​Nomination: Natalie would not be the person she is today without the hardships she has faced, each one has shaped her strength and has turned those hardships into growth. I admire the way she continues to push forward through adversity, facing every challenge with courage and determination as she pursues her goals and becomes the best version of herself every single day. Being part of the senior model team has boosted her confidence, and I can see the transformation in her. She started with just a smirk to now showing off that beautiful smile in her latest photos.

How have the challenges you’ve faced helped shape the way you see yourself today?
The many challenges I have faced have helped me be more confident in myself. I can definitely say I am more aware and resilient today than I was before.

Was there a specific moment when you realized your hardships were turning into personal growth?
When I realized that my hardships were turning into personal growth was when I realized that those hardships were not becoming a huge burden on me and weighing me down like they did before. I was balancing school and responsibilities at home better. I was able to overcome hard situations and learn to organize my time effectively. These experiences were shaping me and they were teaching me patience, strength, and like said before with more resilience.

Who or what has helped you stay grounded when things felt especially difficult?
My mom has helped me stay grounded when things felt difficult, she always supported and got me on my 2 feet when I felt I couldn’t any longer. She was always there to push me to succeed and to be a better person.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination
I am proud of the way I keep showing up even when things are hard but I am even more proud of how I choose to love deeply and stay true to who I am regardless of what is happening around me. I believe that every challenge has shaped me into someone stronger, more compassionate and more empathetic. With God's grace, one of my accomplishments this year was going on a mission trip that inspired me to travel the world and help others in the future.

How has choosing compassion and empathy changed the way you approach difficult situations?
Choosing compassion and empathy has changed the way I approach difficult situations by figuring out the problem in a positive way instead of reacting negatively. I am able to approach situations and look at it from different perspectives. Compassion and Empathy are really important to have as it creates trust, stronger communication which result in better outcomes

What lessons from your mission trip have stayed with you the most?
The lessons that stayed with me the most during my mission trip was Serving out of love. I took many life lessons from my mission trip. I learned humility and teamwork. I was able to build relationships and understand their situations and struggles and truly see people's needs. It definitely strengthened my faith while serving.

In what ways did that experience inspire your future goals?
This experience inspired my future goals by confirming that being a nurse is what I do want to continue to pursue and to continue to help people in my life and people around the world in future mission trips.

How do you continue to live out the values you learned from that journey in your everyday life?
I was able to value life more and be more grateful for the opportunities we have now. I am definitely more thankful for those opportunities that are given to me in life and especially thankful for the people that I have in my life. I learned to live life to the fullest and never give up.

What else would you like to talk about?
One of my current goals is to become a traveling Nurse to be able to travel and help others along the way while doing what I love, which is seeing the world and experiencing and learning about different cultures. I am currently working on a candle business.This project helps me raise money by selling at local markets and saving up for college.

What inspired you to pursue nursing as a career path?
I was inspired from a young age, I knew I wanted a career where I was able to make a difference in people's lives. I always saw the compassion, patience, and dedication that nurses showed, they were dedicated to making sure people's lives were taken care of. Watching a good friend work in the nursing field inspired me even more. Seeing the impact that she had on others made me also pursue nursing with empathy and dedication.

What excites you most about the idea of combining travel with helping others?
I am able to experience different environments and different backgrounds. It is able to help me adapt to change, experience new places, and experience different cultures while still making a difference. I am not only traveling, but traveling with a purpose to care for people and know that I am making a real impact in their lives.

What have you learned about yourself through starting and running your candle business?
Starting and running my candle business has taught me to be creative, responsible, and willing to put in the work even when things feel overwhelming. It allowed me to think outside the box. Running a business includes planning, budgeting, promoting, staying consistent, and especially engaging with your customers. I had to step out of my comfort zone and handle responsibility, but seeing people supporting my business and enjoying my candles showed me that I can make an impact in my own way.

