Joseph “Joe the Gamer” Petraro is not your typical teenager. At an age when most of his peers are just beginning to explore their interests, Joe has already distinguished himself as a nationally recognized youth advocate, neurodivergent leader, and prodigy in education, technology, mental health, and civic engagement.
Diagnosed at a young age with Tourette Syndrome and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Joe has turned personal adversity into powerful advocacy. Through resilience, compassion, and determination, he has emerged as one of the most influential young voices promoting inclusion, understanding, and empowerment for neurodivergent youth across the nation.
Joe’s impact is broad and deeply felt. He is a published author and the founder of several community-driven initiatives, including the Be Kind Campaign, Adopt a Grandparent, and The Rewind Project, which he co-founded. Each project reflects his unique ability to merge storytelling, humor, and lived experience to foster connection and drive meaningful change.
Far beyond his work as an advocate, Joe is a multifaceted individual whose accomplishments span academics, athletics, and the arts. A black belt in Shotokan Karate, Joe is currently training for his second-degree rank.
He is also an accomplished athlete, playing baseball and basketball in both recreational leagues and competitive AAU travel teams. He remains active in tennis, golf, and track, showcasing his dedication to physical wellness and teamwork.
Academically, Joe’s journey is extraordinary. He began college at just 11 years old and is now a proud student at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he is a member of the National Honor Society and a committed scholar. Despite his young age, Joe has consistently demonstrated intellectual maturity, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning.
In addition to his advocacy and academic achievements, Joe is a seasoned fundraiser.
He has helped raise significant funds for a variety of organizations, including his own initiatives, ensuring they have the resources needed to make a lasting impact. His leadership in campaigns such as The Tourette’s Mocktail Series and Joe’s Well for Humanity exemplifies his commitment to wellness and global service.
Whether he’s speaking on the Senate floor, mentoring younger students, building robotics, or writing his next book, Joe brings a sense of purpose and possibility to everything he does. A proud Boy Scout and community leader, he is driven by a singular mission: to ensure that every person—especially every young person—feels seen, supported, and never alone.
Joseph “Joe the Gamer” Petraro is not just shaping the future—he’s redefining what it means to lead, to serve, and to thrive.
