Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

Andrea Matei

7/18/2019

Andrea Matei – Ontario, Canada
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Daniela Matei
Photography by Julia Skyba
Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Andrea is teen inspiration because of her dedication and perseverance in and outside of the dance studio. At a young age, Andrea has trained with National Team Canada Dance 2018 and competed at the World Dance Championship in Warsaw Poland. Now, in 2019, she has been selected to perform in the Nutcracker at the Sony Center, cast by the Toronto International Ballet Theater. Aside from the hard work as a dancer, Andrea is also giving back to the community by performing at the Toronto International Dance Festival this summer while trying to inspire others as a brand ambassador for Sugarhaul as well as for Just Strong: Women inspiring Women.

What is life like while you are in the studio? What about when you leave the studio?
When I’m at the studio it’s like an adventure begins, when I leave, the adventure is over. It’s a good place for creativity and it’s fun to learn new tricks. When I’m in the studio it’s all about dance and working towards being a better dancer, and when I leave, it’s time to relax.

What do you do with your free time, if you get any?
In my free time I like to play with my little sister or hang out with my older brother. Sometimes I also like to work on dance moves on my own.

What was it like changing studios and meeting new dancers?
It was hard and exciting at the same time. You build strong friendships when you dance and compete together and grow as a team. So that was the hard part. But meeting new dancers, new teachers and learning from them is exciting as it helps you grow as a dancer, and just makes your dance family bigger. And in the end, you have more dance friends.

Tell us about your experiences training with the National Team Canada Dance.
It was an intense experience. It was hard and challenging, training for 10 full days straight to learn the choreography, and then every weekend thereafter until the completion. But I am thankful as I got the chance to become a better dancer while training with this fabulous team. And I am also thankful for the friends I made.

What is the World Dance Championship? What was your involvement with it?
The World Dance Championship is organized by the International Dance Organization and brings together dancers from all around the world. This year there were 1,336 dancers from 25 nations across 4 continents. I was part of 4 routines in the Children’s division and contributed to the team’s success as follows: Gold in Ballet Formation and Jazz Small Group, Silver in Jazz Formation and Bronze in Ballet small group.

How do you deal with someone who isn’t understanding of your schedule when they try to make plans with you?
The only thing I can say, is “Sorry, I have dance” and my friends are used to me missing their birthday parties or other activities.

How did you become an Ambassador for Sugarhaul? What does it entail on your end and how do you benefit from it?
I was selected as a Sugarhaul Ambassador through an online application process consisting in a combination of questions, pictures, Instagram presence and interaction.
My role as an ambassador is to help promote the brand and the benefits are to be promoted and featured on their social media in return, as well ad share some discounts and offers with my friends. This is fun experience where I get to make new friends and extend my online presence as well.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Work hard, play hard, train hard, have fun and believe you can

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
Being able to do a lot of acro tricks, become famous

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
Dance. I would like to think it’s because I am a hardworking dancer that trains hard and tries their best no matter how tired or sore I may be.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
My mom is my calendar and helps me stay organized.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I really like to play basketball and was accepted into the school team, only dance schedule didn’t permit me to actually do it. I also like going to the park and spend time with the family.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I can touch my nose with my tongue as well as I can touch my wrist with my thumb.

Who do you find inspiring?
Ariana Grande. She inspires me to believe in what I do and have fun with it. She also inspires me to make every situation positive.

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

3 Things on your bucket list
Meet Ariana Grande. Star in at least one movie. Dance in a Las Vegas Show.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Great job with this magazine, inspiring teens and sharing their stories. Keep up the good work and best of luck.

Andrea will be featured in Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!!

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Zoe Adgalane

7/7/2019

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Zoe Adgalane - Pennsylvania
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Kristalynn Torpey
Photography by: Chris Henrikson (top image), Alexa M. Santy, &
Thomas McIntyre,
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Zoe is 13 years old and just finished her 10th year dancing for Philadelphia Dance Center. She is a member of their award-winning company and has been competing for 8 years. This year was especially exciting because she won 1st place overall in her age group and 4th overall in the entire competition for a solo she completely choreographed herself.
For the last 2 years she has also been a part of Brickdoor Productions, a youth theater group, where she just finished her 4th production.
She loves dance and everything she has learned from it both in and out of the studio.

Image by Thomas McIntyre

How do you work through the rigorous hours of work that comes with dance?
As a dancer, the long hours are to be expected, and as grueling as they might be in that moment, I just have to remember that I'm at the studio because I want to be there. I chose to come to Philadelphia Dance Center to create and learn. It's my creative outlet, so it doesn't feel long at all.

Could you describe what the commitment is like for dance?
There is a lot of commitment involved with dance. I've had to give up a couple small things for dance, but in the end there's no place I'd rather be than in the studio. My teammates are like family to me.

By being a dancer for Philadelphia Dance Center and playing a part in Brickdoor Productions, what have they taught you that could help you off stage?
I've learned many things. Some of which being to never give up, determination and passion gets you far in life, try new things, and do your best in everything you do!

What productions have you done with Brickdoor Productions?
I have done James and the Giant Peach, Schoolhouse Rock, a youth performers showcase, and Go Fish the musical with Brickdoor Productions.

Image by Alexa M. Santy

What opportunities have you received off stage for being a member of these various groups?
I've been able to be an ambassador for Chris Henrikson photography.
I've been able to do a concept video with Kaylee Pirrung.
I've been able to do a RuPaul tribute with Alexa Marie Santy.
And I've been able to model for Artstone Costumes and Costume Gallery.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The advice I would give is to not give up, and only be in competition with yourself to be better.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In 5 years I will be graduated from high school. I will hopefully continue dancing and become a professional dancer/ choreographer.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my drive inspires others.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I memorize my schedules and due dates for school and dance.

Image by Alexa M. Santy

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
My favorite activities outside of dance are reading, drawing, and photography.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My arms are hyper-extended so they can rotate in and out of their socket.

Who do you find inspiring?
My family and friends inspire me.

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Pizza, water, dogs

3 Things on your bucket list
Three things on my bucket list are to travel, see a drive-in movie, and have a bonfire with friends

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I'm so excited to be working with Inspiring Teens

Zoe will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Brooke Cannon

7/7/2019

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Brooke Cannon - Pennsylvania
Interview by Caroline Alegado
Nomination by Kim Cannon
Photography by Captured Yew
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Brooke is going into her sophomore year at CAPA. She is an honor student and finished her freshman year with a 4.2 GPA.

Brooke has been dancing for 11 years. Her home studio is the Philadelphia Dance Center where she studies many styles of dance in their pre professional dance program. She is also member of the Beat Addikts United performance team. This summer she will be attending The Rock School of Ballet's summer intensive.

Brooke also enjoys theater, and just finished her 6th show with Brick Door Productions. She has also been their chorographer for several shows.

As a member of Beat Addikts United, what experiences and/or performances have you enjoyed?
I always enjoy dancing with Beat Addikts United! The 2018-19 season was my first year on their performance team and I loved it. My favorite BAU performance is their annual showcase. It's a unique show and a lot of fun. Many choreographers and dancers are involved, and each performance has a theme and/or tells a story.

What is your favorite style of dance?
I love many styles of dance and enjoy learning new ones, but right now my favorites are contemporary and hip hop. I can’t choose just one.

I know you have started choreographing shows. How does this compare to dancing and which do you prefer?
Choreographing has been a new challenge for me. It has allowed me to understand what many of my teachers and choreographers do and has introduced me to another side of dance. I really enjoy choreographing, but I still have a lot to learn. I’m very thankful for the opportunities that I have been given, but I still focus on my dance training. It's hard to say which I prefer, but I want to continue to pursue both.

How do you balance school and dance?
My academics have always been very important to me. I love dancing, but my schoolwork comes first. Juggling both can get stressful at times, but doing what I love helps keep me focused. A lot of times I try to start homework when I have time in school, and then finish it before or after dance class.

Who inspires you in your dance and theater career?
The people that inspire me the most are my teachers, directors, and fellow performers. We push each other to be our best. I feel grateful that I have a strong support system filled with people who are passionate about the same things.

How do you plan to use the lessons you learned now to help you in the future?
A big lesson I’ve learned is that success comes from hard work. Being grateful for everything you’ve accomplished along the way is crucial, because dreams don’t come easily. This mindset will help me in the future, because it reminds me to look back on how far I’ve come.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I have a few pastimes that weren’t in my nomination. A few of my favorites are going shopping, surfing, and watching Stranger Things!

Brooke will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine

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Layken Sanders

7/5/2019

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Layken Sanders – Tennessee
Interview by Zoe DAngelo
Nomination by Jeni Sanders
Photography by Jeni Sanders & Amber McKellar
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Layken Sanders is such an inspiring teen, because she has devoted the last 4 years to collecting shoes for Soles4Souls. She has currently collected 42,000 pairs of shoes and is on track to meet her goal of 50,000 pairs by the end of 2019. Layken has been on a mission trip to Haiti to deliver, size, and fit brand-new pairs of shoes on 450 children. She works hard every day for this charity, while keeping straight As in her honors classes, and being on multiple competition cheer teams, in which she has been named most reliable and best stunter, as well as numerous awards at school.

Photography by Jeni Sanders

Tell us about your involvement with Soles4Souls. How did it get started and what is it like?

When I was 10 years old, I decided to stop receiving birthday gifts and in the place of presents I asked for gently used shoes to be donated to Soles4Souls. This nonprofit charity organization based in middle TN seemed like the perfect charity for me to be involved with, because of their outreach to so many children and families all over the world. Once I dropped off the shoes I had collected for my birthday, I was given a tour of the warehouse, and given so much information about how they impact so many lives. At that point, my brother and I set a goal to collect 50,000 pairs of shoes and become Ambassadors for Soles4Souls. We are currently at over 42,000 pairs collected.

Other than shoes, would you be interested in donating different articles of clothing?

Yes, I have been interested in donating other items, as well. I have helped with a local coat drive and was able to collect 161 coats to be donated. That was a great cause that I will continue to support.

Photography by Jeni Sanders

How do you keep yourself organized with helping with Soles4Souls while keeping straight A’s in school?
I keep myself organized with my commitment to Soles4Souls, my straight As in honors classes, and my multiple All Star and School Competitive Cheer Teams by having a goal oriented attitude. I stay focused on my goals, create new ones as I go, and stay positive when times are tough. I always want to strive for the best and I'm not afraid of putting in a lot of hard work and effort to achieve my goals.

Photography by Amber McKellar

Tell us about the trip you are taking to Haiti.

I went on a mission trip to Haiti a year and a half ago. It was life changing! To be a part of an organization who helps improve the quality of life for other living beings is priceless. I got to see firsthand how children couldn't attend school if they didn't have a pair of shoes. That affected me deeply, because I couldn't even imagine not being given the opportunity to get at least a basic education. I learned so much during this experience that I will value for a lifetime. Such as, not taking anything for granted and how to be an advocate for change. I loved getting to go to several orphanages, schools, and villages to deliver 450 pairs of brand-new shoes to excited kids. It was also amazing to visit the Haitian American Caucus to meet two ladies who were apart of the microenterprise program. I can't wait to go back soon!