How has balancing entrepreneurship, school, and future planning helped prepare you for adulthood?
Balancing entrepreneurship, school, and future planning has helped me become more responsible and dedicated to my work. Adulthood can come with many different obstacles that are not taught but with these experiences that I have been given, it has helped me strive for success and to become a better version of myself. I feel more prepared and ready for what comes ahead. I have learned to stay organized, have leadership skills, and especially have time management.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I truly feel passionate about my faith. I believe that talking about my experiences and my testimony can help someone else along the way. Talking about our outcomes and expressing our failures and strengths in our own life can change someone else’s perspective in their own struggles. My faith has carried me through moments when I felt weak, and it's taught me to walk forward with gratitude and compassion for others. This is something I truly feel passionate about and could talk forever about.

How do you hope your story and faith can impact others who may be struggling right now?
I hope that my story reminds others to never give up. There were times when I felt overwhelmed or uncertain. I went through the loss of my father and grandfather, we struggled at home, went through sickness, medical needs, had financial struggles but my faith and prayer got me through it each time. I was able to grow into a better version of myself. Growth often comes from the most difficult moments but know that these hard seasons don't last forever.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
I found April Moore through my mom, she had been our family photographer for a couple of years. Being part of her Senior modeling team really pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. She encouraged us to try new ideas, try new fun outfits and always made us feel comfortable. Each session with her was always fun and memorable. April is a very creative photographer and her photos never disappoint.

How has being part of a senior model team influenced your confidence beyond just photos?
Being part of a senior model team has influenced my confidence in more ways than just posing for a picture. I became more comfortable with who I was and was able to express myself freely. Being part of the team allowed me to talk to other girls, support each other, and especially promote each other on social media. I was able to create new experiences that embraced growth, courage, and confidence.

What does confidence mean to you now compared to how you defined it in the past?
In the past, I described confidence as looking put-together or not being nervous in certain situations but now confidence means so much more to me. Confidence means to trust myself even when I might be unsure or nervous. I think confidence is built on challenges, growth, and especially stepping out of your comfort zone.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My Favorite memory with my mom who nominated me was hiking through Zion National Park. We walked miles in the narrows and had to walk through freezing water in between the mountains. The water was so cold we laughed through the pain, that experience was unforgettable. It was such an amazingly breathtaking place. This memory with my mom will forever stay in my heart.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because I believe this would be a once in a lifetime opportunity, it’s not every day that I am given the opportunity to be part of something so special or given the chance to express who I am as a person.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win a scholarship I will be using the money for my nursing goals. I plan to go to college to earn my bachelor’s degree in nursing and become a traveling nurse. I am a first generation college student and I am focused on becoming the first in my family to aim for success.

Where would your dream job be if it were offered to you today?
My dream job would be to work as a Travel Nurse at a hospital in the city.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I would like to thank my mom for everything she has sacrificed to help me become the person I am today. She has always put my needs before her own and made sure I have every opportunity to succeed. I would not be where I am today without her love and sacrifices.

If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
-If I had nothing to do all day, you would find me binge watching all kinds of shows and movies on Netflix, especially watching true crime documentaries

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
I am super excited for the next chapter of my life. I am excited to graduate high school with the people I love and start working as a CNA.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have ever accomplished is going to college while attending high school, doing sports and having my own business all at the same time.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Advice I would give to someone who wants to be where I am today is to keep going and never give up.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
 I see myself having my Bachelors in Nursing in 5 years.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love babysitting and getting to know kids

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I love dancing!

3 Things on your bucket list
Travel the World
Learn how to surf
Go skydiving

Who do you find inspiring?
I find professional athletes inspiring, especially watching the Olympics and seeing how far they have gone with their athletic abilities, they push themselves to aim for success and never give up.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
One thing that inspires others about me is my motivation to keep going. I think I am inspiring because I aim to succeed in my goals no matter the obstacle.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I am truly grateful for this opportunity.

Look for Natalie in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Ellary Davis is a strong academic student who participates in many extracurricular activities. She’s beautiful inside and out, kind to everyone. Her future aspiration is to be a teacher and inspire others to be their best self.

​What early experiences or influences helped shape your desire to inspire others?
My sister was always a very inspiring figure and her influence made me realize I want to do that for people as well.

