The Nomination: Shawntoni is an amazing and gifted young student. She is an amazing song writer, singer and producer. She is a self-taught musician, playing the acoustic guitar and bass. She has even produced her own music out on SoundCloud several YouTube videos that inspire so many amazing young people around her. She also gives back to the community and willingly shares her gift with others. She is a star! ​

​How did your interest in music begin? Who is your biggest inspiration when it comes to music and why? 

Ever since a child, I was surrounded by music. Literally, my whole family does something that involves music. It wasn't until I saw my brother producing and making beats that I really got interested in it. From there, I wanted to learn all the instruments I could. I never wanted to sing until I had gotten older. My brother is my biggest inspiration when it comes to music. I learned everything about producing through him. I’d sit and watch him play the piano and when he’d leave, I’d go and try to play exactly what he played. He is the real reason why I started to take music seriously. I saw how much joy he got out of making music and I wanted to feel that same joy. 

What was it about the acoustic guitar and bass that made you want to play it? How long have you been playing these instruments?

I wanted to play piano first. I learned a little but it got difficult for me, so I wanted to try something else. I used to watch a lot of Tori Kelly videos on Youtube and I loved the way she played so I wanted a guitar. Once I got my guitar, I instantly fell in love. It was much easier for me to play chords than piano. I’ve been playing for about 7 or 8 years now. With the bass, I’ve been playing for about 4 or 5 years and I’m still not as good as I could be. I really wanted to learn because around that time, I discovered an artist by the name of Thundercat. His bass playing is out of this world and I don’t think I could ever achieve his level of playing. He inspired me to learn bass.

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Do you think being a self - taught musician was difficult? Explain! 

I don’t think being self-taught for me was hard. I think if I would’ve been taught by someone, I’d still be an amateur. It was easy for me because I was determined to learn. I looked up chord charts, listened to different artists that play guitar, and learned my scales. I never watched Youtube videos because it didn’t really help me. I just kept practicing every day and continue to.

What is your favorite type of genre of music? Do you like playing the same genre? Do you like listening to the same type? Why or why not? 

My favorite type of music would probably have to be R&B. I play a lot of R&B but I add a lot of other genres also. I don’t always like listening to the same type of music because it gets boring. I listen to all types of music because I never know what can influence my own music. 

Can you attach the link to your SoundCloud account and Youtube so we can listen to your music! Thank you:). 

https://soundcloud.com/shawntoni-nichols

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwNCm9zIlW5UQQ4cML7E-A?view_as=subscriber


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

​The Nomination: Leila Patel isn't just an incredible basketball player, she is an incredible person. She made Varsity last year as a Freshman, won the Newcomer of the Year award in our district, and this year she leads the team in scoring and definitely our MVP. She made the girls Under Armor team and is an amazing person with a huge heart. She cares about everyone around her and will help anyone in need. She inspires everyone around her to not only try harder in practice but to be a better person. I couldn't have made it the last two years without her and I have a feeling a lot of people in her life think that same way!

Explain the role basketball plays in your life and what it means to you. 
Basketball has been in my life for a long time because of my little brother. I watched him play countless games and then decided to give it a try myself. It is a pretty recent passion of mine as I started my first skills class when I was in 6th grade - I was more of a competitive swimmer and dancer when I was younger. 

Basketball has allowed me to meet and work with new people and people who are different from me. It plays a huge role in my life as I work most everything in my life around basketball. Basketball has allowed me to make new friends, be a part of a team and has pushed me out of my shell as I have always tended to be a shy person. I have gained confidence on and off the court. I love the feeling of being on the court with the basketball in my hands!

How did it feel to receive varsity status as a freshman? Were there any moments in the process where you thought it wouldn't have been possible?
It was awesome! It had been a goal for me to play varsity basketball in high school. I put the work in and made varsity, though, I didn’t know how much playing time I would receive. I made up my mind to arrive early each day before practice to get my shots up and do the work. I’m happy to say that I started every game of my freshman year and became the leading scorer for our team.

​Tell us a little bit about the Girls Under Armour team and early college recruitment. (That's so exciting!!) 
This year Under Armour launched its national girls’ basketball circuit to showcase young athletes across the country. It’s really exciting to be part of it. There are three showcases this season where I will play with my team in front of college coaches from all over the country who are looking to recruit for their teams. It’s cool to see what my future may hold as I pursue my passion.

Tell me a time when you were expected/asked to become a leader on your team (during a practice, game, etc.)
I arrived to each practice early for my high school team, normally being the first on the court in the morning. Because of this, my coach gave me the opportunity to lead and encourage my teammates to arrive early to practice. I was also expected to be a leader on both sides of the court by talking on defense and scoring on offense. 

​Who are some interesting figures you look up to?
One of my role models is Ana Llanusa from Oklahoma Women's Basketball. She is a shooting guard just like me. She can shoot the ball well and is an all-around great player. She has overcome adversity with her injuries but continues to keep working hard. She embodies the qualities I strive to possess. 


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

It took me a few weeks to prepare for the ASVAB. I took this test as a pathway to graduate. ​

​I would play the flute. I find the flute beautiful and delicate and it sounds lovely 

​The style of dance I like is both jazz and hip hop. I don’t have an inspiration when it comes to dance. 

It began when I was in middle school, my art teacher was impressed with mine and other students work, she had submitted it to scholastic and my first piece was purchased and went into a dentist office. From then on, I continued making pieces and I featured them on Facebook and people began to purchase. It made me feel good, and confident in myself that I can be an artist. 
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​The Nomination: Tristen Morris is inspiring because on top of waking up stunning each day, she also competes on a club soccer team. She has officially signed to play at Angelo State next year and is looking forward to continuing her education and taking on new challenges. When she isn't playing soccer, she enjoys wake-boarding at the lake and racing her dirt bike. She has a heart for animals and is often seen with a dog in her arms. It is inspiring to see a young lady who is active and can hang with the boys, but who also cleans up like a super model. Truly the best of both worlds!

When did your career in soccer begin? What position do you play? What is your favorite part about playing for a club team?

My soccer career began when I was three years old. My mom played soccer her whole life so she signed me up. At my first soccer game I dribbled the ball down the field at kickoff and scored right away, this is when my parents knew that this would become my passion. Today, I play for Dallas Sting, the same club my mom played for, and I play attacking mid. My favorite part about soccer is all the skills it teaches you. Not just physically, but mentally, soccer has taught me respect, perseverance, and integrity. 
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Tell us about your experiences playing soccer against Sweden and South African teams.

Playing soccer against Sweden and South Africa was an amazing experience. I played against them in Dallas International Cup. The coolest part about it was hearing them speak in a different language and not knowing what they are saying. It was also cool to interact with them after the game and see how happy they were to be playing in the United States.

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​When did you learn about wake-boarding? How often do you wake-board?

I have gone to Caddo Lake in East Texas since I was a baby. I even call it my second home. It is known for being the only natural lake in Texas and it is absolutely beautiful. At the age of six, my dad taught me how to wakeboard. The first try I got up on my board, and ever since I have fallen in love with it. I wakeboard almost every time I go to the lake.​

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?

Some advice that I would give is to always be confident within yourself. I believe confidence is the key to success. When you are confident with yourself or in what you are doing, you can achieve your goals that you are trying to reach. This past year I was diagnosed with anxiety that made me severely sick. During this time, I struggled to find strength I needed to overcome this. I was constantly doubting myself on my looks, personality, and what others thought of me. But I realized that if I had the confidence on knowing who I am and that it doesn’t matter what others think, that I could get through it. I just needed to find myself and gain the mental ability to persevere through this hard time. Teenagers around the world struggle with anxiety or believe that they are not enough or not wanted by others. With my story and past experiences, I hope to inspire others by helping them realize their self-worth, and how truly great life is when you know your worth. 

What type of dog is your favorite? Why? What is your second favorite animal?

My favorite type of dog is a Shorkie. It is a mix between a Yorkie and a Shih-tzu, my dog Mookie, is this breed. Mookie has become my best friend and even when I’m in a bad mood he puts a smile on my face. He is the perfect size and beyond adorable. My second favorite animal is a cat. I have a cat named Speedy who follows me around the house and even comes to a whistle.

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

​The Nomination: Joe Gutowski played football since the age of 7. He was never gifted with great athletic ability or skill but persevered through those obstacles and continued through even though he was told by his peers that he would never be good enough. He was never on the best team, always on the “B” team. One day during leadership his coach told them about a bible verse 1 Peter 5:6 : “humble yourselves therefor under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time” This verse completely inspired him to keep going in his lowest time. And his senior year he finally got his spot on varsity!

​How did you become interested in football? Who inspired you the most to start playing?
 I don’t think anyone in particular inspired me to play football. It was always just something I loved to do. 

Tell us about the Bible verse your coach once told you. Tell us what it means and what it means to you, personally. 
The verse itself says “humble yourselves, therefore, under Gods mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time.” To me, I applied this to my situation with football. I was struggling to maintain a good self-esteem because it felt like no matter what I did, nothing was good enough. This verse taught me to keep working, persevere, and in due time, God will lift me up. 

