While rheumatic heart disease is a serious but preventable illness, it is still the most common heart disease in people under age 25. It disproportionately affects Indigenous populations, particularly in the Northern Territory in Australia.Professor Josh Francis has treated many children and young people with rheumatic heart disease. In his talk he shares the journey of one of his patients, who is in the audience, and how by empowering First Nations communities we can get a grip on this old disease plaguing young people.TEDxCharles Darwin University was held by @charlesdarwinunint on August 9, 2025.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx Josh Francis is a paediatrician and paediatric infectious diseases physician. Professor Francis leads programs in Timor-Leste with a focus on teaching, improving health systems, operational research, and capacity building. His work has affected health policy and strategy on a national level. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx