Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

click here for more information on the Inspire Team

Charlotte Stant - Role Model

11/30/2020

Charlotte Stant - NJ
Inspire Team
Role Model - Alexandria Ocasio Cortez

Every time I look down at my computer, I see my Green New Deal sticker, reminding me of the most dire issue facing our world today: global warming. As an aspiring female policy maker, I have always identified with strong female legislators, and in particular those who have prioritized environmental issues in their leadership. As the face of the Green New Deal, Alexandria Ocasio Cortez has had a significant impact on the lens through which I view these complex policy issues. I’ll never forget the first time I saw her speak during a congressional hearing on television: I was moved by her passion for solving the climate crisis.

Her commitment to environmental policy has inspired me to conduct independent research on the devastating impact of climate change. My research led me to join the Rumson Junior Green Team, run entirely by high school students, to educate the community about reducing carbon emissions. As a result of our lobbying, last month, our local borough enacted an anti-idling resolution which mandates the implementation of signage in the community.

In addition to AOC’s tireless dedication to environmental issues, she has made a commitment to learning multiple languages as a way to facilitate more efficient communication with her constituents, and to present more inclusive pieces of legislation. Knowing the impact of AOC’s work inspires me to continue my language studies as a way to be a more effective advocate for the underrepresented individuals in this country.

Izabella Valdez

11/23/2020

Izabella Valdez - Missouri
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nominated by Nicole Riek
Photography by Infinite Smiles Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Leadership comes natural to Izabella Valdez because when she sees others struggle, she is driven to take action. She wants to help others out any possible way that she can. She also believes that serving as a mentor or guide to others, who may not see their full potential, not only benefits the individual but also the community as a whole. Izabella demonstrates her leadership through kindness that can be seen in her interactions throughout her academics (NHS, A+, Dual Credit, AP & Honors courses), work environment (Sonic), athletics (Varsity Cheerleader, Varsity Softball & Varsity) Basketball) and within her peer group. She truly is a beauty soul both inside and out!

What sports do you play currently and how have they helped you through the pandemic?
The pandemic has altered many aspects of our school year. Thankfully, I was able to finish a season of Varsity Football Cheer and Varsity Softball to maintain a sense of normalcy during these uncertain times. As another season of sports begins, Varsity Basketball is helping me stay motivated and focused on my goals to finish my senior year strong and healthy both physically and mentally. Without sports, as coursework has been optional this year, I believe my drive may have become depleted. Athletics not only has helped me stay engaged in school but is a lifeboat for my mental health.

What motivates you to succeed?
My basketball coach, Mrs. Stambursky, taught me a very important lesson about teamwork. Everytime we went to the baseline she would say, “Look to your right. Look to your left. You will make it in time for her, for your teammates.” Each time we would line up I would turn to my teammates and say “I’m doing this for you.” I didn’t just make it to the line for myself, I made it for them. Your mistakes were everyone’s mistakes. It became bigger than yourself as you propelled your teammates to push boundaries with you. My teammates were the driving factor of my motivation and success.

What is an example of how your actions have affected others?
I was granted the opportunity to tutor a kindergarten class at Ridgeview and have continued to help my assigned class beyond my tutoring. I created numerous connections that I am extremely grateful for. Due to these connections, the para-teacher opened up about her experiences within her position and my supervising teacher invited me into her home to babysit. Beyond my connections with the staff, my most valued interaction was the one I made with my kindergarteners, as I was part of their growth academically and it truly made my experience a cherishable one.

What are your beliefs towards inclusion and love? How can positivity alter your state of mind?
I live by the simple saying of ”If you don't have anything nice to say don’t say anything at all.” Every word, every action has a positive or negative cause and effect. Individual’s energy spreads like rapid fire and feeds off each other. It is harder to bring people up once they have been knocked down through negativity. I strive to be the positive reinforcement that attracts others. I choose to focus on altering environments through my positive interactions and intentions. Positivity can be the one small shift needed to stop an endless cycle of toxicity.

What are your struggles and challenges and how did you overcome them/are overcoming them?
I broke my ankle in April of my Freshman year and had to sit out of many opportunities with sports. I experienced depression as I envied others' ability to workout and condition. The constant feeling of not meeting expectations tore me apart. It wasn’t until I stopped throwing a pity party for myself and persevered through the pain, that I saw a dramatic difference. I never missed a day of therapy and pushed through hours of extensive at-home exercises. This determination enabled me to walk before I was intended to and ultimately paved the way towards my comeback in athletics.

What are your aspirations and future goals?
I am extremely curious about the inner workings of the human brain and therefore my aspirations are to be a neuroscientist. To alter someone's life for the better in all aspects is what motivates me to pursue my professional dreams in this area.
A personal goal of mine is to be a positive influencer towards helping others become present in all that life has to offer. Being mindful not only ensures that a single second is not missed but creates appreciation so that nothing is taken for granted as we are only granted one life to live.

Look for Izabella in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Caleb Slavens

11/23/2020

Caleb Slavens – Kentucky
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Chad Slavens
Photography by Kaymag Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Caleb Slavens has taken Martial Arts since the age of 6. Received a Blackbelt at the age of 13, while maintaining a perfect GPA, and being the top of his graduating class. The past 4 years he has spent his time sharing what he has learned through teaching youth classes in martial arts. He was selected and attended the 2020 Kentucky Governor Scholar Program.

Tell us about your martial arts career. When and why did you get started and where are you now with it?
I began martial arts 11 years ago. It has been my entire life, it is the reason I am who I am. I have taken this more seriously than anything else. When I was eight years old I began competing and have continued to do it throughout my career. However, I wouldn’t be here without my family. They are the reason I began, I remember seeing my cousin at a demonstration at a local event and I felt like I was in a trance and since then I have been in love with martial arts. Today I still have the same love as I did when I was a child. I still attend tournaments and push myself to do better every competition.

What is a favorite memory from martial arts?
Ever since I began martial arts there have been many incredible experiences, but I believe that achieving my black belt was my greatest accomplishment. Receiving my belt gave the greatest feeling and made me feel like I was on top of the world. It showed me that everything that I had been doing had paid off.

When & why did you start teaching and what do you hope to most instill upon your students?
I began teaching as soon as I got my black belt in 2016. I initially began teaching after I got my black belt, this was because I wanted to pass my knowledge onto other students. As I continue to teach, I hope to not only pass on the art itself but the values that come with it. I want to teach my students about respect and discipline.

Tell us more about your love of music. Where do you play and what does it mean to you?
My love for saxophone and music comes from my dad. He played saxophone in high school and I followed him, joining the band in my sixth-grade year. I continued to be in the band up until my junior year. I had to choose between my love for music and the possibility of getting ahead in college classes, and I chose the college classes. However, I still play saxophone in my free time and I still enjoy it. Music allows me to express myself by playing whatever type of song I want. I can show my emotion not through my words, but through the sounds that come out of my instrument.

What does it mean to be in the Kentucky Governor Scholar Program? How were you picked for this, what does it entail on your end and what are your goals with it?
Being a governor scholar means that you have proved yourself that you can multitask and adjust to a crazy schedule. It shows that you can successfully prosper in school and juggle many activities in your day to day life. The application process is intense and competitive, you must do essays and short responses of each activity, service, and awards. Then after becoming you attend a week at a college campus where you can learn about college life and how these schools work. Governor scholars should keep their values in check and live your life to the best of your ability.

Look for Caleb in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Claudia Harry

11/21/2020

Claudia Harry – Florida
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Todd Harry
Photography by Gissela Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Claudia Harry is a smart, sweet, and kind young woman. A strong Christian that is always trying to help those around her. She has a beautiful heart and a strong will. She thrives at school and cheerleading. She works hard on all her goals. She loves to travel and spend time with her friends.

Photography by Gissela Photography

Tell us about your cheerleading career. When did you start, what is your team like, and what do you love most about it?
My career started in 6th grade when I joined an all star team. My freshman year I made the JV team at Fleming and our team was 6th in the nation. I am in my 2nd year. This year’s team is a good group who all have a special place in their heart for cheer and I’m lucky to have them. I love everything about cheer, but with Fleming we are not only a team, but a family. I’ve grown as a person and cheerleader in only two years. Fleming Island Cheer will always have a place in my heart.

What is a favorite memory from cheer?
My favorite memory from cheer would have to be my first pep rally as a cheerleader. All schools have pep rallies and most students get to enjoy them from the stands but I had the opportunity to enjoy it from the mat supporting my school. I loved being involved in the activities and chants we led the students through, and being able to perform for my school.

Photography by Gissela Photography

Why is your faith so important to you and how has it helped you stay strong in hardships?
My faith is important to me because being a Christian is more than knowing the bible and going to heaven. Being a Christian gives me a relationship with God, who sent his son to die for us and now we can be free in Him who gives strength and hope. I think one of the most important things when going through life with my faith is that I know I find my identity in Christ, not others opinions or the mistakes I make. Staying in prayer, reading his word, and knowing everything happens because of God’s plan keeps me going in life.

What do you think is the biggest struggle for you and your friends right now and how are you helping everyone overcome it?
I think some of the biggest struggles for my friends and I right now are things like stress from school, family problems, and relationships. I’m trying to help people overcome these struggles by being someone that they can always go to and trust with anything. I think gaining people’s trust as well as letting them know they’re not alone is important. I try to remember that God is in control but that we also don’t need to carry our burdens alone. We have not only Him to lean on, but our friends too. Staying positive and communicating with each other helps.