How would the people closest to you describe your personality and strengths?
They would say I'm very good with connecting with people and making them feel safe.
The people around me would say that I have a very outgoing personality and love to get to know people.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination?
An inspiring quality of mine is my ability to connect with people. Over the summer I worked as a counselor at a horseback riding camp with seven girls who varied in ages ten through fifteen. I had never been in a leadership position before and so it took me a little bit to get comfortable with it. At the end of the week all of the girls had opened up to me about numerous life experiences. I learned that I love to be that person that makes people feel safe to be themselves around and come to for advice.

What did that leadership experience teach you about yourself?
It taught me that I can be a good role model and that if I trust my instincts I can be a good leader.
How did earning the trust of those girls impact the way you view leadership and responsibility?

What else would you like to talk about?
My current goal is to go to college to be an elementary school teacher. My mom is a teacher and watching her inspire kids every day is so rewarding. I saw first hand how she would change and enlighten the lives of her students and it inspired me to do the same. I love the look on kids' faces when they piece together something they're learning. My goal is to not only be a teacher, but a teacher who makes kids want to learn. I want to be the teacher that students feel safe coming to no matter what.
​
How do you hope your classroom will feel for students on their hardest days?
I hope my classroom will feel like a place where students can take a break from whatever hectic world is going on around them.

What values do you want your future students to learn from you beyond academics?
I hope my students will learn kindness and respect for everyone.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am very passionate about the subject of psychology. The science behind why we do what we do has always fascinated me. The human brain is so deep and complex with countless layers to it. I feel as if people don't fully realize just how powerful our brains are. Psychology as a subject is always changing and that's another reason I love it. There will always be more to learn and that excites me. I talk about psychology any chance I get so I can share something that most people have never heard of but should know.

How do you see psychology influencing the way you’ll teach and support your students?
I think it will be good to be able to analyze and understand why my students are feeling what they are feeling.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
My photographer Mike McDermott is a very popular photographer in Bishop California where I'm from. I had seen his work many times and it was always stunning. I entered a free photo shoot give away and won! What I loved most about the experience was how much freedom I had to be myself. I've done photo shoots that don't have as much freedom in how I pose or what I wear and I end up not liking the results. With Mike however, it was the opposite. I felt very natural and ended up absolutely loving the results.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
The person who nominated me was my mom. I have made countless memories with her so it is hard to pick a favorite. One memory that stands out and is really special to me is the first time I accompanied my mom to the spa for her birthday. I was around eleven years old and I got my first facial. We went to lunch, sat in the hot tub, and I got a smoothie. I felt so grown up and I loved spending one on one time with my mom.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would be honored to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because it's more than just a magazine. It's an opportunity to showcase our future leaders of America. It is a way to highlight teens around the country for the things that make them amazingly unique that will evidently keep our world spinning. I am so glad that I get to play even a small part of something that features, encourages, and inspires the talented teens of America today.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I won a scholarship I would use it towards furthering my education and pursuing my dreams of being a teacher. The cost of college is a problem many of our youth struggle to afford including myself. I am thrilled with the opportunity to even make a few dollars for my future.
What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?

Look for Ellary in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Alanna is a resilient leader who transformed adversity into purpose after experiencing bullying during her freshman year. That challenge helped her develop confidence and compassion, motivating her to support others struggling with self-esteem and to become the senior she once needed. She is a student in her high school’s International Baccalaureate Patient Care program and is actively involved in the Student Advisory Board, Black Student Union, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Varsity Soccer as the starting goalkeeper. Outside school, she enjoys youth outreach, traveling, club soccer, painting, snow sports, and shopping. Next fall, she will play college soccer and pursue a medical major.

How did your experience with bullying shape the way you now support and uplift others?
Being bullied at a new school pushed me to become assertive and advocate for myself. It also deepened my empathy for others who struggle and inspired me to help them find their voice and shine.

What helped you rebuild confidence during that time, and what advice would you give your freshman-year self today?
The harassment and rumors came at the worst time—I had just lost my great grandmother, someone who truly understood me in a way not many did. She was a woman of faith and wisdom, always reminding me to know my worth, stand tall, express myself, and “give it to God.” She also taught me to be kind, because you never know what someone else is going through. If I could go back in time and give advice to my 14 year old self, I would let her know that mean kids are just projecting their insecurities and sadness- hold your head up and pray for them.

