​Nomination: Carleigh is inspiring because regardless of her chronic illness (POTS) she perseveres and competes in sport martial arts. Her invisible illness can be debilitating most days but she fights to continue to do what she loves and bring hope to others with her condition.

What do you want us to know about POTS?
POTS stands for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. It is a disorder of the automatic nervous system. Basically, my body’s ability to regulate heart rate and blood pressure is disrupted, which can cause me to pass out. Some of my daily symptoms are dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, extreme fatigue, and shakiness, among many other things.

How has it affected you personally?
With having POTS, it makes completing the simplest tasks a challenge on bad days. There are many days where my body is too fatigued to physically get out of bed. Food really affects me too, for example-something that has too many carbs can make my body feel sluggish and awful for several days. Hard training sessions, emotions, and weather changes also contribute to my POTS. Any of these things can send me into a flare, which can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Tell us about your martial arts career.
I started martial arts when I was 12, after watching the original karate kid movie. Shortly after I started, I went to watch a local tournament, and immediately knew this was what I wanted to do. I started competing locally, and the passion only grew from there. Everything changed for me when I met world champion Alex Mancillas at a tournament in my hometown. He encouraged me to chase my dreams and never give up on my goals. A few months later, I competed in my first out of state tournament. Now I compete nationally, traveling across the United States.

What do you love most about the sport?
There are so many things that I love about the sport. The first thing that comes to mind is the confidence it’s given me, and the many life lessons it’s taught me. Martial arts has shown me how important hard work and discipline is. I love how regardless of how bad I’m feeling with my POTS, martial arts continues to fuel me with motivation to keep pushing. I also love the camaraderie among the athletes. There’s truly nothing like having the support of teammates, friends, and coaches ringside-regardless if you’re competing against each other or not.

How does POTS affect you when participating in martial arts?
My POTS affects me a lot while training. There’s been times where I’ve had to end lessons early or pause a training session because my body just decided to shut down. Tournament days can also be pretty hard. The nerves before competing can send my POTS all over the place, causing me to feel out of my body and lightheaded before I even step on the mat. It’s really hard balancing this chronic illness with my sport, but it’s all worth it.

What is your training schedule like to succeed in martial arts?
My training schedule consists of several private lessons within a week with my coaches, training me in everything from competition forms to dojo curriculum. I also go to the gym 4 times a week, making sure I’m focusing on becoming stronger as well. Training forms for competition is important-but so is training the basics. I make sure to make time in my schedule to go over basic strikes, blocks, and kicks, as well as boxing.

What is your favorite accomplishment in martial arts?
My favorite accomplishment would have to be winning the Mini Warrior Cup at this year’s AKA Warrior Cup held in January. This was a goal I have had on my vision board for as long as I can remember. I was in the hospital the night before I competed with a kidney infection, and there was a part of me that didn’t know if this goal would be reachable. But I held onto faith and prayed that God would give me the strength to push through. Winning the cup was such a special moment for me, I’ll always cherish it.

What do you wish others knew about martial arts?
I wish others knew how incredible martial arts really is, and how much hard work each athlete puts into being the best they can be. Martial arts has truly changed my life, I would encourage anyone at any age to learn it. The sport and tournaments are amazing, but so is learning how to properly protect and defend yourself in a bad situation.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover? 
Since being diagnosed and speaking openly on social media about my chronic illness, I have had several people come up to me and tell me how I’ve helped them come to terms with being diagnosed with their illness. They’ve shared with me that since they have seen what I go through and struggle with, they don’t feel so alone in their fight, and they’re more motivated to keep pushing and not give up on their dreams.

What would you most like to talk about in your interview? 
I would most like to talk about how martial arts and my chronic illness have both shaped me into who I am today. Martial arts has given me motivation and determination when I was struggling to even get out of bed. My chronic illness, although it is often seen as a negative thing, has honestly helped me appreciate the little things in life and every good moment is a blessing. I also love videography, it has given me an outlet and a way to express myself and my feelings when I can’t put it into words. I love the freedom and creativity that comes along with bringing stories to life.



What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever? 
I am so passionate about martial arts. Even when it felt like everything was being taken away from me once I got diagnosed with my chronic illness, karate has always been there to remind me to keep pushing and to not give up on the dreams and goals that I have in the sport. I could talk about martial arts forever, it’s my absolute favorite thing.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found my photographer through the sport martial arts circuit. He is very talented and is always capturing memorable and special moments at tournaments, as well as awesome action shots! I always look forward to seeing his work at the end of every event!

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would love to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because it is one of my biggest goals in life to be able to spread awareness for chronic illnesses and share my story. I could only hope to be an inspiration for someone else going through the same thing as me, and I know how important it is for someone struggling to see representation of another person going through something similar. I want others to know they are never alone, and their fight is worth fighting. 

What is a favorite memory you have with the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory with my mom is traveling to tournaments together. We drive all over the United States for sport martial arts events, and I enjoy it every time. We always find a way to make the long car rides fun and exciting. She sacrifices so much to be able to make my dreams come true, I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without her.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money? 
If I win a scholarship, I would use the money to invest in my future. One of my biggest dreams and goals is to pursue a career in stunt work. It is not an easy or cheap goal, but one that requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and expenses. I won’t let anything stop me from achieving my dream-not even my chronic illness. It would be such a blessing to win a scholarship. This would not only help me, but my mom as well. She has put so much money into helping me reach my goals.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My ideal dream job is definitely to be a stunt performer. I’ve had a passion for stunts ever since I first got into martial arts. One thing I absolutely love is watching the choreography in different fight scenes and movies. I can spend hours upon hours watching different videos of different stunt performers, seeing how they move and how intricate fight choreography is. I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else in the future. 


Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
 First and foremost, I’d like to thank my coach, Salef Celiz. He’s always encouraged me and pushed me to be my best. Working with him has opened my eyes to a whole new world of martial arts, and made me love the sport even more. I’d also like to thank Christina Korman. She’s been coaching me for two years now, I’m not sure where I would be without her. Both Salef and Christina have continually trained me to reach my fullest potential. They’ve believed in me so much that I finally started to believe in myself.
 
What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
I’m very excited for my debut to the black belt division, which will be happening very soon.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Hard work and dedication gets you very far, don’t ever give up.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I would love to move out to California to start pursing stunts.

Who do you find inspiring?
This is a tough question, I find many people inspiring. I would definitely say my coach-Salef Celiz, Sensei Sharkey, Micah Karns, Jewelianna Ramos Ortiz, and so many others.

Look for Carleigh in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!
​

​Nomination: Sydney Assil launched The Honey Project in 2022 – a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide critical resources and educational opportunities to uplift the next generation. She’s inspiring because in less than three years, The Honey Project has supported three schools in Peru, totaling roughly 250 students, with the hopes of one day being able to support more children across the globe. From building school libraries with Spanish-to-English learning supplies to hosting annual holiday parties to school supply giveaways, the organization’s unwavering efforts have been a beacon of light to those in need.

What inspired you to lead the Honey Project?
The Honey Project’s work goes back to 2019, as a family effort to support disadvantaged students in Peru. In 2022, I began doing weekly virtual tutoring with students from the schools we work with in Peru, during my lunch breaks at school. Forming a direct connection with these students and watching them learn and grow inspired me to take the helm of the project and catalyze our efforts. Since then, I have been the president of the organization.

What initial things did you do to get it set up, and then how did you gain momentum?
When I realized that The Honey Project could make a larger impact with the right foundation, I applied for 501(c)(3) recognition, purchased our domain, set up a website, and started planning initiatives for our upcoming trips, along with some local fundraising events. I also had the benefit of pre-established relationships with schools and other support staff working from Peru because of the work my family had done, and that played a big role in helping my planning go smoothly

What was the hardest part about getting it to where it was starting to be successful?
The COVID-19 pandemic was a big deterrent to our work in Peru. For over a year, our efforts were halted as travel was hard, and our coordinators in Peru were unable to do their usual work communicating with the schools. However, I think this obstacle ultimately helped us grow. After the mania of the pandemic relaxed, we finally applied for 501(c)(3) status and began to establish more organized and consistent efforts to support the schools and their students. The popularization of Zoom also aided the start of my online tutoring experience, which pushed me to lead the project.

What does the Honey Project do here in America to provide support elsewhere?
My support system and community in Los Angeles are a huge help in spreading our message and raising funds for the organization. We often host fundraisers in Los Angeles, which helps support our projects in Peru. Also, we run large drives in LA and transport everything we collect to Peru.

What has been your most rewarding experience with this endeavor?
Once, while visiting a school in Peru, a young boy approached me and asked for my phone number. I smiled and said I was too old for him. He clarified: “No, I want you to teach me English!” (in Spanish, of course). This shocked me, in the best of ways. It was the first time I got such a clear display of these students’ desire to learn, knowing that speaking English is one of their best guarantees of success. It warmed my heart and felt like a sign that the work we were doing was having an impact.

What have you learned about yourself in the process?
I’ve learned that when I’m passionate about something, nothing can get in the way of my goals. Since I came to lead The Honey Project, I’ve consistently prioritized doing more and more, and expanding our efforts exponentially as I go. Every time I hit a roadblock in my planning or goals for the project, I know there will be a solution. I know that I have a strong and supportive community within and around the organization, which will lead me on the right path.

What are your next steps with it?
I am currently expanding The Honey Project into Los Angeles. After a few months of planning and coordinating this project, I have partnered with the Boys and Girls Club of Santa Monica to pilot a peer mentoring program this Spring that will launch officially in the Fall. The Honey Project's mission is to enhance children's education, and I am excited to approach that goal in a new way with this program, as peer mentoring is proven to build confidence and excitement around the learning process.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I have a strong passion for working with children, which has motivated me to continue expanding The Honey Project. My love for this work began with teaching young Peruvian students English, virtually. Watching them slowly learn new words and form sentences showed the impact I could make on them, and I wanted to do more, so I launched The Honey Project as a nonprofit organization. Every visit, hug, and smile from these children drives me to do more every day to expand our work and advance their education as much as I can.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I take pride in my ability to run The Honey Project full-time as its president, and also excel in my academic and creative endeavors. Junior year of high school is busy, and I've learned to balance my classwork, time in the pottery studio, college preparation, social life, and extracurricular activities, all while prioritizing The Honey Project above all else. At the heart of this is my love for the good we do, and my confidence that we will make real change in the world.

Tell us about your pottery. What do you love about it, and what is a favorite piece you've created?
I love pottery because I am able to combine so many different techniques and mediums into single forms. The piece I throw on the wheel develops further when I trim it and add texture, and then I get to combine special patterns and color reactions using glaze to make something beautiful and unique. My favorite piece is a jade green bottle, with carved floral designs in bright red. It reminds me of a serene garden, the same serenity that I feel when I make pottery.