Photography by Gissela Photography

We know it's been tough to travel this year, but where is your favorite place you've traveled to so far and where do you want to travel to next? Tell us a little about each.
My favorite place I’ve traveled was our trip to Europe. We got to go to four countries and see so many different cultures and beautiful views. We visited London, Paris, Greece, and Italy. It was like a dream, all the places were breathtaking. During this trip I learned so much and had fun with my family. The next place I want to travel to is Hawaii. Even though I did love Europe I am a big beach and summer person and Hawaii is such a beautiful tropical place so I would love to go there.

Photography by Gissela Photography

Three things on my bucket list are to travel to Hawaii, get into a good college, and win a national championship with my cheer team.

Someone I find inspiring would have to be my older sister Sofia. I am so lucky to have my sister in my life and I’m beyond grateful for our relationship. My sister is such a beautiful girl inside and out. We have been through so much in our lives with family issues, having our parents divorced at such a young age and all the obstacles we’ve had to go through has been hard but she is definitely someone who keeps us going and keeps both of us strong. I love how she is such a good friend and always loves to have fun. My sister has accomplished so much in her life and I have always looked up to her. She is in her first year of college right now working to be a nurse practitioner. She is a God loving and hard working person who inspires me everyday.

Look for Claudia in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Angela Cox

11/21/2020

Angela Cox – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Karen Cox
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Angela on Project Beauty: Project Beauty really made me realize that being beautiful doesn’t mean you have no acne, the coolest clothes, and perfect teeth. Being beautiful can mean anything to you. And you only. Being beautiful doesn’t matter what others think, it is what you think when you think of yourself. Project Beauty helped me find my inner beauty and express what I had to offer on the inside and outside. Social media has really destroyed girl’s confidence because they believe they have to be perfect, but in reality, those people aren’t so perfect behind the scenes. Project beauty helped me find a better me!

Photography by Erica Land Photograph

Tell us about your dance career. When did you start, what is your favorite type of dance to perform, and what do you love most about it?
I started dancing 5 years ago and I have been inseparable from it since then. I look forward to it everyday and I have no clue what I would do if someone told me I couldn’t dance anymore. I used to absolutely love hip-hop, but 2 years ago I started heels dancing and it is my favorite thing ever. Heels and ballroom bring a sense of maturity into my dancing and I feel that it totally helped me with my overall technique and I am so glad I found it. The thing I love most about dance is that I can express myself through it and just feel the movements.

What is one of your favorite memories from dance?
My favorite memories from dance would have to be when I got my “little sister” this past year. All the older girls would get one of the little girls as their sister and at competitions we would give each other gifts and help them with their hair and makeup! Another one of my favorite memories is getting a tap scholarship for my first convention. This was my first time trying to tap so I didn’t have the shoes but I asked the teacher after if it was something I should try and just asked her things about it, since I was new to dancing. She saw passion in me and gave me the chance to try a new style! I went home and bought tap shoes and went to my first tap class, immediately loving it!

How are you planning for college and why do you feel like it's so important to start early?
I am planning for college in my education by joining my school’s psychology club, as the class is available for tenth graders. I want to work for the FBI in the BAU and learning how the mind works is the first step to getting there! I am also planning for college in my dancing by going to conventions that are college programs. What that means is that colleges get to see the dancers at the convention, sadly online this year, and give out scholarships to older students. I think it is most important to prepare for college early because it makes everything easier in the long run.

Please share with us your experience of participating in Project Beauty and what it means to you.
Project Beauty was an eye-opening experience for me. It showed me that you don’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. Everyone is beautiful in their own way. Social media really takes away girls self-confidence and destroys it with these girls with perfect lives, faces, and bodies, when the reality is that off screen their lives aren’t so perfect. Project Beauty was a wonderful thing that I think every girl out there should get to see, which is why I am so excited for this feature to be in this magazine!

How did you find out about Erica Land's teen program and what about it made you want to join? What do you love best about it?
I found out about Erica’s modeling team through my dance coach. Joining the team would give me the chance to meet new girls who love to model and boost each other's self-confidence. I met my best friend, Kendall through it. It also gives me wonderful opportunities, like Project Beauty.

…

Advice I would give is to always work hard. Working hard has gotten me to where I am today. Setting goals is also extremely important. Something I like to say is I’m not where I want to be but thank god I’m not where I used to be. I think that this really shows the definition of working hard. I also think it is important to give yourself credit for everything you have done and look back on your progress because it really helps!

The first would be to make it on my high school poms team if we go back to school. The second would be to be in a music video. My last one would be to have kids because I’ve always wanted to be a mom.

The person I find the most inspiring is my mom. She works so hard at her job to provide for us and still comes home to plan these amazing dinners, activities, and unforgettable memories for me and my brothers! She is also always there when I need her and I can count on her for everything, which is why she is my best friend.

The thing that has helped me the most with keeping myself organized is definitely having a planner where I can write everything I need to do for that day and the assignments I need to complete. It helps me focus on what I have to do that day and what I have planned.

I just wanted to thank everyone for this wonderful opportunity! It is something I will never forget!

Look for Angela in Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Emma Moore

11/20/2020

Emma Moore - Texas
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by
Angie Read Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Emma Moore is an inspiring young woman, a positive example for both teens and young adults, who are challenged with the demands of our world today.
In today's world, teens are held to high expectations and have heavy demands placed on them, like performing well in school, navigating social media, and finding their tribe. In our fast-paced world, some teens can struggle with all of these demands.
Emma inspires others with her actions and attitude, showing how to balance all these demands, all while achieving academic excellence, helping to support the surrounding community through volunteerism, and maintaining her Christian faith. And she does it all with style and grace.

Photography by Angie Read Photography

What are your favorite volunteer activities and why?
My favorite volunteer activities are NAM Meals on Wheels and playing bingo with the residents at Paradise Springs Assisted Living Center. For NAM Meals on Wheels, we deliver meals to people who are homebound or who are not able to afford groceries or meals. One of my favorite experiences of doing Meals on Wheels was when we delivered meals to a lady who told us that her family was out of town. She was so glad that we had stopped by because she was super lonely and wasn’t able to get her own groceries. It made me so happy to see her smile, because I knew that I had made her day better and in turn, she made my day a lot better. It’s always the little things that can impact someone the most! I also love playing bingo with the residents at Paradise Springs because it is so fun getting to interact with all the residents. They really get into the bingo game and it’s just really great to be able to put a smile on their faces.

What do you love about volunteering?
What I love most about volunteering is being able to make someone’s day better and making an impact in my community. As teenagers, I think that we can sometimes get stuck in a loop of only caring about ourselves and volunteering has helped me to see from other people’s points of views. Because of my work as a volunteer, I have been able to learn humility and can see what other people deal with every day. The greatest part, though, is that volunteering is rewarding on both sides; by volunteering I am able to improve someone else’s day and their happiness in turn makes me happy and feel warm inside.

Photography by Angie Read Photography

Why should others get involved in volunteering?
Everyone should experience volunteering at some point in their life because it can make you a better person and help you to see how even small acts of kindness can make a huge impact on the world. I think that especially in our world today with social media, we have become very shallow and tend to only care about ourselves and don’t understand how our actions impact others. Acts of service help us to see what others who are less fortunate than ourselves go through and open our hearts to humility and compassion toward complete strangers.

What is your biggest struggle this year and how are you overcoming it, or how did you overcome it?
In March when the pandemic started, what we considered “normal” completely changed in the blink of an eye. I think just adjusting to the idea of this “new world” that we are living in has been the hardest part for me. Social interaction has completely changed, and everything is so different than what we’ve been used to. It has been hard to adjust to all the changes but talking to my friends and family has really helped me to feel some type of normalcy. Just having friends and family be there for me has helped me a lot during these changing times and I am super thankful for them.

Photography by Angie Read Photography

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I see myself in medical school. I plan on going to medical school to become a neurologist because I want to help people with mental illnesses. My grandpa, who I was really close to, recently passed away. He had Alzheimer’s which is a horrible mental disease that affects many people around the world. There is not a lot known about the cause of it or how to treat it. Because of the experience that my family and I had with my grandpa, I know how much it can impact people’s lives and how devastating it can be for the entire family. I want to help other families so that they might not have to go through what my family went through.

3 Things on your bucket list:
3 things on my bucket list are travelling the world, visiting New York City during Christmas time, and meeting Harry Styles.

Look for Emma in Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Kymberlee Scott

11/20/2020

Kymberlee Scott – North Carolina
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by
Steve Jordan Sports Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Kymberlee Scott is an outgoing, fun living teen with one of the most bubbling personalities I even photographed and has a smile to match.

Photography by Steve Jordan Sports Photography

What do you feel are the positive and negative effects of social media in a teen's life?
On the positive side of effects of social media, I think social media can help teens- explore their individualism and creativity, develop social and communication skills, and can give others inspiration. The negative effects of social media can sometimes out way the positive, one way being the high standards on how you look, teens have unrealistic ideals of how they think they need to look because of the “standards” set by famous social media influencers, which can lead to low self-esteem and low self-confidence.

How can teens use social media in more of a positive light?
Just by using social media to build up others and friends can help have a positive impact. People should support each other and treat each other with respect; this should also be true online. Build one another up, don't tear each other down.

Photography by Steve Jordan Sports Photography

What are some practices you use to be more confident? Can you give us an example?
Confidence is ultimately about being comfortable in a wide variety of situations that would make most people feel uncomfortable. For me I tend to try and stretch of my comfort zone little by little. It doesn’t have to be anything big, it could be anything like trying out a new style or look or approaching a new person from school and talking to them.

