How did you become interested in acting? When did you start?
On a whim freshman year of high school, I auditioned for the school play ‘The Miracle Worker”, got cast, and fell in love. It was game over from then on. 

What has been your favorite production you have been a part of? Why was this your favorite? What was your role? 
They are all my favorite! Each character I am lucky enough to play are different and interesting in their own way. I currently play a character on Days of Our Lives, Nurse Shelley, who is super fun to embody, despite the fact she isn’t always the nicest.

What are some ways you prepare for filming? 
Specificity is always the goal. I work both solo and with my scene partner(s) and director to get super clear on my character’s wants, needs and actions. Then on set I try to breathe, focus and really listen to what my partner is saying. 

​What is one thing most people do not know about acting? 
I think a lot of people think acting is just memorizing lines. Memorizing the lines is the easy part, it’s all the other stuff that is hard. Emotionally connecting with a character means really knowing yourself and being honest and vulnerable. That is scary, and exciting, and very challenging. 

Do you remember any lines you were given that have been your favorite to say? If so, why? 
The first line I ever said on stage was “They said you’re going where the sun is fierce” and that one still holds a special place. 

Have you always lived in LA or did you move there to pursue your acting career? 
I moved to LA 6 years ago when I started getting into more film and TV. Before that I lived in NYC. I went to Tisch at NYU and stayed after I graduated for many years doing theatre. Theatre is amazing training and I believe anyone who wants to be an actor should do theatre for at least a little while. 

What was the hardest part about adapting to the lifestyle of LA? How did you get through it?
Being away from family and friends. I still miss them all the time, but I’m lucky to have an awesome husband and group of friends in LA that keep me grounded, and I try to fly back east at least once a year to visit. 

​Walk me through a typical day, from when you first wake up, to when you fall asleep.
Each day is pretty different when you are an actor because you could be on a show, auditioning, rehearsing, or just hustling to try to get an audition. No matter what, I get up and one of the first things I do is exercise. It keeps me sane.

What is one thing you found most surprising on set?
The mayhem. Honestly, it’s a miracle anything gets finished. The people who work behind the camera are so amazing and so hard working and brilliant, from the Producers to the PAs. It really does take a village and I am in awe of it always. It’s magic. 

What would be your advice to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Don't wait for permission to pursue what you want. If you want to act, act. Even if it means getting friends together and reading a play out loud in your living room or shooting something on your iPhone. It still counts, and it's the only way to move forward in this insane career. Also, surround yourself with hardworking, positive people. They will lift you up when it gets hard and you can do the same for them. And BE GRATEFUL. If you are lucky enough to be doing what you love on any level, you have won at the game of life. 

Alyssa will be featured in issue 20 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​
How long have you been in business and how did you get started?
I’ve had my business since 2014, but really started to take it seriously in 2017, I’ve always loved taking pictures of everything, but I think the time I got my first DSLR camera was the thing that launched it.

​How did you recruit your models for your model team and how long have you had your model program? What's your favorite part about it and how many models do you have? 
My models apply and then I choose them based on what schools they go to, their interests and their age, I’ve had an official model team for two years now! My favorite part about having a model team is getting to know the girls and having fun while we shoot! Right now, I have 9 on my team!

Where have you received your education from so far?
I’m completely self-taught, but my mom gave me a few basic tips that I still use. It really is experimental and it’s really rewarding when it works out and you get the picture you want. Luckily, I have a model team who let me try new things!

Mallory is featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! 

​The Nomination: Maya Sheklow is accomplished and grounded, and beautiful with a heart of gold. She is finishing her gold award having been a girl scout for 12 years and is a volunteer at Club 21 which is an organization that helps kids with Down Syndrome and their families. She is a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, plays lacrosse and volleyball, and was selected to be school ambassador by the principal of Crescenta Valley High School where she has been a scholar athlete all three years.

​How did you become interested in being a Girl Scout? What is your favorite thing about it? 
I started Girl Scouts in Kindergarten when I was five years old. At that time, I thought it would be a fun experience with my friends. However, as I continued Girl Scouts, I realized it was more than a playdate; it was about a commitment to my community and becoming a strong young lady who could learn to become a leader. Over the years, Girl Scouts has brought much joy into my life, including lifelong friendships, and learning the importance of giving back to others.

Tell us about your volunteering opportunities with Club 21 and what you have accomplished.
At Club 21, which is an organization that provides support for children with Down Syndrome and their families, I spend my time supervising and assisting the children with activities. I also take pictures to update their website and create a costume box that helps the children with expressing themselves. 

When did your careers begin with Lacrosse and Volleyball? If you had to pick one, which would you choose and why?
I started playing lacrosse six years ago in 6th grade, and actually did not start playing volleyball until my freshman year of high school. Even though I greatly enjoy playing both, I would pick lacrosse over volleyball because I find the competitiveness and physicality of it challenges and pushes me. I also have developed a great comradery with my teammates, and I hope to continue my career of playing lacrosse in college. 

​When did your career in Taekwondo start? What made you want to start?
I started Taekwondo when I was in 3rd grade to build confidence and strength. I continued to benefit from the classes by gaining flexibility and did achieve more strength and confidence. Therefore, I decided to continue for the next five years, at which point I received my second-degree black belt. Even though I am no longer taking classes, I continue benefiting in the present from the skills I learned in the past.

Are you liking high school? What are your likes and dislikes? 
Like most teenagers, high school for me has had its ups and downs. For the most part, it has been a great experience- from meeting new friends to having a few inspirational teachers. There are definitely times where I can feel overwhelmed due to the amount of homework assigned. Also, there are classes that I don't necessarily enjoy, but it is all part of what will make me a strong and successful adult. 

What is something you want your class remembering about you after graduation?
I hope that when I leave Crescenta Valley High School I will be remembered as someone who is kind, and a person who became friends with people regardless of their social status or what their disabilities were. I hope I was able to make people smile and laugh.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today? 
The advice I would give would be to stay true to who you are; to do things you enjoy (not just because others are doing it), and to always smile. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?

In five years I see myself finishing my MBA and art degree. After I graduate my hope is to start taking over my family’s business, Drawn to Art, which teaches fine art, drawing and painting classes to students, ages 4 to adult. 

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring? 
I think that everyone is inspiring in their own way. I hope that when someone is reading my article, they see I can enjoy being a teenager, but also give back to my community, be there for my friends, and still be a scholar athlete. 

How do you keep yourself organized with everything on your plate?
I keep myself organized by keeping lists and a regular schedule each week. It also helps for me to focus on things that I enjoy doing and that I am passionate about. 