How do you balance all of your activities and still make sure The Honey Project remains successful?
As a junior in high school, it’s hard. This year, my social life has definitely taken the biggest hit, because I refuse not to give The Honey Project or my school my full attention. Right now, in the Spring quarter, I am working hard to study for finals and AP tests, but most of my other free time goes straight to The Honey Project. Between our pilot peer-mentoring project in LA, for which I also work as a volunteer, our plans for this summer in Peru, and working on possible new technology to support education globally.

What is your friend group like, and what do you like to do together?
My closest friends and I love to go to the beach, on bike rides, and on hikes together. We have big slumber parties and cook and bake together. We’re a close-knit group, and they’ve been my friends since the seventh grade. In bigger groups, we like to have pool parties and potluck-style gatherings. I also love to hit the tennis court with my friends from the tennis team on a Saturday morning.

Share a favorite family memory you will never forget.
When I was little, from ages two to six, my dad and I loved to bike around together. When I was in preschool, we would wake up at 5:00 AM every morning, he would put me in a little green basket on the front of his back, and we would go down to Ocean Park. I would collect petals from the rose garden to bring back to my mom. These memories are why I will forever love biking, and I plan to do it with my family when I grow up.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
Heather did a couple of photoshoots of my family when I was very young, and she and my mother have kept in touch. since. I reached out to her a few months ago, asking if she could take my headshots. The results were better than I had imagined, and it was a wonderful process with her. We spent the whole time laughing together and sharing about our lives. She is a kind, interesting, and talented woman!

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I believe that part of The Honey Project's responsibility is not just to work towards our goal, but also to spread our message to as many ears as possible. I, alone, cannot help every single child in the world who is not receiving the education they deserve. But if I work to recruit as many people as possible to my cause, maybe someday we can make that dream a reality. It's taken a strong community to get the Honey Project to where it is today, and it will take an even bigger one to continue propelling us toward our goals.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
Every year, we create a bigger and better plan for our annual summer trip to Peru. Last year, we built a library at one of the schools we work with and filled it with hundreds of books. This summer, we are planning an education fair for hundreds of students complete with science-based workshops, inspirational speakers, and confidence and teamwork-building exercises. With this scholarship, we could make summer 2026 our best endeavor yet, and bring necessary infrastructure and technology to even more schools in Northern Peru.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I have to thank my parents most of all. First, for helping to launch The Honey Project and instilling a love for philanthropy in me so that I could become the leader of this organization. But also for continuing to support me in all my endeavors now. My mom joins me on every trip to Peru, and my dad helps me prep whenever I have a meeting to pitch a partnership or plan an important event. I wouldn’t be able to do any of it without them.

What are three things on your bucket list?
Go sky diving
See the northern lights
Learn how to do a cartwheel

Look for Sydney in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Shea Dominique is an honor graduate, licensed pharmacy technician, and student leader who excels in academics, athletics, and service. She takes AP and dual credit courses, plays club and varsity soccer, and served as varsity captain. As an Academic All-State honoree, she's active in NHS, Mu Alpha Theta, and Girl Up. Shea will attend LSU on an academic merit scholarship. Through her church and as VP of service for Legacy League, she leads youth retreats and volunteers with charities like Meals on Wheels. A dedicated mentor, Shea inspires others with her leadership, compassion, and drive to make a difference.

What does it mean to you to be an honor graduate?
To me, being an honor graduate is like a reward for the all the hard work and effort I have put toward school.

What did it entail to become a licensed pharmacy technician?
In my pharmacy technician class we spent the year learning all different kinds of medications, their uses, how they work, and side effects. It took a lot of effort to try and memorize all the brand names and generic names while also remembering what it is used for. We learned the top 200ish drugs to prepare ourselves for the certification test where we had to apply all the information we had learned.

How would you describe your leadership style?
I would say my leadership style is similar to one of an older sister. I like to be there for people and be someone they can come to for advice or help with a problem. I help guide them to success and I feel pride in myself when I know I have helped someone to succeed.

What are your roles and responsibilities as captain?
I would help my coach in practice, be someone my teammates can come to and rely on, lead the cheer before games, and give feedback to my teammates when needed.

What has been your most rewarding activity in the NHS?
My most rewarding activity in NHS was going to my old elementary school to do the highschool mentoring program. It was fun to play with the younger kids and just talk to them. It reminded me of being in elementary school.

What do you love most about being a member of Mu Alpha Theta?
I enjoyed spending time with one of my favorite teachers because she was the club sponsor. She really helped me grow my love for math and is someone I really look up to.

What has Girl Up taught you?
Girl up has taught me more about women’s rights and what it took for us to get to where we are today.

What does it mean to you to be a member of Legacy League?
Being a member of Legacy League has been extremely rewarding. I had so much fun donating my time with my mom and my best friends. My favorite service activity was NAM Meals on Wheels and it was very nice to see new and old faces every time I brought them breakfast or lunch.

What are you most looking forward to when you attend LSU?
I am looking forward to live in Baton Rouge close to some of my family I don’t see often. I am also excited for a change of scenery and to build a new community in college.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My nomination briefly mentions my service in my church but it is one of the biggest parts of my life. I am a part of the youth leadership ministry and we serve our parish in many different ways. This ranges from vacation bible school in the summer, to retreats and confirmation classes during the school year.

Tell us more about your participation in the retreats?
My church holds 2 3-day weekend retreats throughout the year. A fall retreat open to all highschool youth, and a spring confirmation retreat. so far I have attended one retreat and served at 3. I work with small groups, I have given a talk on evangelism, and at my most recent retreat I worked closely under my youth minister as well as being an emcee.

What do you love most about helping with vacation bible school?
I absolutely love working in the nursery or with the younger kids. They always have such interesting stories to tell and I love how they are always excited to learn more about Jesus’ life.

What else would you like to talk about?
Something else I would like to talk about is my role on the soccer team. I have been on varsity since my freshman year and since then I have slowly emerged from my shell and become a leader on my team. My teammates look up to me and come to me for help on the field and in the classroom.

Tell us about your soccer career.
I started playing soccer at 3 like most energetic kids with tired parents. I eventually grew to love soccer and played recreationally through elementary school but I started playing club in fifth grade. Once i got to highschool I became a member of the varsity team for all four years. Sadly my soccer career is ending with graduation but I hope to pick it up again for fun in college.

What is your team like? How do you fit in and how do you stand out?
My team is full of many different personalities. Occasionally they clash but what can you expect from a bunch of teenage girls. At the end of the day we are a family and we all have each others backs. I met some of my best friends though that soccer team. I stand out by being very talkative and loud but it’s effective for communication. My team always says they can hear everything i’m talking about during the game but somehow I still manage to stay focused.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I feel passionate about all the things and people I love. I enjoy talking about books, movie theory’s, God, and the future. My favorite thing is when the conversation flows perfectly and we just talk about anything and everything.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found Angie through a friend on her power team from last year. This experience has been incredibly fun and a good opportunity to become more comfortable in front of a camera.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
I was nominated by my photographer and I think my favorite memory with her was my very recent senior shoot. It was so fun to go to all the different places and try new poses. I also enjoyed getting to know her better and laughing about silly stories together.

What do you love most about being on the Angie Read Photography Power Team?
I love being able to meet new girls from other high schools that I probably wouldn’t have known otherwise.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine to give other teens a positive role model. I want to spread a message about how perseverance is the best way to accomplish your goals.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If i win the scholarship the money will go towards my college tuition. I want to go to medical school in the future so I want to have as little student debt as possible.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My dream job is to be a pediatrician.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I would like to thank my mom and dad for always pushing me to do more and be more.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
Stay true to yourself. The best people are the ones that love you for you.

Look for Shea in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Tessa McCracken is an inspiring teenager who successfully balances academics, athletics, and leadership. As a National Honor Society member, varsity volleyball player, and active leader in her school organizations, she exemplifies dedication and drive. Despite transferring as a junior, she quickly adapted and became an engaged member of her new school community. In addition, she is a signed teen model/actress. Her Faith, character, and authenticity—both in front of the camera and among her peers—set her apart. She inspires others by showing that you can chase excellence in every area of life while always staying true to oneself.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My Faith has become very important to me over the past several years. Even though I grew up in a Faith-centered household, as I got older, I was really struggling with my Faith. I have been fortunate to attend a few retreats this past year that have really helped me reconnect with God. I can honestly say that I have never had such a closer relationship with the Lord than I do now. I also want others to know the Lord, and I try to lead people to Him as well.

What else would you like to talk about?
My family is my biggest supporter in everything I do. I have two older siblings who are always there for me to help me with the challenges I encounter. My parents have been the rock for me and our family, and I am so grateful to them for everything they do for me. My family is very big into traveling and it’s such an experience to see such wonders of the world with them right by my side. What I also love is that my whole family is very competitive, so game nights are a whole new level of fun.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am in a leadership group in my school called Sources of Strength which focuses on mental health. Mental health is so important to teenagers, yet most of them push past it like it isn’t. Being a teenager is tough and takes a toll on us mentally. However, many of us try to cover up our problems and act like everything is fine and just try to be happy. It’s so sad to see so many teens struggling with mental health issues each day. It’s no longer something to joke about and we need more mental health awareness.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
We kind of found each other. I saw some very creative and cool photos from them and followed them on IG. Then I received a DM from them offering me to become a model/rep for their company. They are absolutely wonderful. It's not like I am just modeling for the camera; it is a team to create the best photos possible. We collaborate on different poses, angles, etc. and it is just a great experience working with them.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
Although we have had so many great memories together, I always remember how much I loved when he would put me on his shoulders all the time when I was younger. I remember even though it felt so high, I always felt safe and protected. I also remember when I was learning how to ride a bike, I kept falling off so many times and wanted to give up, but he pushed me to keep going and encouraged me, and soon after I was able to ride my bike without falling.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teen Magazine because I believe everyone has a story that’s worth telling, and I’ve learned that Inspiring people isn’t always about being perfect but being real and vulnerable as well. Everyone is meant for something so special in this world, it’s just hard for many to see that. I’ve worked very hard to turn my passions into purpose, and I want to encourage others to do the same even if that means stepping out of their comfort zone.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
I will use the money to invest in my future, specifically my college education. It would help ease the burden on my family financially and allow me to focus more on my studies, extracurriculars, and my growth as a person. I will use this as motivation to keep working hard and striving to always do my best. I see this as an investment in my future and I want to make the most of every opportunity I’m given.

Look for Tessa in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Sydni Thibodeaux is an honor graduate that was nominated for student of the year of her class. She participated in both volleyball and cheerleading throughout her high school years. Sydni is a very friendly, helpful, compassionate, and confident young woman who plans to continue her education as a surgical nurse at Louisiana State University. Her future plans as a registered nurse will allow her to provide compassionate care to others.
 
What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have always been someone to lead a group. I am a very compassionate person and I am always willing to help in any way I can. I love working with others and being a support system for anyone who needs and I look forward to doing that as a registered nurse.

