Meet Elara B.: Bringing Awareness to Health and Wellness in Alaska

Hometown: Eagle River, Alaska

Competition Host(s): Anchorage Chamber of Commerce and Alaska Chamber of Commerce

Essay Topic: Lack of Sunlight in Alaskan Winters 

Elara B. is passionate about helping others live healthier lives. For her National Civics Bee® essay, she focused on the lack of sunlight during Alaska’s long winters and the impact it can have on health, including vitamin D deficiency and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Through her research, Elara explored ways communities can raise awareness and support residents facing these challenges. 

When she’s not thinking about solutions to community issues, Elara stays busy with a wide variety of creative and athletic pursuits. She is musically talented and enjoys performing in orchestra, writing books, practicing aerial silks, tumbling, and playing volleyball. 

A lover of history, Elara’s favorite historical figure is James Madison, one of the nation’s Founding Fathers and a key architect of the U.S. Constitution. Her personal hero is Jesus, whose teachings inspire her values and outlook on life. 

Looking ahead, Elara dreams of becoming an author, combining her creativity and love of storytelling to inspire readers through her writing. 

When she’s not participating in her many activities, Elara enjoys one of her favorite foods: sushi. 

The National Civics Bee celebrates students like Elara who are using their voices, ideas, and leadership to address important issues in their communities. We are proud to recognize her as an Alaska State Finalist.