What is your favorite activity to pass time that wasn’t in your nomination?
To pass time, I enjoy drawing and singing even though I cannot seem to hold a tune. 

Who is inspiring? 
I find my great-grandmother inspiring for many reasons. My great-grandmother is someone who from day one I looked up to. She is probably the strongest woman I know, and never gives up without a fight. Although she is 95 years old, she still has the motivation and determination to keep moving forward. Through hard times she pushed through to give her children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren an amazing life - a life she thought they deserved. Without this woman in my life I can honestly say I wouldn’t be the strong, independent, and caring young lady I am today. I am so lucky to have her in my life as she continues to inspire me every day. 

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs? 
I would have to choose tacos, water and dogs. 

3 things on your bucket list? 
Travel the world, take over the family business, and have a family. 

Maya will be featured in Issue 20 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​The Nomination: Bri is one of the most independent and driven young ladies that I've had the pleasure of meeting. She is poised, athletic, and obviously gorgeous! She has committed to the University of Texas at Arlington for this coming fall! I'm lucky to have her on my model team this year and wish her all the best in the future!

Tell me about the Angie Read Photography organization.
I am a part of Angie Read Photography’s Power Team. The Power Team is included with other junior and senior girls, like me, from all different schools and areas. The team has been brought together by Ms. Angie herself and the motive of the group is to improve self-confidence, women empowerment, and leadership. With that being said, we do various things to achieve these goals such as group and individual photoshoots, hair and makeup lessons by cosmetologists, entrepreneurship speaker/presentations, community service, and college preparedness info sessions. Being a part of her team has been such an amazing experience and has truly boosted my confidence in so many areas rather than merely physical beauty. 

What do you think people will remember most about you when you graduate high school?
Throughout my high school career I’ve always been known to be open minded and kind to every person I met. I’m a go with the flow kind of girl and I’m a strong believer in the typical cliché “everything happens for a reason”. I believe people would remember me as a down to earth girl who never lost track of her goals, because even though I’m more of a free spirit, I’m extremely determined and invested in my future and never failed to work hard in my studies. 

Tell us what your biggest accomplishments have been.
My biggest accomplishment by far is being able to officially say that I will be the first in my entire family to pursue a higher education and go to college. I’ve been waiting for the college letter of acceptance for as long as I can remember and being the first of my family to achieve this goal is a huge deal for not only myself but my entire family. I hope that in doing so, I set an example for all my younger siblings, cousins, nieces, and nephews to continue their educational careers after high school. 

Another significant accomplishment in my life was a couple years ago during my sophomore and junior year of high school when I started a nonprofit profit organization. This nonprofit organization was designed to encourage underprivileged children from low income families in the Houston area to want to learn and exercise. I gathered a few girls to join my team and a couple days every week after school we would go up to this school and start an after-school academic and athletic enrichment program. We’d come with lesson plan activities, English lessons, technology introduction, and created a soccer team with the kids to promote healthy exercise and teamwork. Towards the end, my team and I were able to raise over one thousand dollars to donate to the school to go towards school supplies for the kids and sports equipment. 

What are some ways you build up your self-confidence and esteem? 
I used to struggle a lot with confidence and had so many self-esteem issues to where I depended heavily on makeup every day to make me feel better about myself. To gain self-confidence I changed some habits of mine and began a new routine. I slowly started to wear less and less makeup and got more use to my own skin. Now I rarely wear more than mascara and I try to focus on natural beauty and how God created me and learn that makeup wasn’t created to cover up but to enhance the beauty that’s already there. To be more self-confident you must let go, don’t be afraid to be you whatever that may be. I built up my confidence mainly through the change of how I used makeup, and how I used my voice. By this, I mean that a lot of my confidence came from how I presented myself and before I used to never speak out as much or say my mind like I do now. So I decided to change how I used my voice and spoke my mind, stood up for myself if necessary, etc., and it truly changed my whole mentality and made me realize I do have a voice and it does mean something. 

When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in photography? What sparked your interest?
I’ve always been interested in photography since I was little. I used to get cameras for Christmas and various holidays, and I would capture every image in sight. As I grew up, I joined a photography club in school and then finally bought my own first professional camera. From then on, I obsessed how with one click and just the right angle and lighting, you could capture someone or something’s most beautiful and still standing moment. After joining Ms. Angie’s Power Team, it truly has rejuvenated this passion for photography not only behind the camera but in front of it as well. 

Brianna will be featured in Issue 20 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

This year me and my family wanted to do a kind thing and be in the holiday spirit and we raised money organization called PAWS! Let me tell you a little bit about PAWS. PAWS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to saving Philadelphia’s homeless and at-risk animals. PAWS is the city’s largest rescue partner and provider of low-cost, basic veterinary care for pet owners and rescue organizations that cannot otherwise access or afford it. Through its three no-kill shelters, foster care network, and special events, PAWS find loving homes for thousands of animals each year. PAWS is working to make Philadelphia a no-kill city where every healthy and treatable pet is guaranteed a home. We started last spring and was thinking about doing it around December and Christmas time. At that point we were collecting these glass yogurt jars that we were going to use for our candles that we were going to sell. Fast forward a few months and now we had around 50 jars! At that point we stared to make the candles, and my mom was crocheting these hand warmers that we were also going to sell as well with the candles. Once we got everything done we were deciding were we should set up, finally we decided to set up at a store in Doylestown. The day of was great! So many people were so generous, some people bought a candle and or a wrist warmer, and some people just gave us a donation! In total we raised $350 for PAWS! And all of the money we raised went to PAWS. 

It’s that time of year when all we think about is snow days, but what should we do on snow days? Here’s a list of 10 things to do on your snow days!
​
1. Sleep In
2. Catch up on your shows
3. Play in the snow
4. Make hot chocolate
5. Watch a movie
6. Bake Cookies
7. Play a board game
8. Take artsy snow pictures
9. Go online shopping
10.Hang out with friends

​
The chime of a clock
Causes cheers to erupt
And a new year is upon us
Like the chills of winter.
The beginning of anything can be
Intense and uncharted,
But even in the coldest of times
The people we love will keep us warm.

​The History of Stockholm, Sweden - Written by Amanda Wisner
Stockholms historia, Sverige - Skriven av Amanda Wisner

Upon coming across this article, you may have thought: “Isn’t this an article in an earlier issue?” And, yes, it is practically the ‘sister article’ to The History of Gothenburg, Sweden, which I wrote about a year ago, but I chose to venture into a different city. This city is the capital and most populated city in Sweden. This particular city is Stockholm, Sweden, and the city that will be featured in this article. 
Stockholm dates all the way back to the thirteenth century, as time was nearing to the end of the Middle Ages, which had taken place from 1201 to 1300. At the time, trade and commerce were popular all across Europe, and many new towns were founded throughout these years. In the year 1252, Birger Jarl, (the regent of Sweden at the time) had founded the Stockholm.