How do you balance being involved in so many organizations while still staying true to yourself?
I stay organized using my Chromebook calendar and commit to activities I’m truly passionate about, so staying to myself is easy. I also make time for leisure and prioritize sleep, hydration, and nutrition to stay balanced.

What has being part of the International Baccalaureate Patient Care program taught you about leadership and responsibility?
Being in the International Baccalaureate program has taught me leadership and responsibility by challenging me to think critically, communicate clearly, and take initiative in my learning. Through group projects, global discussions, and service experiences, I’ve learned to lead with empathy, responsibility, and open-mindedness. The program has strengthened my time management, confidence, and ability to support and guide others preparing me for college and the medical industry.

How has serving in spaces like Student Advisory Board and Black Student Union helped you find your voice?
Getting involved in clubs that I’m passionate about helped bring me out of my shell with community service. Joy comes with this, and that encourages me to continue get put myself out there and serve others.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination?
Additional highlights include serving as captain of my soccer team and as the starting goalkeeper. I was recently nominated for the Congress of Medical Excellence Award by a Nobel Prize–winning physician in Boston, recognizing my leadership and strong academic performance within my International Baccalaureate medical program.

What did being named team captain teach you about leading under pressure?
Being team captain in soccer teaches me to lead under pressure by trying to stay calm, making quick decisions, and encouraging my teammates and giving cues during intense moments. It pushes me to set the tone of resilience, especially when the game is on the line.

In what ways do you bring leadership from the soccer field into the classroom and vice versa?
As a goalie, I bring leadership into the classroom by staying focused, thinking ahead, and communicating clearly—just like I direct my defense on the field. In the classroom, I strengthen those skills by listening carefully, analyzing situations, and staying calm under pressure, which helps me stay confident and decisive in goal.

How did it feel to receive recognition for your academic and leadership achievements at such a high level?
Oh my! I was so honored! I’ve worked so hard in this medical program and to be acknowledged is so encouraging!

What else would you like to talk about?
My current goals include earning my IB certificate and graduating with honors. I plan to pursue a nursing degree to become a registered nurse and provide compassionate care. I also hope to travel internationally and spend time helping others in underserved communities.

What inspired your desire to enter the medical field and pursue nursing?
I love science and hate seeing people suffer. Growing up and watching close family members struggle with health issues inspired me to become someone who can help and serve others using my love for science, just as doctors and nurses have helped my loved ones.

How do you hope to combine healthcare and travel in your future career?
There are so many options. I could be a traveling nurse, or I could take trips with organizations that provide medical services to underserved communities in third world countries.

What impact do you hope to make when working in underserved communities?
I’d love to show them that humanity is still strong and God loves them. I also hope to learn from them about their culture and the human race in general.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am passionate about helping others in need, especially supporting people on their journey to better health.
Also unity. There’s currently so much negativity and division in the world. The only way to change this is by being open to learn about each other, respect, compromise and agree to respectfully disagree.

What mental strategies have helped you stay focused and confident as a goalkeeper?
Believing in my abilities and keeping a close eye on the game. Also, if I get scored on I can’t dwell on it. I have to get back up and reset quick. It got through 10 other players before it got to me- we are a team, yet I’ll hold myself accountable and try to make up
for any mistakes. All I can do is my best and work hard to prepare.

How do you encourage younger athletes who may be struggling with confidence or pressure?
Keep playing and never quit if you love it. Go to extra trainings and work when nobody’s watching. Preparation is key. Also, tell yourself positive affirmations and don’t pay attention to the haters. Keep them talking and that’s how you know you’re doing something right.

What role have coaches and mentors played in shaping your mindset?
The tougher they were on me and pushed me to my limits, the more I knew they saw my potential. They never gave up on me, and I knew I couldn’t give up on myself either. I owed it to myself to be my personal best on and off the field.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
Molly Bolinger was a PTO mom at my K-8 school and her kids attended the same school. She did some portraits for us during the pandemic in 7th grade. Junior year, she asked me if I wanted to do senior photography modeling for her. It seemed fun, and it was fun! I met some great people and got to shoot at beautiful locations different parts of the year.