Layken will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Anna Buffington

7/5/2019

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Anna Buffington - Pennsylvania
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Natika Buffington
Photography by Sherry Wilkinson Photography
Issue 23 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Anna is an inspiring teen due to her mental disability. She suffers from MDD and anxiety. Throughout the years Anna has taught her peers what the face of Bipolar looks like. One day in class a boy referred to something as being “bipolar”. Anna turned around and asked him what bipolar was and what does it look like? He couldn't answer. She then pointed to herself and told him, “This is the face of bipolar.” He was stunned. Her teacher overheard the conversation and emailed me thinking I would be upset with her. It was honestly one of the best moments of being her parent!

To start off, I wouldn’t say I “suffer” from my mental disorders. I have them and they are a part of me, that’s it. I deal with anxiety, which causes me to overthink many situations within my daily life, and even makes me back out of doing certain things because I often doubt myself. My MDD causes me at times to become super depressive, not want to talk, eat, or even associate with others. When in that depressive state, I usually just sit around because I cannot sleep either.

To deal with these disorders I am on two different medications that kind of mellow out how I’m feeling. I also see a therapist regularly who gives me different coping mechanisms. Most people use the term “bipolar” when they mean indecisive. They usually use it to characterize someone who changes their mind frequently, but that is not bipolar.

What they don’t see is the nights crying because you feel like you are inadequate compared to everyone around you. They do not see the family members trying to cheer you up in any way possible, while you sit there and disregard all their actions.

People with similar disorders should be aware that they do not have to be ashamed of it. They should know that it is okay to ask for help whenever they need it, and they are not an inconvenience for asking. If they did not feel comfortable talking about it, it is better off to give them their space, because that may be all they need.

I learned to not take my disorders so seriously, and to be open and honest about them. They aren’t something that needs to be hidden, because there isn’t anything to be ashamed about. People cannot help that they have mental disorders, so the best thing to do is to embrace them, since it causes more damage fighting them.

Anna will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Janiya Cadney

6/29/2019

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Janiya Cadney - Tennessee
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Jaleesa Larry
Photography by Incredibly Wee Photography
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Janiya is 17 years old and entering her Senior year at Bartlett High. She is known for being a strong Alto in her schools’ honors choir and holding 3 Top 10 chairs for the Alto 1 section in the All South West Honor Choir. She also has taken coding classes for 3 years and helps update websites for local businesses. Not only does she have great determination, but she also has leadership. She has worked her way up to the role as President in her school’s club R.O.S.E.S where she has dedicated most of her time to help her community and raise money for scholarships!

What responsibilities come with being part of R.O.S.E.S?
Respectful, Optimistic, Successful, Educated, Students is a huge responsibility with you just being on the roster. I’m usually the one who recruits members each year and we start the year strong with about 60 members and end the year with a little less than half the amount. It’s not that the students didn’t have those amazing qualities, but they did lack consistency and responsibility. We handle the largest fundraiser and the talent show every year and also participate in the fundraisers and community outreach to raise scholarship money and to see what around us needs to be addressed. The biggest responsibility with being a part of R.O.S.E.S. is simply doing something for someone, about something, and for the better .

How has your love for technology by coding given you different opportunities?
Technology is something that I believe will proceed to evolve and never stop. Therefore, why not make it my profession. Aside from me enjoying coding, it’s allowed me a chance to work
with Archer Malm, help with school website updates, public relations, and it’s a promising lifelong career!

Tell me about how you plan on growing as a person. What goals do you set to succeed?
Prayer, confidence, strength, and the courage to fail and try again. “Without struggle, there is no progress”- Fredrick Douglass. Setting a goal for me is to aim higher than I think I can go
because if you can exceed your goals, you haven’t set them high enough. So, I never have a set goal for long periods of time, mine change every day because new things occur every day. After you have struggled to get to that recent revamped goal there is always something you can do better, so you progress continuously and never stop growing.

Image taken by a choir friend

What does it mean to you to hold 3 Top 10 chairs for the Alto 1 section in the All South West Honor Choir?
I’ve worked hard, practiced, and did my absolute best with no excuses and became part of only 200 people selected from thousands . It’s honestly where you go to be with others who share a love for music (and want to miss that day of school because it’s counted as excused).

Image taken by Janiya Cadney

How do you balance all your responsibilities and having time to relax and have time for yourself?

School, friends, R.O.S.E.S, Upstanders, choir, and my job gets pretty stressful and interesting. I honestly don’t know how I balanced my Junior year, but I do have a built-in lazy day each week that just comes natural. With Wednesday being the middle of the week and my responsibilities usually don’t fall on that day, I take that day to gather myself.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I will graduate from Spelman University with a degree in computer science and engineering technology with a minor in business and start working in web design for a short amount of time. After I’ve built a good base with a steady job, I would love to pursue my dreams of owning a wedding planning services aside from technology. Then of course hopefully working my way towards running my own household and having a family.

Janiya Cadney will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!!

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Sarah Wainwright

6/27/2019

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Sarah Wainwright - Alabama
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Jennifer Wainwright
Images by Stacy Jay Photography
Inspiring Teens Magazine – Issue 23

The Nomination: Sarah Wainwright is not your average teenager. She is the most considerate, always thinking of others first, person you will ever meet. She is a strong Christian girl who reads her bible and does devotions daily. She is always trying to figure out how to help someone else. She is passionate about what she wants and strives to give more than 100% in everything she does in school with grades and sports. She always tries to do the right thing in every situation.

In what way has your faith impacted how you live your life?
My faith has impacted my life by changing my way of thinking and helps me choose whether to do certain things or not. I am not perfect, but my faith has helped me face temptations and turn the other way.

How does your faith in Jesus strive you to be a better person?
I always give 110% at everything I do. I try to treat people the way I would want to be treated. I try to be a positive influence on social media by putting bible verses up or encouraging quotes so people can see them and have a change in their heart or just make them feel happy when they are sad and to know that they are loved.
What are some ways you strengthen your faith daily?

Every night I read a daily devotional and then I like to mark the things I find important or that stand out to me. Then I like to mark the bible verse from the devotion in my bible.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Always work hard in everything you do even if you’re the only one trying because it will work out in the long run. Never give up!

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I am a very organized person and I am always on top of everything.

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

3 Things on your bucket list
1. Play in the FIFA World Cup
2. Go to Hawaii
3. Go to Disney Land in Paris

Image by Jeb Wainwright

When did you start playing soccer and how did you get interested in playing it?
I started playing soccer in the 8th grade. My friend encouraged me to play so I decided to try it out. When I played my first game, I realized that I loved it and wanted to play forever.

What type of dance is your favorite and how did you first get involved with dance?
My favorite type of dance would have to be Hip Hop or jazz. My mom first put me in dance when I was 2 years old and I stopped dancing at 14 years old to pursue soccer. While I was in dance I participated in many competitions and I got to dance at Disney World and perform in The Russian Nutcracker Ballet.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
Playing college soccer and working to be an athletic trainer.

Sarah will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Tara Walsh

6/26/2019

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Tara Walsh – Michigan
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Rebecca Walsh
Photography by Team Photo (gymnastics) and Selessa Holmberg (other)
Inspiring Teens Magazine – Issue 23

Nomination: Tara Walsh is a dedicated, inspiring student, athlete, artist and model. Tara competes at the highest level of Junior Olympic gymnastics, is Region 5 floor exercise champion and 5th in the nation. She drives 15,000+ miles to go to the gym and an IB diploma program that is typically ranked nationally for rigor. Tara is a Summa Cum Laude student. She was chosen to represent her school at a statewide leadership conference. She is co-leader of the Art Club, is in National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society; and volunteers for the Miracle League of Michigan.
http://www.gym-style.com/tarawalsh/index.htm

How did you become involved with gymnastics? What is your favorite event to compete in?
I got involved in gymnastics because my older sisters were already taking gymnastics classes and loved it. When I was old enough my parents put me in parent tot classes. My favorite event to compete is floor. I love being able to show off my personal style through my dance. Tumbling on floor is my favorite because I love the feeling of doing big tumbling passes. People are always impressed with big tumbling on floor. I feel confident in my dance and skills, so I have fun competing floor.

Tell us about your gymnastics journey.
I started gymnastics when I was 18 months old. I loved running around on the equipment. I progressed through the levels quickly, and was always very young for the level I was in. When I was 10, I began training elite. I trained 8 hours a day and began homeschooling. This experience made me more independent, because I was in charge of getting all of my schoolwork done on time. Two years later I went back to J.O gymnastics and made my goal college gymnastics. A year later I switched gyms. My new gym is an hour from my house and the drive alone was a big change for me. The whole gym was a change -- atmosphere, coaching, nutrition, and mindset. This atmosphere was exactly what I needed to achieve my goal of college gymnastics. In January I accepted an offer to compete on Auburn University’s gymnastics team. My gymnastics journey has been a long one, almost 16 years already, and it has shaped me into who I am today.

Image of Tara's artwork taken by Tara: This art project was to bring awareness to how attached people are to their phones. People rely on their phone for so many things these days, they rely on their phone to communicate with others, for directions, to get food, to take pictures, and to pay for things. People are so attached to our phones that we are at the point of no return, we are at a point that we can not come back from because people do not know how to live without their phone.

Where do you find inspiration for most of your artwork?
The inspiration for my artwork depends on the purpose of the specific piece. If I am creating an artwork for Art class, I begin by choosing a message I want to convey to the viewer. After I pick the message I want to spread, I think of ways to show that visually. If I am creating a piece for fun, I find inspiration from other famous art I have seen in museums, or I think of them myself. My ideas usually come from my background in gymnastics, my love for fashion, and my friends and family.

Walk us through the process of when you are getting started to create art.
For an assignment, my friends and I all sit at the same table and we talk, chill, and create our art projects together. If I am creating the piece for fun, I usually turn on some music, and sit by myself. For every art project I need the room very light, and I need a lot of space to work with.

What is something you want people to know as soon as they lie eyes on a piece of your work?
When somebody looks at my artwork, I want them to immediately appreciate how much effort I put into it. I work very hard on every piece of art I make. For every piece of art, I research, practice, and plan out the project before I make it. These steps are essential to the process, but the amount of time and effort that those steps take are unseen in the finished project of work.

Image by Selessa Holmberg

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell them to always persevere through adversity. When times get tough it is most important to continue to work toward your goals. The easy thing to do would be to quit and find a new goal but pushing through hard times makes achieving your goals that much better.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I am committed to Auburn University, so in 5 years I think I will be graduating from Auburn University. I am undecided about what I want to major in right now, but by the time I am graduating I hope to have a career I want to go into. I think I will also be going into a school to get my master’s degree.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I don’t think of myself as an inspiration. I have things that I want to accomplish and do it. When people tell me that I inspire them, I really have to look at myself to see what I do that is different from other people. I have been blessed with many opportunities and I work hard to make the most of them. I see others who may have the same opportunities but don't take advantage of them. I think that is why people see me as an inspiration -- I try to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. I am not inspiring I am just an example of somebody that works hard, is thankful, takes changes, and is determined. I also try to encourage other teens to be the same way. This is our time to experience as much of life as we can, and I want everyone to take chances and do new and exciting things.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I learned good time management skills early in my gymnastics career. I go from school directly to the gym and do not get home until 9 P.M most days. I learned to do homework whenever I found myself with free time, even if I don’t want to be doing it. I also have to give up a lot to keep up with everything I do. I don't always get to hang out with my friends or family, and I cannot just sit around and watch a movie. I learned to get all my work done first before I can have fun with my friends.