Fast forward to 1289, Stockholm had been described as the largest place in Sweden, despite it seeming small to people today. 211 years later, Stockholm was a small city with a population of approximately 6,000 people. 

However, not all good things last forever, right? In this case, that’s correct. In 1519, the King of Denmark had invaded Sweden, and a year later he had seized Stockholm and had over eighty Swedish nobles executed for not sharing the same beliefs as he wanted the city to have, which is known as heresy. This series of events had been known as the “Stockholm Bloodbath”. Contrary to the terrible turn of events, in 1523, the Swede Gustav Vasa had recaptured the city. 
Moving forward to the seventeenth century, Sweden was a great power to Europe. Stockholm had begun to flourish. By the end of the seventeenth century, the population was approximately 50,000 people. Between 1641 and 1674, Riddarhuset, The House of Nobility was being built. But as quickly as everything had begun to thrive, through 1710-1711, plague had torn through the city, and an abounding amount of people had died. Not lowering its reputation as a city, Stockholm had recovered and flourished once again in the eighteenth century.

Following the plague, Tullgarn Palace was built in 1720, the Royal Palace was opened in 1754, the Obelisk was created in 1799, and the statue of King Gustav III was also sculpted in 1799. 
Throughout the mid-nineteenth century, Stockholm had been an extremely unhealthy city. With a lack of sewers and no piped water supply, there were most likely smaller illnesses and all types of ‘colds’ that, without a doubt, would have spread like wildfire. However, in the late nineteenth century, Sweden had transformed from an agricultural society to an industrial society. (In 1850, Stockholm held a population of 93,000, and by the twentieth century, it had grown to approximately 300,000). 

As Sweden had begun to flourish as an industrial country as a whole, many inventions had cancelled out the poor plumbing systems and other issues that were apparent (especially in Stockholm). For example, Stockholm had gained gas light in 1853, then a piped water supply was introduced in the 1860's. Following this, the National Museum was created and built in 1866, Stockholm Central Railway Station was constructed in 1871, horse drawn trams began running in Stockholm in 1877, followed by the first electric trams, which were introduced in 1901. While transportation and business were growing rapidly, the educational and historic parts of Stockholm were also brought into the light. Stockholm University was founded in 1877, the Swedish Army Museum was opened in 1879, Skansen Open Air Museum was introduced in 1891, the Biological Museum was introduced to the public in 1893, and Stockholm Music Museum had been founded in 1899. 
As a reader, you may be thinking “Wow, Stockholm flourished faster than anything!” And really, it had. As it continued to grow, the extremely successful city hadn’t brought disappointment, and continued to thrive throughout the twentieth century.

​Here’s a list / timeline of many more successes (with a minor downfall or two) that took place in Stockholm:
1628 - The Vasa (a Swedish ship) sinks
1905 - The Parliament House is constructed
1906 - The Postal Museum is introduced to the public
1907 - The Nordic Museum is built
1923 - City Hall is constructed
1943 - The Museum of National Antiques opens
Approximately Mid-Twentieth Century - Stockholm escapes damage by bombing in World War II; a program is created to modernize the city (This program included many old homes being demolished and replaced)
1953 - The Museum of Dance opens 
1961 - The Vasa is recovered and put on display in a museum
1986 - The Medieval Museum is introduced to the public

Throughout the years of its existence, Stockholm has overcome several obstacles on the way to becoming a wonderful, successful city. Nonetheless, from new inventions being put into use for the sake of the citizens’ health and safety to many museums celebrating the history of Stockholm, the city is now an unbelievably stunning and impressive city. The capital of Sweden is a popular tourist attraction, in which the industry shares its part in the city. From starting at a population of approximately 6,000 people in 1300, Stockholm is now the most populated city in the Scandinavian region, holding a population of about 960,031 people as of 2017.

The Nomination: Katelyn is super sweet! She loves her family and really loves her dogs! She has a great sense of humor and a big heart! I've really enjoyed getting to know Katelyn this year! 

​Tell me about the most amazing experience or memory you have had with your family.
The most amazing times I’ve had with my family is the time I get to spend with every one of them at our family camp. We call it “Anna’s Acres” after my great grandmother who had passed away at Nolin Lake. We all get to spend time with each other boating, swimming, and at the end of the day preparing dinner together! It’s truly a fun bonding experience. 

What are some of your favorite hobbies or things to do in your free time?
In my free time I love to spend time with my friends or family, I really love to shop, and this may be odd, but I do love driving through parks every now and then. 

As an inspiration for those around you, what advice would you give to other teens looking to pursue their dreams and find their true passions?
Just go for it! You never know the outcome of something new if you don’t try it - so why not! If you push yourself to try something new you can have fun with it! 

Tell me about a time where you experienced a leadership opportunity.
I have always been close with my younger cousin because family is really important to me, so while she was going through hard times I stepped up to help her in every way I could even when nobody else had believed in her. 

How many dogs do you have and why do you think it is important for people to have a "furry best friend" in their lives? 
I have two dogs currently & would love more! I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a furry best friend. My pups are there for me when I am at a low. I truly believe dogs know when there is something wrong and when you need some love. Dogs mean the world to me & I know I couldn’t live without my happy furry best friends. Dog kisses are the best kisses. 

What do you plan on doing after high school? 
After high school I plan on attending college for my business degree & after that I would love to attend a cosmetology school so I could open a beauty business in the future! 


Katelyn was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! 

The Nomination: Keeshawn has just earned a full ride scholarship to University of Wilmington in Delaware in Lacrosse. He holds a 4.0 GPA and works a job at Sour Dough and Co plus plays Lacrosse all year long. As a young boy he spent hours perfecting his game and it has all paid off. Not only is he smart and athletic but he is the kindest young man around. 
 
How did you become interested in Lacrosse?
My friend Hudson introduced me to the sport in 8th grade. And I wanted to try something I’ve never heard of before. After my first year playing, I fell in love. 

 What thoughts do you have while on the lacrosse field?
On the lacrosse field I don’t have many thoughts going through my head. When I first started playing every pass or shot was nerve racking, but now it’s second nature. That’s a reason why I love playing, because you just think about the smartest pass or shot to take rather than how to do it. 