How has being part of a positive model team environment impacted your confidence?
It makes you feel comfortable in your skin by stepping outside your comfort zone on camera. You learn not to take yourself so seriously.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My mom nominated me, and she has been by my side throughout my entire confidence journey. She supported me during difficult times, and consistently encouraged me to believe in myself. One of my favorite memories with her is a road trip we took to Los Angeles a few years ago, where we visited my older cousin, and spent time at the beach, shopping and doing fun, girly activities together.

How has your mom’s support influenced the way you show up for others?
Her loyalty and support has made me someone who stays loyal and supportive to everyone I love.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?

I would love to be featured in Inspiring Teen Magazine to remind others to never let anyone steal their joy. If you are being bullied, it is often because you possess something the bully lacks. You are not a victim. You have power within. Keep smiling, stay true to yourself, and continue living your best life. Your strength and confidence can inspire others who may be facing hidden struggles and remind them they are not alone and they were put on earth for a purpose.

What message do you most hope readers take away from your story?
Find your purpose and thrive.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?

If I won the scholarship, I would put the money toward my text books at school. Text books will run me about $800 per semester so the scholarship money would be helpful.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
I would love to work with pediatrics to give them hope and encouragement when they’re ill.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
Yes. I’d like to thank my Dad, and Mom for always encouraging and unconditionally loving me. My grandparents, Shams, Papa D, Memere and Poppy for always reminding me how much I’m loved, and my late great-grandma Gammy for instilling me with wisdom and strength and encouraging me to walk by faith in this crazy world.
Thanks to all my soccer coaches and trainers.

Look for Alanna in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Valerie is a ray of light wherever she goes- kind, outgoing and always eager to be part of every experience. Her love for theatre shines through and her close bond with her dad speaks volumes about her heart.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination?
My passion for theater goes beyond just the stage. I love to take on new opportunities within theater that will help me stay well rounded. I have stage-managed a competition One-Act that placed 2nd in the state and 4th in the nation and I am currently Assistant Directing another competition One-Act that placed 1st in the state and will move on to nationals! I have made great connections outside my school that led to a really awesome opportunity to Assistant Direct the Hunchback of Notre Dame at a community theater close by with a director that I love working with!

What else would you like to talk about?
My dream is to be on Broadway or a National Tour but I would love to just get to perform with awesome directors anywhere I can. Whether or not that’s community theaters, regional theaters, or even broadway! I’d be grateful and blessed to share the talents God has given me.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am really passionate about anything relating theater but do be more specific I could talk about The Outsiders the musical for hours. The show is so well directed and designed and I could watch it a million times and never get tired of it.
I also could talk about family forever. Specifically my dad because he is the most supportive dad ever and I couldn’t be more grateful for his support for me to follow my dreams.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
I found her because my voice lesson teacher informed me of what is called her “Street Team.” It is a team full of senior girls who get to help advertise her business but also just a support group for all of us girls going through similar walks of life. The experience was amazing and I couldn’t ask for a better hype person during the shoot. She showcased me but also the woman I was becoming. What I love most is that she let me incorporate my dad in the shoot and I got some photos with him.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
I have a few favorite memories. The first one was when all the girls got together to create our vision boards and she was so engaged with everyone and you could tell she really loved talking to us about all of our ambitions and the things we put on our vision boards and why they were there. My second favorite memory was going in after the shoot to pick out my photos for my album. She played a slide show of my photos and I think we all got a little teary eyed. It was a beautiful moment.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
The name of the magazine is something that really pulled me to want to submit. Being apart of a publication that will be used to inspire other teens around me is something I would hold close to my heart. As a performer my goal has always been to inspire and uplift others around me and this would allow me to achieve that goal in another way.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
I would definitely put the money towards college expenses. I’m so glad I get the opportunity to go to college and study my craft. Not everyone gets to do that. I would use it to help cover tuition and as well as things I may need for my dance classes, vocal classes, and other things of that nature!