Image by Selessa Holmberg

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I love shopping. I love putting new outfits together and playing around with different styles of clothes. Also, my sisters love shopping too so it is something we can do together. It is a fun thing for us to do that we all enjoy and is such a fun way for us to spend our time together.

8. Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
I would say Pizza because I am always in the mood for pizza. I really like tacos too, but sometimes I am not in the mood for tacos. Definitely water, because I drink so much a day that I could not go without it. Dogs, I love how playful and fun dogs are. Cats do not really cuddle with humans and they do not play with toys. Dogs are so much more fun to hang out with, and I could never leave my dog, Finn.

3 Things on your bucket list
I really love to travel so my bucket list right now is just places I want to go. Right now, my travelling bucket list is Iceland, Australia, and Rome. I have more places I want to visit but those are my top three right now.

Tara will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Amanda Szymborski

6/25/2019

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Amanda Szymborski - Michigan
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Rebecca Houlihan Photography
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: I met Amanda Szymborski about a year ago and immediately knew she was somebody special; she has a personality that exudes so much positivity and happiness. Things others say about her is she is always friendly and accepting. She sets an excellent example of work ethic by being in the National Honor Society, participating in school clubs, and being the varsity team captain for golf and tennis. Amanda has made an impact in the community through volunteering and assisting whenever needed. Amanda is someone who truly makes the world a better place and enhances the lives of everyone she is with.

How did you first become interested in tennis to now being the Varsity team captain for your school?
I have “played” tennis ever since I can remember. But my version of playing was just hitting the ball in the street in front of my house with someone. I always enjoyed doing that so my freshman year I decided to join the tennis team, as soon as I stepped on the court, I knew I was meant to be there. I wasn’t very good when I first started, but I put a lot of energy and time into tennis year-round and eventually became one of the best players in the school.

What is the Links program at your school and how did you become involved in it?
The links program is when you spend an hour of your school day to help a student on the autism spectrum be social. Students on the spectrum don’t have the best communication skills so that is why you are there. I joined the links program when one of my teachers suggested I should participate in it. They thought I would be a great link.

Tell me a little bit about the student leadership committee and what your role is.
The student leadership academy is a selected group of outstanding students: students that participate in class on a daily schedule, are kind and polite, and responsible. Almost every single Wednesday morning the group would meet up and we would have guest speakers who would teach us how to speak in front of crowds. Part of the leadership academy is we plan a huge party and we raise money to go towards local charities. Going through the process of the party we set up meetings with local businesses to try and get donations. With all the money we raise, we have to decide what to spend it on and how much to spend on things.

What responsibilities come with being a part of the National Honor Society?
NHS requires you get at least 20 hours of community service per year. I like to spend my time at the local food bank and volunteering my time working at kids camps.

How have you managed to balance all the activities you are involved in while maintaining a strong academic record?
I’m not going to lie it is very tough, but it is doable. Being involved with sports and other after school activities takes up a ton of time, but you just have to remember you are a student athlete. Being a student is always your first priority. On bus ride to games sometimes you have to study for that big test tomorrow or do your homework instead of talking to your teammates. If you’re stuck, your captain or other teammates probably took the class and can help you. All your friends want to hang out, but you have a boat load of homework, you might have to stay home and do your schoolwork over hanging out with friends. I maintained my strong academic by doing all the above, I would take my schoolwork to matches and miss out on times when my friends were hanging out, but it’s worth it in the end.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I always write stuff down in my reminders and calendar on my phone to make sure I don’t forget about something!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell them to never give up and always maintain a positive work ethic! Where you get in the future depends on what you are doing now, the amount of work you put into it. Everyone has bad days or weeks but don’t let it get in your head, prevail through the rough patch

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I believe I am so inspiring because I have the ability to remain free spirited in anything I do. I can adapt well to anything in any given circumstance, and love reaching out to new opportunities and people of all ages. I always maintain my smiling face and positive nature. I consider it an amazing blessing that I am looked up to by children, striving to work and become as talented, if not more talented than me, in the future. By seeing and observing my consistent, positive work ethic, I’ve learned and grown throughout the years. I hope this truly inspires many young people to always work hard and to never give up, ever.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I love to spend time with my friends! My friends mean everything to me and inspire me to strive to always become a better person each day and have helped to teach me so many valuable life lessons that have helped shape me into the person I am today.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My whole life, friends and family always remind me of how determined and strong minded I am. Always striving to accomplish my goals whether they take hours, days, even years to accomplish.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find all my friends, and parents inspiring and mind changing. All my friends have a special characteristic that no one else I know is anything like, they are all their own person each possess a valuable, inspiring, original outlook on life which has helped to shape my values opinions and beliefs. My parents both have a high education and worked their butts off in college to be as successful and diligent as they are today. Without all their lessons and work motives I would not be the person I am today.

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Pizza but it has to be just cheese
Pink lemonade mixed with sprite
Dogs because they are so loving and loyal

3 Things on your bucket list
I want to participate in a mission trip, travel through Europe, and lastly go to all the tennis opens (French open, U.S. open, Australian open)

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Recently, to add on to my tennis career journey, I found out I was named all state for 1 doubles! I consider it an amazing accomplishment, that paid off with long hours of practice, and by maintaining a thoughtful, persevering mindset.

Amanda will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Diana Kolb

6/24/2019

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Diana Kolb - Texas
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Dede Kolb
Photography by Nate Johnson Photography (Swim),
Color Dawn Photography & others
Inspiring Teens Magazine Issue 23

The Nomination: Diana Kolb was born to an alcoholic mother in Kazakhstan, placed in an impoverished orphanage at age two, and by age four was adopted and brought to the United States. Unfortunately, the adoptive mother was mentally abusive and terminated the adoption after four years. This led Diana to her forever family, where she found a way to forgive and shine. She has chosen joy over bitterness. She’s a straight A student, on track to graduate high school with an Associate’s degree. She has big dreams as a competitive swimmer and a successful model and hopes her testimony will inspire others.

Photo by Kim Vohs Color Dawn Photography

What have you learned from your adoption process? What good has come from it?

I learned people don’t determine my worth, God does; that people will fail you, but God won’t. Having been given up by my birth mother, and my first adoptive mother, I wondered what was wrong with me that made people not love me. It wasn’t until I experienced the unconditional love of my forever family that I was able to believe in myself. And when they taught me to forgive those who hurt me, I felt victorious, not victimized. My journey is who I am, and I want to encourage others facing rejection and insecurities to not give up on themselves, because our trials are part of a masterpiece that can only be created as we go through them.

Photo by Bryan Grant Pixel Studio Photography Kazakhstan dress

Tell us about your birth country.

My birth country is Kazakhstan. It is across the world with bordering countries of Russia and China. I don’t remember much about anything but the orphanage. I remember freezing snow and a lot of it. I must have been a bad child, because I was beaten a lot. But I must have been a good child for a family to pick me as the child they wanted to adopt. These were the kinds of thoughts I had as a child. I never felt like I had an identity until I was loved unconditionally, which gave me the bravery step out and be myself.

My mother dreams of making a trip to Kazakhstan one day, because she never got to see where I came from since they adopted me after I had been brought to the United States by my first adoptive family. I think it would be a little cool to make a visit myself, but Texas will always be my home.

We have brought a little bit of Kazakhstan to East Texas through some handmade traditional dresses a seamstress made for me in Kazakhstan. They are very tribal and fun to have as a memorial of my birth country.

Swim Image by Nate Johnson Photography

With UIL District, Regional and State honors and as a USA Sectionals qualifier, how rigorous is your training?

My training seems insane to most people. I swim every weekday except Sunday, and three days I swim morning and evening. My morning practices start at 5:30 AM, and my evening practices are after school. I also have to maintain a healthy diet. That means preparing meals for the day so I don’t end up eating junk on the run, but eat enough to fuel my body for swim. Finally, I have to have plenty of rest. That means earlier bedtimes than most teenagers. It is challenging to the social life, but I’m willing to make sacrifices to become a better competitive swimmer.

Tell us a little bit about how you maintain a 3.95 GPA with all your swim training?

Because of my late start with the English language, and my unstable childhood, I have had to play “catch-up” most of my school years. It hasn’t been easy. I study a lot. It requires discipline. I have to make the most of every minute, and find times throughout the day to study because “all nighters” are not an option with swim. It’s simple, I work hard for that GPA.

Snapshot by Mom in my Bags of Love Tee

Can you explain the Bags of Love charity and what it means to you?

This is a charity started by a lady who grew up in the foster care system. Her testimony is of being moved from place to place with her belongings in trash bags. She has made it her mission to provide duffle bags filled with supplies to foster children. Her motto is, “No Kid Deserves a Trash Bag.” When I heard about this charity, I knew I wanted to help. I knew what this felt like. When my first adoption was terminated, some of my belongings were transported in trash bags. No child should be made to feel like trash. I have volunteered by stuffing bags, and am proud to have been a part of the advertising for this charity. We both have decided not to trash our testimonies.

What does it mean for you to work at the Boys and Girls Club as a certified lifeguard and teaching swim lessons?

All of my team practices are at the Boys and Girls Club, and between that, work, and teaching swim lessons, I feel like I spend half of my life there. My first job was cleaning bathrooms. But, after completing their program to certify as a lifeguard, my responsibilities have grown. Plus, they are very accommodating with my schedule. I’m grateful for the opportunities the Boys and Girls Club have given me to train and work in the sport I love.

Photo by Kim Vohs from Color Dawn Photography

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

Never stop trusting God. There will be times when that will be really hard, but He created us for a reason and has a plan our lives. Another thing I would advise is to have a good support system. For me, this quickly became my forever parents. They are always there for me, and I found that when I let myself trust people again, they helped me get through some of the toughest times with unconditional love. The last piece of advice I would give is to admit when you need help. This was the hardest thing for me because I did not trust others to see me as weak. After all I had been through, I had a chip on my shoulder. However, I made my situation worse when I refused to let people in. I had to learn that no one is perfect, but there will always be good people around wanting to help. Don’t let bitterness take hold; forgive and let others love on you. Don’t waste time being angry at your past. Take pride in overcoming, then work hard on worthy goals.

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

In five years, I hope to still be swimming competitively, which means at the highest levels. I hope to have a bachelors from Texas A&M University by then, and I also see myself eventually coaching swim. I also unexpectedly discovered I have a passion for psychology through an entry level college course. When I first enrolled in this class, I was nervous because I heard it was difficult. The first time I opened the textbook, I freaked out because I didn’t understand most of what I read. It was this class, however, that revealed to me my passion for studying the social behaviors of others. Having been adopted twice and mentally abused as a child, I was very interested in understanding why I reacted differently than most people would have given the same situation. I learned there are reasons people respond to situations as they do. In the future, I want to learn more about those responses to be able to help other children overcome adversity instead of giving up. In five years, I hope to have found my niche in a career that combines my interests in coaching and psychology.