What else would you like to talk about?
I have also volunteered my time with youth sporting events by helping to provide concessions and painting signs for display. I also have volunteered in my local church parish by reading and serving food for the less fortunate.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am very passionate about my future plans of becoming a registered nurse. I love helping others and providing care and compassion will be so beneficial to both the patients I have and to myself.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
My photographer is a friend of my aunt and has done some Christmas photos of my little cousins. She is a great photographer that is very patient and kind to work with. The experience of working with her was great. She made me feel comfortable and allowed me to offer my opinions on poses and backgrounds.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
There are so many memories with my mom that it is simply hard to choose one. She is one of the strongest, humble, loving, and caring person I've ever known. She is a role model that taught me everything I need to know in life to be successful in my future.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would love to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because I want to make a positive impact on others and help them realize their potential. I think it's a great way to motivate others to become the best they can be.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win a scholarship it will go towards my college expenses. It would help my parents with my college tuition and housing.

Look for Sydni in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Sahana Srikanth is a remarkable leader and passionate advocate who truly inspires her community. Since she was 8, Sahana dedicated herself to pursuing linguistics through the Spelling Bee, named a 4X School Champion and a Top 10 Scripps National Spelling Bee Finalist out of 11 million competitors worldwide. Her passion for children's literacy led her to create Young Learners Foundation, a youth-led, youth-serving literacy organization with an international reach. She conducted book drives to donate 2,500+ books to 6 institutions, raised $2,700+ in grants and donations, connected with 20+ partners, and directly impacted 770+ students in 4 continents.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I’m passionate about advocacy and love helping youth feel confident in public speaking! As a Deputy Director of Equality in Forensics, a student-run debate nonprofit, I serve 800+ volunteers, impacting 10,000+ students with free resources, content, and coaching of similar quality to paid resources. I oversee ~100 members of our coaching program, directly saving debaters ~$20,000. As a 7X National Finalist and Top 10 in the USA for Extemporaneous Speaking, I’ve experienced firsthand the impact of mentorship in debate. So, my goal is to inspire all youth, regardless of their background, to debate and speak up for themselves!

What else would you like to talk about?
I’m a passionate advocate for equitable healthcare policy. As Ohio State Campaign Captain for STRIPED, a health incubator advancing eating disorder prevention, I lead efforts to protect youth from toxic, eating disorder-inducing diet supplements—substances shown to increase eating disorder risk significantly. I founded STRIPED’s first Ohio team, mobilizing 30 youth and securing business sign-ons from numerous health institutions. I’ve engaged with nearly 50 policymakers across 10 states, surveyed ~100 youth, and shared my advocacy at Harvard, Johns Hopkins, and Vanderbilt. I also co-initiated a voter registration project, overseeing 200+ cards to rural and BIPOC citizens, encouraging them to vote.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Words. Growing up, I was constantly immersed in books—Junie B. Jones, The Magic Tree House—and quickly became obsessed with language itself. I searched for new words everywhere, fascinated by how they could be broken down, analyzed, and traced across cultures. Latin words felt crisp and exact; Greek ones, open and emphatic. This love for language led me to spelling bees, where I explored etymology through “collecting” roots, stems, and words. I could talk about my word collection forever! My favorite words are “taoiseach,” pronounced “tea-shuck,” and “eunoia,” meaning “beautiful thinking.”

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
My photographer was my father, who took the picture of me at the 2024 National Speech & Debate Association Tournament. My experience at this event was wonderful, as I had worked and prepared extensively throughout the season for the opportunity to attend the event. My overall placement was Top 14/~300 competitors. What I enjoyed most about the experience competing at the NSDA and having my picture taken, was the friends I met throughout the process. I loved the supportive community of youth debaters, many who I am still in touch with today.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
One of my favorite memories with Mrs. Sabitha Pandit, my mentor, is from when I was in 6th Grade, preparing for Spelling Bees. She tested me on challenging vocabulary, simulating national-level rounds to build my confidence. She found rare words I’d never seen, challenging me to apply my knowledge creatively. We explored words from new cultures, cuisines, and more, which furthered my curiosity about international languages. I looked forward to each session, as she always inspired me to maintain a growth mindset. Her belief in me sparked my lifelong love of language and continues to shape how I learn today.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I’d love to be featured in Inspiring Teens Magazine to share my story and honor my mentor, Sabitha Pandit, for her role in my journey. It’s also a chance to celebrate the people who’ve supported my successes with the Young Learners Foundation and STRIPED. I’m passionate about advocacy, and this platform would connect me with like-minded youth advocates making a difference within their communities. I hope to inspire younger youth to pursue their passions with confidence just as I did, because I believe the stories in Inspiring Teens can spark real change - empowering the next generation of youth leaders.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
Over 32 million children in the U.S. lack access to books at home—a barrier that impacts literacy and long-term opportunity. If I win a scholarship, I’ll use the funds to support Young Learners Foundation’s book purchases for underserved children. We've currently donated over 2,500 books to six institutions, and this scholarship would help us reach our goal of donating 10,000 books. The funds will support high-quality, engaging, relevant literature for youth, so we can motivate children to enjoy reading. Thus, the scholarship money will address book deserts, empower underserved youth to read, and improve children’s literacy nationwide.

Look for Sahana in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Riana Espinoza is an inspiring teen whose passion and drive shine both on the mat and on the sidelines. As an athlete, she gives her all with determination and heart, pushing herself and encouraging others to do the same. As co-captain of the cheerleading team, she leads with kindness, confidence, and a contagious energy that lifts everyone around her. Riana is way more than just talented, she’s a true team player, a natural leader, and a reminder that strength and spirit go hand in hand. Riana is a great teen inside and out!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
While my nomination focused on inspiring things of me, it didn’t fully capture the stability and quiet perseverance that fueled those successes. What often goes unseen are the countless hours spent pushing through self-doubt, the courage to lead when no one else stepped forward, and the commitment to lifting others as I climbed. Inspiration also lives in the moments no one applauds, showing up consistently, staying kind under pressure, and remaining true to my values. These are the things that define me just as much as any award or recognition ever could.

What else would you like to talk about?
As co-captain, I’ve learned that leadership means being the one others can count on even when things get tough. It’s not always easy to stay strong, but I’ve found strength in being the person who keeps the energy up, encourages the team, and leads by example. Behind every performance is a lot of responsibility, patience, and heart. I’m proud of how I’ve grown, not just as a cheerleader, but as someone who leads with positivity, resilience, and care for others. Being a leader means showing up every day strong, steady, and always ready to lift others.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am passionate about cheer and how it isn’t just a sport to me. It’s where I found my voice, my confidence, and my second family. I could talk forever about the adrenaline of hitting a perfect routine, the bond between teammates, and the way we lift each other literally and emotionally. I love the challenge, the creativity, and how every practice pushes me to be stronger, more focused, and more fearless. Cheer taught me how to lead, how to trust others, and how to believe in myself. It’s not just what I do it’s who I am.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I’ve known my photographer since we were kids, he’s from the same small town I live in, so working with him felt natural and comfortable. My experience was amazing. He made sure the focus was completely on me, and he took his time to get the best shots without ever making it feel rushed. I loved how he paid attention to every detail and made me feel like the most important part of the shoot. His calm energy and dedication made the whole experience unforgettable. He was amazing!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
One of my favorite memories with the photographer who nominated me was during our shoot it was so lighthearted, fun, and full of laughs. The energy was exciting, and we were just completely ourselves the whole time. It wasn’t just about getting good pictures, it was about making memories. We were joking around, hyping each other up, and honestly, some moments were unforgettable. That day reminded me how special it is to have someone who believes in you and makes everything feel easy and fun.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because I hope to inspire others the way I’ve been inspired by the strong, confident leaders in my life. Being featured would be a chance to share my story, my passion for cheer, and what it means to lead with heart. I want other teens to know that it’s okay to be yourself, to work hard, and to stay true to your values. If my journey can motivate even one person to chase their dreams or believe in themselves, then it’s all worth it.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win a scholarship, I plan to use the money to help pay for my education at UTSA, where I’ll be majoring in nursing. This opportunity would not only support my dream of becoming a nurse but also help ease the financial burden on my parents, who have always supported me in everything I do. It would mean a lot to be able to give back to them in this way while continuing my journey toward a career where I can care for and help others every day. Striving in college with excellence just shows that I would use this money for something good. My education matters the most to me!

Look for Riana in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Kennia, a remarkable senior at Carrizo Springs High School, has distinguished herself through exceptional achievements in athletics, academics, and leadership roles. Her volunteer work as Student Council President, Class President, Student Ambassador, and 4-H member demonstrates her strong commitment to community service. Kennia is also an accomplished athlete, a 4-year Varsity volleyball, with awards including Newcomer of the Year, 1st Team All-District, and Defensive Player of the Year. Additionally, she is a powerlifting state qualifier and 4-year Varsity softball player, earning awards such as Co-MVP, Offensive MVP and has committed to Texas A&M Kingsville for softball.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Senior by Vaughanadora has been a transformative experience for me. Roxann has encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace my true self. I never imagined I'd have the confidence to be in front of a camera, but now I’m not only comfortable, but confident in doing so.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Softball has always been my greatest passion, a constant source of joy and escape from the demands of everyday life. It has played a pivotal role in shaping who I am, and I truly can’t imagine my life without it. From a young age, I dreamed of playing collegiate softball, and I dedicated myself to making that dream a reality. After years of hard work and perseverance, I was honored to commit to Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) during my junior year of high school. This achievement is a testament to my dedication and love for the game, and I’m beyond excited for the next chapter of my softball journey.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I first came across her through my sister, who had taken photos with her a couple of years ago. I had originally planned to have my senior pictures taken by her, but when I saw she was starting a model team, I decided to give it a try. To my excitement, I was selected to join, and since then, I haven’t looked back. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m so grateful I took that leap!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
I can’t pick a favorite moment when all the moments are great. Roxann helps all of us get out of our comfort zone. She shows us to express ourselves freely.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would love to be featured in Inspiring Teens Magazine because I believe it shows the hard work, dedication, and passions of young people who are striving to make a difference. Being a part of this magazine would allow me to share my story and experiences, particularly in balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth, in hopes of inspiring others to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles. It’s an opportunity to connect with individuals and encourage others that their passions and efforts can truly lead to meaningful accomplishments

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win the scholarship I plan on using it to help pay for my dorms, books and anything I am needing for college. I will help my parents and I tremendously.

Look for Kennia in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!
​

Nomination: Clarissa is a beautiful and radiant soul whose energy lights up every room she enters. She’s approachable, always making others feel welcome and always has warm smile. What really sets her apart is her hilarious sense of humor—she can make anyone laugh, no matter the mood. As a leader on the cheer team, she was nothing short of inspiring. Beyond that, Clarissa is a fantastic role model, consistently showing kindness, confidence, and authenticity in everything she does. She’s truly one of a kind. I’m so proud to have been able to be apart of her senior year.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Something that my nomination doesn’t cover is what I want to become someday! With that being said, one day I would love to become a Pediatric Radiologist! I would love the opportunity to work with kids and not only that but help them get better! I hope to go to college and become a Radiologist to someday pursue my dream in the healthcare industry! I know that it won’t be easy but I plan to work hard for it! I am willing to leave it all in the hands of God and trust he has a great plan for me!