Look for Valerie in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Kaylee is an active member of FFA, participates in volleyball, basketball, and describes her personality as very fun and outgoing, Kaylee is so supportive of her teammates and peers and enjoys helping others shine!

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination?
I have been an active member of FFA, participate in Volleyball, and Basketball. I am also a member of FCCLA, as well as the National Honors program.

What current goals and/or projects are you working on now?
Right now, I am working on keeping my grades up academically to help with college and Scholarships. I currently work part time while being involved in extracurricular activities. I strive to get better at communication and other job duties to help me be successful for the future.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I could talk about the livestock industry and the show life. I grew up around show animals since I was born, coming from being the youngest of four siblings that's all I have known.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
My photographers dad has taken our school sports pictures for years and through him we have gotten to know Kristen.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
I was so excited when I was chosen to be a senior ambassador for Kristen. She makes every photoshoot enjoyable and comes to life with her visions.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would love to be in Teen Magazine to help my photographer get her name out there, but all so for myself. The scholarships would help significantly with college.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win a scholarship the money would go straight to college. It would help my parents significantly as I have three older siblings attending college as well.

Look for Kaylee in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Anna is 17 years old and a junior in high school. She loves to live life to its fullest and through her many talents- music, art, makeup and hair styling, she enjoys making others feel beautiful and inspired as she looks ahead to a future as an esthetician.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments were not highlighted in your nomination?
I’m very friendly and I love caring for others. I’m charismatic and love to spend my time creatively. As for accomplishments, my proudest was in my most recent pageant, I won the most photogenic out of over 150 other girls! I am very humbly grateful for that title and it means more to me than I can describe.

What would you most like to talk about?
I love to have conversations and grow connections with people, making an impact in any way I can. I’m open to talking about anything but one good conversation topic I love is how to help people. Whether its bigger things like community service or smaller things like a “just because” present for a friend or a compliment to a stranger, you’ll never know how big of an impact you could make.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I absolutely love nature and how connected humans are to it. From patterns to DNA, I’m fascinated by all aspects of this and love to study everything I can get my hands on.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
Every year my family has a photographer take pictures in the fall for our family Christmas cards and this year we had them taken at our home. We’ve had Victoria take our photos before, so we called her out here and it went really well! I loved taking the photos with my dog, he’s the sweetest and makes every photo better
 
What is a favorite memory you have with the person who nominated you?
After we got the family photos she wanted to take a few of just me so we hopped our fence and took advantage of the beautiful sunset with our shoot. What was most memorable to me was that she made me feel completely comfortable to be myself and have fun with it.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to show other teens that it’s okay to stand out, it’s okay to be yourself, it’s okay to try and fail, it’s okay to stand up for yourself, life has so much to offer and if you back down you never know what you might miss. 

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money? 
I will put it towards college 

​Look for Anna in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Amelia Cho is a youth leader passionate about food advocacy, leadership, and sustainability. Through her own endeavors with food, she has advanced her passion into Mindful Meals, organizing over 3,580 pounds of fresh, sustainable food donations, and providing food education by co-authoring five children's books currently used for a six-week after-school curriculum at Franklin Sherman Elementary School. In addition to her personal work, Amelia is an active leader who works to advance food sustainability initiatives as the president of both the Class Council and the Student Government Association at her high school.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination?
Food education is a large priority for Mindful Meals. However, the impact of food choices on health and lifestyle is not discussed as widely as it should be. Knowing this, I wanted to raise more awareness about food, especially among the young generation, to help them develop healthy habits early. This sparked me to collaborate with Mediquills, a medical literacy organization, to publish 5 children’s books about food, sustainability, and health, called “How Does it Work: The Intersection of Public Health and Nutrition for Kids.” We are excited to donate these to various community centers and libraries across the country!

What else would you like to talk about?
Mindful Meals started its official after-school program at Franklin Sherman Elementary School on January 15! It is a 6-week program that covers a range of topics in food, including culture, school lunch, cooking, sustainability, and utilizing food to give back to the community. As the founder and organizer of the program, it is a full-circle moment to teach such a bright group of students. Food is often overlooked in education, and I am extremely excited to lead a course and teach the significance and importance of health, culture, and the climate to K-6th-grade students!