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

I have just lived my life the best I knew how as all the challenges hit me. I think that through my story and everything in my life, it shows God and His glory. This will always be inspiring to people because it helps give others hope. Discovering God’s purpose has taught me that God loves the orphan, but somebody has to be the orphan. Instead of asking, why me? I’ve learned to ask, with expectation, why not me?! Am I always up? No. I have definitely been, and can still get, discouraged. But I have learned that not being discouraged cannot be the goal. That’s unrealistic. The goal is to keep getting back up.

Photo I took of my Charm Cover at the publishing office

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

Swim does not allow much for pastime activity, but I have enjoyed a little success with a modeling hobby. One thing that stands out is my Charm cover. When I first came to my forever home, I fell in love with a local magazine, Charm East Texas. I got to know and love a lot about my new community through this magazine. I dreamed of having my picture in there one day, because that would mean I was truly part of the East Texas family, and family is a big deal to me. Well, not only did my dream come true, I made the cover. What an honor that was. I am a proud East Texas family member.

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

Maybe feeling so out of control as a child created somewhat of a control freak. I also can not stand to be still, so I keep my days full, and being disorganized, I discovered, did not work well. It took a few years in a stable home to figure out how to stay organized, but now I understand this is a necessary skill for success. I could not function without keeping a calendar. I write everything down and I prioritize. Swim, school and work; in that order;)

Photo by Kim Vohs of Color Dawn Photography Joseph story and my coat of many colors

Who do you find inspiring?

My mom has called me her “little Joseph” from the first day we met. She says, like Joseph, in the Bible, I have known rejection and betrayal. But, like Joseph, I have a special purpose. I really like Joseph. He represents how I want to be known – unbreakable.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?

If I had to name a “hidden talent”, I suppose it would be mentoring younger children. I seem to have the personality for dealing with children – both in my church activities and in swim. I have taught younger children in both arenas, and we all seem to benefit from my involvement with them.

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Lots of water, and Jimmy Johns

3 Things on your bucket list

I want to adopt
I want to skydive
I want to travel the world

Anything else you’d like to tell us?

My first adoption ended tragically. I was not told I was leaving the family until the day I was sent away. I never saw it coming and had no choice. I was not given a chance to say goodbye to anyone who had been a part of the past four years of my life. It was painful and I was terrified. Since then, I have been so blessed to reconnect with some very important people from that time in my life – including my godmother and my second-grade teacher. They helped me reconnect with my school family by arranging an after-school reunion party. It was a great time of healing. They encouraged me so much and it felt good to finally have some closure.

Diana will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Sarah Jane Houston

6/21/2019

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Sarah Jane Houston – Georgia
Interview by Claire Path
Nomination by Molly Crosby
Photography by Jay Houston and Mackenzie Rosa
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Sarah Jane is an outstanding person. She is extremely inspirational and is such an amazing genuine person. Sarah Jane is an amazing advocate for social injustice and stands up for people who can’t. Her family has adopted four kids and some foster care since 2013. She is such an amazing person and inspires a ton of people at her school. She’s amazing!!

Image by Jay Houston

How has fostering and adopting kids influenced your life?
Fostering and Adopting kids has completely changed my life for the better. It’s taken my family from two kids to six kids and has shown me that love makes a family, not blood. It’s given me a whole new perspective on gratitude and absolutely changed the way I look at life. My 5 younger brothers have overcome so much and it’s an honor to get to be their big sister. They bring so much joy and life to our house. I can’t imagine life without them. I am so thankful that I have been able to grow up in a family that has both fostered and adopted because it has shown me that that is something I would like to do one day.

What do you think is the biggest social injustice and how do you help people stand up for it?
I think the biggest social injustice is discrimination due to someone’s gender, race, or beliefs. I stand against discrimination by speaking out when I see someone being faced with it. There is never a reason why someone should face discrimination and it breaks my heart that this is even an issue in our community in the first place.

Image by Jay Houston

Can you elaborate on what the Thespian Society is and how you got involved with it?
The Thespian Society is an international society honoring those who have dedicated their time to the theatrical arts. I have been involved in theatre since I was seven years old and have been in over 15 productions since then. Some of my favorite shows were when I was Donkey in Shrek and Dorothy in The Wiz. Theatre has made such a big impact on my life and I will forever be thankful for that.

How have you reached out to your community with suicide prevention?
I have reached out to my community with suicide prevention in multiple ways. I have created a t-shirt line and donated all my proceeds to the National Teen Suicide Hotline. I have ultimately donated over $1000 and I plan on doing more. I also have an inspirational Instagram account that shares inspiration for those who may be struggling or just need a little boost. It’s called @itstimetotalkaboutit.

What other activities are you involved in?
Along with Theatre, I am on two varsity dance teams, a member of FBLA, and Model UN.

Image by Mackenzie Rosa

How has your passion towards helping others shaped your life?
I have always felt the need to stick up for those who can’t stick up for themselves. Over the years this has shown me what really matters in life and what doesn’t. As a teenager, it’s easy to find yourself wrapped up in insignificant issues that don’t matter in the long run. The life that my parents have modeled for me & the life that I live because of them, has shown me that anything is possible and it has taught me how to differentiate between the things that are worth focusing on and things that don’t need a second thought.

Image by Jay Houston

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom is the most inspirational person I have ever met. Along with working a full-time job in social work & a part time job photography job, she is able to parent six children, be a loving wife, and advocate for things she is passionate about. She gives everything she does 100% and I hope to be able to model that same character when I’m older.

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

Sarah Jane will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Maddie Reinebold

6/15/2019

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Maddie Reinebold - Colorado
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Nena C Photography
Issue 22 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Maddie inspires me every day. She lettered in Varsity soccer her Freshman year, plays on one of the highest club soccer teams in our area, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA and making the Honor Roll. She has received numerous awards including Academic Excellence Recognition from the Leadership and Global Communications Academy at her school and the MVP Award while swinging as goalkeeper for both the Varsity and JV teams. Her hard work, dedication, and positive attitude are present in everything she takes on and no challenge is too great or goal too big for her to tackle.

How did your soccer career begin?

My soccer career began when I was six years old. I really didn't know which sport I wanted to play, but I knew I wanted to play sports. When I was two, I would always run onto the soccer field when my brother was playing his games. My family thought soccer was the perfect fit. Since then, I have grown to love the game and have worked very hard to improve so I can reach my goals and dreams.

What are some ways you have overcome challenges you faced throughout your life?

One of the biggest challenges I have had to overcome was an injury. Two years ago, I broke my collarbone during the President's Cup. I had to put my training and goals on hold to recover. It took six months to heal and be cleared to play. It took a long time to get back my strength. However, by practicing, additional training, and strength and conditioning I was able to come back. Now I am working hard to push myself to be stronger than ever before.

When you are not on the field playing soccer, or studying for school, what is something else you like to do in your free time?

Soccer and school work take up most of my time, but when I am not doing these things you can usually find me working out, hanging out with family or friends, camping, hiking, or walking my dog. I love being active and getting out of the house, I cannot stand sitting still.

If someone got discouraged because they can't fulfill their dream, how would you help them?

I would talk to them and try to encourage them to keep working towards their dreams and their goals. Sometimes the path to reaching your goals or dreams is not always easy and can be discouraging, but if you stay focused and work hard you can reach your goals and dreams. You'll never reach your goals if you give up.

Maddie will be featured in issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Jennice Singh

6/13/2019

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Jennice Singh - Haldwani, Uttarakhand India
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Permik Kenovin
Issue 22 Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination:
Dr.Jennice Singh (h.c.)-( she don't prefer using Dr. Though!)
Published author at age 16 after 2 years of self initiated intensive archaeology research
Author of Asia's First Non fictional Research Based Book on Egyptian Mummy
Youngest Indian who can read and write Hieroglyphs
Honorary Doctorate at age 16 for contribution in Archaeology
Famous on Tumblr for poetry, won many awards for the same
Done field work with famous Archaeologists.
Currently employed at Leiden University as MOOC professor for 'Osteoarchaeology' and 'The Rooseveltian Century'
ICHW 2019 Top 100 most influential people.

Tell us a little bit about your career and achievements up to this point.
I published my book titled Unknown Man- E after two years of self-initiated intensive research at the age of 16. The book turned out to be India’s and Asia’s First Non-Fictional Research Based book on Egyptian Mummy, and I received Honorary Doctorate for my work. I have done various courses from the MOOC platform, Coursera, and even worked as a Coursera mentor for the Leiden University. I studied Hieroglyphics under British Archaeologist Charlotte Booth and turned out to be the Youngest Indian who can read and write Hieroglyphics.
Except this, my poetry career on Tumblr has become quite eminent as my poems are frequently published in various literary magazines around the globe. Fortunately, I will be attending a volunteer Excavation organized by Israel Science Foundation this July in Israel, and am the only Indian candidate selected.

What made you start to write? How do you think of ideas of what to write about?
I began drafting my book when I was 15, but it was only a research analysis, and therefore I do not consider it as the beginning of my writing career. I wrote my first actual piece of poetry on September 24th, 2017 after my best friend died in a car crash a day before. I posted this poem on Tumblr, titled PALACE OF ILLUSION, and the kind of response that I received, further prompted me to write more frequently.
Most of my ideas are generally singular words which many Tumblr accounts post as monthly prompts. Other than that, I imagine various situations by myself and write accordingly!

How did you feel when you became the author of Asia's First Non fictional Research Based Book on the Egyptian Mummy?
‘Happy’ is a very short word to describe the sense of excitement I felt when I unpacked the courier I received from Asia Book of Records. It was as if all my hard work paid off!!!

Tells us about your experiences with being enrolled at Leiden University as a MOOC professor for Osteoarchaeology and The Rooseveltian Century.
It was a great thing to experience because many of the other MOOC professors were university professors and associates, who were very much experienced and obviously knew much more about the course subjects than me. And the best part is that everyone was strictly instructed to treat me like other MOOC participants irrespective of the fact that I was the youngest of them. This really increased my self- confidence and made me believe that with my work and expertise, I can equal people thrice my age and position.

What is the ICHW 2019 Top 100 award? Why do you think you received this award?
The ICHW 2019 Top 100 award was awarded to 100 international record breakers of 2019 from different fields. I had three different nominations and one of them was the ‘Youngest Indian who can read and write Hieroglyphics’, for which I received the award. I guess the main reason for my name to be announced up there was that Hieroglyphics is a unique and ancient language, and not many people today practice it. So the fact that a 16 year old girl not only learned that sacred language but also implied it in her own research to translate various Egyptian inscriptions was different for them to come through with.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The only piece of advice that I would give to anybody who want to achieve something in their life is that do what you want to do. Do not let anyone, not even your parents, talk you out of it. There will be highs and lows in this journey but have faith and focus. You might not be good today, but one day you will be better at it- and that’s when you will realize that it was all worth it.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I am a very much career-oriented person. I aspire to be an Archaeologist, so I guess that 5 years from now I would probably be holding my Master’s degree in archaeology and about to begin with my doctorate studies in the same subject. I also hope that the poetry book I am currently working on is loved by readers and critics. But 5 years is a very long time, and none of us can be certain about how the tables turn, but I know for sure, that I will experience a lot of new things in all these years and became an even better person than I am today!