What else would you like to talk about?
One thing I would like to talk about is being kind to one another! You never know what someone might be going through. I like to urge the importance of being nice to people even if you don’t know them. Whether that’s complimenting someone or making a person laugh ( my personal favorite), can uplift someone! I believe that everyone has a purpose in life that they need to fulfill and being kind to everyone is one! We can’t change the world overnight, but you can change someone’s life overnight by being nice and showing them they are loved and worthy!

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Something I feel passionate about and I could talk about forever is family! I feel that the love and support I receive daily from my family is so vital and I don’t know where I’d be without them! I thank God everyday for blessing me with such an amazing family that shows me so much love. I will forever be grateful for being brought up with manners, respect, and kindness. In today’s world, we don’t see much of that so I believe that being kind and loving to one another and sharing Gods love is so important to me!

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
The way I found my photographer was through social media. She had posted a post looking for people to join her rep team, and I was interested because I’ve always heard about her work. I decided to give it a shot and sign up for her team. A few days later, I got an email congratulating me on becoming part of the team! I remember being so excited for the opportunity and it’s been a joy having Liliana as my photographer/hype man! I love how she made each shoot fun and enjoyable! I will definitely miss her next year!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory has definitely been when Liliana took my valentine mini photoshoot! The set up was so cute but besides that my sisters and Liliana made everything hilarious! Liliana’s humor is top tier! As the girl who won the wittiest girl award at school, I can say that! I think that’s why every shoot I’ve had with her has been so much fun! There was never a dull moment with her and I thank her for making the photo shoots fun and enjoyable! Overall, I wouldn’t trade the time I had with Liliana at each session for the world!

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would like to be on Inspiring Teen Magazine because I hope to someday inspire other teens and be a good influence. I would love to connect with other teens who have similar interests and build friendships with them! I hope that someday I will be able to share my perspective and thoughts about how we can change people’s lives by being kind and make the world a better place. I am so grateful to be given the opportunity of being a nominee for this! I hope that people my age or any will understand and receive my message!

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I were to win the scholarship, I’d put it towards my college! Whether it’s for books or tuition, I would like to use the money for me to build my future! I am so blessed to be given this opportunity and I know it would help me a lot in the near future! I hope that with this scholarship, hard work, and determination, I will be able to make my dreams happen!

Look for Clarissa in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Anahi is known for her kindness and emotional depth. She has a big heart and is always willing to help anyone in need. Her caring nature extends to her family, who she holds dear, and to her friends, for whom she would do anything. Her ability to balance her emotions with her intelligence and creativity is truly admirable. With her remarkable intelligence, creativity, and compassion, there's no doubt that Anahi will make a positive impact in whatever she sets out to achieve. We are so proud of Anahi and look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the future.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Here in high school, I take part of the theater program known as One Act Play. I’m head technician for sound, allowing the play to come to life with the sound and music I provide. I’m also part of the National Honor Society here at my high school. I help out the community whenever needed.

What else would you like to talk about?
Some things about me, I enjoy playing in band. Unfortunately, this is my last year, but throughout my four years in band, I have been enjoying it along with my peers. During my free time, sometimes I’d like to crochet or read books. Sometimes I even rewatch old Disney movies.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I’m in love with the ocean. No matter what body of what I’m at, I’d love to jump in and enjoy a small swim. Unfortunately, I don’t live near any body of water that’s less than an hour away. However, I still enjoy seeing water or the ocean when I get the chance. Therefore, my major for college I decided on Marine Biology.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I met my photographer through my sister. So far, my experience is great. I love the way she takes pictures and the people we take pictures with. She offers so many different opportunities and we have fun with it. The one thing I liked the most was our recent photoshoot with our cap and gowns for graduation.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
I absolutely love my mom, she provided everything for me and she was the one who gave me the opportunity to be able to be part of this amazing photographer and modeling team. She always gives me great advice and has always been there for me when I needed it most.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
Just being nominated I feel super honored to have this opportunity. I feel like this would be another step towards building my confidence and being able to find more opportunities like this. Seeing my other peers be featured in Inspiring Teens, makes me super happy to see that. Hoping I could get the opportunity to be featured as well.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win the scholarship money, I would put it toward my college. I am well aware how expensive it is where I am going. And being able to help my parents financially would be great. Any scholarship money I could earn, I would put it toward my college at Texas A&M Galveston to help out my parents since they’ve helped me so much as well.

Look for Anahi in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Alexis Jeka is inspiring because she's an hard working young woman. She is in a lot of different activities from cheerleading and being the caption, honor roll, national honor society, girls golf team, and the boys golf teams manager. Taking a CNA classes and completing the clinical hours. Along with working a job to help pay for college.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have been accepted into the honors program at my college, and also had the chance to join an accelerated program where I have been able to get into graduate school already.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I could definitely talk about my love for cheer for hours. Cheer has been a big part of my life and I love educating others and the work people put into the sport.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
My mom actually introduced me to my photographer through a want for senior rep models. The experience was amazing! I have met so many new friends and got to do things I never thought I would have done. What I loved most was getting to know Brenda as a person and see her wonderful art.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My mom and I have gone to cheer competitions together for over thirteen years, so getting to spend that time with her and build up our bond is something I think back on very often.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
To show myself that I can do things that I am not used to, such as being seen as pretty or someone that looks good in photos.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
I would put the money towards my college tuition as a way to help out my parents.

Look for Alexis in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Adriaunna Menendez is a true inspiration. Born at 28 weeks, she has been fighting for her life in a myriad of ways since. Adriaunna has fought to overcome battles of survival, low functioning as a child with lack of motor skills and speech, as well as having a teen mother, and she is a twin! This girl always has the best attitude, will try new things to challenge herself, supports others with enthusiasm, and she is the most kind and caring person you will ever meet. I have dubbed her nickname as "The Winner" for Senior Team.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Another inspiring thing about me that my nomination does not cover is that I competed in power-lifting. This was my first year power-lifting. In doing so, I got 3rd in my weight class at state!

What else would you like to talk about?
Something else I would like to discuss is my future goals. I am currently a student at Pickaway-Ross Career and Technology Center in their Health Science program with the goal of becoming a Registered Nurse.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Something or someone I could talk about forever is my mother. She is the strongest person I know. I feel like I get my strength and my determination to overcome challenges from her. Having twins as a single parent at 19 years old was a bit of a struggle. I've been able to watch her grow and achieve her goals.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found my photographer by looking for someone to do my senior pictures. I was scrolling through facebook and she just so happened to pop up. I happened to really like her pictures and the glow she added to them. I've had a great experience working with her, she has improved my confidence while having fun and making friends.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite thing working with Erin has been that she makes all of the photo shoots fun by making me step out of my comfort zone to create great pictures.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I would like to be in the Inspiring Teens Magazine because I feel like being in this magazine inspires others to be themselves. They don't have to hide who they really are.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I were to win a scholarship, I would put the scholarship money to college to achieve my goal of being a Registered Nurse.

Look for Adriaunna in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Adrianna's dedication to others is truly inspiring. She radiates positivity, with a warm smile that uplifts everyone around her. As Vice President of her school's Interact Club and an active Key Club member, she is deeply committed to serving her community and helping those in need. She lives by the principle of "service above self," always seeking ways to make a difference. Additionally, Adrianna has been a standout on the varsity softball team for six years, helping lead them to three state appearances, including a 2024 state runner-up finish. Her passion and drive set her apart!
​
What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My nomination did not cover my love for animals and helping animals in need. I have two rescue dogs. I hope to inspire people to adopt and help animals in need. Animal shelters need support and I also help with them. I have a deep compassion for helping those who can’t help themselves. A commitment to making the world a better place. I hope my dedication to rescuing animals can inspire more people. One person’s dedication can spark a movement.

What else would you like to talk about?
College is a huge part of a new life. While college isn't for everyone, which is perfectly okay, I think there should be a change in how it operates. College is so expensive, and many people can’t attend the schools they want because they can’t afford it. This new chapter in someone’s life shouldn't be hindered by financial problems. Although scholarships are available, they aren't accessible to everyone, even those who work hard. I think colleges should focus more on financial situations and helping others.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am passionate about helping others and could talk about it forever! I love the clubs I am in: Interact Club, where I am the vice president, and Key Club. These clubs are focused on community service. We have fed the homeless and given them somewhere to stay, helped in the Special Olympics, worked with the younger generation, and much more. I love helping others and want to make the world a better place.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found my photographer through my father’s work. She takes all of their pictures, and she is so amazing. She takes pictures for both the boutique side and the business side. She is too good!
My experience was the best. We did senior pictures and all prom pictures with her. Every session is so fun. She is so easy to work with and very professional. She suggests the best poses and works so hard. Her editing is also amazing.
I love how much effort she puts into the job to make the pictures as amazing as possible. She gets them back to us very quickly, too. She makes sure every picture is perfect, and they are!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory is taking pictures at the Graduate Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. This is about two hours away from our home, but she went with it and was so excited about the idea! The pictures turned out so perfect, and we had the best time. We had so many different outfits, too! She worked with every one. She is the best for traveling that far and taking pictures for a very long time.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine to inspire girls, showing them that you can do big things and make a difference. I am also interested in getting into the pageant world and think this would be an amazing start. I hope girls can read about me and be inspired. I hope it makes girls want to be better people and work hard for their dreams. You can do anything you set your mind to!

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win a scholarship, I hope to put it toward college funds to help my family and give back to them for being the amazing people they are. While I am on two scholarships, it does not cover what needs to be covered in my college tuition. So, it would be amazing and a huge help to me and my family. Any extra money will go to dog shelters and the Salvation Army, just helping people who need it more than I do.

Look for Adrianna in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

What are you looking forward to most in your senior year?
Finishing strong and making lasting memories

What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
The achievement of being kind to everyone

What do you want us to know about your struggles and how you've overcome them? Someone who was not included in a lot of friend groups in a small school I found myself finding new Church groups and other activities in other towns to meet new friends.

Tell us about your relationship with God and why it is so special.
God can fix anything and has always listened to me through my struggles and you always have him.

What position do you play in volleyball and why does it suit you?
Outside hitter and it suits me because I am tall and powerful.

What is a favorite memory with your volleyball team?
My favorite memory would be ISU hitter camp staying in the dorms with some of my teammates.

What kind of music do you enjoy listening to you the most and what is your current favorite song?
I enjoy listening to country music and my favorite song is “28 by Zach Bryan.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My integrity, character, and faith-driven purpose make me a standout candidate for the Inspiring Teen nomination and a deserving recipient of opportunities that recognize my leadership and resilience.

Tell us about your leadership style.
My leadership style is adapting well to your surroundings and being teachable as well as coachable.