Why do you think you are so inspiring?
I think I’m inspiring because I grew up living in a trailer in the backyard of my great grandparents’ house. Then I moved into my grandparents’ house where me and my mom lived for about 5 years. Where we lived, I couldn’t go outside alone or walk down the street to a friend’s house. But what I think is inspiring is that when I moved to Roseville and had the ability to go out on my own and leave the house, I took that as an opportunity to better myself. Every day after school I would practice until it got dark. Even through injuries or surgery I still was out practicing. I had set a goal when I started playing and I have achieved my goal of getting a scholarship for lacrosse. In my mind I came from having very little to having the whole world ahead of me.

If a young boy or girl saw you, and wanted to be just like you, what advice would you give them?
I used to watch videos on how to be successful and the one that stuck with me the most was when I guy said that “Once you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you will be successful.“ So take advantage of every opportunity and put in the work and one day it will pay off. 
What are you plans for after college?
I plan on entering local law enforcement or the military. Then eventually one day be an agent in the FBI. 


Keeshawn was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​Describe some of the leadership responsibilities that come along with being co-captain of your cheerleading team, Homecoming Queen, and any other roles that you have.
Some responsibilities that come with being a cheer co-captain include being a role model for the team and setting an example. As co-captain, I help make some decisions to help better the team. As Vice President of Student Council, I help make decisions regarding pep rallies and planning the homecoming dance. I am also Secretary for my class. Last year I was involved in planning the prom, and now I am helping design graduation announcements.

​Tell me about some of the academic and athletic activities you take part in and how do you balance all of them?
I participate in various activities including cheerleading (co-captain), track, cross country, dance, National Honor Society, Student Council (Vice President), Senior Class Officer (Secretary) and Spanish club. Although I am very busy in many sports and extracurricular activities, I am still able to balance school, my family and my social life. I use a planner and try my best to plan ahead and stay organized. There are times when I have conflicts and have to prioritize what is most important. 

​What is the most important leadership lesson that you have learned?

I think the most important leadership lesson that I have learned so far is that as a leader you are a role model and you are setting expectations for the team. I believe that every person reacts differently to different leadership and therefore a leader needs to learn their team’s individual’s strengths and weaknesses to help keep the team working together at their highest potential. In other words, there is no way to “blanket” lead a team because every team and person on the team is different.

What are some qualities that you believe make you a leader, and how are they incorporated in your everyday life?
Some qualities that I believe make a leader are accountability, confidence, and compassion. As a leader, accountability is important because as a leader, you are a role model and your team needs to know that they can count on you. Outside of leadership, it is important to be accountable to your friends and family, as well as your teachers. Confidence helps make a leader be able to show that you are sure of your decisions as a leader, and compassion helps a leader be more aware of others’ needs, which helps the team work better together.

What will you be doing after High School?
I will be attending Butler University in the fall to study biochemistry. I plan on going to medical school to hopefully become a pediatrician. 

Kaitlyn was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teen Magazine!

 
Theatre, Politics, and Law!? Oh My!

What has been your favorite role in theatre and why?
Last year, I played Donkey in Shrek the Musical at my high school. During the rehearsal process, I strove to redefine Donkey as so many had seen the character portrayed on the big screen. I did not want to be a mere imitation of Eddie Murphy’s Donkey; I tried to invent and impress upon the audiences’ minds Dawson Holder’s Donkey. The role forced me to delve into the depths of my theatrical giftings and stamina to sing, dance, and act my way across the stage for at least an hour and a half every night. Though the production is titled Shrek the Musical, after seeing the play, many family members, friends, and even strangers claimed that I carried the show on my back. This experience made me realize that I should never choose to audition for a role for its perceived notoriety; instead, I should audition for and perform in parts that challenge me to grow as an artist and offer opportunities to exert my leadership in unexpected ways.

​What is your favorite thing about being involved in politics?
Well, I started musical theatre at the age of seven and have been in over thirty productions since. However, when looking for a career, I wanted to pursue something that would not only appeal to my creativity but also cater to my passion for logic and rhetoric. Politics seemed to be the perfect way to do just that. And even though a career in politics started off as a convenient way to indulge my interests, it has really developed into a way of life that I love. I wake up every morning, listen to political podcasts, and read the New York Times. I am most excited about going into politics because I will be doing something that I cherish and helping thousands of Americans at the same time. I plan to change the foundations of the way we do politics. I am tired of seeing divisiveness between political parties and intend to champion compromise as a political candidate and officeholder.

How do you plan to pursue a career in politics?
It is quite difficult to just go into politics unless you are a political scientist or campaign manager, and I figured that the best way to establish credibility within communities would be to become a lawyer. I have recently decided that I want to be an entertainment lawyer, so I can become a producer on Broadway. I already know the interworkings of theatre from an actor's perspective, and I have always been a big-picture kind of guy. After a decade or so of that, I will move on to run for office as a U. S. senator.

Dawson was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​Tell me about your leadership roles in clubs and sports.
I have been involved in the Key Club at HCA since 9th grade, and I am the President this year. I have been involved in the National Honor Society at HCA since 10th grade, and I am the Vice President this year. I have been involved in the Spanish National Honor Society at HCA since 10th grade and had the leadership role as the chaplain last year. I have played volleyball for Heritage Christian Academy (HCA) since 5th grade. I played the setter position and was a co-captain on the team. I have played tennis for HCA since 7th grade, and I am the number one seed on my team.

What is your favorite thing about being a leader?
My favorite thing about being a leader is encouraging and motivating others. I feel the best way to do that is to lead by example. Showing others instead of just telling them what needs to be done to accomplish something is, I think, much better received. It is so important to encourage and lift up others during the process.

Why do you think you are so inspiring?
I feel that I am inspiring because I try to practice the golden rule. I treat others the way I would want to be treated. I think others can sense if you are who you really claim to be. I care about people and try to be helpful in any way that I can. In volleyball season during my senior year, I got an injury. I was accustomed to starting and playing the entire game, but then I had to sit out. This was a very humbling experience for me because instead of being cheered on, I cheered on my teammates from the sidelines. I truly enjoyed being helpful and encouraging to my teammates.

​How do you maintain your GPA of a 4.29 with all your extra-curricular activities?
I am able to keep up my GPA along with other activities because I have learned that the busier I am, the more I can accomplish. I am very organized, and I always prioritize the things that I need to get done. I spend a substantial amount of time studying since it is very important to me to always do my best. I put my whole heart into all that I do to glorify God. I also have a strong work ethic and am very competitive. I do best when I am challenged, so being involved in many activities has helped me to better manage my time and keep my GPA up.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I plan to have a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture and work in that area. I love gardening, and I have been raising vegetables and flowers with my grandmother since I was very young. I even entered items in the Western Kentucky State Fair with my grandmother and was awarded many ribbons for our vegetables and flowers. I want to work in the field of Horticulture because I really enjoy it. Eventually, I hope to open my own nursery and teach others how to garden the way my grandmother taught me.