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
As an ambitious sustainable food advocate, I could discuss the importance of prioritizing a diet that is both healthy for people and the earth for days! An individual’s ecological footprint is a major factor in climate change, revealing the lifestyle that requires energy in practices that can challenge sustainability. Food production, especially red meat, is a significant contributor to a high footprint due to its intensive production methods. By prioritizing low-energy-intensive foods like vegetables and fruits, more people will be able to create an everyday food palette that is both fresh for their bodies and the planet!

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
I met my photographer through one of my favorite hair salons, Lia Hair, who kindly offered an additional service to capture a photo of me after my beautiful haircut. My favorite part of the experience was how patient and comforting they were. Their kind gestures helped me to embrace my most confident self in the moment!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory with my nominator, my mother, is our spontaneous recipe-making days every weekend. We start by compiling a list of the most intriguing recipes from social media, then bake or experiment with new ingredients to expand our food palette! This small yet fulfilling tradition of ours has allowed me to learn more about plant-forward eating, as well as various cultural dishes, making food a meaningful part of our everyday lives.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be a part of the Inspiring Teens Magazine to increase awareness about the importance of prioritizing healthy, sustainable food among other youth leaders across the country through my personal story. Prioritizing the connection between food and the Earth is critical for combating climate change, and progress is only promised if the young generation decides to take action. Food is a vital part of sustainability that is often overlooked. I believe that sharing my story will help others grow awareness of plant-forward eating and encourage them to take small steps to save the planet’s future.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win the Inspiring Teens Magazine Scholarship, I want to invest it in my passion for supporting environmentally sustainable food donations, as well as my future education in college. I would love to use a portion of the scholarship money to purchase more food for local food pantries in my neighborhood, in addition to the 3,580 pounds I have already supplied through Mindful Meals. In terms of my education, I hope to use it as a pathway to explore innovative approaches and detailed methods in sustainable agriculture to develop effective solutions to combat climate change.

Look for Amelia in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination:  Hi, my name is Addison Stewart. I’m a Senior at Frenship High School, a member of the FHS Pom Squad, and on the Revolution Elite Dance Competitive Team. I’ll be attending Texas Tech University in the fall, majoring in nutrition. My postgraduate plans include attending dental school.

What originally inspired you to pursue both academics and competitive dance at such a high level?
To be honest, I am hard on myself. I always wanted good grades early in elementary school. It carried on to middle and high school. In high school, being in the Top 10% gives you perks for college applications/entrance. Once I knew that, I just continued working on my grades. Dance – that started in middle school. I wanted to do more than just be in recreational dance classes. I wanted to compete on stage with my friends. I saw the older dancers on the team having fun, improving their skills, traveling, and winning competitions.

How do you balance the time demands of school, dance, and extracurricular commitments?
Don’t procrastinate! I try and save big projects for days when I don’t have dance. Some weeks/seasons are easier than others. The weekends or late at night are also times when I try to get caught up or ahead on things.

What inspiring qualities or accomplishments weren’t highlighted in your nomination?
I've been a member of the National Charity League since 8th grade. It is a mother-daughter organization where we volunteer in our local community. I’ve volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Second Helpings, Moonlight Musicals, and Salvation Army (to name a few through NCL opportunities). I'm also a Lubbock Symphony Debutante. This entails volunteering at the symphony and enjoying the cultural arts. High school activities include being a member of National Honor Society. I'm currently the Social Media Officer for the Frenship Pom Squad as well. On Sundays, I like to volunteer in the nursery at my church.

Which volunteer experience has impacted you the most, and why?
Probably my volunteer work through National Charity League at Second Helpings. Second Helpings serves meals to the less fortunate. I’ve been able to serve individuals and families a hot meal that might not have had one that day or for a few days. Sometimes it is returning individuals that I might recognize and talk with. Other times it is new individuals that I get to meet and help.

How has giving back to your community shaped your perspective or priorities?
It has made me realize that I am blessed for the simple things that I have in life. I get to dance, hang out with my friends, go to school, and be a part of things that some do not have.