What has been your most rewarding leadership opportunity and why?
My most leadership opportunity would be my Junior year being a “Teacher Assistant” for the Kindegarton class helping them grow and become a good student.

What else would you like to talk about?
Beginnings do not define your future. Raised in a divorced household, I chose not to see it as setback but as a motivation to build a strong, faith-filled life. I have stayed grounded in my values, choosing kindness, leadership, and resilience over negativity. I have shown that challenges can shape you without breaking you.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Being alone is better than being surrounded by the wrong people. Instead of losing myself in situations or trying to fit in I stayed true to who I am. My worth isn't defined by popularity. Always to true to your values and beliefs.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
Found Cher on Social Media and our experience was so amazing. I have never been to Arizona and she made it so simple and easy for us to take my Senior pictures all the way from Iowa!

Are you a part of a model team with your photographer, and if so, tell us about it.
No, but would love to be!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory with my Mother are the vacations we have shared- times filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories that strengthened our bond and reminded her the importance of family.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
To show other young people that challenges do not define you and there is always more to the cover! I hope my story of resilience and faith and staying true to yourself will help other teens in challenging situations or years of high school especially during these years of social media.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
I plan to put the money towards my future education. I am pursuing a career in the medical field that allows me to help others. This money could help my single mom and the financial burden of college bills.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
Ultrasound Technician

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
My Mom, she has helped me through all my struggles and told me to keep pushing and being the best I can be.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
Being popular doesn’t define who you are.

If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
On a beach swimming and enjoying the sun rays!

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
My senior year and being done with this part of my journey through life.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
Taking Medical Terminology at Dmacc my Junior Year and passing it by studying hard, asking questions when needed, and not procrastinating.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Never give up no matter how hard a situation feels or can be things will pass and better things will come.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
To be an Ultrasound Technician and be working full time and living on my own with a roommate in Iowa.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Singing and dancing! Music always gets me motivated and feeling happy.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I can fold my tongue in a crazy way, my friends tell me.

3 Things on your bucket list.
Going to Hawaii, Swimming with dolphins, and meeting someone famous!

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom, she has built a life for us as a single mom and worked hard at her Real Estate career and started a team that she mentors and is a great leader!

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I have overcome a lot and people have told me I have an amazing personality and soul no matter what bad situation may be happening.

Look for Alexis in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Sarah Austin is an inspiring young woman who leads with heart, resilience, and kindness. As USOA Teen Alabama, she uses her platform, Brave Minds Matter, to advocate for teens living with hidden illnesses like PANDAS and anxiety. Sarah is graduating a year early, is a published children’s book author, and is a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. She has turned her personal struggles into a mission to uplift others, showing that true strength comes from compassion. Sarah’s light, leadership, and unwavering spirit make her a role model for young people everywhere.

​
Q: Tell us about your road to USOA Teen Alabama. How did you get there?
A: My journey to becoming USOA Teen Alabama started with a desire to amplify my voice for those struggling with invisible illnesses like mine. I never imagined I’d be wearing a crown, but I realized pageantry could be a powerful platform for advocacy. I stepped out of my comfort zone, entered my first local pageant, and poured my heart into sharing my story. Every step, from learning stage presence to developing my platform, brought me closer to this title—and to my purpose.

Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced going into this pageant and how did you get past them?
A: The biggest challenge I faced was balancing my health with the demands of competing. Living with PANDAS means I experience unexpected symptoms that can affect my focus and stamina. I had to be disciplined about rest, self-care, and managing stress. I also struggled with self-doubt, but leaning into my faith, family support, and the mission behind my platform helped me push through.

Q: What surprised you most in this journey?
A: I was most surprised by how empowering the pageant community is. I expected it to be intimidating, but I found so many uplifting, driven young women who cheered each other on. It showed me that pageantry isn’t just about competition—it’s about growth, friendships, and using your voice for something bigger.

Q: What do you wish others knew about the world of pageantry?
A: I wish people knew that pageantry isn’t just about beauty or walking in heels—it’s about leadership, confidence, and service. It challenges you to develop public speaking skills, think critically, and be an advocate for what you believe in. Behind every crown is a purpose-driven young woman.

Q: Tell us about your platform and why it means so much to you.
A: My platform is called Hidden Illness: Brave Minds Matter, and it’s inspired by my journey with PANDAS. I advocate for awareness, early diagnosis, and empathy for those with invisible illnesses, including mental health conditions. I know what it’s like to look healthy on the outside while battling something others can’t see. I want to make sure no one feels alone or overlooked because their illness isn’t visible.

Q: What is PANDAS?
A: PANDAS stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections. It’s a condition where the body’s immune response to strep affects the brain, leading to sudden onset of OCD, tics, anxiety, and other neurological symptoms. It’s often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, which is why awareness is so important to me.

Q: What inspired you to graduate a year early and what sacrifices did you have to make to achieve this goal?
A: I was inspired to graduate early because I’ve always been a goal-driven person, and I wanted to start pursuing my dreams sooner. I knew that by graduating early, I could move forward with college and my advocacy work at the same time. It meant doubling up on classes, giving up some social time, and staying disciplined even when it got hard. But it taught me resilience and time management—skills I know will serve me well.

Q: Tell us about the book you authored and what inspired it.
A: I wrote a children’s book called Crowned in Kindness. It’s about a young girl learning that true royalty isn’t about a crown on your head, but kindness in your heart. I was inspired by my own pageant journey and wanted to encourage younger kids to lead with compassion and confidence. Writing it was such a meaningful way to connect my love of storytelling with my values.

Q: What has been your most rewarding experience in the NHS?
A: My most rewarding experience in the National Honor Society has been volunteering at community events and mentoring younger students. Seeing the impact we can make when we come together to serve others has been so fulfilling. It reminds me that leadership is really about lifting others up.

Q: What leadership opportunity have you had that led to your greatest achievement as a leader?
A: One of my greatest leadership opportunities was mentoring younger students through National Honor Society and volunteering as a leader in community service projects. I learned how to organize events, inspire others to get involved, and lead by example. Seeing the difference we made in people’s lives and knowing I helped bring people together to serve was one of my proudest achievements.

Q: What do you have coming up that you are most excited about?
A: I’m most excited about competing at the national USOA Teen pageant! It’s an incredible opportunity to share my platform on a bigger stage, meet inspiring young women from across the country, and represent Alabama. I’m also excited to continue growing my advocacy work and reaching more people through speaking and writing.

Q: What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
A: My dream job would be working as a motivational speaker and author, traveling to schools and conferences to inspire others—especially young people battling invisible illnesses. I’d love to combine advocacy, writing, and public speaking to make a difference while encouraging kindness and empathy everywhere I go.

Q: Is there anyone you’d like to thank for helping you get where you are today?
A: I’m so thankful for my parents, who have supported me every step of the way, even on the hard days. I also want to thank my doctors for believing me and helping me navigate my diagnosis, and my friends and community for cheering me on through every challenge. I couldn’t have done this without their love and encouragement.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
A: I want to remind anyone reading this that no matter what you’re facing, you’re not alone—and your story matters. Whether it’s an invisible illness, a personal struggle, or a dream you’re chasing, keep going. You never know how your journey could inspire someone else.

Q: If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
A: You’d probably find me at a cozy coffee shop with a book in my hand, or somewhere outside enjoying nature and journaling. I love quiet moments to think, dream, and create.

Q: What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
A: I’m super excited about competing at the national USOA Teen pageant! I can’t wait to meet girls from all over the country, share my platform on a bigger stage, and represent Alabama. I’m even planning to sing in French for the talent portion—something I’ve never done on a national stage before!

Q: What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
A: Graduating high school a year early was definitely one of the hardest things I’ve accomplished. It took a lot of sacrifice, extra coursework, and staying focused even when it felt overwhelming. I made it happen by staying organized, leaning on my faith, and reminding myself why I started.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
A: Don’t be afraid to take the first step, even if it feels scary or impossible. Believe in your purpose, work hard, stay kind, and surround yourself with people who uplift you. Your story matters, and you never know who needs to hear it.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
A: In five years, I see myself finishing college, continuing to write and publish books, and expanding my platform to reach more people. I hope to be speaking at schools and events, encouraging others to embrace kindness and understanding for those with hidden illnesses.

Q: What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
A: I love painting and doing creative projects! It’s something I don’t always talk about, but it’s such a fun way for me to relax and express myself.

Q: Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
A: My hidden talent is that I can sing in French—even though I don’t actually speak the language fluently! It surprises people every time, and I’m excited to share that talent at USOA.

Q: 3 Things on your bucket list
A: I’d love to travel to Italy, publish a novel, and speak on a national stage about hidden illnesses.

Q: Who do you find inspiring?
A: I find my mom inspiring. She’s taught me strength, compassion, and perseverance, and she always encourages me to keep going no matter what.

Q: What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
A: I think people are inspired by my willingness to speak up about things that aren’t always easy to talk about. I try to be honest about my struggles and victories, and I hope that showing both sides helps others feel less alone.

Look for Sarah in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

What would you most like to talk about first?
Having the opportunity to serve in my church has been one of the most rewarding blessings I have ever received. From learning valuable lessons like time management, stewardship, patience, and humility to leading fellow peers and teaching/caring for young children. All of these traits, which were done in honor of the Lord, have prepared me for the future he has set before me. Through what I've learned, I would no doubt encourage everyone to take something they love and find a way to serve God and others through it

What have you learned about yourself through your love for Jesus?
Through my love for Jesus the most beautiful thing that I have learned is that my entire worth is found in him alone! There is nothing in this world or that I could do to make me worthy of God's love. Through the Love of Jesus that he showed on the cross, I am made worthy in God's sight, and I am so thankful for this.

How would you describe your leadership style at Bible Study?
In any Bible study that I lead, I would say I guide with a heart that is led by the Holy spirit. I also do my best to cultivate an environment where everyone feels comfortable to speak what they feel! I pour out my knowledge but encourage others to do the same because we can all learn something from one another, which is so beautiful!

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I could truly talk about the love of Christ forever. We will never deserve what he did for us on the cross but thank the Lord it's not about "deserving". The power that comes from the love of Jesus heals the broken, purifies the unrighteous, and saves those who were once lost. He gives us free will to love and serve him, demonstrating his loving kindness. I feel so passionate to talk about this forever, because after encountering the Lord, it has become my greatest desire for others to know of this same goodness!

When did you start cheering and what do you love most about it?
I started cheering in the 8th grade and immediately fell in love with it. Looking back on the past five years, what I loved most about cheerleading was the bonds I was able to form with the girls on my team. With early mornings and late nights, you begin to spend a lot of time with specific girls, and before I knew it, I had created lifelong friendships, and I will always love cheerleading because of that.

What is your cheer team like? Where do you fit in and where do you stand out?
My cheer team was very outgoing! There were a variety of personalities but at the end of every day we would all come together to build one another up and support each other. I feel I fit in perfectly with the excitement of events and energy that was needed! What I feel set me apart and made me stand out the most would definitely be my character. I do my best to love people and go out of my to do it, so naturally I believe this stood out significantly on my cheer team.