Allie was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​The Nomination: Alexandria Poe is one of the most kind, giving and caring teens I know. She is an older sister to a severely disabled teenage sister, holds a 4.57 GPA, has had nothing but straight A's through her entire high school education and is on track to be Valedictorian; she is a leader, plays in band and jazz; she volunteers for Special Needs children in her free time as both a buddy for local nonprofits and through Challenger Baseball. She also works for special needs parents to give them a break. She is ALWAYS thinking of others and is beautiful inside and out.

​What are some of the volunteering opportunities you have had?
By far, the greatest thing that I have done with my life up to this point is volunteer my time with special needs children. Growing up with a severely disabled sister has allowed me to develop a passion for helping others succeed in all aspects of life. Altogether, I have participated in a wide variety of volunteer programs including Special Olympics, T.E.A.M. Vacaville, T.E.A.M. Dixon, Vacaville Challenger Baseball, and Dixon Challenger Baseball to name a few. Each program has allowed me to connect with amazing children that each face various challenges in life. Undoubtedly, each kiddo that I have worked with has changed me as a person and will forever hold a part of my soul. There is nothing else in the world that compares to knowing that you have made a difference in someone else’s life–a difference that changes someone else’s entire world–and yet would go unnoticed by nearly everyone else. 

​Tell us about some of your leadership opportunities you have had. 
Throughout the years, I have held a variety of leadership positions in all aspects of my life. From holding the first chair position in music class to coaching for the Special Olympics basketball team, or even captain of the girls’ basketball team, each leadership opportunity has allowed me to improve upon myself. All in all, I have learned to appreciate differing opinions to my own and to act as a voice for those who would otherwise go unheard. Undoubtedly, each leadership position I have held has allowed me to flourish into the confident person I am today, unafraid to change the world.

​How do you maintain an outstanding 4.57 GPA with all your amazing extracurricular activities?
My grades are nothing short of hard work and long nights. Competing as a three-season athlete, participating in my high school’s orchestra and jazz bands, as well as volunteering my time in the community does not leave a lot of free time. With that in mind however, I always make sure to prioritize the free time that I do have between hanging out with my family and completing all my school work. Often, this leads to studying a particular subject for a set duration of time and then moving onto a second subject. This method proves to be the most successful for me personally, because it forces my brain to switch train of thought and prevents the work from becoming monotonous. 

What are your plans for the future?
In regard to my plans for the future, I intend to further my education at a university while pursuing my degree in Cultural Anthropology. Over time, I have come to fall in love with the individual characteristics and quirks that make each person unique. Cultures work in much the same way, just on a global scale. For that reason, I hope to advocate for the beauty and knowledge that each culture, and person, has to offer the world.

Alexandria will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

The Nomination: Regan dances competitively and is very good! She has a heart of gold, I've seen it with the way she works with the day care kids. She has great plans when she grows up! ​

How did you become in dancing & what are your favorite songs to dance to?
I became interested in dancing because my older sister was a dancer and I loved the idea that when I'm dancing, I can be whoever I want to be. Picture taken by Jennifer Dunn, makeup inspiration from The Black Swan
I love dancing to any contemporary song because there is so much meaning in the lyrics that I can really relate to.

What do you like most about working with kids and is it your future?
I love the thought that I am impacting someone's life, either through teaching them how to dance or teaching them how to write. It is an amazing feeling when they finally accomplish what they are trying to learn with my help. I love to encourage people to accomplish their goals and I will always help if you ask me to. I plan to go to Hanover College to become Elementary School Teacher.
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Regan was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

The Nomination:  Abby Fickel is a senior at Arrowhead Union High School. She is a Varsity swimmer and President of her local DECA chapter as well as serving on the Wisconsin DECA Leadership Council and National DECA Writing Team. She is a state and international winner in the DECA competitions. She is also a lifeguard and has coached swimming lessons for five years including a special passion for helping disabled kids and those with special needs learn to be safe in the water. Abby serves as a mentor teaching weekly Sunday School classes and a youth leader at her local church as well as on the Elmbrook Teen Leadership Council and Youth Program Team.

Abby is VP of Community Events for her National Honors Society chapter and also participates in the Best Buddies organization, Chinese club and Math Team. Last year, she founded a Peers4Peers club at her school to address the rising epidemic of vaping and teen mental health issues. Her group has trained over 50 students in the first year to be peer counselors and her video for the state Elevate competition won first place and will be shown to thousands as a movie trailer to help share a positive message of “Choosing the Highs of Life.”

Abby is an exemplary student and a National Merit Scholarship SemiFinalist. She hopes to study science and business in college with a focus on Neuroscience or Cognitive Science and possibly attend medical school in the future. She is the oldest of four children and is greatly loved!

Abby founded a Peers4Peers club at her school to address the rising epidemic of vaping and teen mental health issues. Her group has trained over 50 students in the first year to be peer counselors and her video for the state Elevate competition won first place and will be shown to thousands as a movie trailer to help share a positive message of "Choosing the Highs of Life."


Tell us about your local DECA chapter and things you do in the organization.

Arrowhead DECA is an organization of marketing and business students who participate in business competitions and various community service projects. I personally believe that the most influential part of our chapter is Hawksfest: the annual fall festival that raises thousands of dollars for charity. This past year, the chapter held another successful Hawksfest, filled with food, games, local businesses, and more! Providing fun for all ages, we were able to donate $7,000 to Make-A-Wish and $2,000 to both HAWS and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Through my role as President, I have the amazing opportunity to oversee all activities, hold meetings, help operate the school store inside Arrowhead, and more. DECA has provided me with the incredible chance to see first-hand how an organization can give back to the community! Additionally, I have gained invaluable knowledge in the world of business, inspiring me to continue studying business administration in the future.

Tell us more about the Peers4Peers club you helped found at your school.