How should one avoid the pitfalls that one can fall into when on social media?
Social media should feel like a fun experience, not one that contributes to negative thoughts and feelings. If the latter is the case then I think increasing face-to-face time with trusted friends that are good influences, and minimizing time scrolling online can actually help avoid the pitfalls of social media.

Photography by Steve Jordan Sports Photography

What would you say is the biggest challenge for teens your age and how can they overcome it?
I would say peer pressure is the biggest challenge, since teens our age are starting to become more independent, our peers naturally play a greater role in our life. Since we have school and other activities, we spend more of our time with peers than we do with your parents and siblings. And more often than not we become close friends with some of our peers and we tend to become influenced by those peers because we want to fit in, do what others are doing, or have what others have. More often than not peer pressure can lead us into difficult situations where you don’t know what to do.
My advice for overcoming peer pressure is to listen to your gut. If you feel uncomfortable, even if your friends seem to be ok with what's going on, it means that something about the situation is wrong for you. This kind of decision-making is part of becoming self-reliant and learning more about who you are.

Look for Kymberlee in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Jiya Arora

11/20/2020

Jiya Arora – Maryland
Nomination by Jiya Laxmi Arora
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jiya Arora is an inspiring young woman. She excels scholastically and is a leader at school and in her community. Jiya is an accomplished dancer and has performed competitively in a variety of dance styles including hip hop, Indian classical, and Bollywood. Having danced since the age of 4, Jiya now teaches young dancers to become exceptional artists and confident young women. She also volunteers to tutor children in the early years, giving them gentle nudges to enjoy the learning process. Jiya always makes an effort to share her time, her kindness, and her positive energy with everyone around her.
...

I’m a busy girl, but in the best way. I have to keep a daily schedule because I have many activities to balance, and I love participating in every one of them. I'm a member of 9 clubs, I lead 2 other clubs, I’m a dance teacher, and I am dually enrolled in college and high school. Learning to manage my work has turned me into a Superwoman- there is nothing I cannot accomplish- as long as I have time for it!

I love sharing my passions. If I had to present a topic to a group of peers, I would choose the cultures of the world. I love traveling, but with COVID-19, I haven't been able to go anywhere, so I've started creating the experiences at home by studying the culture and watching documentaries about places around the world. It's been fun! I would recommend it.

Lessons as a Leader: Being a Dance Teacher

Through working with my students in dance class, they showed me that the only thing more important than accomplishing a goal is working with your team. When I started involving students in choreography, the routines we created were more beautiful and creative than my pieces because everybody contributed ideas.

The thing I love most about teaching dance is seeing students come back each season with better skills and character. The pride that my students award me with is a truly blissful feeling.

I think the thing that makes me different from other instructors is that I plan a technical goal (turns, facial expressions, etc.) and a personal growth goal (confidence, managing hard feelings, etc.) for every routine our class creates.

My Dance Career

I have been dancing since I was four, starting with Kathak- a classical Indian style of dance. I picked up Bollywood a few years later (and now I teach it!) and currently study both styles. Now, I am preparing for my first solo Kathak performance.

I have also been on a Hip-Hop competition team and a Fusion crew that performed at the United World Games in Austria.

The thing I love most about dance is the creative liberty to express myself through music and movement; it is truly liberating.

Project Beauty

Every time an impressionable girl checks social media, she is bombarded with images of society’s beauty standards. If she doesn’t fit those standards, she may question her own beauty. Once upon a time, I was that girl. It was easy for me to point out my insecurities, yet impossible for me to point out my assets because I didn’t look like the girls on social media. It took me years to learn that my natural self, not distorted by anyone else’s ideal image, is my most beautiful self.

When I heard about Project Beauty, I knew I had to participate so that I could help other girls learn what took me years to figure out. The message that Project Beauty conveys is so important in the digital age: embrace your natural beauty, and don’t let anyone else convince you that you are not beautiful. Growing teens are easily influenced by media, so it is important that we provide them with media that cultivates confidence, not comparisons.

My Favorite World Culture Documentaries

Baraka (1992) is a documentary with no dialogue- just footage of the cultural happenings of 24 countries. Experiencing this wordless culture felt meditative; peaceful, yet expanding my understanding of the world.

God Grew Tired of Us (2006) is another good one, following the surviving “Lost Boys of Sudan” as they adapt to life in the United States. The questions that the boys asked upon arriving in America intrigued me- their curiosities ranged from running water to monogamy. Sometimes it’s easy to forget how differently people live around the world, but I think it is important that we acknowledge and appreciate that.

Look for Jiya in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for information on issue 40

Madden Diamond

11/20/2020

Madden Diamond - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Caroline Diamond
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: My daughter is not a cheerleader; she doesn’t play soccer and you won’t find her on a field carrying a lacrosse stick. She is as tough as any of those players and then some. She has had speech difficulties her throughout her life. She began high school last year and if high school isn’t hard enough, she developed a stutter her 9th grade year. She attended a high school where she was bullied constantly and got up every morning and never complained. She got the best grades of her life. Even through all these hardships she is kind and prides herself on treating people the way you would like to be treated. My daughter has taught me not to allow those who are cruel and mean, to make you hard and mean yourself. Madden inspires me every day not to give up, not to allow a society who is judgmental to affect your path. I couldn't be prouder of the young lady Madden has become.

Image by Madden Diamond

If you get the opportunity to be interviewed, what would you most like to be interviewed about?
I would like to be interviewed about how important it is not worry so much about what others think. To follow your gut and believe in yourself.

Why do you feel like it's important to care more about what you think than about what others think?
It is important to love yourself flaws and all. Others don’t always have my best interest at heart. I feel this is the only way to truly be confident.
If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
It would be not to judge a book by its cover. I have/had a stutter and it’s important not judge others by their differences. I wish others would look at a difference as interesting and not just different.

Image by Madden Diamond

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am not sure when I decided to make some changes, but I have made it a point to try new things. Since making this decision I have participated in farming and Marley games at the high school I attended last year. This year I made photographer on my school newspaper. I am also now part of project beauty and am a Model Ambassador for Erica Land a photographer. All of these activities I would have been scared to try in the past. I am so proud that I have not allowed my fears to stop me.

How have you participated in farming and what do you like most about it? At my high school last year we planted crops and picked peppers. My group was outdoors working in the fields from 4:00-6:00 three days a week. I had never done anything like this before and enjoyed going out of my comfort zone.

Congratulations on making photographer for your school newspaper! What is one thing you've learned so far? Since Covid I am virtual so taking pictures for the paper have been put on hold a bit. I switched high schools this year and was thrilled to have been included in the paper. I am excited to get back to school and start shooting.

Look for Madden in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Amya McClora

11/20/2020

Amya McClora – Tennessee
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by
Kelly Rae Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Amya is so inspiring to me because as I have gotten to know her on my modeling team, she is the absolute sweetest and always encouraging others!!

Photography by Kelly Rae Photography

What are you doing with your life now?
Currently in the mist of Covid-19 like many others I’m just trying to keep a positive mind. I’ve been focusing on school which has been a very different obstacle this year because it is online. I’ve been working on my modeling career, by looking for new opportunities. Also I’ve been doing my most favorite thing and that is spending more time with my family, even with all of this going on we still find a way to have a great time.

We love how you see the good in a situation. What good have you seen in 2020 and what ways can others see the hood in their own personal 2020s?
It may be a little hard for some to look and find the good in 2020 but if you just stop for a second I’m sure you can find some. A few positive things that have happened to me in 2020 are I spent more time with my family, I’ve been working on my modeling career and I’ve met new people as well as learn new things. If you want to look at the good that has happened to you look at the positive things you did, the hobbies that you have picked up, just anything good that might have not happen if it weren’t for 2020.

Photography by Kelly Rae Photography

What suggestions would you give to your peers to feel more confident in times when they aren’t feeling that all the way?
Self-confidence is a big thing all over the world, and to me I think it’s something everyone should have. A few ways on how to do this is being happy with yourself and who you are. If you were happy with yourself that is the ultimate factor, and no one can take that away from you. Don’t listen to others opinions because in this case yours is the only one that matters. One more suggestion for people to feel more confident is to go look in the mirror every day and just speak positivity into it.

What do you think is the biggest struggle for teens your age, and what suggestions would you give to help them overcome the obstacle?
I think the biggest problem for teens my age is self-acceptance. I feel as if you shouldn’t have to change yourself for anyone. To overcome this obstacle, I would say don’t be a follower and think for yourself. Surround yourself with authentic people who love you for you and most importantly love who you are.

Photography by Kelly Rae Photography

What do you love about Kelly Rae’s modeling team and why would you encourage others to apply?
There are so many things I love about Kelly Rae‘s modeling team. One of those things are how loving the whole team is. Everyone is so sweet and uplifting. All the photoshoots are so fun we always leave laughing and planning our next event. I would encourage any teen to apply for Kelly Rae‘s modeling team because you will meet new friends, visit many places, get so many new opportunities and have many amazing pictures and memories to last you a lifetime.

What are your goals and what do you plan on doing in the future?
I have many goals in life some of my big ones are to travel the world with my family. I want to go everywhere, see new things, new culture and learn. I would also love to have multiple careers one would be my own business. I’m not sure exactly what kind of business, but it is a goal in progress. Also I would like to go to school to be a dentist or a pediatric ER nurse while still doing some type of modeling on the side.