What do you and your sisters like to do together?
I love going to the park or going on walks with my sisters. At the park, I do my job as big sister to push them a little too high on the swings and a little too fast on the tweetiebird, but we always have a blast. With college soon, I do my best to find little things to do with my little sisters, even if that's making cookies or watching a movie altogether.

What is a favorite memory with them you'll never forget?
One of my favorite memories that I have with my little sisters that I will never forget was when we all 4 did a bible study together a while back. They are all significantly younger than me, their ages being 10,9, and 6, but that night, age had nothing to do with it, We bonded more than we ever had, it was very beautiful. They were curious and would ask questions, this will always be a special memory in my heart

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
On top of having the opportunity to spend lots of time pouring into church, cheer, track, and my little sisters, I am also academically ranked in the top 3% of my graduating class of 763 students! Growing up I was always taught that education was important, and that has greatly affected where I am today. Not everyone is blessed with the opportunity to learn, and I never want to take that for granted.

Tell us about your track career.
I started track in the 8th grade. I took a break in 9th grade, but returned my sophomore year and have ran ever since. There were a lot of ups and downs, victories and losses, but ultimately, I grew exceedingly both physically and mentally. As a senior I am now finished with track but am proud to say I went all the way to area with my 4x4 relay team this last year.

What is your favorite accomplishment with track?
My favorite accomplishment so far within track was finally breaking a minute in the 400. All year I was running 62 seconds or slower, and finally in our district meet I broke my streak and ran my 400 in 60 seconds. This wasn't only great for my race that day, but overall showed that my hard work meant something, which truly impacted me.

What advice would you give to others trying to get and stay in the top 3% of your class?
I would say to make goals and stick to them! Make them challenging yet reasonable in some aspect. The more you become lenient with your goals, the less likely you are to reach them. I would encourage other students to hold themselves accountable and do what they submit themselves to! With this advice, and dedication to studying, you can surely obtain a high ranking.

What is your favorite class this year and what is the most interesting thing you've learned?
My favorite class this year has been my Anatomy and physiology class. I have learned so many interesting facts in that class about a variety of things, but the most intriguing has most likely been that the human digestive system is over 30 feet long!

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I met my Photographer, Annie, through church! She takes beautiful pictures during worship and service and captures the most amazing and intimate moments. During my shoot, Annie was so sweet and encouraging. What I loved most was her quick and innovative ideas on top of her efficiency.

What is a favorite memory you have with the person who nominated you?
I love that Annie has found a way to use her talents to serve God. There are hundreds of photos of people worshipping the Lord during service thanks to Annie, and I know she does what she does out of her love for God. Even during my photo session outside of church, she brought up Jesus—and that’s inspiring! One of my favorite memories of Annie was during worship, when I opened my eyes and saw her with hands lifted high, singing to the Lord—even with a camera in her hand!

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I always pray to God that he would allow his faithfulness to speak through the way I live, and I believe this opportunity gives him the ability to do so. I hope other teens would be inspired by my life and realize they can truly do anything they put their mind to!

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I was fortunate enough to win a scholarship, I would certainly use it to further my education. I have been accepted and enrolled into Abilene Christian University, with the plans to pursue a degree in nursing. Winning this scholarship would aid me in my goal to help others with a loving heart!

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My dream Job would be to become a neonatal nurse for a faith-based hospital. I love babies and I especially love helping people in any way that I can, so this job has certainly pulled on my heart.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I would love to thank my mom for where I am today. She will always be one of my biggest role models. With my dad passing away the month before I was born, she raised me alone for most of my life. There have been plenty of times that were difficult, but my mom always showed through resiliently. I would not be where I am today, without the love and discipline she raised me with, so I will forever be grateful for her!

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I am very thankful for this opportunity. I have struggled a lot financially growing up, and with college just around the corner, the burdens have become even more real and difficult. I have prayed for God to open doors for me, and whether I win this scholarship or not, I really am grateful for the opportunity I have to participate in the first place!

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
I am graduating soon, and although it's bittersweet, I am so excited to graduate with my friends I have grown up with!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would say to never give up on your goals. At the end of the day, you have to learn to push yourself outside of your comfort zone or you will never grow!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I see myself working in the NICU as a neonatal nurse! I plan to be the most engaged and helpful nurse I can be to both my patients and their families!

Who do you find inspiring?
I find Jesus Christ and his endless love most inspiring!

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think I am inspiring because of my genuine faith in the Lord. I can't help but talk about how he has changed my heart, and I believe this inspires others because of how outspoken I am about my faith.

Look for Aaliyah in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Tabitha is inspiring because she has grown up in a small town but has defeated the odds. She has been accepted into colleges all across the country and has received over 3/4 of million dollars in scholarships despite having little help from those around her. She has done it all on her own.

Tell us about your small town and what you love most about it.
My small town only has around 7,000 residents. Almost everyone knows everyone but I am actually from Nebraska. I love the country and old time feeling the town gives off.
What is your high school like? Where do you fit in and where do you stand out? My school has Pre-K through 12th grade in one building. We have around 600 people, including faculty. Being a part of many clubs and sports means I get to fit in with my schoolmates but I also stand out a lot more. Most people here do not move away while I am moving to a different state for college.


What do you and your friends like to do together?
I actually do not have many friends. But when I do hang out with people, we usually go shopping or hangout around at home and chill. I am definitely a homebody for sure.

What will you miss most about your high school when you go to college?
I miss my routine. I am a person who loves to have a set routine and moving to college is going to disrupt it. I am excited to create a new routine at college.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Something that is very inspiring about me is the fact that I have tried almost every sport/club/organization/a job and I am graduating high school as our class Historian. Even though my schedule was always packed with different events, I still was able to keep my all A’s in every class..

What are your roles and responsibilities as class Historian?
Being the class Historian, I get to help with graduation. I will help plan it and I will get to speak at graduation about all the memories our class has made during our school years.

What leadership opportunities have you had?
I have always been really involved in everything I do. While I was never captain or president of anything, teachers or coaching come to me to help plan things and figure out what to do. As a cheerleader, my coach used to ask me to teach the other girls dances, cheers, and ask my opinion on camps and competitions.

What did you learn about yourself trying all these sports and organizations?
I got to learn about how much I am able to do at one time. I found out that the more I have on my plate to do, the more efficient I am in everything and the more I do things to the best of my abilities. If only have little to do, I tend to slack off.

What else would you like to talk about?
I would like to talk about the fact that I decided to go against what most people that go to school with. Everyone I am graduating with is staying local for school. While I am moving almost ten hours away. Where I hope to graduate and move onto law school.

What college interests you most and why?
I am currently attending Florida Southern College this fall in Lakeland Florida. I got to go visit in February of this year and I loved it. The weather, the college's atmosphere, and most importantly the people were so welcoming. I have never felt so welcomed in a place until I got to visit the school. My admissions counselor, Julie, has been so supportive and has helped me every step of the way with my college decision.

What do you plan on studying?
I am majoring in Criminology, minoring in Pre-Law, and hoping Psychology. After I graduate college, I want to more onto law school after.

What are you most excited about going to college?
I am super excited to make new friends. My whole life I have never had many friends but the people I met in Florida when I was there were so nice and were already inviting me to hangout with them when I start school. I am also super excited to try out for their cheer team as well. I have been a big cheerleader and have never got to show my true potential.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I could talk about books and be ready forever. I have a huge passion for reading but not just fiction books. I love to read and transport into a new world but I also love to read and gain new knowledge that most have no clue about. Knowledge is always powerful and reading keeps your mind sharp at all times.

What book have you read recently that you would most definitely recommend to others and why?
This is such a hard question! I would recommend “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne if someone wanted more of a story that could happen in real life. I would recommend “Sunrise on the Reaping” or “The Hunger Games” trilogy by Suzanne Collins if they love dystopian stuff.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
My mom actually found my photographer while working at Waffle House. She was a server and happened to meet the photographer and her family. The experience was so fun and nice. Kerri is an amazing person and super sweet. I loved that she was willing to do crazy poses and ideas I had.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
Since my mother nominated me, the best memory is probably every hug I have received from her. We both are very non touchy people. Which makes our hugs so much more meaningful and memorable.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine to show small down kids that they can have big dreams and ideas and achieve them. My current college journey is a dream I thought was unimaginable but I made it by myself. I want others to know they can do it as we.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I won the scholarship, the money would go towards my college tuition as well as be donated to the local children’s center. The center has helped me through a lot that has happened to me and I would love to give back to them.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My ideal job would be a top working lawyer. I dream to be a successful and well known lawyer that can do cases pro bono.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I actually want to thank myself. I am the type to never appreciate myself. I never think highly of myself and I always put myself down. I am grateful that even when I wanted to quit and stop going in anything I had done, I have pushed through it and finished.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I want to say thank you so much. This is an opportunity that a person like me does not even imagine I could receive.

If you had nothing to do and all day to do it, where would we find you?
I would either be in my bed or a comfy spot with lots of blankets and pillows reading a book.

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
Continuing my education journey to my future of being a lawyer is next for me!

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have accomplished is actually getting up everyday and pushing myself. Not having much support and help really made me want to give up on getting out of bed.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Keep getting up and pushing yourself even if no one else is pushing you.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In five years I will be starting my first year of law school!!

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
My favorite thing other than reading is actually cheering and being a cheerleader.

Do you have a hidden talent?
This may not be a hidden talent but can actually vibrate my eyes.

3 Things on your bucket list.
1. Go to every continent 2. Get a corgi 3. Read every single book there is.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find Sheila Ross inspiring because she did not give up during the Laken Riley case and ended up winning.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think I am inspiring because I always speak my mind and I never back down from anything.

Look for Tabitha in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Amanda is a passionate and driven senior set to begin her journey at UCF in Fall 2025, majoring in psychology. A model student recognized by her educators, she shines in both academics and the arts. Amanda is active in Dual Enrollment, theatre, chorus, and several school clubs, including Key Club and NSHSS. As a member of the advanced chorus, she helped earn top honors at state competitions and has previously performed in Disney's Candlelight Processional. With her dedication, talent, and heart for service, Amanda is destined to make a meaningful impact. We can't wait to see all she will accomplish.

Tell us about your theatre career. When did you get started and where are you at with it now?
I started acting in middle school with my first acting class, and I’ve done it for all four years of high school, through classes and after school performances. I have been a part of about nine different performances ranging from one-acts in competitions to after school musicals, mostly as a member of the ensemble or as a lead role. Currently, we’ve just finished our spring show and I’m continuing my class in Student Directing, where they are preparing their performances in their Musical unit.

What production has meant the most to you and why?
I think the production that has meant the most to be was our production of, “The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood”, which is a fun parody on the classic story of Robin Hood. This show is my favorite because it was my last one before graduating, so it had many of the people I started acting with, and many of my friends that joined the program later. This was also a show that I got to be a very funny character, Lady Marian, who was more sassy and outspoken than the classic version.