On Friday afternoon, excited chatter filled the corridors as students made plans for the home football game and weekend festivities. By Monday, however, tearful hugs, red faces, and clusters of friend groups inundated the halls. The stark change in mood occurred after news quickly spread that a beloved student had lost her battle with cancer just after her sixteenth birthday. After her death, pain ensued for all. Some slipped into depression, others turned to alcohol and drugs to cope. Seeing my best friends in pain rattled me, and left me feeling utterly helpless. Students needed trusted individuals to help them work through the emotional turmoil Katie’s death created without turning to unhealthy options. Through the counseling staff, eventually, Peers4Peers was created; a club of peer mentors who are professionally trained to identify struggling students, teach stress management techniques, and promote healthy lifestyles. One of the greatest joys of being a founding member of Peers4Peers has been the clear evidence of the impact our group has had on my high school. Not only have I been able to work with individuals battling mental illnesses, but I have also had the opportunity to partner with local drug-free coalitions to spread awareness.

How did your passion for swimming begin?

I began swimming at age 9, and since that point, swimming has played a huge role in my life. The sport suits my personality perfectly, allowing me to challenge myself individually, while in a team atmosphere. The past 4 years of varsity swimming have taught me about time management, team spirit, and effective leadership. Serving as captain in my senior year was an honor, as I had the opportunity to share my love of swimming and passion for life with the underclassmen.

What does “Choosing the Highs of Life” mean to you?

Last year, I- along with two friends- created a short video to inspire others to “choose the highs of life,” instead of alternatives. The video warned against prescription drug abuse and drugged driving. The majority of the video was filmed while I was on spring break in China. The inspiration behind the video stemmed from the realization of how precious life is. When one fully embraces the opportunities life offers, it is incredibly rewarding. To me, choosing the highs of life means living life to the fullest by finding happiness in the natural beauty surrounding us.

Video link: http://elevateyou.org/psa-competition/

What are your plans for the future?

While I have not decided on a career, I plan to study neuroscience and business over the next four years, possibly on a pre-medical track. Additionally, I plan to minor in Chinese. While these three topics might seem completely unrelated, it is my hope that a blend of science, language, and business will lead me into a career in which my primary focus is serving those around me. At this moment, I am considering pediatric neurosurgery, however, my career choices have been quite fickle as of late (no pun intended)!


Abigail Fickel was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

How did you become interested in the Best Buddies program and helping children with special needs?
From the time I was in junior high I was always drawn to interacting with peers with Intellectual and Developmental disabilities. I became interested because I was a peer tutor (a class offered in my district to work with peers with IDD during school). I would always look forward to going to class to learn new things and make new friends. I became interested in Best Buddies because of their mission statement to ensure everyone with or without disabilities has the opportunity to have a lifelong friendship. Joining Best Buddies, a non-profit organization to create one-on-one friendships, has changed my life in a positive way and I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Is there a specific experience or volunteer opportunity involving those with special needs that sparked your call to become a special education teacher in the future?
Through peer tutoring and Best Buddies, I began to see just how deep my connection grew to these wonderful peers actually was. I was honored to be offered the opportunity to go to the Best Buddies Leadership Conference in Bloomington, IN. in summer 2018, where people from many countries go to learn how to make the world a more inclusive place. I knew that was what I wanted to do after I went because it in inspired me to hear the different stories people had shared. I am the Friendship Walk Captain for my school’s chapter and am currently fundraising for the Annual Best Buddies Friendship Walk. It is personally so satisfying and heartwarming to see the motivation and determination in peer students. These relationships are always a learning experience for us all and that is why I plan to study Special Education in the fall.

What kind of events does the Best Buddies program have for the children involved?
Each month we have events ranging from several things to do. For example, we go out to eat, go bowling, go to paint, etc. My favorite event that is held each year is Best Buddies Prom. It is awesome to see everyone dressed up and dancing! 

Tell us a little bit about your experience as a student of the Class of 2019 Senior Model Team. Is it a program at your school?
Being a part of the Class of 2019 Senior Model Team was one of the best experiences ever. People that were on the Model Team had the opportunity to do exclusive shoots and work with Laura Arick behind the scenes. Her program is not affiliated with my school. I heard about it through a friend who worked with her from the previous year and suggested I apply.

Besides modeling and special education, are there any other fields or hobbies that you take part/interest in?
I also am involved in Unified Basketball and Unified Track, which are varsity sports that give peers with IDD the opportunity to compete while having fun.

As you seem to be a very busy, inspiring teen, how do you manage your time between school, extra-curricular programs such as Best Buddies, and friends?
To manage my time between school, Best Buddies, and friends I always write down what I have to do that week and make a checklist. I try to take it one day at a time, so I am not overwhelmed.

Hannah was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

The Nomination: Brianna Guerra is inspiring because she never stops moving. She does great academically and she still has time to be a part of Student Council, National Honor Society, Peer Assistance Leadership, help in the community and be an amazing cheerleader. She is caring and she is always willing to help anyone at any time. ​

​How long have you been a cheerleader? How did your career begin? What is your favorite part about the sport?
I have been a cheerleader for six years now and it all began accidentally. I went to a gym to enroll in gymnastics and throughout that season I would see these beautiful cheerleaders learning impressive things and I wanted to be just like them. The following season I tried out and made a level 3 team! My absolute favorite part about competitive cheerleading is the adrenaline you get when you’re standing in front of a huge crowd about to show them and the judges what you’ve been practicing for countless of hours. 

Did your cheerleading team compete at Nationals this year? If so, how did your team do? What was the experience like? Tell me about it!
Yes, my team competed at Nationals in February. Prior to, we had been working extremely hard and spending so many hours in the gym to prepare for this prestigious competition. Teams from all over the country come to Dallas, Texas to compete in this competition and It’s every cheerleader’s dream to win NCA. The nerves were high, and the adrenaline was rushing. Our coaches gave us a chilling speech right before we went on stage and our performance was incredible! We hit a zero-deduction routine both days of the competition and took home the national title! 

What is your favorite part about helping your community? When did you start helping?
I started helping in my community ever since I was eight years old. My favorite part about helping in my community is meeting so many different people. People from different countries and cultures. I love the experience I gain from helping others, but nothing beats the feeling of seeing their faces light up with joy when you’re able to help them in some way. 
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Tell us about the Peer Assistance and Leadership organization you’re a part of. How long have you been involved? What are your duties within it?
The Peer Assistance and Leadership Program focuses on enabling young people to use their potential to make a difference in their lives, school and communities. This is my first year in PALs because only seniors can be in the program at my school. Our duties as PALs include visiting different elementary schools in our district and mentoring our palees. Throughout the school year, we discuss a variety of key youth issues with our palees such as bullying, teamwork, responsibility and behavior problems. Our overall job as a PAL is to be a positive influence on the youth. 

​What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I don’t see myself as inspiring, but people always seem to take my advice or want to do what I do. I don’t think I’m doing anything special, but I only stand up for what I think is right. 