What were some ways you persevered through your tough times? How did you not let what other people said about you, affect you?
I just kept my head down and tried to outwork everyone around me, I knew that without working hard I would always be average so I just kept working hard. I tried to turn those negative words into motivation to work even harder. 

How did you feel when you made the varsity team your senior year? How did you celebrate?
It was definitely a relief. It was something I had waited for, for so long. I can’t remember if I celebrated any, but I just kept on my path. 

​Tell us more about your different experiences you have had throughout high school. What was one high and one low you remember?
Definitely a high in my high school career was beating our arch rivals, Colleyville Heritage, senior year. The pure joy around everyone on our team was unbelievable. That’s something I’ll never forget. On the other hand, my all-time low was finding out I made JV my junior year. I was right on the border of making varsity and to look at the roster and not seeing my name was devastating. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
 DO NOT QUIT!!! It may be hard but it’s 100% worth it in the end. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I’m going to ASU for sports journalism, so I see myself covering the Cardinals or Diamondbacks. My goal is to eventually be on ESPN. 
What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
That no matter how many people told me I was trash, instead of giving up, I worked harder. 

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I just try and manage my free time as best I can. Keeping reminders in my phone have helped me a lot (especially with remembering homework) 

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I’m definitely a lake guy, so anything at the lake. Wakeboarding, wake surfing, tubing, etc. I also back myself as the best FIFA player I know, so I guess Xbox. 

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I’m a pretty good FIFA player. But it’s not really hidden because all my friends hear plenty of trash talk. 

Who do you find inspiring?
For me, I relate to Isiah Thomas a lot. Thomas was picked by the Kings with the last pick in the NBA draft. No one thought he’d be anything special. An undersized, underweight guard could never succeed like he has. But he has proven every doubter wrong overtime by putting in the work and staying the course. 

Pizza or Tacos?  Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Tacos, Dr. Pepper is the best, 100% a dog person 

3 Things on your bucket list
1. Skydiving 2. Shark Cage diving 3. Go to a Super Bowl 

Anything else you’d like to tell us? 
Thank y’all for this opportunity!!! 


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

​The Nomination: Ashlynn Prince; She has a taste for the world as shown when she studied abroad in Japan for six weeks the summer of her sophomore year. She is extremely artistic and wants to inspire others the way the world has inspired her over the years. Art Club

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​How did your art career begin? When did you start getting interested in art? 
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My mom is the elementary art teacher at my school—naturally, I as I grew up, I wanted to do art, too, and she always supported me in my growing passion. In about seventh grade, I started to get serious about the arts—music, traditional art, digital art, writing, all of it. My high school art teacher, Lisa French, is my amazing mentor and good friend, and she has helped me so much throughout my high school career.

​Where does most of your art inspiration come from? What is your one favorite piece you have created? Why? 
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Most of my inspiration comes from the world around me; other art pieces online or near me. Other times is it solely on my emotions and experiences. I am still learning and growing in the art world, so it’s very impossible to pick a favorite art piece of mine, but I am very proud of my murals honoring Vietnam War Veterans, which I painted with my best friend, Summer Rose Rohrer.

Tell us about your trip to Japan. 
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My trip to Japan included my first plane ride—or, should I say my first seven plane rides? Through Youth for Understanding (YFU), I was granted a scholarship and the unbelievable opportunity to stay with a host family for six weeks as well as attend high school in Ichinomiya, Aichi during the summer of my sophomore year.
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What were some interesting places you saw? 
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I saw the Japanese Sky Tree, went to Shirakawa-go, Tanabata (The Star Festival) in Ichinomiya, and Nagoya Castle, and experienced so much of their culture. My host family consisted of nine people other than me: 5 boys, 4 girls—and their cat. They were so welcoming, and they made my trip unforgettable. 

What was your favorite part about the whole trip? 

There’s just no way that I can pick a favorite part of the trip; it was all so sensational. I will never forget the people that supported me and the experiences I had in Japan. It was life-changing and gave me a thirst to explore the world around me.
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I would love to go back to Japan to visit my host family and explore some more! 

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​Where is another location you would want to visit? Why would you want to go here? What would you do when you arrived to your dream location? 

I plan to study abroad in college; I would love to go Italy, France, Britain, or Japan again. In the far future, I want to live in one of the aforementioned countries and pursue my career in animation.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
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Don’t wait around for someone to chase your dreams for you. You have to work, and branch out, and let those around you support you when you step out of your comfort zone. And never, ever, stop dreaming.

​Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I am going to attend Webster University for animation, and I want to travel the world, inspiring everyone I can the same way my family and the world has inspired me.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I try to look on the positive, and I dream all the time. I work to pursue my dreams, even though I am a small-town girl who just wants to explore the world around me.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
Well, that one’s tricky; I just go with the flow. I keep my dates straight by writing them down in a planner, and the rest of the time I have to spare is pretty much just balancing my life as I go.

​What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I love watching anime and sniffing out animators online.

Who do you find inspiring?
My parents have inspired me my whole life. I want to work like they have to provide for me and my siblings, and I want to do it while doing what I love. I want to make them proud.

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Pizza. Water. Dogs. Period.

3 Things on your bucket list
Eating pasta in Italy, making enough money to buy my parents a great house in a great place, and hosting at least one foreign exchange student.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I couldn’t be where I am today without the support of my friends and family. I will always hold them dear and I will make them proud. I am ready to move on from home, but I will never forget the arms the held me up throughout my life. I thank them and love them all. I would also like to again thank Inspiring Teens Magazine and Esther Luna for this amazing opportunity to share my story!


Ashlynn Prince will be featured in Issue 20 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​The Nomination: Ethan Brown has won the 1st team GMC conference award for offensive tackle in football. Ethan also wrestles and was the team captain and he won an award for having the most pins on the team. He was fall homecoming king at his school. His senior year GPA is a 3.850 but his cumulative GPA is 3.450.
He is going to Purdue Fort Wayne and majoring in mechanical engineering. He plans on joining ROTC while he is in college. After college he wants to seek employment at a wind farm or hydroelectric power plant.
Some of his accomplishment include building a dam in the creek behind his house to build up the water level and eventually harvest the water’s potential energy. He used study hall in school to go to his science teacher’s room and build water pumps and repairing heaters. Ethan had built a water filter with nothing but scraps that he found around his classroom. Ethan wishes to see 50% of the world’s energy produced by renewable energy sources in my lifetime and would like to be a big part of this goal. 

Tell us what it’s like being in the mechanical engineering field.

The mechanical engineering field is, and always will be a competitive field of study. Mechanical engineers are responsible for designing machines. Some machines need power to run, and some machines make power. I am more interested in making the power.
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What is the ROTC you are interested in? 
ROTC stands for Reserve Officer Training Corps and it is a military program that some colleges offer. It basically pays for all or most of my college tuition in exchange for military service. I am interested and in joining the U.S. Army reserve and Corps of Engineers.

How did you build water filters from nothing but scraps? What was the most difficult part? 

Building a water filter is actually pretty easy. All I needed was a long tube, an air pump, and some charcoal. I started by attaching a small box with a grate in it onto the tube, that way water could pass through it, but the charcoal would stay in place. I then put the small air tube down the middle of the larger tube and submerged the whole thing into a fish tank. Once the air pump was turned on, it produced air bubbles at the bottom of the tank which helped carry water up the tube where it could be filtered through the charcoal and dispensed back into the tank.

​How are you planning on making our environment 50% from renewable resources?

It is highly unlikely that the world will ever be able to run on 100% renewable energy, but it can definitely get close. My plan to get the world to 50% renewable energy usage would require a very large campaign wherein I would need to sell people on the benefits of renewable energy.
 
What is something people can do to help? 
Things like solar panels and wind turbines are an investment. They cost a lot of money up front, but after several years, they pay themselves off and then keep producing electricity. If everybody invested in solar roof panels for their homes, that would make a huge impact and they would also save money in the long run.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?

Be nice to everybody you meet and just go with the flow.

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

I see myself getting married and starting a family. Hopefully I am working at a wind farm.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?

I am well known at my school because I do the video announcements in the mornings. In my special segments I try to do funny things that will bring joy to the students when they watch it. My goal is to prepare them for the day with a laugh, and I think a lot of my classmates look up to me for that. I also just try to be nice to everyone and live by the golden rule.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?

I live a pretty routine life between school, sports and work, so organization is not a tremendous burden for me.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?

When I’m not in school, the gym, or working at the grocery store, you can usually find me hanging out with my girlfriend. She is just absolutely amazing and between you and me, she’s way out of my league.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?

Yes, I have mad yo-yo skills.

Who do you find inspiring?

Brian Shaw, 4x world’s strongest man.

Pizza or Tacos?  Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?

Pizza, water, dogs.

3 Things on your bucket list

Travel to New Zealand, get a pilot’s license, belly flop into a black hole.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?

The dam I built in my creek had risen the water level by about 2 feet. Unfortunately, the Ohio rains raised it a bit too high and the water started pouring over the dam and it collapsed yesterday (4/22/19). But don’t worry, I’ll rebuild it.



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

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!

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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.
​

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!