health: Dr. Anjali Taneja, a trailblazing physician and advocate from Albuquerque, New Mexico and Sophia Weatherly, a resilient young leader from Taos, New Mexico both of whom are shaping the future of health in New Mexico.
The Heroes of Health initiative recognizes individuals and youth who are making extraordinary contributions to health and well-being in New Mexico. Each year, the program celebrates those who go above and beyond to address the unique challenges faced by their communities, emphasizing health equity, advocacy, and resilience. Honorees are awarded $1,000 to support their chosen causes, further amplifying the impact of their work and inspiring others to create positive change.
Dr. Taneja has dedicated her career to advancing integrative, culturally attuned health care at Casa de Salud in Albuquerque, New Mexico’s South Valley. Her work goes beyond treating illnesses; she empowers communities through education, advocacy, and holistic care. Dr. Taneja has been a transformative force in delivering equitable health services to underserved populations, ensuring that every individual—regardless of background—receives compassionate, comprehensive care.
Dr. Taneja’s approach integrates Western medicine with traditional healing practices, meeting patients where they are and addressing the broader social determinants of health. Her unwavering commitment to health justice has inspired many to rethink what health care can and should be. She plans to donate her $1,000 award to Casa de Salud, supporting their mission of providing integrative health care services to those who need them most.
At just 18 years old, Ms. Weatherly is already making waves as a health advocate and community leader. Through her work with the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, Ms. Weatherly exemplifies resilience and dedication to environmental and community health. Her leadership fosters a deep connection between youth and the land, recognizing that a healthy environment is foundational to human well-being.
Ms. Weatherly’s journey as a Hero of Health began with her personal commitment to overcoming adversity and channeling her experiences into empowering others. As a Public Health AmeriCorps member with Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, she supports students and provides substance abuse prevention services at Taos High School. She has been instrumental in initiatives that educate and inspire young people, proving that youth leadership is vital to shaping a healthier, more sustainable future for New Mexico. She plans to direct her $1,000 award to Rocky Mountain Youth Corps, helping to fund youth leadership and environmental stewardship programs that connect young people to meaningful work and their community. Both Dr. Taneja and Ms. Weatherly embody the spirit of Con Alma’s mission: to improve health equity and build a healthier future for everyone in New Mexico. Whether through integrative care or youth empowerment, their efforts demonstrate the power of community, resilience, and innovation in addressing New Mexico’s unique health challenges.