Brianna will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

The Nomination: Phoebe is 13 years old, an actress, plays the drums and dances. She is also an honor student who reads to kids in her spare time.

What are some of your favorite quotes and why?
Cicely Tyson quote:
• “I want to believe that there is a mountain so high that I will spend my entire life striving to reach the top of it.”
I feel that you are always learning your craft. When you stop learning, you give up.

Denzel Washington quotes:
• “You pray for rain, you gotta deal with the mud too. That’s part of it.”
I feel that you have to go through something to get something.
• “Do what you have to do, to do what you want to do.”
I feel that you have to put your best in life to be the best – this goes for acting too.

What is your favorite part about playing the drums?
Before I took drum lessons, I would often hit my thighs, the table in front of me or anything else that I could hit or bang on. My favorite part of playing the drums is accenting or making a stronger sound after maintaining a certain beat or tempo.

When you dance, what are some thoughts that go through your head?
When I dance, I feel free. I feel as though there is no care in the world. I feel like I can fly like an eagle in the wind. I have a destination in mind or I am focused on being free. I am thinking freedom from all cares when I dance.

Tell me about your experience of reading to kids in your spare time.
I love reading to kids in my spare time. I know that I am giving back to the community. I have read at malls, community centers, day care centers and plan to continue doing this. The kids interact with me through my questions to them and their questions to me. They are engaged with the conversation and they are motivated about what I say to them. 

What’s next for you?
In the future, my plans include acting in movies and television shows that have action, motivation, and comedy in them. I also want to motivate the financially disadvantaged and physically challenged youth.


​Phoebe was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​The first thing I want to be recognized for is a hard topic for me. It's an insecurity of mine that I have been working on overcoming throughout my life. I have dyslexia. I have dyslexia, and I'm successful in my school work. I might not be first in my class, but that is okay. I have graduated from my Individual Education Plan (IEP). I take and have taken college level class. I have a good GPA. I have dyslexia and I have played varsity softball all four years. The first thing I want to be recognized is that I have dyslexia and I'm a successful student. I want to be recognized for this so that other students with learning disabilities know that they can be too.

I have been playing softball since I was four years old. I probably became interested in softball at that age so that I would have something to do, instead of driving my parents crazy. The thing that kept me interested in softball all these years is how you can put your whole self into the game, no matter what you are feeling. Softball makes you step away from your problems. If you are upset, it lets you focus on something good. You can let out frustration or anger of any kind. Or it is just fun to play with, or against, your friends. 

My favorite kind of puppies are the ones that are goofy and light-hearted. I have had two goldendoodle puppies in my life. They are one of the silliest and kindest dogs. They might get pretty big, but everything they do is out of curiosity or playfulness.

My favorite type of makeup is special effects makeup. Special effects makeup (fx makeup) is the makeup style they use in horror movies. Fx makeup is what makes the actors look hurt or creepy. I love Fx makeup because it is another way to express myself and you get to build something scary from scratch. I want to learn more about glam makeup. I can do traditional makeup, but I would like to learn how to do colorful and dramatic makeup.

My plan for the future is to go to Ball State University to receive a Bachelor of science in dietetics. I hope to work with athletes or with families that need help to become healthier.

Kathryn was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​The Nomination: I met Shelby as a HS junior during a consultation for a portrait session. She is a very sweet girl who is profoundly upbeat and happy. She's had numerous concussions from lacrosse and a car accident and had to give up playing lacrosse as a result. She's also had numerous heart surgeries, all before I met her. She's had a couple of surgeries since, but she continues to be the happiest and most upbeat teenager I've ever met.

How did you recover from your concussions in lacrosse and the car accident?

I recovered from my concussion in lacrosse and the car accident by going to months of occupational therapy, physical therapy, the concussion clinic and a lot of rest. I was unable to play sports, participate in any physical activity and even do everyday activities because I needed to rest for a long period of time. I was basically on bed rest.

Can you walk me through your day of the car accident and thoughts that went through your mind?

The day of the car accident my mother and I were on the way to the concussion clinic and my neurologist at Strong Memorial Hospital. We were rear-ended by a car going approximately 55mph while our car was at a complete stop due to traffic. The thoughts going through my head at this point was the fact that I was already in really bad conditions physically because of the severe concussion I was dealing with and I was worried about the effects that the impact of this accident would have on me because I hit my head really hard when we got in the accident. 

What type of heart surgeries have you had and what was the recovery process like?

I have had two cardiac ablations and a loop recorder heart monitor implanted and taken out. After the cardiac ablations, I was hospitalized for a few days following the surgery and recovery took a couple of weeks due to severe discomfort I dealt with. After the loop recorder monitor procedure, I was sent home that day and the recovery was approximately 5-6 days.

Are you still involved with sports? If so, which ones?
Unfortunately, I am no longer involved with sports. After having eight diagnosed concussions, I was told by my neurologist that I no longer can participate in any sport. She presented me with the risks of the concussions I have already had, and the even worse risks if I was to get another concussion. These risks were life threating and could cause me severe brain damage, which I am blessed to have not gotten after my numerous concussions. 

What do you fill your time with? Favorite hobbies? Past times?
In my free time, I do anything I can to stay active. One of my favorite ways of doing this is adventuring outside at the beach or at local parks and traveling to different states and countries. Traveling is by far my favorite thing to do. I love being exposed to new cultures, environments, and meeting new people. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The advice I would give is to never take anything in life for granted. No matter what adversity you have to face and struggles you need to overcome, keep a smile on your face throughout the whole process and always stay strong. Your strength will inspire those around you and will inspire people struggling that no matter what, everything will be okay in the end. Other advice I would give is to always put your health before anything else. Your health is essential and should always be a priority. After any injury, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional so they can deliver the car necessary.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In five years, I see myself working on a pediatric unit as a Registered Nurse. Currently, I am in college majoring in Nursing. To me, helping someone is by far the most rewarding feeling, and that is what I wanted my career to abide. Going into the field of Nursing is not a conscious choice cultivated by a college adviser or a team of phycologists; it is who I am- it is my past, present, and future. My natural inclination and personal experiences in the medical field have led me to the field of nursing. I look forward to having a voice in the medical industry and being able to help people through any adversity they may have to face and being there every step of the way throughout their healing process. This will provide me with immeasurable gratification.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
On top of my heart condition and concussions, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder called Reflex Neurovascular Dystrophy when I was thirteen. RND is a rare autoimmune disorder. It is a painful condition that leads to severe pain in the joints and muscles. It is caused by a nerve sensitivity whereby the nerves in the body send pain signals to the brain inappropriately. When dealing with this on top of my concussion and heart issues, medical professionals were extremely concerned on the impact the RND would have and the impacts it would have on my recovery processes. 