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
The one characteristic of mine which many people claim to be inspiring is that I am very focused and determined, and I would go to the end of the world to achieve what I desire. I am a very straight forward person, so I always speak up when I feel that the timing, place and people hearing me are suitable as per the topic of conversation.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I guess that I work better and am more focused when I have a lot on my plate. I am a multitasking person so if you will give me one thing to do at a time, I will somehow bring two entirely different things to work upon at the same time. I know it sounds a bit awkward, but it is my way of not losing my focus and it also helps me to regularly check my capabilities.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I love cooking and experimenting new stuff on regular basis.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Only a very few people know that I am an artist. I sketch or paint for all my poetries and other writings and am also looking out to start my song writing business, though I have yet not received a very fruitful deal.

Pizza or Tacos?
Pizza(s!) I have never tasted Tacos in my entire life, but I don’t think it can be better than Pizza!!!!

3 Things on your bucket list
I have never created any bucket list, because I am always open to new experiences. But I can certainly list at least 3 from my to –do- list:
1. I want to give lectures in Harvard
2. I want be one of the biggest name in the field of Archaeology and uncover the mysteries that are hidden from us, and buried deep down for centuries.
3. A world tour for me and my mom

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I faced a lot rejection and hatred from my community, friends, teachers and even my family, when I told them that I aspire to be an Archaeologist, because it is such an alien concept in my country. My mother and my work have been basically the only factors that helped me go through all the rough times, and now when I look back, when I look at everyone who once asked me to stop (and some still do), I feel privileged that I kept going and saved myself from drowning in the mud which is made up of the restrictions and orthodox conceptions that our society has set up.

Jennice will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Jaylin Martin

6/8/2019

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Jaylin Martin – Alabama
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Michelle Barclay
Inspiring Teens Magazine - Issue 22

The Nomination: Jaylin Caroline is a 2019 James Clemens High School Senior, and Michelle Barclay Photography Senior Model Rep. Jaylin is applying for the Bachelor of Fine Arts Program with the goal of becoming a professional dancer, a visionary choreographer, and physical therapist. Jaylin is outstanding in every way and gives 100% .

Tell us about your dance training and experiences.
I started dancing at the tender age of two. Until I had my first solo at the age of 8, dance was just a hobby, but it quickly became my passion. Whether I am dancing professionally, teaching, or choreographing, dance will always be a part of my life. I’m a diverse dancer. My styles include ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, modern, and lyrical.

What kind of summer programs have you been involved in?
I attended the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater Summer Intensive in 2016 and 2017. In 2017, I was in the professional division and had the opportunity to be in Bradley Shelvers repertory piece. This was an incredible accomplishment and honor. In 2018, I attended Ballet+ in Miami with director Francisco Gella as well as Aria Summer Intensive (Ballet) in California also with director Francisco Gella. I have been mentored by Liz Imperio (Success.dance) and Teddy Forance (CLI Studios). My training and experiences have been invaluable. I cannot thank my mentors enough especially Francisco Gella for pushing me beyond my limits.

Tell us about the different shows you have performed in.
I have performed all over this country in various dance conventions and competitions. I’ve also performed in my high school musical (Beauty and the Beast) as a featured dancer. I’ve enjoyed the past 16 years performing in my dance showcase with Heidi Knight School of Dance. This one is most enjoyable because many of my friends and family members get to see me dance. I aspire to perform in New York City with Complexions Contemporary Ballet Company.

What are some ways you choreograph dances?
Anytime I prepare to choreograph, I listen to the music first then record myself doing improv. I watch the recording and used what I like in my choreography. I identify the mood of the song, how I’m feeling.

Jaylin will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Abigail Strickland

6/6/2019

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Abigail Strickland - Colorado
Interview by Shaina Zaccagnino
Nomination and Photography by Carol Dunnigan Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: I consider Abigail Strickland to be an inspiring teen for all the amazing things that she does for her community. Besides being the Varsity Co-Captain of her school's cheerleading team, she's part of the National Honor Society, the A-team which is a tutoring program and part of 4-H. Outside of school she fundraises for Honor Flight Veterans and makes Valentines for local teachers, bus drivers and doctors. She's helped with canned food drives and donating supplies to shelters. Now, she is starting a job as a program aide at the YMCA! I'm proud to have such an amazing young woman on my model rep team!

How long have you been involved in cheer and what do you love most about it?
I have been involved in cheer since I was a freshman so about 4 years. I love tumbling and cheering at football games under the Friday night lights!

Tell us about Carol Dunnigan's Model Rep Team and your involvement.

I recently joined Carol Dunnigan’s Model Rep Team. So far, I have done two photography sessions. We will be doing more sessions and completing community service. I love taking pictures with some of my classmates and making new friends who are also a part of the team!

Image by Corina Strickland

How did you learn about 4-H? Why did you decide to join?

I learned about 4-H from my mom. She was actively involved in her 4-H club when she was young. A student that my mom had in her 5th grade class was part of the local club. He had told us about the cloverbud program for the younger kids.

Once we found out about a club that was located near us, I joined it to follow my mom’s footsteps. I was seven years old when my 4-H journey started in cloverbuds.

Image by Corina Strickland

What have you learned as being a member of 4-H?

I have learned a lot from being a 4-H member. I have learned about citizenship and government, how to be a leader, how to help my community, and how to become a better person. Through one of the projects that I did over a three-year period, I learned about citizenship and government. At the end of the project, I traveled to Washington D.C. to experience these things in person. The workshops there focused on being a better citizen and leader. Government was exhibited by a mock trial to create new laws and bills. I have learned how to be a better leader by the multiple leadership conferences that I have attended. Also, with being a previous president for my club and the current vice president, I have been able to lead meetings and manage large groups of people. I have learned how to help my community by all the community service that 4-H is involved with. Whether it be donating to shelters or just making someone’s life a little easier. All of these have helped shape me into the person that I am today.

Image by Abigail Strickland

Do you think other people should join 4-H?
Of course, other people should join 4-H! It offers so many amazing opportunities and teaches so many applicable life skills. It makes people become their best versions of themselves. And though, most people believe you need livestock to be a 4-H member, this is not true. All my projects have been without livestock. My first 4-H project was baking. In addition to baking I entered the scrapbooking project for several years. In more recent years, I have added painting and sketching for visual arts. There are hundreds of different types of projects to choose from. These are just a few of my favorites.

What do you plan to do with 4-H in the future?
Even though my 4-H experience will be done when I turn nineteen, I can apply my leadership skills that I have learned to a future career. In these last couple of years, I plan on being even more involved in 4-H by becoming a district representative. It is the next level from my current county club, and it is more state focused. I’m excited to see where these last few years take me!

Abigail will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Emily Butler

6/4/2019

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Emily Butler - Alabama
Interview by Caroline Alegado
Nominated by Kimberly Butler
Photography by Butler Studio
Issue 22 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Emily Butler is truly talented in everything she tries: dancing, public speaking, water sports, tutoring, acting, and more. But all these things are not what make her so inspiring. She is inspiring because even with all these talents, she has the most humble and generous heart. She does not see her gifts as something that makes her better, but something that makes her better able to serve. She spends much of her free time working for people who are truly needy: From volunteering with our local homeless shelter and soup kitchen, to spending two evenings per week tutoring at-risk children, to regularly helping and sitting with her shut-in grandmother.

Her beauty and gifts shine bright, but her heart of gold shines the brightest!

How did you get started in dance and who inspired you to start?
I’ve been dancing since I was two, and I haven’t stopped. I can’t recall if anyone “inspired” me to start. However, there are countless people who have inspired me to continue. I’ve been blessed beyond belief with teachers and teammates who constantly push me outside my comfort zone. They inspire me to use my talent as a gift to others. They give words of truth and encouragement. These people continually motivate me to be, not only the best dancer I can be, but also the best person I can be.

How has dance helped you grow not only as an athlete?
I’ve grown to appreciate self-expression, and how to be unified with people who do not think the same way that I do. Unity amongst diversity is the most precious kind. I’ve grown spiritually because I have a dance "Tribe" that keeps me accountable and reminds me of how God sees me. I'm more confident in myself and my ability to form genuine connections. I’ve failed miserably as well, teaching me that someone’s worst performance does not define them, but what they DO afterward.

What other extracurricular activities and service projects have you done?
I had the honor of tutoring "at risk" students. But these kids taught me so much! I learned that most of the time when someone is difficult, they are probably dealing with truly hard stuff. It's amazing how far compassion and cookies can go. When kids are given the right kind of attention, they thrive.

Another activity is BEST Robotics, where I was blessed to be the CEO my 10th-grade year. This revealed my interest in public speaking. I found what I hope to make my career. I loved presenting to the judges. We won six awards and competed at South’s BEST! We set a record for our hub within our first year!

Describe what it is like to be a homeschooler and how it is different from what most people think.
Being a homeschooler doesn’t mean anything other than learning the way your brain learns, which frees up time for SO MUCH MORE! My family travels a lot; so I can have more diverse experiences, and school comes with me. I have time to be my community, meeting all kinds of people, in all kinds of walks of life. The friendships I have made through homeschooling are the most precious relationships. I still get to go to football games and even proms. Homeschoolers aren’t limited, on the contrary. We have UNLIMTED options before us.

What was your favorite project you did with YLS?
My favorite was our drive for toiletries for Shoals CASA, which works with foster children to make sure that they are safe, and their needs are met. Often when a child is taken from their home and placed in a new one, it’s completely unexpected and urgent. They usually don’t have time to grab so much as a toothbrush before their new life begins. It takes "the system" a few days to get the children what they need. The items we collected make an often scary situation feel a bit more secure by allowing the kids to have something as basic as the ability to brush their teeth on the first days of being in an unfamiliar place. This experience helped me become more aware of the difficulties of children's lives in our own area.

Emily will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Claire Amyx

5/28/2019

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Claire Amyx – Texas
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination and Main Photography by Angie Read Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination:
Most teens these days are super busy, and Claire Amyx is definitely no exception! As a junior this past year, Claire was involved with the Child Guidance program at her high school, which fostered her love for teaching elementary aged children. On top of that, Claire is a dancer and figure skater, which requires hours of practice every week. Claire isn't only gorgeous, she's also a high performer at school and was just inducted into National Honor Society. On top of it all, she has a sweet personality and has been a pleasure to have on my model team. She's got a bright future ahead of her!

What got you interested in the child guidance program at your high school?

When I first discovered the child guidance program it seemed really cool to teach children for a good part of the school day. I was put into the child development class during my sophomore year of high school and I really enjoyed learning about the development of children. At the end of the year I applied to be in the Child Guidance program, and luckily, I got in!

How did this program foster your love for teaching?

Child guidance really opened my eyes to the teaching world immediately. This program fostered my love for teaching because working with the preschoolers almost every morning wasn’t your average high school class. It was a serious class, but it was extremely fun and engaging.

Tell me a little bit about the program and what you do.