Look for Amya in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Aurora Fares

11/19/2020

Aurora Fares – Ohio
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Maria Elena Fares
Photography by Jennifer Grace Studios
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The nomination: Aurora is an inspiring teen because she is involved in community service while remaining a scholar and athlete.
She volunteers for her local Food Bank, YMCA and community theater.
She was inducted into the NHS, is an AP Scholar, has advanced to the State Science Day for seven consecutive years, serves on the Ohio Attorney General’s Teen Ambassador Board, has her Art work displayed at the Ohio House of Representatives and maintains a 4.282 GPA.
She is a Varsity Cross Country and Track athlete. She has earned several medals and has individually qualified for OHSSA District and Regional races.

Photography by Jennifer Grace Studios

Renaissance Woman (I am well versed in several of the above listed categories, including; artist, athlete, leader, performer, scholar, health, food, team, volunteer, and role model)

Please share with us your passion for running. When, where and how did it start and what about it has increased your passion over time?
I first started running Freshman year when I joined my school’s Cross-Country team. I joined a sport so I could meet new people to help me assimilate to the new high school environment. I specifically chose Cross Country because I was inspired by my dad who was once an avid runner, and my becoming a runner inspired him to start running again after a 10 year hiatus.
My passion for running grew every time I felt excitement after racing well or setting a new personal running record (PR) and seeing all my hard work and training yield positive results.

Tell us about your award and what it means to you.
I received the Most Improved Runner Award Sophomore and Junior years, and, as a Senior, I also recently received the Most Valuable Runner Award. The Most Improved Runner Award is presented to the runner whose race times have improved the most from the previous year. My Freshman 5 kilometer PR was 26 minutes and 38 seconds; after setting a new PR every year of high school, I finished Senior season with a PR of 20 minutes and 24 seconds, more than 6 minutes faster! The Most Valuable Runner Award is presented to the runner who has made the most long term progress throughout high school and whose progress serves as an inspiration to underclassmen and middle school runners.
I’m extremely honored and humbled to receive these awards because the only way I could have progressed so much is due to the continuous support and encouragement from parents, coaches, and teammates.

Photography by Jennifer Grace Studios

How do you motivate underclassmen and what tips and strategies do you share?
I motivate underclassmen by waiting for them during our runs at practice to make sure no one gets left behind. Also, when watching them race (before or after my own race), I encourage and cheer loudly for every runner on our team. I tell my teammates to catch the runners in front of them, keep their heads up, and work together to pace surrounding teammates.
Other tips and strategies I share are to run consistently (every day except one off day a week), incorporate lifting and bodyweight exercises into a routine, stretch frequently, eat clean and unprocessed foods, and drink plenty of water.

Photography by Jennifer Grace Studios

We love that you volunteer as well. Tell us where you volunteer and your favorite experience.
Thank you! I volunteer at my local Food Bank, my local YMCA, Miss Dana’s Diamonds Cheer and Tumbling (assisting special needs cheerleaders and preschool to middle school aged cheerleaders), and Crown Community Theater, as well as several one day events such as helping at 5K run fundraisers. My favorite volunteering experience is organizing boxes of food at Second Harvest Food Bank for senior citizens in need. Nutrition is very important to me because of my extremely active lifestyle, so helping to provide nutrition to others is personally rewarding to me.

Photography by Jennifer Grace Studios

You have a lot of leadership experience as well. What have been your favorite and how have they been so important to you?
My favorite leadership experience is volunteering for my local YMCA’s Summer Camp. I believe instructing and directing the children was such a valuable experience because it taught me how rewarding it is to encourage children to engage in teamwork. Teamwork is a skill that I learned the importance of during my many years of running with the Cross-Country team. The children were excited to work together and all quickly became friends when I joined them in soccer games and crafts.

Look for Aurora in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Eva Castera-Martínez

11/18/2020

Eva Castera-Martínez – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Leilani Martínez
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Eva Castera-Martínez is a smart, kind, mature and clever girl. For Eva, inner beauty is about embracing who you are, and feeling proud about all those things that make us all unique and different. Eva feels very proud about her Puerto Rican heritage and background and likes to share her culture with all those around her. Being true to ourselves and not pretending to be who we are not is what makes us all beautiful inside and out.

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
I would like to be interviewed on inner and outer beauty and how social media ruins teens mental health.

How do you feel about inner and outer beauty, and why do you feel it's important for people to understand the difference within themselves?
I feel it’s important because you should know that you are different and you should be able to embrace it and not hide it. If you do so, you might be inspiring someone else to also embrace what’s unique about him or herself.

How do you feel social media ruins teen's mental health?
I think social media ruins teen’s mental health because on social media you see all these people who you might think are “prettier” than you and you need to look exactly like them. This can make you think that you are ugly or not enough when you are perfect and enough just the way you are.

Why did you join Erica Land's model team and what do you love most about it?
I joined her modeling team because I’ve seen all her work and how she makes every girl feel special and unique and the thing I love the most is that she embraces every person no matter how they look like.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
That I’m a brown girl and that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.

What should people know about you that they might not see if they just look at you?
One thing I want people to know about me that they won’t see is that I’m more of an introvert but I like meeting new people! And for other introverts to feel comfortable with how they are. Nothing is wrong with you!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I see myself living in New York attending NYU and pursuing dance.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I like to go to amusement parks and go on thrilling rides.

3 things on your bucket list
Live in New York city
Learn sign language
See many, many Broadway shows

Who do you find inspiring?
I find Misty Copeland inspiring because she is a dancer of color and she started to dance at an older age. She shows me that I can do anything I want if I you put my mind to it.

Look for Eva in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Rachel Koehler

11/18/2020

Rachel Koehler - Virginia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Deb Noblin
Photography by
Digital Memories by Debbie Koehler
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: My great niece, Rachel Koehler, is an amazing young lady. Some of her many achievements include: Straight A student, Choir, Swim Team, Track Team, School Yearbook Photographer Manager, Church Youth Group participating in local mission work, OCR GIRLS Worldwide Racing Team Member, Qualifier for Spartan Race World Championships.
Rachel’s compassionate heart is her greatest accomplishment. Her visually impaired brother wanted to participate in Spartan Races. Rachel ran her races and ran in her brother’s races ensuring his safety.
Rachel’s kind heart, willingness to help, eagerness to learn, and love for family, friends, and God make her a very special lady.

Photography by Digital Memories by Debbie Koehler

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
I would love to be interviewed about my Spartan adventures! Not many people know about Spartan racing and it would be cool to share some inspiring stories about my brother and me to maybe encourage more people to try it!

Please tell us about your Spartan adventures! We'd love to hear all about it!
Spartan Racing falls under the category of OCR (Obstacle Course Racing). It is a trail run with obstacles for an extra challenge added in! My family and I learned of Spartan through a TV commercial and we have been racing them ever since. I qualified and raced in the Spartan Kids World Championships and placed top 20 even after suffering from a back injury the night before! Through Spartan, I have made so many friends and I have gained a second family! The community is so uplifting and has changed my life forever!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have a great love for Jesus and my goal for life is to tell as many people as possible about His grace and love for us.

Tell us about your great love for Jesus and how you spread His grace and love. What do you love best about your Church Youth Group?
Ever since I was little my parents have taken me to church! I always loved the worship music and getting to see my friends, but I never really understood God’s grace until I moved up to the youth group in 6th grade. My pastors, Kevin Dunn and Nathaniel Gray really have a way of preaching to your heart. I had the opportunity to speak at my middle school’s FCA and I was struggling on finding a topic I felt comfortable preaching on. The night before I was to speak, I read Psalms 139:14 and I had this great idea about how we are each fearfully and wonderfully made, how we each share different character traits of God’s, and how we are a family not enemies through Christ. I had Youth Group the night before I was to speak, and I was sitting in the back row listening to Kevin Dunn preach and he happened to preach on the same topic and he even used some of the same verses I had picked out. It was at that moment that I truly knew God is real and he is going to change my life for the better. It was at that moment that I knew I was All In.

Photography by Digital Memories by Debbie Koehler

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
I would love to talk to people about how life is a rollercoaster. To get to the top you have to start at the bottom. I would love to try and get others to see the best in things even when they may be at their lowest point. I would love to encourage them that things can get better if you are willing to try and make them better!

What is one of your favorite memories from one of the school activities your Great Aunt listed (choir, sports, academics)
Attending a Public School is never easy for anyone and I had some rough moments, but there were a few teachers that helped me through everything! My chorus teacher, Ms. Beaty brought joy for singing into my life that I didn’t know I had. Ms. Beaty gave me my first solo and right before I was to start singing during our concert, I looked over at her and she just gave me the biggest smile and I knew that if she believed in me that much, I was going to be fine. Playing sports for my school was another huge thing that helped me through my days. I would push myself to train and workout not just because I wanted to be good, but because it was an opportunity for me to focus on something other than my troubles!

Photography by Digital Memories by Debbie Koehler

We would love for you to tell us more about being the school yearbook photographer manager.
When I applied to be in Yearbook, I knew I had to follow in my Mom’s footsteps, so I applied to become a photography manager. I oversaw photos that other people wanted to submit for the yearbook, and I taught people how to use a camera! It was so much fun and one of my favorite experiences!

3 Things on your bucket list
I would love to run a 5k in every state, complete the Dopey Challenge at Disney, and try at least 10 different kinds of gelato in Italy!

Who do you find inspiring?
There are so many people I find inspiring! Some of my top choices would be Zendaya, The LaBrant Fam, Lucy Hale, Sadie Robertson and her wonderful family, Heather Gollnick, and Nicole Mericle.

Look for Rachel in Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Gabrielle Stephenson

11/18/2020

Gabrielle Stephenson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Emily Stephenson
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

I am Gabi. I feel that inner beauty is more important than outer beauty. There are many factors to a person that create inner beauty. Here are some of the things that make me beautiful: kindness, respect, modesty, purity, generosity, humility, honesty, and commitment. I do enjoy makeup and hair, but it’s not as important as feeling beautiful within. Some people feel outer beauty is more important but that is not accurate. I feel the type of friend I am, and the type of daughter I am, matters more.