What role has been your favorite to play and why?
I think my favorite role was Rosie from the musical, “Bye, Bye Birdie!”, which is a show about a music producer and Rosie trying to get a young performer named Conrad Birdie to cooperate. One reason this was my favorite role was because I felt like I could relate to this character the most, through her lines, her songs, and her dancing. Another reason was because of the joy I felt through the entire experience, from finding out on the cast list to rehearsing the songs, to performing on that stage. It was unforgettable and made me feel so alive.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am very passionate about my experience in the theatre program, called the Longhorn Players. I joined as a freshman trying to find some type of community that would be a good fit for me, and I started as an extra in their musical. I fell in love with the stage and the way it made me feel to be up there with people I cared about, and to be a part of such a unique method of storytelling. I'm currently trying to help other young students experience the passion I feel towards acting in my Student Directing Class.

What do you wish non theatre people knew about theatre life?
Something I wish non-theatre people knew about theatre is that it’s not something embarrassing or something to make fun of. Some people, like me, have found a family and a love for this, and it is as respectable and amazing as any sport or other extracurricular. We learn lessons from it, like how to properly be part of a team. Something I’ve noticed when directing is that the students get nervous when other classes are in the audience and it is because they fear their judgement, and being an actor shouldn’t be something to be judged for.

What have you learned about yourself in advanced chorus?
Something I have learned about myself while being in chorus is to not doubt myself. I’ve always been a bit insecure about my singing voice, but being a member of the advanced chorus and the a cappella group has taught me that I am good at it, other people think I am good at it, and I am surrounded by people that push me to improve myself and help my confidence grow.

Tell us what it was like performing in Disney's Candlelight Processional.
Performing in Disney’s Candlelight Processional was amazing, because it was an opportunity to meet people from other states and perform with the Voices of Liberty and different celebrities on a stage on Epcot. We met people from Kentucky, Tennessee and several other states during our three performances there, and some of the celebrities came to speak with us and offered some motivating words before we sung.

What are you most looking forward to attending UCF in Fall 2025?
I’m looking forward to getting to know new people and getting a chance of independence. UCF is a very big school, so it is an amazing way to meet people from all kinds of different backgrounds and places, and I love to learn about new cultures and traditions people may have. I will also be moving to a dorm at UCF with a good friend of mine, so it will be a new chapter of my life living in a new place with new people, whilst staying close to my family.

Why did you choose psychology to major in?
I chose to major in psychology after I took AP Psychology during my sophomore year, because I found it interesting and easy to understand. Afterwards, I took a developmental psychology class, and it showed me that I preferred the information in the units pertaining to children rather than adults, causing me to look into careers that involved children and psychology.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
I think my dream job would be a therapist for children or an occupational therapist because it combines my love for psychology and my desire to help children together. I would also love to be an actress on Broadway because it would keep my love for theatre alive and being on a stage singing and dancing would fulfill my childhood dreams.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Something I think that is inspiring about me is my determination. Being a student of the arts, I've dealt with a lot of disappointment after auditions after not getting a role I was aiming for or not getting a solo in the next upcoming concert. However, I am always ready to try again at the next opportunity with new knowledge and skills to help me, which I think has helped me get to where I am today.

What else would you like to talk about?
I'd like to take a moment to talk about some of the relationships I've made through the clubs I mentioned above. I highly recommend them for anyone first starting high school or even middle school, because whether you are in sports, the arts, or any other type of extracurricular activity, they all can provide skills and relationships that are long lasting and fulfilling.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
We found our photographer after she was referred to us by a neighbor that had her son's graduation pictures taken by her. My experience with her was amazing, she was so caring and sociable with me, and made sure we got all the poses and pictures that I wanted to leave the session with. I loved how understanding and relatable she was with me, as it made me more comfortable being around her.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My thoughts on the person who nominated me, which was my photographer, are that she is a beautiful soul with an eye for photography, with an amazing amount of experience to help her reach her goals. She was super professional during the session but still managed to make it fun and relaxing.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because it is an amazing opportunity to help share teen experiences with other students and help make them feel less alone. People can share themselves through their experiences, looks, and stories through the magazine and I think that is an amazing way to help others that could be looking for something to relate to in the media. As social media becomes more frequently used by young people, it becomes increasingly more important to have more outlets like the magazine to bring people together.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I won a scholarship, I'd use it to help with my tuition fees in UCF, so I can get my psychology degree and be successful in the future. The money would greatly help me achieve this goal, because every scholarship has an effect on the cost.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I’d like to thank my friends and family for their constant support, advice, and love throughout my life, specifically my parents and my best friend since 3rd grade, Wandalie. I love and appreciate them so much because they’ve always supported my dreams in theatre, chorus, and all kinds of other activities.

Look for  Amanda in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

What school clubs are you in?
I am currently in Phi Theta Kappa, Senior Girls, and National Honors Society. In two of these clubs I hold leadership positions. In Phi Theta Kappa, I’m a Historian and in Senior Girls I’m a part of the Freshman mentorship committee.

Which one has presented the most valuable leadership opportunity and what was the opportunity?
I actually found the most valuable leadership opportunity through Senior Girls. We had a wonderful opportunity of being mentors to the Freshmen girls who requested it. We would pair up Senior girls with a Freshman girl that had similar interests or were going through the same degree plan. This opportunity was for Freshmen girls to ask questions about the school and to gain valuable advice about being an Early College student. Overall, I saw how it benefited the younger girls and built role models in our school environment.

How would you describe yourself as a leader?
As a leader, I strive to show kindness to everyone. I try my best to see different perspectives and to hear others’ suggestions or ideas. I believe it’s important to have that anywhere in life because no one likes being left out or not being listened to. Everyone deserves that chance and opportunity to be heard wherever and whoever they are.


What honor societies do you belong to and how do they differ?
I belong to both Phi Theta Kappa and the National Honors Society. They both differ in many ways but one major way is Phi Theta Kappa (or PTK) is under the college while National Honors Society (or NHS) is under the high school. PTK has more opportunities outside of school and a lot more funding for trips and events while NHS focuses more on supporting the highschool and its needs. However, both are incredible organizations that focus on leadership and service.

What are some of the service projects you've had the opportunity to help with?
I’ve been able to help with just a couple of service projects within my honor societies such as the Human Trafficking awareness event with PTK and Keep Midland Beautiful trash pickups with NHS.

What service project has brought you the most joy and why?
I really enjoy helping with Keep Midland Beautiful’s trash pickups. Before I worked my job I was a part of an Environmental club within my school and we had the opportunity to learn about how wonderful of an organization KMB is (with only a few people in their office to help run it!) I enjoy doing their trash pickups to help keep Midland looking cleaner than before. They're often tough work but it feels good to be out in the sun and to clean up those nasty sides of the road!

What has work taught you?
My work, or at least my specific job currently as a cashier, has taught me a LOT! Really specifically how to be more professional and smile through problems that occur. Fast food teaches you that there’s no time to be down in the dumps when you have ten million orders to cover and fast! It made me more confident in myself because I wasn’t worrying about little things anymore and I was focusing on the bigger picture. It also forced me to get out of my comfort zone by communicating more with strangers and people who may be mean sometimes. I’m really happy about it!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am an Early College High School student meaning I'm graduating this spring with both my high school degree and associates through Midland College. Through this school, I've had the amazing opportunity to be a part of MC's Phi Theta Kappa. We were involved in a lot of amazing projects such as bringing awareness to human trafficking in the Permian Basin through a seminar. I was honored to hold the position of Historian in this chapter, and I had the opportunity to put together a scrapbook showcasing our year together and all of the chapter's achievements.

What else would you like to talk about?
To add on to my contribution to my church, I have been continuously volunteering there every Sunday. I'm also a part of the Creative Team there and I'm specifically put in charge of helping with graphics, social media, and livestream cameras. I love helping out with the church especially in the technology department; it's something I'm very passionate about. Through this I have learned a lot of meaningful skills which I pass down to newer volunteers or teach to people around me. I find my volunteer opportunities as a time to grow and represent the goodness of God as much as possible.

What do you love most about your church?
I love the community that I’ve found within my church. That’s what makes the church; the people are the foundation for spreading the word of God and they’re so important to me. I love my friends there, they're like my family and I wouldn’t give it up for the world. I also enjoy how supportive my church is throughout everything. The pastors, worship leaders, teachers, etc. have all worked hard and supported their teens through it all and I’m forever grateful that God placed me in this church to feel His love through these people.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I am incredibly passionate about art. Any sort of art I will find joy in, and I love seeing people be able to create things with their own minds and hands. I find creativity to be the best thing a person can have. Whether you're young or old, creativity can get you anywhere. And being able to create and make art is even better. I've been passionate about art ever since I was young and I haven't stopped caring about it ever since. I've been self-taught for the longest, but I hope going to university teaches me even more skills.

What inspires your art the most?
What inspires my art the most is a combination of emotions and music. I love tying my art to some sort of music and anything I’m feeling. After taking an art class in college, I really have begun to lean more into abstract art and center it way more on my feelings, which really helps me in a therapeutic sense. Oftentimes I’ll let the music play and let myself draw what my heart desires.

Tell us about a favorite art piece you created.
Funnily enough, my favorite art piece I’ve created is one that isn’t finished. It was a traditional drawing of a kitchen scene using pastels on a huge sheet of paper. This drawing I really connected with because it reminds me of my grandma, or my Wela. It’s supposed to feel like a memory of someone trying to imagine their kitchen from an old home. It was my last art project from my college class and it really showed how much I improved throughout the semester and I was very proud of it.

What are you most looking forward to at college?
I’m really looking forward to connecting with new people. I want to be able to connect with people that are Christ followers and have a passion for art. I’ve really liked visiting the college I’m going to which is Lubbock Christian University. It reminds me so much of home and I feel like I will have a better time connecting with the people there and finding out all the different things Lubbock has to offer alongside them.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
Honestly my dream job would be to help run a social media account mostly in the sense of me creating graphics or providing ideas. I already have some experience with doing that through my church’s creative team and I’d love to use my skills to help advertise or promote either a business or influencer or whatever it is!

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
We found our photographer, Nicole Buitron, through Instagram. My mom and I had been searching for quite a bit looking for the perfect photographer to capture my Senior pictures, and then we found Nicole! Our experience was very nice and the spots she chose were incredible. She made it look like my pictures were taken outside of Midland. She's incredibly talented with taming the natural light of the area and really working with it. However, what I loved the most was being able to do a lot of poses in which she directed me through. Our results were very beautiful, and I love them very much!