Each week during the school year we have the preschool students Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays. Monday’s and Friday’s are the days where we lesson plan as well as discuss and prepare for the upcoming weeks. All nineteen of the children stayed for four class periods, so we split us high school students in half (Nine students in 1st and 2nd period. 10 students in 3rd and 4th periods). I was one of the nine students in the morning class. The morning starts with carline, washing hands and morning play time. Next is our 1st circle time, then we dismiss the children to their learning center groups. After completing the rotations of the learning centers, we have them wash their hands and then go to their second circle time. Shortly after, 3rd and 4th period students come in and take over from there. We have five different color groups that we separate the children in. Red, orange, yellow, green and blue. We send the groups off to five different stations which include reading/language, writing, math/science, art and dramatic play. Us high school teachers write lesson plans based on which centers we teach each week. Another important job is each day there is an assigned lead teacher. This student teacher teaches both circle time lessons as well as helps assist the learning centers. We also have people called “floaters” in which they also assist the learning centers just in case something goes wrong or if another teacher needs help.

Picture by Claire Amyx

How do you know that you want to become a teacher as a junior?

When I was in 3rd grade I remember coming home and playing school. As a child I loved playing teacher. I was never really serious about becoming a teacher until I finished my junior year, which was also my first year in child guidance. After watching the nineteen children in child guidance grow and develop throughout the year, I knew that teaching was what I wanted to do.

Claire will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Amajae Hardy Jones

5/24/2019

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Amajae Hardy Jones - Pennsylvania
Interview by Caroline Alegado
Nomination by Diana Wolfe
Main Photography by Troy Alexander
Issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Amajae Hardy-Jones is a 17 years old actress in the Philadelphia area that is making waves in our local entertainment industry. Amajae is actively involved in many productions currently such as “Cinderella: The Bride of Christ” and was casted as the lead in a traveling stage play called
“Not Without My Hijab” that follows the journey of Aneesa, a teenage Muslim girl struggling with many of the societal issues teenagers face: bullying, self-acceptance, and self-confidence.
Amajae oversees monthly meetings and organizes various community outreach projects, such as her annual Jeans for Teens drive. This annual jean
drive is organized to satisfy the most common request of teens who reside in homeless shelters, “a pair of jeans”. Last year with the help of her community, Amajae collected and donated over 300 pairs of jeans.
Amajae loves to travel. In Belize, Amajae visited the local elementary school making friends with the native school children. She has also been to parts of Europe and believes that education through travel is imperative.

How did you get started in theater?
I started theater when I was 14 years old. I began with church productions and community plays within the Philadelphia area. I also began a summer theater program at the Kimmel Center of Performing Arts named Show Stoppers.

What is your favorite production you’ve been in and why?
My favorite production that I’ve been a part of is the stage play, “Not Without My Hijab”. This play has been one of my favorites because I was able to learn from and experience a culture and religion different from my own. While adapting to a Muslim character, I was able to reflect on my own religion and educate myself of the similarities and differences between the two. Overall, the “Not Without My Hijab” staged production does an excellent job in educating the audience on the importance of the Muslim Religion.

Image by Andre McNeil with Olympus Studio

Can you talk about “Jeans for Teens” and what inspired you to start?
The “Jeans for Teens” drive is a nonprofit project that I took on in 2017 in order to benefit unfortunate teens who reside in homeless shelters. It was said that the number one item requested upon arrival is a pair of denim jeans. Through the “Jeans for Teens” project I was able to reach out to a homeless shelter in need and donate over 300 pairs of jeans. I was immediately inspired to take on this project in order to help those to feel a sense of normalcy amongst their peers. I was motivated to educate others of this issue while also encouraging others to take initiate in donating to those in need.

What lessons do you think traveling has taught you that you couldn’t learn in a classroom?
Based off my traveling experience I became educated on the importance of learning from others. The importance of learning new cultures helps us all to become better citizens within the world around us.

How are you working to make your dreams a reality?
I believe I am working towards making my dreams a reality by pressing on. I believe through goal setting, dedication, consistency and hard work, dreams have no other choice but to turn into reality.

What advice would you give to someone in a similar situation?
My advice would be to keep pushing despite what others may say or do. Don’t get discouraged or lose sight of your vision. If you can believe it, your almost there.

Image by by Tara Hardy

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I would like to continue in my craft of acting, I see myself continuously learning as I master my craft. Of course I see myself on the big screen by then.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I’m a true Disney kid at heart. If I’m not working on memorizing a script, I’m probably off somewhere watching a Disney classic movie.

What is the scariest thing you’ve ever done for fun?
Scariest thing I’ve ever done was zip lining through the tree tops of Costa Rica.

Summer or Winter? Cats or Dogs? Vacation or Stay-cation?
Summer, Dogs, Vacation

Amajae will be featured in Issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Brileigh Cates

5/22/2019

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Brileigh Cates – Missouri
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Luna Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Brileigh Cates is a triple-jumper and a 400 M sprinter who has wanted to be a missionary and help others since she was six-years-old. She has top class rank/GPA and still finds time for Varsity Track, Academic Team, Pom Squad, Marching Band, Wind Ensemble, and Studio Jazz. She has recently been elected as Vice-President of the Sho-Me Band and was chosen to be the Alto Saxophone section leader. She also returns to her elementary school to help with Open House and choreographing for their GLEE Club. Brileigh is the hardest working teen you will meet.

What led you to want to become a missionary?

When I was five, I knew of the concept of sinning, but I did not know the reason of why we sinned. Between the ages five and six, I learned how everyone sinned, and has come short of God’s glory. When I was little, I knew that there were places in the world that were not as privileged as I was. I knew that some people would never even hear of God’s greatness and love. I decided I wanted to witness to these people, so they would get the chance to be redeemed under God.

How have you managed to rank the top GPA in your class while also being involved in many extracurricular activities?

First off, I always take notes in class. I right down key details of that day. Second off, I set times to study thoroughly before my tests. I have set standards on myself to have no missing assignments or any grades lower than an 90%. Overall, I make sure to use my time wisely, so I do not use any other distractions, such as a phone, during these time periods.

Tell me a little bit about the GLEE club and Open House you help out with at your old elementary school.

GLEE Club is basically what it sounds like, it is a club that involves singing and dancing. I was asked to make a sweet and simple dance routine for the third graders in the Glee Club. This dance routine was to “This Is Me” by Keala Settle and The Greatest Showman Ensemble. Open House is a night when all of the parents and students meet with their new teacher for the new school year. Normally, I would help parents and students find their teachers and introduce them to each other.

What are some goals you have set for yourself and how have you been able to achieve them?

In the 6th grade, I decided I wanted to be on the high school dance team (Pom Squad). I knew that one of my mom’s co-workers had a daughter on the Pom Squad, so, I asked Kassi if she would work with me on some basic required skills. She did, and now I’ve earned my first varsity letter.

In the 5th grade, I received a “Basic” on the state exam for English Language Arts. Then, during 6th grade, something just clicked. School started to make sense and I started to get all A’s. That year, I made “Advanced” in ELA. I told myself that I needed to keep up these good grades and set a goal to continue to make all A’s. Now, my goal is set on being valedictorian for the class of 2022.

Image by Brileigh Cates

What has been your favorite memory of being a part of the marching band?

My favorite memory probably was when a JROTC student was running next to our practice marching band field and he then accidentally ran into one of the drum major’s podiums, and she fell off.

Can you elaborate more on all of the activities you are involved with in your community?

I have volunteered at our local Mark Twain Museum. This is a museum dedicated to the history of Poplar Bluff, MO and Butler County. I have helped sort through donations. I have given personal tours (my favorite by far).

I volunteer at The Walk to End Alzheimer's and the UCAN Walk. I have made cotton candy, face painted, and been a designated cheerleader throughout the walk.

Brileigh will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!!

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Sean Ryan

5/22/2019

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Sean Ryan – Pennsylvania
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Natalie Ryan
Photography by Rich Levy/ Natalie Ryan
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: When Sean Ryan was deciding what to do for an Eagle Project he wanted something meaningful. He looked around at all he was lucky enough to have, supportive family, excellent school, good friends. He also thought about what he loved to do most which was reading. Then he set about doing something meaningful to him but also a way to give back to those less fortunate. Sean decided to collect books for the Samuel Pennypacker School in Philadelphia which had not a had a library in many years. He began a book drive intending to obtain 500 books. What he didn't expect was an outpouring of generosity from the community. On April 26, 2019, Sean Ryan loaded up 3,415 books and started a library for the students at Pennypacker Elementary.

How did your reading disability affect your perspective on school?
I remember how challenging it was for me to read. I liked books, but it was difficult for me, so I just avoided books. I started using a reading program with my teacher called MRI, and that is when everything clicked. I began to understand reading, so I started enjoying reading. I’m not sure exactly when my passion for books began after that. It was probably gradual, but by 7th grade, I was being nominated by my English teacher for a reading award.

Did you know that you wanted to do a book drive because you had a reading disability?
I think that probably happened indirectly. As I became more confident in my reading I wasn’t so intimidated by books. Books became something that I just loved. I began to really appreciate the fact that I was so lucky to be in a district that had so many resources available to me. I wanted other kids who weren’t as lucky as I was to have that opportunity too. To me, reading is a portal to all kinds of exciting places and adventures.

What made you choose Samuel Pennypacker School in Philadelphia?
My cousin teaches there and he loved to talk about all his “kids”. I remember him telling me that the library had been closed for years and that it was just being used as a place to store old teacher manuals and workbooks. That made me feel kind of sad for the students. When the time came for me to pick my Eagle project I wanted to do something that I was passionate about and would make an impact in other’s lives as well. A book drive just seemed like the most natural choice for me.

How did the community react to your book drive at first?
My community was amazing. My mom suggested social media to reach the most people and let them know about it. I started by going on the Butler Elementary Facebook page and asking if anybody had books to donate. So many people replied. They hold a book sale at their Spring Fair and the PTO told me that they would like to donate any books left over to my book drive. Then word of mouth spread, and I was contacted by a Board of Education member who put me in contact with the Principal of Coldspring Elementary. They had a fire in their library in February and had many books donated to them. They too were looking for a new home for them. The whole community really pitched in to help.

How did you feel when you obtained all 3,415 books?
When I first began the book drive, I thought that maybe I might collect 500 books. I am so amazed and humbled by everyone’s generosity! I never in my wildest dreams would have thought that I would collect so many books

Why do you think the community contributed so much to this school?
We live in a very involved community that really cares about others and values education above all else. I think the Central Bucks Community just wanted to help others who weren’t as fortunate. Books are the one thing that people just can’t throw away so the idea of re-homing them really appeals to them.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Just follow your heart and do something that you are passionate about. It feels really good to pay it forward!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I am exploring possible career ideas. I plan on joining the Pennsylvania National Guard next year while attending a 4-year college. I find myself drawn to a career that serves the public maybe law enforcement more specifically Federal law enforcement but I am also really interested in architecture so we will see.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I am pretty focused on my end goals. I started as a cub scout in first grade and here I am a junior in high school, and I am still active in scouting. I really try to be a good role model for others. I have managed to keep my GPA at around 3.8. I really just like to get involved and help people, so I volunteer through the National Honors Society for various organizations and charities.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I don’t dwell on it…I just take one day at a time and try the best I can to just get things done.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
Besides reading, I love to scuba dive, ski and absolutely love anything related to the military or history.

