Sydney Awards 2024: Alexia Paglia, Young Sydneysider of the Year Award winner

At 24, Alexia Paglia is a fierce advocate for children’s health education. Currently a Doctor of Medicine student at University of Wollongong, she blends her rigorous training with a passion for community service, aiming to bridge the health literacy gap in Australia.
Her work as a clinical trials researcher in oncology at UNSW led to a significant review on survivorship care for young cancer survivors, underscoring her dedication to impactful healthcare delivery.
But it’s her bestselling children’s book on heart health, "My Strong Heart," that sets her apart. Sparked by her motivation to make medical environments less intimidating for children, Alexia has used her book to facilitate free lessons at Sydney Children’s Hospital School, and host reading sessions at local libraries.