I started ballet as a little girl, maybe 4 years old. Then I realized ballet was not for me and I was more of a hip hop/jazz kind of girl. I then joined another dance company, and I did a recital with them which really got me more excited about dance. About 3 years ago, I joined my current dance company, Next Level Studio, and I have been on their competition team ever since, doing jazz, poms, and hip hop!

I started modeling as a Teen Ambassador for Erica Land this past Summer. I did an individual shoot which was fun. It was the first time I really had professional photos taken. Erica makes the experience ten times better! I have made a bunch of new friends on the team too! Some of my favorite photo shoots were Project Beauty, the sunflower field shoot, and the paint shoot where we threw paint at each other and took pictures!

I have loved cooking for years! I first got started when my grandma used to make chicken soup with me. I often make dinner for my family, such as lamb stew, chicken, beef and shrimp kebabs, and tostadas (influenced by my Mexican au pairs!) I would tell others who want to try cooking, to be open to trying different types of foods! Go out of your comfort zone and put a lot of seasoning on your food!

A friend is someone that supports you and loves you no matter what, and isn't in the relationship just to compete with you. In the past, I have seen kids brag about themselves, and be rude to people that are supposedly their friends. That is not the point of a friend. We should be loved for who we are. Also, never change just because someone else thinks you should!

My bucket list: I want to travel to Italy and Africa, and I want to travel with my friends when I am old enough! I like to go to pretty places, experience their culture and eat their foods!

In 5 years, I see myself heading to college! I would like to go to school in California, because I like warm weather and the beach! I also see myself modeling and exploring a career in interior decorating. I like the artistic aspect of interior decorating. I often help my parents furnish and decorate our home!

Look for Gabrielle in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Aleyah Mattern

11/17/2020

Aleyah Mattern - Florida
Nomination by Fremon Williams
Photography by Jhowdy Photography LLC
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: I have known Aleyah Mattern from a Youth Pastor’s perspective. She is active and consistent in everything that our youth ministry does.
She has a tireless work ethic, and her loving, positive attitude is infectious to anyone she with. She has shown herself to be honorable, humble, steadfast, and obedient to all that she has set forth to accomplish.
I am excited to see what God will do through Aleyah’s life. I can earnestly say that she is mature and intelligent beyond her years and is prepared for what the future holds. I can confidently nominate Aleyah without any reservation.

Photography by Jhowdy Photography LLC

My adoption process was great, I had a beautiful family in America overjoyed to meet their new baby girl (me). I was 8 months old when I came home from Guatemala, I was adopted, and I had a caring family to come home to. I am thankful that my birthmother chose life for me.

God has helped me to never give up, to always hope. Life will try to throw you down, without God it is hard to keep going, but with God by my side I can keep going. You got to fight for what you want, work hard and most of all trust God during the process! Having a relationship with God, living to please Him and not people makes everything better.

I see myself opening up my own beauty salon in the city. I will work hard and achieve my goals by having many clients and be successful in my work after cosmetology school. A good work ethic is important to reach goals, taking one step at a time.

Photography by Jhowdy Photography LLC

A typical day is going to school, dance team, studying, being active at school, youth group and helping my parents around our farm.

Peer pressure and stress is a big struggle for teens, I love to workout. Working out/exercising helps me relieve stress and makes me feel good about myself.

A hidden talent would be singing, I am very shy, so I sing for myself.

Photography by Jhowdy Photography LLC

It would be on how not to be like everyone else. I would choose this topic because its so important to be original so that you can do bigger things than everyone else, be a role model and change lives.
Bucket list-1) Go to Guatemala 2) Go to a tropical island 3) Go on a mission trip

I find my mother inspiring. She is the hardest working, dream chasing and God loving woman that I know. She has molded me into the person I am today, and I look up to her.

Photography by Jhowdy Photography LLC

My drive and love for Jesus. I think I am inspiring because I do not want to fit in. I want to be different; I want to be kind; I want to be strong and I want to do all of this while pleasing the Lord.

I write all the stuff I need to get done down on paper and prioritize certain tasks so I make sure i get things done.

I am thankful for this opportunity to share.

Look for Aleyah in Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Trinity George

11/16/2020

Trinity George – Ohio
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Katrina George
Photography by Jennifer Grace Studios
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Trinity George is an 18 year old, charismatic, young lady delighting every person that she meets. She is a natural born leader willing to help anyone in need. She is always putting others first before herself. Even in dark times, she is a light and to me that is why this teen is truly inspiring.

Photography by Jennifer Petrey

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
How important life choices are and how they could impact your life later. Learning from other people’s bad decisions showed me how to make better decisions throughout my life.

What are your biggest struggles and how do you combat them?
My biggest struggle is dealing with stress. If I ever feel overwhelmed, I make lists and organize my thoughts, then I try to relax and tackle my list one by one. This way I can visualize everything I'm accomplishing all while knocking things off of my list.

Photography by Jennifer Petrey

How did the pandemic impact you during your senior year of high school?
The pandemic impacted me in so many ways. This year has brought on so many obstacles for me to face. With the schools shutting down because of Covid-19, I had to stay on top of my schoolwork, care for my 4-month-old sister, and help my 6 year old sister with her schoolwork as well. Although it can get stressful sometimes, I know I can push through it. After my senior year I know that I will be a stronger person.

What volunteer work do you do and why is it so important to you?
I participate in volunteer activities within my school. I think it is very important to be involved within the school because it's my way of giving back to my community!

Photography by Jennifer Petrey

What is the Beta Club and what do you love most about it?
The National Beta Club is a non-profit organization for students in the United States from the 4th through 12th grade. This organization was created to promote academic achievement, character, and leadership.

Photography by Jennifer Petrey

What would you say is the best way of making important decisions now to plan for the future?
The best way to make important decisions now for the future is to always choose what's best for you! Follow directions, help others in need, and if life gets you down always keep pushing through it.

Look for Trinity in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Alexa Whitaker

11/13/2020

Alexa Whitaker – Indiana
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Crystal Witvoet
Photography by The Studio
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Alexa Whitaker is inspiring because she had a lot of medical issues in her life, but she continues to be a happy girl. She works hard and school and she has so much love for her family and friends.

Photography by The Studio

What are your medical obstacles?
I have struggled my whole life with stomach problems. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease at age 14 after being rushed to the hospital for an emergency surgery. My disease has affected my daily life a lot since then. Missing school frequently has been an obstacle for me.

How have you overcome them?
I realized that I am stuck with this disease for the rest of my life so I need to try and live as much as I can.

Photography by The Studio

What does a day in your life look like?
I usually spend time with family and friends after I do some of my online classes every day.

What activities do you enjoy and how do you work around your medical obstacles to do them?
I used to enjoy sports a lot, but I had to quit because of my disease. But now I love swimming and boating during the summer. I also like playing with my animals and spending time with family and friends.

Photography by The Studio

What are your favorite subjects in school and why?
My favorite subject in school as of now is Psychology. I love learning about how the human brain works. I also loved taking Ethics class last year.

Photography by The Studio

What do you think is the biggest struggle teens your age have today?
I think a big struggle for teens today is how we compare ourselves to other people our age. For example, girls tend to compare themselves to prettier girls and it lowers our self-esteem. Social media has definitely made this worse for teens.

Look for Alexa in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Tianna Geiger

11/12/2020

Tianna Geiger – Texas
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by MyJdProductions
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: If you ask anyone to describe Tianna in one word, it would be kind. She is known for being a friend to everyone and always having a big smile on her face. She is very involved in school, playing volleyball, basketball, tennis, track, running cross country, and dancing competitively, while also being a member of National Junior Honor Society. She is inspiration to others by always having a positive attitude, being such a hard worker, and never being afraid to try something new.

Photography by MyJdProductions

Tell us what sports you are currently playing/practicing and which you dedicate the most amount of time with. Do you play them all for school or are you on other teams as well?
Besides dance, I am currently playing volleyball and basketball. I just finished up cross country season and will do track and tennis in the spring. Those are all school sports, and I play basketball for a select team as well.

What is a favorite memory from one of the sports you play?
One of my favorite memories from one of the sports I play is from track season last year when I was running the 2400m. I wasn’t feeling good and didn’t start as well as I usually do and was in 8th place. But I refused to give up and kept pushing myself. The last straight away, I gave it all I had, and ended in 2nd place!

When did you start dancing and what is your favorite type of dance?
I started dancing when I was two years old, and this will be my seventh year to dance competitively. My favorite style of dance is contemporary.

Photography by Nina Price

Please share a favorite memory from dance.
My favorite dance memory is when our dance team went to Disney World last year to perform. It was also my little sister’s first year to dance competitively so it was so fun to share that memory with her and how excited she was.

Why is being a member of NJHS important to you?
Being a member of NJHS is important to me because it not only recognizes academic achievement, but leadership and character achievement as well, and challenges me to maintain my academics at that level. It also challenges me to be more involved in school activities and community service.

What is something new you tried this year? Tell us about it.
Something new I tried this year was volleyball. I have never played before, and I didn’t decide I wanted to play until a week before tryouts. I knew I had a lot to learn in a short amount of time. I worked every night the week before tryouts, sometimes staying after basketball practice until after 10pm.