Who do you find inspiring?
I don’t find one specific person inspiring. The people who inspire me are those who make sacrifices for the good of others. People such as our soldiers, firefighters, and police who are ready to put their lives on the line for others.

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
That’s easy I love Taco pizza so both! Water. I also love all animals but I would have to say dog.

What are 3 things on your bucket list
Skydiving, Scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef, Travel around Europe

Sean will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!!

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Riley Marx - Texas

5/20/2019

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Riley Marx - Texas
Interview by Michelle Sicard
Nomination by Don Marx
Photography by USA Archery and Catherine Marie Photography
Issue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Riley Marx is a Junior and a member of the National Honor Society at Allen High School in Allen, Texas. She is also one of the best Female Olympic Recurve Archers in the Nation. She is a member of USA Archery’s Regional Elite Development Team, USA Archery’s Regional Dream Team, a National 4H Shooting Sports Ambassador, a Pro Staff Shooter at Fulcrum Archery and the Founder of Archers4Tobi. She has taken her love for archery and loss of her Aunt to create a group of young archers that are dedicated to helping families of breast cancer.

Image by Catherine Marie Photography

How difficult has it been to study with your athletic endeavors? Is there any advice you would give to someone who is so involved in both?
Unlike most I have chosen not to homeschool which is very difficult at times. At times it forces me to compromise the amount of time I can dedicate to a particular activity. My piece of advice would be to be persistent. At times you are going to fail but you have to push through.

What opportunities have you received for being a member of NHS?
I have been able to become more involved with my school and my community.

What led you most to create Archers4Tobi?
I wanted to make a charity in honor of my aunt Tobi who passed away and I saw an opportunity to do this through archery.

What is your ultimate dream for the organization?
To comfort as many families as possible.

Riley will be featured in Issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Makayla Miller

5/9/2019

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Makayla Miller - Pennsylvania
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Sara Miller
Photography by Kate Smith Photography

The Nomination: Makayla my beautiful daughter both inside and out inspires me on a daily basis. Her passion for her family, friends and life in general is second to none. Makayla always strives to find the good in everyone and in everything she does. Her smile lights up a room and her personality is infectious and quite amusing. She is true to herself and those she loves. If we all could have a little bit of Makayla in us this world would be a better place.

What is the most important thing to you when it comes to the love of your family?
Telling them I love them every day and each and every opportunity I get.

What are some ways you keep yourself or others feeling confident if they are having a bad day?
I like to think I have a good sense of humor so I always try to add laughter to any situation which helps you forget why you are having a bad day. I also try to remind others and myself about the good in life. I know bad days are just temporary.

Tell us about your personality. What do you want people to think of when they first meet you?
I love to laugh and have fun. I want people to think of me as a positive, upbeat, fun, and trustworthy person.

How did your interest in cheerleading begin? Who is your biggest inspiration when it comes to the sport?
I started competitive cheerleading at the age of 6 because I saw the fun my older cousins were having. My biggest inspiration when it comes to the sport is my coach Rakiesha Morrison who I have been with since I started. She has always pushed me to strive for greatness not only just with cheer but in everyday life. She is one of my toughest critics, but I know it’s all out of love.

What type of impact has cheerleading had on your life? How do you think it has changed you for the better?
When I first started cheerleading, I was very shy and quiet. As the years have progressed, I now have confidence in myself and have become very outgoing. I also have made some of my very best friends through the sport.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Always be yourself and don’t change who you are for someone else.

Image of Makayla Miller by Sara Miller

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I try and get along with everyone around me and I always try and bring the best out in someone.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I try and stick to daily routines.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
Shopping and spending time with my friends and family.
Who do you find inspiring?
My Mom because she loves me unconditionally. She always finds a positive even in the hardest of times and she always finds a way to make things happen for my brothers and me.

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

3 Things on your bucket list
1. To be a World Champion in Cheer
2. To become a model
3. To marry Lamelo Ball

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
It is such an honor to be in the running to be featured on the cover of Inspiring Teen Magazine. Thank you so much for this opportunity.

Makayla Miller will be featured in issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Ty Thompson

5/8/2019

1 Comment

Ty Thompson – Texas
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Berkley Thompson
Photography by Lisa McNiel Photography
Issue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Ty is a real example of a servant leader. As an elected member of the Amarillo High School Student Executive Council, he has over 1000 volunteer hours. The High Plains Food Bank, Snack Pack for Kids, Amarillo Symphony, and First Baptist Church Missions are some of the organizations for which he has volunteered. Ty has served as an officer in History and Latin Club as well as Jr. Class Secretary and was on the golf team. Ty enjoys US history, Texas Country music and sharing his faith. Ty is always smiling and is currently attaining his private pilot's license.

Tell us about your interest in planes and wanting to become a pilot.
"Once you have flown a plane, your eyes will always look to the skies." That's a saying that I live by daily. Ever since I was a little kid, I've always been fascinated with the idea of flight.

What is something you think not a lot of people know about planes?
1. Chemtrails are a lie.
2. Airplanes are the safest means of transportation.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
If you work hard, have a good group of friends and set your goals in life high, you will be able to reach your wildest dreams.

What about you inspires others?
I am driven to work hard at everything I do. It doesn't matter what gifts or talents you are given; those who work for it will prosper.

Who do you find inspiring?
I often look at my grandparents for guidance or even advice. I see what all they have overcome through the decades and listen to what they have to say.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn't in your nomination?
In my spare time, I love to sing. I sing in our high schools' varsity choir. I also love singing with friends and family and write my music when I'm at home.
Who is your favorite artist?
My favorite artist is Alan Jackson. Not only does he have some down south country, he also has some Texas country. He produces music that everyone can dance along too.

What are some of your favorite country songs?
"Summertime Blues" Alan Jackson, "Write This Down," George Strait and "Galveston" Glen Campbell.

What organizations were your favorite to volunteer at and why?
My favorite organization to serve at was Executive Council. The role of an Exec member is to serve the school's needs. Organizing for prom and food drives for the less fortunate were some of my fondest memories.

What were some of your duties as an officer in the History and Latin Club?
I organized and oversaw many of the club's activities. I often put together meetings and held weekly service opportunities such as packing lunch sacks for the less fortunate to eat on the weekends.

How did your career in golf begin? How long have you played the sport?
Golfing has been a life long past time for my family and me. Growing up with a father and grandfather who played made it easy for me to pick up the sport and try to keep up. I often find myself trying to convince my friends to play.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I keep a calendar with all the dates and times of events where I need to be.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I used to shoot shotguns competitively for our county's 4-H team.

What are three things on your bucket list?
1. I have always wanted to skydive.
2. I would love to travel to Sweden.
3. Fly a vintage f-4 Corsair

Anything else you'd like to tell us?
I'm honored to be nominated for this opportunity, and I'm looking forward to knowing who wins.

Ty will be featured in issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine

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Isabella Connery

5/7/2019

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Isabella Connery - Texas
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Angie Read Photography
Issue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: I am lucky to have Isabella Connery on my senior model team this year. She is currently a Junior at Klein Collins High School, and loves make up! She not only loves to wear it, but she loves to wear it well...playing up to her best features. And, she knows when to go light and pretty, and when to go for the more dramatic look. Isabella has a side job as a makeup artist. She can easily apply what she has learned about make up to other people as well! I'm sure that I can learn some make up tips from Isabella! :)

Where did your love for makeup come from?
My love for makeup comes from my early days of competitive dancing. I had to learn how to properly apply my makeup, so I was ready to perform on the stage.

Tell us what your everyday makeup look consists of.
My everyday makeup look consists of light eyebrow filling, a coat of mascara, a moisturizer with SPF, tinted face powder, and Vaseline.

What are your favorite types of makeup brands to use? If you had to pick one to use for the rest of your life, which one would it be and why?
My favorite types of makeup brands to use are budget friendly and inclusive ones like NYX and Urban Decay. If I had to pick one to use for the rest of my life, it’d have to be Benefit because it’s totally underrated.

What has been your favorite job you have had with your makeup artist career?
I worked with an adult client who was going to celebrate her 25th wedding anniversary. She hired me to apply her makeup, and when I was done, she felt rejuvenated and was ready to celebrate! It was very cool and fulfilling.

What are some tips for someone who is suffering with acne? Do you have any special treatments you could recommend them?
When it comes to acne, I know the struggle. Especially as a teenager. When I’m breaking out, I find it beneficial to cut down on the amount of product I’m using and apply a salicylic acid spot treatment twice a day. Stick to just a cleanser, moisturizer, and spot treatment for daily use. Be careful not to strip your skin of its natural oils, as it can lead to breakouts.

What about you inspires others?
Something about me that inspires others is my ability to attain my goals despite my daily obstacles with having Tourette’s Syndrome, a neurological disorder that causes involuntary movements of the body known as “ticks”. Life with Tourette’s includes learning information differently than others and working relentlessly around the clock to be able to comprehend subject matter. Tourette’s can be very distracting and disruptive to even simple daily tasks. Having this condition has taught me self-discipline and other essential lifelong skills for anyone who aspires of being successful. Living with something that has no cure could be looked at as a curse, but I just see it as a part of me that challenges me to do my best. I believe facing your challenges head on is a valuable life skill for anyone to have.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice to anyone who wants to be where I am today is the following; know your worth, market your skills, be persistent, maintain an efficient mindset, and let your actions reflect your goals.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself as a senior in college getting ready to enter the world with my higher education and making my dreams reality.

Image by Joan Connery

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I am a firm believer of both mental and physical organization being successful approaches to maintain everything that you seek to accomplish.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
My appreciation of Fine Arts.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Singing!

Who do you find inspiring?
My dance teacher of 13 years, Kim Kelly at Progressions Performing Arts.

Pizza or Tacos? Taco pizza (it’s a thing).
Soda or water? Water.

Cats or dogs? Cats

3 things on your bucket list
See my name in lights, cliff jump, and be on the cover of a magazine.

Isabella will be featured in issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine

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Zaria Robinson

5/7/2019

1 Comment

Zaria Robinson – Illinois
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo.
Nomination and Photography by Images by Marc Anthony.
Issue 21 – Inspiring Teens Magazine.

The Nomination: Zaria is an amazing dancer and student leader. She has done a phenomenal job leading her team and participating in solo events (and winning her fair share). She has also volunteered her time to teach dance to younger students at her local church. She is a super awesome young lady and I'm proud to know her. I can't wait until she opens a dance studio after college.

What inspired you to start dancing? How long have you been dancing?
I honestly don’t know what it was… my mom just asked me one day if I wanted to do ice skating or dance since those were the only options for little girls where we lived in Ohio at the time. I just got a feeling and answered dance; the rest is history. I was around 3 when she asked me so I’ve been dancing for 15 years now.

What is your is your favorite type of dance genre? Did you learn this style first? If not, what style did you learn when you first started dancing?
I honestly don’t have a favorite dance genre. I enjoy them all and they all have their own advantages. The first style of dance I started to train in were ballet and tap.

