Meet Priya Bavalia, 14, a talented artist from New Jersey who is looking to give back.
Inspired by her mother’s spirit of philanthropy, Bavalia combined her love of art to raise money for the Pulmonary Hypertension Association. Her fundraiser was in memory of a cousin who died of PH in December 2018.
Bavalia’s adventure as a philanthropist kicked off with a simple yet powerful idea: to use her artistic talent to create a positive change in the world. After seeing a social media post for PH Awareness Month in November 2023, mom Hemel Bavalia encouraged Priya to be brave and sell her art.
“This is the first time I’ve ever done something like this,” Priya Bavalia says.
After consulting with her school’s principal, her plan was in motion. In May, Bavalia sold art at George White Middle School. The arts sales during the school’s spring chorus and band concerts garnered more than $600 over two nights.
What makes Bavalia’s artwork even more special is the deep meaning behind it. Each piece she creates reflects themes of hope, resilience and compassion, inspired by her personal journey. From portraits of cartoon characters to peaceful landscapes, Bavalia’s unique style and creativity really stand out.
Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. A local cardiologist taken with her work commissioned a custom painting to display in their waiting room.
“What’s really important to me is doing something that can help someone else, even if it’s just one person,” Bavalia says. “I want my paintings to inspire others and bring happiness into their lives.”
Says Bavalia: “Go for it. You don’t need experience. I didn’t know how to fundraise before this. I made art, which is something I’m good at, but you don’t need a crazy talent to hold a fundraiser. It could be something as simple as selling lemonade. Shoot your shot because nothing bad can really happen. Just go for it!”
Join Priya in making a difference. Attend a fundraising event in your area – or start one — to support the Pulmonary Hypertension Association and help bring hope to those affected by this disease. Every event brings together patients, caregivers and medical professionals to support one another in our fight against PH.