Photography by Small Town Sportsography

Your nomination mentions you are known for being a friend to everyone and always having a smile on your face. How can others follow this example?
From the time I was little, I always have treated people as I would want to be treated. It’s something my parents taught me, and I’ve always followed it. And if someone is having a bad day, it may just take a smile in the hall to let them know that they have someone that cares about them.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Trust in God, work hard, always try your best, and don’t be afraid to try new things.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I see myself in college studying to be a counselor. I also want to dance for the dance team for whatever college I attend.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
My favorite activity or pastime is spending time with my family and friends.

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
If I could present a topic to a group of my peers, it would be to not be afraid to try new things and also, that it is okay to fail. The most important thing is to just try your best and to never give up on yourself. Sometimes we can be our own toughest critic, but always believe in yourself and have faith in God.

Photography by Ashley White Kyle

3 Things on your bucket list
•Swim with dolphins
•Snorkel in the Bahamas
•Visit Niagara Falls

Who do you find inspiring?
Many people have inspired me in my life. I have been blessed with amazing parents, grandparents, family, teachers, and coaches.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my positive attitude inspires others. I think I am inspiring to others because I’m not afraid to try something new and work hard for it.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
It definitely can be a challenge at times. There are some days where I go from early morning volleyball practice, to school, to cross country practice, to dance, to basketball practice, and then have to come home and do homework. I just try to plan ahead on my schoolwork so I never get behind.

Look for Tianna in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Harper Lee Heffley

11/10/2020

Harper Lee Heffley – Kentucky
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Kendra Heffley
Photography by Jim Tincher Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Harper Lee Heffley is an inspiration to all she meets. Harper was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at 8 years old. Her symptoms began long before that, but as her mother, I did not understand what was happening. In my search of an answer, TS, came up in a google search when putting in her symptoms and we went on the journey of diagnosis and treatment. She is now 17 and is thriving.
She is a National Teen Ambassador for the Tourette Association of America and goes to Washington D.C. each year in March to Rally for others living with Tourette. She speaks confidently and passionately for a cause that effects 1 out of every 160 children between the ages of 5-17, about 1/2 go undiagnosed. It is her mission to help get more people diagnosed sooner and get the medical treatment they need and to continue standing up for those with disabilities. She is an inspiring teen and I look forward to the future as she and other inspiring young men and women make a difference in their community and our world.

Photography by a friend

Tell us about Tourette Syndrome. What is it and how does it affect you?
Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects how my brain works. Since my brain does not work the same as other people’s, neither does my body. I often cannot control the movements and sounds my own body makes. I often will twitch my neck and my head, snap my fingers, or make squealing noises uncontrollably. Tourette’s for me also comes with other co-occurring conditions like, OCD, ADHD and Anxiety. Tourette’s is not the same for everyone. It is different for all of us. It is a silent struggle for some of us because some may think we are being over dramatic or are just hard to handle, but the struggle goes deeper than that.

How did you apply for the TS Ambassador for the Tourette Association of America and what does the role entail?
When I was younger, I felt like I was all alone because I knew no one else with Tourette. I barely understood what Tourette’s even was and my parents did not quite know either. My mom had reached out to a family friend who had a cousin with TS. She came over and met with me and she helped me understand that I was not alone and there are many other people with this disorder. Then when I became a teenager my mom found out there was an ambassador position open in KY for the Tourette Association of America, here I could be an inspiration to others. It required that I write and essay and apply online. Once my essay was accepted, I had a phone interview. I was excited to get the news that I was selected. I have had the opportunity as an ambassador to go to Washington D.C. for the last two years in March. I have had the pleasure to meet with KY congressmen and senators and help them understand the struggles people with TS are faced with and ask for their help by continuing the funding for the Tourette Association which continues research and medical outreach to diagnose and help more people. The most important role that being an ambassador entails is dispelling myths about Tourette syndrome and helping others understand how to be kind to people living with TS.

Photography by Jim Tincher Photography

How do you advocate for others with Tourette Syndrome?
By being a part of the National Teen Ambassador program, it has allowed me to take my advocacy for this disorder all the way to Washington D.C. For the past two years in March, I have traveled to the capital to speak to KY congressman and Senators about what Tourette syndrome is and asking them for their support. I also advocate by posting on social medica to get the word out about TS to a wider audience. I also have spoken to a 3rd grade class to inform them about TS because a boy in the class was diagnosed with it and needed help explaining his situation to his peers and teachers. Helping others to understand and then be kind to others with differences is my passion.

What do you enjoy most about your leadership role in this?
There are many great things about having a leadership role in such an incredible organization. The thing I enjoy most about it is, being able to inspire others. Being able to advocate for others who maybe cannot advocate for themselves is important to me. I used to be very shy and embarrassed to even talk about my Tourette. I am proud to have a leadership role where I can talk about struggles I have faced and hopefully inspire others to not be embarrassed of what makes them different and be proud of who they are.

Photography by Jim Tincher Photography

What is your special connection with special needs people and how does it connect to what you plan on pursuing after high school?
Since middle school, I was very interested in being a student helper in the special needs’ classroom. From my first day, I was inspired by everyone in there and knew I wanted to help those kids. Most special needs kids do not always know how to express how they feel or cannot say what they are thinking. I feel like I had that similar issue when I was first getting diagnosed with Tourette. I feel like I can understand when they are frustrated and know how to help because I have experienced the same frustration. Since helping in the middle school, I took it a step further and started helping with a special needs’ boy at church. When I got in high school I started being a peer teacher in the special needs room and now as a senior I am blessed to be able to work with extraordinary people that I love for half of my school day in Co-Op.

What is the biggest struggle people have with Tourette Syndrome, and how do you want other people to respond?
The biggest struggle people have with Tourette is understanding what it is or being insensitive to it. Most people only view TS as a disorder where you curse or say inappropriate things constantly without control. This is only the case in about 10% of people with TS, the symptom is called coprolalia. Many TV shows and media only portray this one symptom, but Tourette can be many things to those of us living with it. People with Tourette have tics and tics can be anywhere from snapping your fingers to screaming out loud. Tics are different for everyone with Tourette, we are not all the same. The word Tourette’s is often used as a punch line in someone’s joke. I feel like most people do not understand it, so they choose to make fun of it. I would like for people to stop using the word Tourette as a joke or calling us names. I, instead, would like for people to understand what it is and be more kind to anyone that is different than them.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have ever accomplished is going through my diagnosis and treatment of Tourette. There were many obstacles when it came to getting diagnosed. Not just realizing I had a mental disorder, but also finding the right treatment and medication for me. Also dealing with bullying and people not understanding my situation. However, I had a supportive family that helped me get through this and accomplish treatment and getting through my diagnosis.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The best advice I can give anyone is to always believe that you are capable of anything you set your mind to. When I was younger, I did not completely believe that to be true. I am where I am today because my parents told me I could do anything I set my mind to and they were completely right. Never give up on yourself because there are obstacles in your way. Anything can happen.

Photography by Jim Tincher Photography

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I hope to be graduating from Western Kentucky University with a teaching degree. I then hope to start teaching at a high school in a special need’s classroom. For a while now I have known my passion is to help special needs kids and I hope I can inspire them in a classroom one day.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
My favorite pass time is dancing. I have been dancing since I was about 3 years old. I danced on a competitive dance team for a few years and enjoyed every minute of it. I have done several solo dances in competitions and now I am dancing on my high school dance team. I enjoy entertaining a crowd and just going out in front of people and expressing how I feel with dance.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Art and painting are a hidden talent of mine. I enjoy being creative and drawing or painting for fun. I do not do it often but sometimes I like to just sit down and paint and relax.

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers what would it be and why?
If I could publicly present a topic to my school or a group of my peers, I would do a presentation on Tourette Syndrome. I think it is very important for more people to know the truth about what Tourette is and how people should respect others with differences.

3 things on your bucket list
I have a lot of interesting things I would like to do. The top 3 would be
i. Traveling out of the country to Rome or Greece
ii. Working at Disney World, like my mom did
iii. Going on a family trip to Colorado

Who do you find inspiring?
Many people have inspired me in my life including my parents, my grandparents, teachers and my sister. However, one of my biggest inspirations is my mom. Both of my parents have taught me to be independent and think for myself, and they have made me believe that I can do anything I set my mind to. My mom is someone I can always go to and talk to her about anything. She has gone through hardships in her life that she opens up to me about. She teaches me that no matter who does not support me, I always have my family that will. She teaches me to be kind to everyone I meet and to always have grace. I could never be where I am today without my mom. She has always been understanding to me and everyone she meets. One day I hope I can be half the woman my mom is.

What about you inspire others. Why do you think you are inspiring?
I think what others find inspiring about me is that I am kind to everyone, and I am always willing to help anyone out with what they are going through. I am always understanding of someone else’s situation. I think I am inspiring because I do not use my situation with TS as an excuse but rather as a way to connect and teach others.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I have always had a busy schedule between school, sports, clubs and social life. I keep it all in order by always planning. I try to make schedules and plans and make time for my friends and family.

Look for Harper Lee in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Allison Brosnahan

11/10/2020

Allison Brosnahan – Massachusetts
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Susan Brosnahan
Photography by Alison Taylor Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Allison is an inspiration for so many reasons, but I think it's her emotional IQ that sets her apart. From a very young age she was always very sensitive to the world of feelings around her. She easily makes connections with people of all ages, genders, sexual orientation, abilities and cultures because she has this deep understanding that we are all human and we all need to be loved and understood.