Shelby will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

The Nomination: Zoe Cerrillo is a consummate professional even at 17, pursuing a major in the medical field. She is responsible, punctual, focused, yet she is quirky, funny and playful. An accomplished guitar player, inspired by her dad. She has an amazing collection of all the guitars she's played since she was 5 years old.  She is also involved in student council, instrumental conservatory and an outside volunteer group.

​

​Tell me about playing the guitar. What are some of your favorite songs to play on it? 
Music is one of my greatest passions and I would not be able to imagine my life without this source of art. During the early stages of my musical journey, I played a lot of radio pop songs; but as I developed as a musician, I was able to define my own sound and style. I draw a lot of inspiration from artists like Lianne La Havas and Daniel Caesar and my favorite songs to play from them are “Ghost” and “Best Part”.

Who taught you how to play the guitar? Why did you start playing? 
I started playing the guitar and singing almost 11 years ago when I was seven and was taught by my amazing family friend and musical artist Deborah Davis. But the reason that I started playing the guitar was because my dad also played guitar and watching him was always so inspiring to me. 

​How many guitars do you own? Do you have a preferred guitar to play on? How long did it take you to learn how to play?
Currently, I own seven guitars; three electric, two electric-acoustics, and two acoustics, but I would be lying if I said I still play them all! My favorite guitar to play is my newest addition that I received this past Christmas from my parents, which is a limited edition Made in Japan Traditional Series ‘50s Fender Stratocaster. I am a quick learner and it was easy for me to pick up notes, chords, and strumming patterns, but I still have so much more to learn beyond what I already know. 

What are you currently doing to be a consummate professional for your future plans in the medical field? 
In order to reach my goal of attending college and graduating with a Bachelors in Nursing degree, I concentrated on taking extra science related courses throughout high school such as Honors Physics and Kinesiology, which really helped me to get a head start on anatomy. 

What volunteer opportunities have you had? Where are some of your favorite places to volunteer at and why?
I have been an Assisteens of the Assistance League of Glendale for six years and being a member sparked my passion to help others and become a caregiver. My favorite place to volunteer, however, is at the local hospital, Verdugo Hills Hospital. Here I have met some of the most dedicated volunteers and it is absolutely thrilling to be in a chaotic medical environment where I thrive.


Zoe will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​The Nomination: Rosie Gadus is the light that everyone is attracted to. She strongly encourages and guides others to become strong in their faith. She is very active in her church and enjoys volunteering in the church and the community. She is outgoing, adventurous, spontaneous, funny and a beautiful soul.

What are you involved in at your church?
Once a week I am a bible study leader for a group of junior high ladies. I help them grow their relationship with God, and let them know they have someone to confide in when they are having issues. I also attend my own senior bible study, which allows me to continue growing and developing my authentic relationship with God. I also attend weekly church services in the high school ministry at my church.

What is your favorite about being a part of your church?
My favorite things about being a part of my church is being accepted for who I am and the opportunities I have available in volunteering, such as growing relationships and potentially having an impact on someone's life.

Tell me about some of your volunteering opportunities within your church and community.
My volunteering started at a young age when my family and I helped the community around us after Hurricane Ike in 2008. Afterwards, every year on Thanksgiving my family and I gather with a large group and go out into our community and provide Thanksgiving dinners to people that might not have the chance to have one. At church, in addition to my junior high group leadership role, I also volunteer at church services on the weekends to help out with the pre-k students. Over the summer I volunteer at a local church VBS (vacation bible school) church camp. I also help organize and participate in local fundraisers.

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Why would consider yourself adventurous and spontaneous?
I would consider myself adventurous and spontaneous because I’m open to anything at anytime. I love trying new things such as zip lining, hiking, and traveling. 

When you’re not in church, what do you do in your free time? 
When I’m not attending or volunteering at church, I spend my time doing what I love with people I love. Some things I like to do is hanging out with my friends whether we are shopping, hanging out, or seeing a movie. I also love spending time outdoors doing fishing, hunting, and taking my dog to the local dog parks.

​Pizza or tacos? Soda or water? Cats or dogs?
Pizza, Water, and Dogs

3 things on my bucket list.
I would love to go on a mission trip, go skydiving, and to see the Northern Lights.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/ what are your plans for the future? 
In 5 years, I see myself still in college working towards my doctorate degree and becoming a pediatric physical therapist. Being a pediatric physical therapist will allow me to impact, encourage, and help kids accomplish their goal and recover.


Rosie will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

The Nomination: James McCann III is a junior in High School who launched his business at the age of 14. His first client was his mom. From there he then began cutting friends and family hair in 2017. He became so popular and in demand that he launched Wavycuts.est17. James is a full-time student and cuts hair during every free moment he can, from Fridays after school until Sunday evening. Fades are his specialty. He also trims beards and arches eyebrows. James is such an inspiring young man and takes great pride in his work and business. He's inspiring boys, teens and adults.


Tell me about how your business got started.
My business got started with many inspiring factors. My brother is a proud owner of his own barbershop. I also found a youtuber called 360 Jezzy, which turned into a wave and barber channel. This inspired me to get some clippers as soon as I could. My own barber gave me my first pair of fading clippers. When I got home, I begged my mom to let me cut her hair since she already had a low cut hairstyle and she agreed. My mom was my first customer.

What is “Wavycuts.est17.”?
Wavycuts.est17 is a combination of me. I have waves and I started cutting in 2017, thus est. (established).

How are you inspiring to others?
I keep improving and don’t give up. The first time I cut, it was not what I wanted the finished product to look like at all. Despite this, I continued to cut and got better and better. I continued to watch videos and tutorials to improve. I even cut hair when I broke my leg. My grandmother bought me a device that would allow me to rest my leg and cut hair at the same time. I am passionate about cutting hair and believe God has given me a gift so I don’t want to waste it.

What are some trimming/cutting techniques you think everyone should know?
There are 3 tips that I learned and believe barbers should use each day.
#1 Always take your time so the work is your best work and a reflection of the client and barber. #2 Never get discouraged with a haircut. Make sure each haircut you have a strong mindset knowing you will get better because of the repetition.
And, #3 Always use your mirror. The mirror does not lie, so if your lineup is not straight or fade not blended it will show.

What are your goals for the business moving forward?
I have two major plans. The first plan is to travel around the world to different barber events and expos. And my second plan is to own at least 5 barber shops by the age of 30 in the D.C, Maryland, and Virginia areas.