What is one thing about dance that most people don’t know?
For me it’s a lot more than just a passion - it is a way of life. I would even say for most dancers… it’s all they think and do. It’s all some of us can eat, sleep, and dream about. Being a dancer means a lot of times we have to sacrifice a lot. We have to miss out on a lot of events and activities. It’s hard having friends outside of dance because they will never truly understand why it’s so important for us to go to practice/rehearsal. Missing one time can feel as though you have missed over a week. A lot happens in a single dance practice/rehearsal so even though I miss once, it could take me at least 2 practices/rehearsals to catch up. Then you feel bad everyone having to re-explain everything and keep doing it over and over so you can catch up. It also means probably missing out on big opportunities. The teacher/choreographer may have wanted you for a specific part, but since you aren’t there you miss your window of opportunity and they move on.

If you could add or change something about dance to the dance world, what would it be and why?
I would have to say a wider shade range when it comes to shoes, tights, and “nude” undergarments. Currently in jazz shoes from what I’ve been able to find they only offer tan and black; I have to put foundation on my shoes so that they match me when I am onstage. I see a large issue with that. I think that here should be shades ranging from the lightest of dancers to the darkest. It’s a large industry that I believe is being neglected but has a very large opportunity. I plan on pursuing that venture, so everyone feels comfortable with going onstage and not looking silly because their tights and shoes don’t match them when they are performing.

When you open a dance studio of your own one day, what are your plans for it?
My dance studio one day in the future… I’m still debating what the name should be. I want it to be something powerful yet professional, short, but not too short. I would want to offer tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, ballet, modern, contemporary, yoga, heels, tumbling/acro, and maybe even silks/aerial silks just because I find it so intriguing. I want the inside of my studio to be very warm and inviting while also staying professional. I want there to be 2 levels. There should be pictures of the students throughout. Ideally there would be about 8 or 9 studios/rooms. There would be a room for kids to do homework, store food, and microwaves. I would have a little area where kids could buy food, snacks, and water in case they forgot to bring their own. There would also be a lounge area for parents of younger kids so they could watch them through the monitors. I would like one of the studios to strictly be for acro/tumbling and aerial silks. Preferably I would like to have an in-house costume designer so I would have a space entirely for him/her. An office and a conference room would also be my choice. I have a lot of ideas for my dance studio, and I hope one day to make them into a reality. The instructors I hope to hire one day have to have compassion, empathy, be very well trained and dedicated to teaching and creating not just amazing dancers, but amazing people. I would want to hire instructors that don’t do favorites, just what’s best for the team. Some, not all, would have to be good at working with small children. People that I could trust and count on. Instructors that do what’s best for the dancer, not just what the parent wants or says they should get.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
There is going to be a very long road ahead of them but never ever give up. It’s going to be hard and there are going to be moments that seem unbearable, but in the end it will all come together. To never lose sight of the big picture. To always remember the reason why they not only started but continued to dance and why they love it. I would advise them to cherish their family and never take them for granted because they are the ones that are always going to be there. Family is the biggest support system. I would advise them to hone in on their studies and never give up. Not to sweat the small stuff, to never give in to the drama and find a good group of people that will support them no matter what. Honest people that will tell them even the things they may not what to hear.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I see myself graduating/graduated from college. I would be hopefully working as a dance instructor and starting to obtain a graduate degree. I would love to obtain 2 masters - one in dance and the other in marketing.

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

It is very difficult, but I have a very supportive mother that keeps me on my toes, and I have an organizer. I also just try to do everything in terms of due dates and importance.

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom is the most inspiring person I’ve ever met. She’s been through a lot and has had some of the most incredible experiences in her life, yet she always maintains being a mom is her greatest accomplishment. Being a single mother isn’t easy, but she does it with such grace and makes it look easy. She always puts her needs aside to pit mine first. She's made a lot of sacrifices for me but shows and gives me so much unconditional love. She undoubtedly is my best friend, but still is a disciplinarian. We keep that boundary of mother and daughter, but I can always go to her when something is bothering me, or I just need someone to talk to. When I was younger, I had an issue with lying to my mom, so to ensure I wouldn’t do it anymore, my mom made me a promise that as long as I told her the truth… she could not get mad at me. As I got older, she had to alter it to she could be disappointed, but still could not get mad. She has stayed true to this promise and I would have to estimate that it’s been going on for about 12 years now. It shows how dedicated she is to me, knowing that I can always go to my mom is really special because I do have friends that aren’t able to do that with their parents and it makes the bond between my mom and I so much stronger. She inspires me each and every day.

Pizza or tacos? Soda or water? Cats or dogs?
Pizza, water, and definitely dogs.

Zaria will be featured in Issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine

1 Comment

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Andrea Matei – Ontario, CanadaInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination by Daniela MateiPhotography by Julia SkybaIssue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Zoe Adgalane - PennsylvaniaInterview by Larissa CheliusNomination by Kristalynn TorpeyPhotography by: Chris Henrikson (top image), Alexa M. Santy, & Thomas McIntyre, Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Brooke Cannon - PennsylvaniaInterview by Caroline AlegadoNomination by Kim CannonPhotography by Captured YewIssue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Layken Sanders – TennesseeInterview by Zoe DAngeloNomination by Jeni SandersPhotography by Jeni Sanders & Amber McKellarIssue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Anna Buffington - PennsylvaniaInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination by Natika BuffingtonPhotography by Sherry Wilkinson PhotographyIssue 23 - Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Janiya Cadney - TennesseeInterview by Larissa CheliusNomination by Jaleesa LarryPhotography by Incredibly Wee PhotographyIssue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Sarah Wainwright - AlabamaInterview by Claire PlathNomination by Jennifer WainwrightImages by Stacy Jay PhotographyInspiring Teens Magazine – Issue 23

Tara Walsh – MichiganInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination by Rebecca WalshPhotography by Team Photo (gymnastics) and Selessa Holmberg (other)Inspiring Teens Magazine – Issue 23​

Amanda Szymborski - MichiganInterview by Claire PlathNomination and Photography by Rebecca Houlihan PhotographyIssue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Diana Kolb - TexasInterview by Larissa CheliusNomination by Dede KolbPhotography by Nate Johnson Photography (Swim),​Color Dawn Photography & othersInspiring Teens Magazine Issue 23

​Sarah Jane Houston – GeorgiaInterview by Claire PathNomination by Molly CrosbyPhotography by Jay Houston and Mackenzie Rosa​Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Maddie Reinebold - ColoradoInterview by Zoe D'AngeloNomination and Photography by Nena C PhotographyIssue 22 - Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Jennice Singh - Haldwani, Uttarakhand IndiaInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination by Permik KenovinIssue 22 Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Jaylin Martin – AlabamaInterview by Zoe D'AngeloNomination and Photography by Michelle BarclayInspiring Teens Magazine - Issue 22​

Abigail Strickland - ColoradoInterview by Shaina ZaccagninoNomination and Photography by Carol Dunnigan PhotographyIssue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Emily Butler - AlabamaInterview by Caroline AlegadoNominated by Kimberly ButlerPhotography by Butler StudioIssue 22 - Inspiring Teens Magazine​

​Claire Amyx – TexasInterview by Larissa CheliusNomination and Main Photography by Angie Read PhotographyIssue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Amajae Hardy Jones - PennsylvaniaInterview by Caroline AlegadoNomination by Diana WolfeMain Photography by Troy AlexanderIssue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Brileigh Cates – MissouriInterview by Claire PlathNomination and Photography by Luna PhotographyIssue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Sean Ryan – Pennsylvania​Interview by Larissa CheliusNomination by Natalie RyanPhotography by Rich Levy/ Natalie Ryan​Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Riley Marx - TexasInterview by Michelle SicardNomination by Don MarxPhotography by USA Archery and Catherine Marie PhotographyIssue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine​

​Makayla Miller - PennsylvaniaInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination by Sara MillerPhotography by Kate Smith Photography​

​Ty Thompson – TexasInterview by Zoe D'AngeloNomination by Berkley ThompsonPhotography by Lisa McNiel PhotographyIssue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Isabella Connery - TexasInterview by Zoe D'AngeloNomination and Photography by Angie Read PhotographyIssue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Zaria Robinson – IllinoisInterview by Zoe D'Angelo.Nomination and Photography by Images by Marc Anthony.Issue 21 – Inspiring Teens Magazine.

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Andrea Matei – Ontario, Canada
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Daniela Matei
Photography by Julia Skyba
Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Zoe Adgalane - Pennsylvania
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Kristalynn Torpey
Photography by: Chris Henrikson (top image), Alexa M. Santy, &
Thomas McIntyre,
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Brooke Cannon - Pennsylvania
Interview by Caroline Alegado
Nomination by Kim Cannon
Photography by Captured Yew
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Layken Sanders – Tennessee
Interview by Zoe DAngelo
Nomination by Jeni Sanders
Photography by Jeni Sanders & Amber McKellar
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Anna Buffington - Pennsylvania
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Natika Buffington
Photography by Sherry Wilkinson Photography
Issue 23 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

Janiya Cadney - Tennessee
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Jaleesa Larry
Photography by Incredibly Wee Photography
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Sarah Wainwright - Alabama
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Jennifer Wainwright
Images by Stacy Jay Photography
Inspiring Teens Magazine – Issue 23

Tara Walsh – Michigan
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Rebecca Walsh
Photography by Team Photo (gymnastics) and Selessa Holmberg (other)
Inspiring Teens Magazine – Issue 23

Amanda Szymborski - Michigan
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Rebecca Houlihan Photography
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Diana Kolb - Texas
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Dede Kolb
Photography by Nate Johnson Photography (Swim),
Color Dawn Photography & others
Inspiring Teens Magazine Issue 23

Sarah Jane Houston – Georgia
Interview by Claire Path
Nomination by Molly Crosby
Photography by Jay Houston and Mackenzie Rosa
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Maddie Reinebold - Colorado
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Nena C Photography
Issue 22 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jennice Singh - Haldwani, Uttarakhand India
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Permik Kenovin
Issue 22 Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jaylin Martin – Alabama
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Michelle Barclay
Inspiring Teens Magazine - Issue 22

Abigail Strickland - Colorado
Interview by Shaina Zaccagnino
Nomination and Photography by Carol Dunnigan Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Emily Butler - Alabama
Interview by Caroline Alegado
Nominated by Kimberly Butler
Photography by Butler Studio
Issue 22 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

Claire Amyx – Texas
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination and Main Photography by Angie Read Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Amajae Hardy Jones - Pennsylvania
Interview by Caroline Alegado
Nomination by Diana Wolfe
Main Photography by Troy Alexander
Issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Brileigh Cates – Missouri
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Luna Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Sean Ryan – Pennsylvania
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Natalie Ryan
Photography by Rich Levy/ Natalie Ryan
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Riley Marx - Texas
Interview by Michelle Sicard
Nomination by Don Marx
Photography by USA Archery and Catherine Marie Photography
Issue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

Makayla Miller - Pennsylvania
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Sara Miller
Photography by Kate Smith Photography

Ty Thompson – Texas
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Berkley Thompson
Photography by Lisa McNiel Photography
Issue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

Isabella Connery - Texas
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Angie Read Photography
Issue 21 - Inspiring Teens Magazine

Zaria Robinson – Illinois
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo.
Nomination and Photography by Images by Marc Anthony.
Issue 21 – Inspiring Teens Magazine.