What skills have you gained through leadership roles like being Social Media Officer that you’ll carry into college?
Collaboration and communication. I’ve learned that I need to collaborate with my team and advisor on things that should or should not be posted. I’ve learned how to post stories that highlight our events for the community to see.

What else would you like to talk about?
Competitive dance and Pom competition season has started. My high school Pom squad qualified for Nationals this year. We head to Florida to compete against other Pom squads from across the country in February. This has involved intense Pom practices with extra hours of practice. We are excited and ready to compete at Nationals. In addition, I compete outside of school for a dance company called Revolution Elite Dance. This will be my final year, so I'm just making the most with my teammates and the time I have left dancing.

What does qualifying for Nationals mean to you personally?
I think it means that all the work that we have put in has been worth it. We’ve had highs and lows. Teammates have been sick or hurt. We’ve all had to push past the pain. We’ve had lots of good moments as well. I love that I’m ending my dancing career with a big competition on a national stage.

How do you stay mentally strong during intense training and competition seasons?
I try to remember the end goal. I try to have a growth mindset. I don’t let little things get to me. I just work on a mistake by practicing more.

As this is your final year with Revolution Elite Dance, what moments or memories do you hope to hold onto most?
The time I spent with my best friends. They really have become my people that I hang out with after hours, that I enjoy spending time with, and rely on to help me when needed. We’ve had so much fun the last few years together. Just like any sport, you have to bond to be successful. I feel like we have done just that. They will be missed – we are all going separate ways.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Dance is the answer to this question. I have been involved with dance since I was 3 years old (mommy and me ballet class). Dance has taught me teamwork, resilience, and how to push through challenges even when hurt or tired. I have created lifelong friendships, and it has helped shape the person I am on and off the dance floor.

How has dance influenced the way you approach challenges outside of the studio?
Resiliency – keep working at it no matter what. You get stronger and/or smarter for the next time!

What advice would you give to younger dancers who look up to you and want to follow a similar path?
Start early and do not give up. Some days are better than others! I would also say find a studio with teachers and other dancers that push you; makes you want to do better.

How did you find your photographer and what did you love most about the experience?
The photographer is a family member. She is my mother's cousin. She has a sense of style that I have always admired (the way she dresses, her decor at her house, and the way she presents herself). She has taken pictures of me and my family since I was a little girl. Her photography has helped me win several photogenic awards at dance competitions as well. She always has great ideas and locations for pictures too. We just love her!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
For one session, I had requested some tall grass as the background. What I didn't know is that she had searched around town to help make this happen. She didn't have to do that, but she wanted to help me get the background I requested. That shoot ended up being adventurous as well! We had to jump around mud puddles, plus we saw a huge spider (swear it was a tarantula) and a snake. The shots ended up great though!

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would love to be in the magazine for a few reasons. First, my photographer deserves some recognition. She puts up with my ideas and has patience while I change clothes and locations (lots of them). She has also traveled out of town to take my pictures. Second, being featured would be an opportunity to celebrate my hard work at school and outside of school. Third, what a fun way to end my Senior year in high school...being in a magazine!

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
After I graduate from Texas Tech University, I plan on attending dental school. If I win a scholarship, the money will go towards that dream. Dental school involves several more years of classes, books, and maybe even moving out of my hometown (dental school only offered at certain places). This scholarship would be a huge blessing. 

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My dream job if offered today – an orthodontist.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I appreciate all my family and friends that voted for me during this contest. Thank you to Tonya, my photographer. Thanks to my dance teachers (school and competitive) for believing in me and for pushing me. Thanks to my parents and my grandparents for helping me on a daily basis.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
 Thank you for this opportunity!
If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
You would find me working out or shopping. Those are two of my favorite things to do.

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
I’m excited about graduating from high school and going to college! I can’t wait to live in the dorms and go through sorority recruitment.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I can walk on my toes. My feet are flexible due to dance.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I hope to be in dental school earning my degree.

3 things on your bucket list.
1) Travel out of the country 2) Pet a dolphin 3) Attend a 3rd Taylor Swift concert

Look for Addison in issue 99 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!