Photography by Alison Taylor Photography

It was mentioned that your emotional IQ sets you apart. Why do you think that is from within?
When I was a toddler I had partial hearing loss in both ears. My parents didn't know this at the time. They just thought that I was slow to talk so they sent me to Early Intervention for speech therapy. While I was there, I was always helping the children who couldn't do things physically or the ones who seemed really scared. I think it was just something in my heart that knew they needed a little extra support because I knew what that felt like when people couldn't understand me or I couldn't understand/hear them!

How do you show kindness and patience, and how can other people follow in your examples?
Sometimes it's really hard! When a friend has said something harsh, I wait until they are in a better place. I try to be supportive by recalling a time when I was sad or angry and use that experience to connect with that person. When I get upset, I remember what it feels like to have people say unkind things to me so I don't say anything. I'd rather just be by myself so that I don't risk saying anything hurtful. Being kind is the first reaction everyone should strive to have because only good things happen out of kindness.

Photography by Alison Taylor Photography

We agree that everyone deserves to feel loved and respected. Can you give us an example of how you've demonstrated this?
I think being honest and supportive is really important in a friendship. Everyone is different and has different challenges in their life. Listening to them and really hearing what they are saying can make a big difference. I have answered a friend’s call in the middle of the night knowing that they must need to talk about something that can’t wait. I listen and offer support and I respect their privacy and don’t share personal information. They know that they can count on me to be there and they feel safe.

What do you think the biggest problems facing teens today is, and how would you help solve it?
This is hard because there are a lot of things that teens face today that present some really big problems. One of the biggest issues is with social media. You have to post cool pictures, get lots of likes, be good looking, be on top of trends or travel to amazing places. Sadly, I don't think it's going to go away. I think we need to work on the mental health of our country from the bottom up. Adding therapy sessions to our curriculum would be a good idea. This would also help change the stigma of mental illness.

Photography by Alison Taylor Photography

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I think it all starts with looking at yourself. I have had times in my life when I did not feel good about myself. I felt like I wasn't pretty enough, or trendy enough but then I realized how unhappy I was inside and that was what I was projecting out to the world.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I am only 4'10" but I can run really fast! I surprise a lot of people when I play lacrosse!

If you could present any topic to your peers what would it be?
I would want to talk about body positivity. I am only 4'10" and all my life people have teased me about being short. I also happen to be lucky enough to be naturally thin and small framed, so people also express a lot of envy about being able to eat whatever I want and not gain weight. Both of those really bothered me for a long time and then I realized I was fighting something that was beyond my control. And why were those bad things? They weren't...it was just perception.

Look for Allison in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 39

Aidan Powley

11/10/2020

Aidan Powley – New Hampshire
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by HM Collins Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Aidan Powley is an Inspiring Teen! He realized that he loved soccer so much that he wants to play throughout his life! He started playing soccer when he was 5 years old. It was the friendships that were created in 6th grade that helped him realize his passion.
Aidan volunteers his time to environmental efforts both in his home community and internationally. He has participated in trash clean ups and recycling in New Hampshire and Costa Rica!
You are an Inspiration Aidan!

Photography by HM Collins Photography

What got you interested in soccer? What position do you play and what do you love most about it?
I have been playing soccer since I was 5 years old. It is a sport we have always played and as I grew up watched my little brother and sister play as well. My father was my coach until I went to high school. I play defense and love playing all year round.

Tell us about your community service time focusing on the environment. How did you decide to do this and what do you do?
Community service has been something our family has always done. I was raised with it being a part of our life and service to others. My father is an environmental change teacher, and he has instilled in all of us how important it is to care for the world around us in every action we take.

Photography by HM Collins Photography

When did you go to Costa Rica? What was it like and what did you do there that benefited the planet? How did it change your perspective of the world?
We, as a family, go to Costa Rica every year and became close to one of the surf teachers. As a result, I went for a service visit while living with his family in modest living conditions. I realized how different the world can be for tourists and for those who live in the community. I was able to work in the recycling plant, clean the beaches and help re-build the library in that community my sophomore year. Living with his family, speaking Spanish and learning about their traditions and close family relationships as well as the diversity amongst a country changed my perspective of the world.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I spent my first 13 years attending Hebrew School and having my Bar Mitzvah inspired me to become an assistant at the School for many years. In addition, I am very passionate about become fluent in Spanish. My experiences in Costa Rico and living with a family has changed the way I view the world.

What is something that you attribute to getting over your shyness?
I feel like it is important that those who are shy know that taking risks help find your true voice. I spent a summer at Philips Exeter Academy summer program because my father taught there. I spent 5 weeks meeting people from all over the world. That experience of living without my parents taught me more about who I was.

Photography by HM Collins Photography

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
I love soccer. It has brought me closer to my friendships. For my Bar Mitzvah project, I collected sports equipment for third world countries. For the last two years, along with me family, we have collected balls, uniforms, and cleats to bring to Costa Rico teams. We have played soccer with these teams and inspired by their love of their sport. It is very rewarding.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I ever accomplished was taking the risk to show people who I really was going into high school. After spending the summer at Philips Exeter Academy I gained confidence in who I was.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell them to be your true self always, no matter how hard it is.

Photography by HM Collins Photography

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I see myself in college or abroad.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Working with technology

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Playing the piano by ear.

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
Do not let your fears hold you back because you could miss out on so many opportunities.

3 Things on your bucket list
Study abroad, become fluent in Spanish, become more skilled in technology

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think that I inspire others with my humor and ability to laugh at my mistakes.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I stay on top of things when they come up and make sure I complete everything without procrastinating.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I did not share my love of music in terms of the ability to play piano by ear since I was 5 years old.

Look for Aidan in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here to nominate an Inspiring Teen

Kelsi Wingo

11/9/2020

Kelsi Wingo – Texas
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Amy Wingo
Photography by KMcMinn Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: "Kelsi Wingo is one in a million." Tom Edwards (community member & family friend)
"She is extremely hard working, dedicated, polite, and determined. I truly admire her desire to set and reach her goals." Kim Taylor (High School Art Teacher and Student Council Advisor)
"Kelsi accepts everyone as they are and takes it one step further and genuinely cares about others. When she participates in something, she definitely puts her all into it." Kim Taylor (High School Art Teacher and Student Council Advisor)
"Because of her awesome work ethic and positive attitude, she truly inspires other students around her by setting this great example and encouraging them every chance she gets." Nineveh Blankenship (High School Softball Coach)
"She genuinely cares for others and wants to see them succeed, and that is rare." Tom Edwards (community member and family friend)

Photography by KMcMinn Photography

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
If I were to be interviewed, I would like to talk about my family, hunting, or softball.

Tell us about your family and what you love about spending time with them.
I’ve grown up as an only child with my parents, Alvin and Amy. My dad has taught me how to do the things I love the most, which is playing softball and hunting. My mom has grown to be one of my best friends. She is my number one supporter in everything I do. I just love being around my family.

When did you start hunting, who do you hunt with, and what all have you hunted for?
I’ve hunted for as long as I can remember. My parents started taking me to the deer lease with them when I was just a toddler. Mom told me the first time I went hunting, I sat in the stand with her. I was only 3 and she just wanted me to be able to see deer in the wild. She didn’t think we would actually see anything because, well, toddlers aren’t quiet. But we did see a doe and I told my mom to shoot it. I actually shot my first deer when I was 6 and I’ve been hooked ever since. For years I have hunted in the same stand with my dad, but now, since I’m older I hunt by myself. For the most part, I just hunt deer and pigs. 

Photography by KMcMinn Photography

Please share one of your best memories from hunting.
One year we had pictures of this unique deer and I decided that he was the one I wanted to harvest. I named him GMF (Grand Master Funk). His antlers were really crazy looking. He had been seen at my dad’s stand several times, so I sat with Dad in hopes that he would walk in. We sat in the same stand for 3 days (morning and evening hunt) and I never saw him. The next day dad and I decided to change stands and mom sat in dad’s stand. Well, GMF came to the feeder while mom was sitting there. She texted me and asked me what I wanted her to do…shoot him or let him walk and risk not seeing him again. I was hesitant but told her to shoot. She did and we looked for him for hours and never found him. (I thought she might have missed). The next morning, I sat in Dad’s stand and the first deer that walked in was GMF. I was able to shoot him after all. When we got to him, we saw a mark where mom’s bullet had grazed his belly.

When did you start playing softball, what position do you play and what do you love most about being on your team?
I was only 4 when I started playing. I’ve been on several different teams and played out field, catcher, and now I’ve found my favorite spot on the field, First Base. I love being part of the softball team because we are like a family. I wouldn’t be able to get through some of my hard days if it wasn’t for my teammates.