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
University is the next step in the road for me and I am BEYOND excited about going. As I mentioned before, I’m going to Lubbock Christian University and I’m very happy that I’ll be going to this school. My first time visiting there was amazing, I felt I truly belonged there. And now that I have my schedule, I truly feel like God is calling me to this place. It just fits so well with my interests, all the while I get to grow a stronger connection to Jesus through bible classes and surrounding myself with Jesus-loving people on campus.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory with the person who nominated me is going to her house and going to the arcade with just me, her, her husband, my brother, and little cousin. It was so much fun, and it was the first time I've been to an actual skill-based arcade. Her husband was super good at a lot of games, so he won a lot of prizes for us! Being there felt very freeing and nice, I was in my happy place.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
It's something I've never been a part of before and I feel like it will be fun to explore something new. It felt exciting seeing that I was nominated to the magazine and I want to be able to inspire other teenage girls such as myself. Even if I don't achieve that, I still want to put myself forward and try. I want to try and be a voice for artists out there looking for others just like them!

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I win a scholarship through Inspiring Teens, I will put all the money towards my university fund to aid in my journey of getting my bachelor's degree. It's my dream to work in animation and any sort of art so I will be doing whatever it takes to help fund my dream goal.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I would like to thank God and my parents. Without Christ in my life, I wouldn’t be in the place I am right now. I feel like my life would be so much more different and I’d be around different people who are hurtful and not supportive. I have to thank my parents for always guiding me towards the right path all throughout my struggles and challenges. I love them all so very much and I appreciate everything they’ve done for me.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I guess all I want to say is a word of advice for anyone reading: Don’t be afraid to be yourself. You will always and forever regret not showing who you really are to the world. We don’t have much time here so do what you can: create art, be with friends, try to experience something new, but through it all just be you– not what the world wants you to be but be who God wants you to be.


Look for Ilayna in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

​Nomination: Charli was incredibly trusting throughout our photoshoot, even when the first attempt was interrupted by high winds and rain. Despite the challenging conditions, she remained positive and ready to go again. When we decided to take the shoot to another level by incorporating her grandfather’s truck, Charli embraced the idea with enthusiasm, allowing the photos to capture both her adventurous spirit and a deeper personal connection to the setting. Her openness and trust turned what could have been a setback into a unique and memorable experience.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found my photographer through my mom, and she also took my brother's senior photos. My experience was amazing, we had a little trouble with the weather but I loved it. My favorite part was our second round of photos being at my school and getting to show my photographer cool things on campus and my favorite areas.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My photographer nominated me and my favorite memory was taking photos outside and being taught how to pose and be confident.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Something about me that I think is inspiring is that I want to be a funeral director. I am going to Coastal Carolina to major in sociology and after I plan to go to Pittsburgh mortuary institution to get my mortuary license. The funeral industry is a misunderstood field and my goal is to make it easier for grieving families and for the public to be more educated.

What led you to this career path?
As a child I had to attend multiple funerals and started to get really interested on the process of planning a funeral. The gried support aspect come from working this summer when I had someones loved one cry in my arms, that made something go off in my mind that people need support through these times, because not everyone has that support.

What are you doing now to prepare for goals?
Right now I am doing a student internship at Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care. I also have a plan for my college goals and after college goals of going to Coastal Carolina to major in sociology and go to Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science

What do you wish others knew about the funeral industry?
That the support is fully there for you, funeral directors are willing to work with you to find your budget and be there for you emotionally.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My dream job would be working as a grief supporter at a funeral home and being able to help others feel better and make funerals less difficult.

What do you love most about being a senior this year?
The thing I love most about being a senior is fully understanding that I have to make every moment count. I love my classes, my friends, my teacher, and everything about being a senior but I needed to work on making these moments count and enjoying the time while I'm here, because I'm never going to be in high school again.

What will you miss most about high school?
I am with my friends every single day and also my teachers because I've been at the same school for eight years so they have seen me grow and change and they have been a part of who I am today.

Tell us about your family. Where do you fit in and where do you stand out?
Something that makes me stand out in my family is my drive for success, I always try my best to do the best, especially things against my family. Something that makes me fit in is how my family is secretly goofy.

What is a favorite family memory you will never forget?
My favorite family memory is driving down to Bethany beach when I was younger for multiple summers in a row. I always loved jamming into a car with all five of us and listening to music, fighting, having fun, and sleeping.

What is up next for you that you are super excited about?
College, I am super excited for college and I can't wait to live on my own and grow on my own.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I feel passionate about standing up for what I believe is right. If it’s the media, my friends, or me I will always stand up for them. I have a friend who is in the lgbtq+ and gets bullied because of it. I always stand up for him and make sure he is treated right.

Give us an example of where you have had to stand up for yourself or someone else in a tense situation and the good that came of it.
In class one day kids in our class started to be rude to my friends and I was not going to sit there and let it happen. So I said something to the kids and got them to stop and felt very good about my self for sticking up for my friend and my friend also was very happy and thankful for me.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I think it is an amazing opportunity to be in a magazine and I would grow so much confidence in it. Also, the scholarship money would be great to go towards my college tuition.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
The scholarship money would be great to go towards my college tuition and mortuary school.

Look for Charli in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

Nomination: Jamisyn Kolaczynski is inspiring for many reasons, but most of all her tenacity through years of bullying at school. Through it all she kept her head held high and maintained distinguished honors grades. When things got worse with bullying, she transitioned to cyber school. While others may have let this get them down, Jamisyn decided it was time to stop shrinking to fit what made others comfortable. She was able to travel more and pursue her career in modeling. She is an inspiration that you can always find a way to persevere.

​What was it like to transition to cyber school and how is it a good fit for you?
My transition to cyber was not as peaceful as I had intended. Quickly the closest people to me turned on me. I had a hard time understanding why. Yet, I never let that stop me from achieving my dreams. Once I realized I only needed myself, success creeped up on me quickly. Cyber school allows me to have time for education, family, my mental health, and my career.

What is your favorite class this year and what is the most interesting thing you've learned?
My favorite class this year has been fashion design. I couldn’t believe a high school offered it. It would so cool to learn about textiles, fabrics, and the history behind fashion. Who knew men and women use to wear the same clothes? Fashion design sparked my interest so much further in the fashion industry.

What is the most exciting thing you've done in the last 30 days?
In the past 30 days I created my own podcast alongside my sister. It felt so freeing knowing I could do what I aspired to do without worrying about what another teenage girl would say. The positive reactions to my new podcast mean the world to me. I love continuing to find myself every day. Sister Shakedown is now a new safe space for me. Not only that, but it’s another second of the day I get to smile.

What is coming up next for you that you are very much looking forward to?
Coming up I am walking in Miami swim week. I was a Florida baby, so I am excited to go back home. There are so many amazing models that I will be walking next to. It is truly a privilege to model for another designer. I will also be filming a lot of content in Miami. On the way there I will be stopping in Savannah to check out a dream college of mine!

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I feel passionate about the art of modeling. I could talk for hours about how freeing modeling feels. The adrenaline rush when you walk out on the runway and the lights hit your eyes. The glimpse of the future when a picture snaps a shot of you. The excitement you feel when you get to a red carpet. It is such a beautiful experience to find something you love. I’ve learned to hold on to it.

Tell us about your modeling career.
I started modeling at a young age with simple photogenic contests. Once I won Miss Pennsylvania volunteer I knew this could be serious for me. I tried to stay away from modeling because if there was less attention on me maybe I would stop getting bullied. Obviously that wasn’t true, so I decided to pursue my dream full force. Once I went cyber school nothing was stopping me. I spend everyday looking for the next opportunity. I have Miami and New York coming up! Also some amazing new photos and magazines.

What surprised you most when you entered the world of modeling?
I believe the people shocked me the most in the modeling world. All I ever knew were girls and boys who were not good people. I couldn’t believe there were actually good people out there. I found some of my closest friends in modeling. They made me realize what a real friend is. You get to choose who gets the privilege to know you. I’m proud to say I know that now.

What do you wish others knew about preparing for and being in front of the camera?
I wish people knew that the whole world kinda stops when you step in front of the camera. It’s just you and the camera. There is no need to worry about who is around you. When you are in your element nothing can mess it up. For preparation I really enjoy getting in the zone and thinking of what inspires me. When I get in front of the camera I know it’s go time.

What has been your favorite experience so far in modeling and why?
My favorite experience in modeling has definitely been helping a girl back stage before stepping on the runway. When I saw a fellow girl crying I was quick to tell her the second she was done with the runway she’d say “I wanna do it again” and how quick it went. That’s exactly what she said when she stepped foot off the runway. I love modeling with my whole heart, but apart of that is sharing it with other people.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found my photographer through family connections. My experience has been nothing short of amazing. It is so hard to find photographers that incorporate your opinion into it. My photographer lit my vision to life on multiple occasions. I could not choose what I love most with my experiences with my photographer. Every second is filled with inspiration and excitement. When a vision comes to life, the photo is worth everything.

Are you a part of a model team with your photographer, and if so, tell us about it.
I am not a part of a model team with my photographer, but I am always at the studio! I am always looking for new opportunities!

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My favorite memory with [my mom] is the look on her face while I was walking down the runway. The look on her face made me feel like I made it. We all need someone in our life that will be our biggest cheerleader in everything we do.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Something inspiring about me is my heart. I constantly give to others. I know what it is like to feel like you don’t belong, so I enjoy spending time helping others realize they are enough. I also love working with elders and making them feel loved. I will always be the helping hand we all need in life.

What else would you like to talk about?
I want to make the world a better place. I am willing to work to help others through hard times in a world full of bullies. It is so important to have role models and inspirational people in your life. Through the past six months of traveling for modeling I have met so many genuine people. We all need a reminder some times that there are good people out there. 

 Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine because I want to inspire others. I grew up reading magazines and studying the girls in it to find out how I could be like them. I’ve learned, however, that the people who inspire you are those who you relate to. The people you grow up knowing, in reality, inspire you in the things you do. I would be honored to inspire anyone.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I won a scholarship I would love to invest in my own company which represents powerful women and men. I would love to use those clothes on the runway and have teens with inspiring stories represent my brand. Every person you see has a story and everyone deserves to share theirs. A scholarship would not only be life changing for me, but also for those who want a platform to share their story.

Tell us more about your company.
The moment I went cyber I knew I wanted to help inspire others. I wanted a company named “averee” which means to prove. I wanted to prove to others that you don’t need other people’s validation to be what you want to be. I want Averee to be a reminder or what’s in-front of you in the mirror. Never lose yourself for anyone. How you look does not make you a “model.” YOU make you a model.

What is your ideal dream job if it were offered to you today?
My ideal Job would definitely be Milan Fashion Week. I have dreamed of being in Milan since I was a little girl. The day I step foot in Milan I know I made it. It would truly be an honor to represent someone in Milan.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
All of my thanks will go to my mom. I would not be where I am today without her. She inspires me every day to keep going. I continued fighting for her.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
It is truly a beautiful thing to be a nice person. Never forget that you will always be rewarded in some way for being a good person. Never let peer pressure influence the way you treat someone else. You never know what someone is going through.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Be confident in who you are and what you believe in. What’s meant for you won’t pass you by.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I have a weird talent with numbers. If you ask me a question with a number in it I will always guess the right number.

Look for Jamisyn in issue 91 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!