Lucknow: Ahead of National Almond Day, celebrated annually on January 23, the Almond Board of California joined hands with Amity University to host a unique Fitness Talent Hunt: Health Ambassador of the Year. The event highlighted the myriad health benefits of almonds and inspired students to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Supported by over 200 scientific studies published in leading journals, almonds are known as a nutritional powerhouse, offering 15 essential nutrients like Vitamin E, magnesium, protein, and healthy fats.
Promoting Holistic Wellness Through Engaging Activities
The fitness talent hunt drew participation from over 100 students, with 50 selected participants from each of Amity University’s campuses in Jaipur, Lucknow, and Noida. The event was structured across three exciting rounds:
- Fitness Challenge: This round emphasized the importance of regular physical activity and teamwork among participants.
- Recipe Curation: Students showcased creativity by preparing innovative almond-based recipes evaluated on taste, presentation, and nutritional value.
- Health Quiz: A fun and interactive round that brought participants together to encourage a deeper understanding of healthy living.
Judges and Winners
The judging panel featured industry stalwarts:
- Ritika Samaddar, Regional Head-Dietetics, Max Healthcare, New Delhi
- Pankhuri Awasthy, Actress
- Chef Gaurav Tiwari, Professor, Faculty of Nutrition Science, Amity University
After thorough evaluation, Avinash Kumar clinched the title of “Health Ambassador of the Year,” receiving a trophy along with gift hampers from the Almond Board of California.
Insights from the Judges and Guests
Ritika Samaddar shared her enthusiasm, saying, “Seeing young, energetic participants embrace health initiatives was inspiring. Events like these help instill the importance of informed health choices. Almonds, rich in 15 essential nutrients, support blood sugar management, weight control, and overall health. They are an excellent choice for combating the challenges of stress, poor eating habits, and busy schedules.”
Actress Pankhuri Awasthy remarked, “It was incredibly satisfying to be part of an initiative promoting health and fitness among students. Fitness journeys, when started early, lay the foundation for long-term wellness. Personally, California almonds are a staple in my routine, especially post-workout. Their nutrient-rich profile supports my active lifestyle and overall health.”
Dr. Manju Agrawal, Dean of Student Welfare, Amity University, Lucknow, added, “Fostering health and happiness among students is more important than ever. Partnering with the Almond Board of California allowed us to engage students in meaningful activities while raising awareness about the benefits of almonds. Witnessing students display talent and health awareness was inspiring and aligned beautifully with our commitment to holistic development.”
Impact and Message
Through this event, the Almond Board of California reinforced its commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle and raising awareness about the integral role of California almonds in a balanced diet. By equipping students with knowledge and hands-on experience, the initiative underscored the importance of nutrition and inspired the younger generation to adopt healthy habits with lasting benefits.
The Health Ambassador of the Year Talent Hunt proved to be more than just a competition — it became a platform for celebrating health, creativity, and the boundless possibilities of a balanced lifestyle.