Photography by Jimmie Green

Tell us about your faith in God. What do you want others to know about it?
I became a Christian when I was 6 years old. I consider it the most important decision anyone could ever make. I want others to know that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. I hope when people look at me they can see Jesus through me.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have always had a heart for special needs students. I love seeing them be successful and I love being able to help them and encourage them.
I have a hard time describing myself, so I asked a few people who know me best.
One of my family friends described me by saying, "Kelsi has one of the kindest hearts I’ve ever seen. She genuinely cares for others and wants to see them succeed and that is rare. She has treated my daughter, who is much younger than her, so well over the years and has always watched out for her. Went to bat for her, protected her behind the scenes, so to speak, never looking for any type of recognition or thanks. Just doing what a good person does, what a true friend does. I have told my wife on several accounts that I hope and pray our daughter grows up with the same character as Kelsi. I can’t brag on her enough. She’s just that one in a million person that comes along and I’m very glad that we get to have a little piece of her in our lives." (Tom Edwards)
My softball coach described me by saying, "Kelsi is truly an inspiring young lady because not only does she always believe in herself, but she also believes in others. Kelsi is constantly pushing herself to be better at all times, whether it’s on the softball field, in the classroom or in a leadership role for the team, school, or community. One example of this is when we had a foreign exchange student from Spain decide to join our team last year. She had never played softball before and spoke little English, but she wanted to be a part of something while she was here. Kelsi gladly took her under her wing and spent extra time after practices and even on some weekends to help her learn to throw, catch, and hit. I know that Kelsi’s actions inspired all of us." (Nineveh Blankenship)
My teacher and student council advisor describes me by saying, "Kelsi is one of those students whom every teacher and advisor loves. She is not only a wonderful student, she is also a fantastic young lady. Although she is now in high school, she is one young lady I will always keep up with and will continue to follow. To describe Kelsi is very hard to put into words. She inspires so many that she is around. What I find so unique about this characteristic is that in the time when teenagers are so easily influenced by their peers or the media, Kelsi seems to take it all in and keep only what will help to accomplish her goals set before her. Another characteristic that should be stressed is that she is a hard worker. She has a way of getting others to work and accomplishes this with a positive attitude. She goes above and beyond in all of her school work, student council and all aspects of her life." (Kim Taylor)

Photography by KMcMinn Photography

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
One of the hardest things I have accomplished throughout the years would be starting on the varsity softball team my freshman year in a brand new position that I had never played before. I worked really hard to learn the position, stayed for extra practice, took lessons, and made sure the coaches knew that I was willing to work to earn the position.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Put your faith in God and He will help you through all the trials of life that He puts in front of you. Having God also reminds you that you're not alone in anything you do.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
My plans after high school are to go to college and get into nursing school, so I can become a Neonatal Nurse.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Besides playing softball and hunting, I really enjoy hanging out with my friends. My best friends names are Emma and Bailey and we are inseparable...we are more like sisters than anything!

3 Things on your bucket list
⁃ Jump out of an airplane with my dad.
⁃ Swim with the pigs in the Bahamas.
⁃ In time, be the best mom I could possibly be to my children.

Who do you find inspiring?
I think my mom is inspiring.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think work ethic and my ability to show empathy for others inspires people around me. I think I'm inspiring because I’m willing to put in whatever it takes to get the outcome I want.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
Sometimes it gets very crazy around my house. But my focus is always on school so I can keep my grades up and stay up to date on my schoolwork. When it comes to doing all my hobbies, they are at different times of the year. So in the fall I hunt and in the spring I play softball.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I have a puppy named Hank he is a Miniature Schnauzer. I got him for Christmas in 2019 and ever since he has been my little shadow.

Look for Kelsi in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Anna Hurtado

11/9/2020

Anna Hurtado - Arizona
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by
Sand & Light Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: In her Mother's words: Anna is inspiring because since she was little, she has shown us that dreams come true with hard work. Her dedication, passion and perseverance has led her to accomplish much.
She’s a dedicated student, who knows that school is important-but not more important than her faith and her family.
When she fails trying to accomplish something, Anna manages to learn from her mistakes to overcome them and thus show herself that a bad result does not define what you are capable of achieving.
She has a kind heart and likes volunteering to help the less fortunate. We’re blessed to have Anna as our daughter.

Photography by Sand & Light Photography

Tell us about your high school experiences and how they affected you through your high school years.
I have learned a lot during high school. In my freshman year, I learned to be patient with myself and to get comfortable with failure, and to learn from that failure. In my sophomore year, I learned to identify the negative influences in my life and to move on from them. My junior year, I learned that in every aspect of life, love is everything. I’m not sure what lesson senior year has for me yet, but I’m grateful for these experiences that shaped me into the person I am today.

What performing arts performances have you participated in, and which was your favorite? Why?
I have nurtured my passion for performing during my high school years. At my school, I performed in Don't Rock The Boat, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat , The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, and Mary Poppins. I have also participated in choir and dance performances, and voice and piano recitals. My favorite performing experience has to be Mary Poppins. While it took effort to get into the character of Jane Banks, the process was fun because it required me to explore the inner child in me, which is a refreshing way to look at things at this point in my life. It also taught me that, as one of the songs from the show states, anything can happen if you let it.

Photography by Sand & Light Photography

What leadership opportunities have you had? Share your favorite story.
These past few years, I have had several leadership opportunities at my school, including being: a house leader in its house system, a leader on the freshman retreat, a school ambassador, an officer in the Exchange Club, and a leader for our Kairos retreat soon. My favorite experience I have had as a leader has definitely been leading my house on the Unified Field Day that my school organizes for students with disabilities from other schools nearby. We spent many hours and meetings organizing our field day game, and in the end it was worth the fun and smiles shared by everyone.

What does the NHS mean to you and why are you so proud to be a member?
Being a member in my school’s chapter of National Honor Society (NHS) means to me that I’m capable of achieving a prestigious standard, and still signals me to foster these pillars in my own life. I am proud to be a member in the NHS because I’ve earned my place in it through my own hard work and because I’m proud to be part of an organization that not only recognizes students’ achievements but also encourages us to take those virtues and use them to make a positive impact in our communities.

Photography by Amy Schaumberg

Your nomination mentions you enjoy volunteering. Where do you volunteer and what do you love about it?
I have had several volunteering experiences. Throughout high school, I have participated in my school’s music ministry, either playing the violin or singing in the choir. I have also volunteered at places such as St. Vincent de Paul, Midwest Food Bank, as well as my own parish. My favorite and most frequent way to serve is in the music ministry because I already love to sing and play music, and it feels right to use those gifts I am given to give back to my community.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
To anyone who wants to be where I am today, I would advise them to never underestimate what they’re capable of achieving. By limiting your belief in what you can do, you hold yourself back from being able to achieve what you want. Quoting Theodore Roosevelt, believe you can and you’re halfway there. That is a belief that has helped me achieve my goals and I believe it will help many others reach their potential.

Photography by Sand & Light Photography

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/ what are your plans?
In five years, I see myself graduating from college and I hope to see myself starting a new and exciting career in either writing or performing, in a lively city like New York City or London.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
My favorite activity to do in my free time is teach myself how to play instruments. So far, I’ve learned to play the ukulele and I can play some guitar.

3 Things on your bucket list:
Three things on my bucket list are: to be a polyglot, to play Christine in a production of Phantom of the Opera, and to travel around the world.

Look for Anna in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Georgia Kontoyianis

11/6/2020

Georgia Kontoyianis – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Madison Evans
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Georgia Kontoyianis dances at Studio of Ballet Arts and Maryland Twisters Moco. She is always in such a positive mood no matter what! She strives to be the best of her best always and you can really tell when she is in a room because she lights it up with passion and joy! She makes me in a better mood just by the engird she puts off when she talks to you.

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

Tell us about your dance career. How did you get started and who got you interested, who you dance for and why you've committed 10 years of your life to it.
I started dancing at the age of four at CM Dance Studio. I tried several sports when I was little, but dance brought me more joy than anything else. When I was 8, I got selected to be a part of my studio's dance team! This was the time in my dance career that I knew I wanted to always have dance in my life. I am currently dancing at Studio of Ballet Arts and Maryland Twisters MoCo. In my 10 years of dance it has been a struggle as I've gone through so many different injuries, which made me miss tons of dance competitions, recitals and dance classes. But, I persevere through the challenges and have dedicated myself to get back up again so that I can continue to express my joy and feelings through the art of dance.

What all styles of dance do you study and which is your favorite and why?
In my 10+ years of dancing I have studied multiple styles of dance. Including the styles of; ballet, jazz, tap, modern, lyrical, contemporary, jazz funk, hip-hop, pom, musical theater, and acrobatics. My favorite style of dance is contemporary because I love how I can move freely yet still be controlled enough to tell a story.

What is one of your favorite memories from dance?
My favorite memory from dance was going to my first competition at Kings Dominion with my first ever dance team. We got to spend the weekend at the parks and take only 30 minutes out of our day to compete. This was my favorite because I love theme parks and dance, so it was a win win for me!

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

We love that you're involved in Student Government Association, Peer Connection Ambassador. What are your roles in each and what do you love most about being a leader in those environments?
Currently (November 2020), I am running for my school's SGA president. We started our SGA program in late October this year due to being in a virtual learning setting and the COVID-19. In our last meeting we got to speak with one of our SMOB's representatives about recurring events in our county and our school as a whole.
Next, as a Peer Connections Ambassador I organize events for my school, compose different clubs, and if we were physically in school, I would be running orientation for new students! Both the SGA and Peer Connection Ambassador Program work hand and hand with making my school a better and safer place, that is why I chose to join them!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why? (What do you feel passionate about or could talk forever about?)
If I were to present a topic to a group of my peers I would choose talking about mental health. I chose this because I feel like in today's society there are not many resources being enforced for adolescents and adults about mental health awareness. Having a mental illness is frowned upon, which is horrible! I strongly believe that it's not the person's fault that they have the mental illness, and the environment around them has to help them succeed and preserve through the challenges.

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

3 Things on your bucket list
Visit the Northern Lights
Road trip to all 50 states
Go through 100 pairs of pointe shoes

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
Things I do to keep my schedule straight when I am busy is to write everything I'm doing in my phone calendar and a physical planner. I color code different classes for school, dance classes, and chores.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
A favorite pastime is painting and drawing.

How does your Greek heritage impact your life?
My Greek Heritage has impacted me in many different ways. I have had the honor of growing up in a Greek household and embracing all the traditions. I have traveled to Crete, Greece many times and I speak the language as well. Growing up it was instilled in me the importance of family. Also, knowing how Greece has impacted the world from the beginning of time is also something to be proud of!

Look for Georgia in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens!