Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

Kristen Ramirez

8/1/2020

Kristen Ramirez - Texas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Yolanda Puckett
Photography by Kenneth Siscon Photography
Issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Kristen never seems to give up. Her tenacity is inspiring. While going after what she wants, she is fearless and almost always has a smile on her face. Kristen volunteers on a consistent basis. It would be hard to find a more selfless person willing to give up their personal time, talent, and resources to help and support others.

Photography by Kenneth Siscon Photography

What is it like going to an arts school? What are some main differences between an arts school and a regular high school?
Going to an arts school is such an amazing experience and head start for my future that I’m grateful for. While attending Booker T. my craft has grown in so many ways. Along the journey I’ve been able to discover what kind of artist/person I’ve grown into. Some differences between an arts school and regular high school is that you do have to audition to get into Booker T. We also have lots of freedom/opportunities that a regular high school wouldn’t necessarily have. As hard as it can be, juggling academics and art classes I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Tell me about your love for fashion! How did you figure out that you love it so much?
I’ve always loved the idea of dressing up when I was younger and as I’ve gotten older it’s gotten bigger. I would say my love really expanded for it this past year when I designed a fashion line named “FETCH”, which was a mix of different monochromatic styles based on the color pink that I created with my friend Leo for an event at my school called “Strut”. Strut, is a fashion show that we present every year ran and created by students. During the process and after is when I realized it was really something I would want to pursue after high school.

Photography by Kristen Ramirez

What are some goals that you have for your future? Would you like to pursue a career in the arts and fashion?
After high school, I plan on pursuing the arts in college and as far as majoring I’m still deciding on what that looks like for me. I would say that some of my goals for my future would be traveling, being successful and as crazy as that sounds it is something I think about frequently and wish the best for upon myself. Lastly, to be in a great state of mind while doing life.

Why do you love to volunteer? What are your favorite volunteer projects you have been a part of?
Volunteering is something I’ve been doing for a while, when volunteering not only does it make me happy giving back or putting a smile on someone's face but I also think it’s a good reality check. One of my favorite missionary projects has been running a kids VBS in San Francisco at a local church in a low-income neighborhood with other teens a part of a local church in Dallas. I enjoy working with kids and the joy that was brought to those kids is something I will always remember.

Photography by Kenneth Siscon Photography

What does it mean to you knowing that you are someone your friends and peers can always come to if they need advice or help?
Anytime a friend comes to me for advice or help, I would say that It makes me feel trustful knowing that they’re coming to me for my input about something that is very important to them. I cherish my friends greatly and like helping them as best as possible.

Kristen will be featured in issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 36

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Chloe Monk

7/25/2020

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Chloe Monk – West Virginia
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by
Greyscale Photography LLC
Issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Chloe is a free spirit always aspiring to do her best in whatever she is doing. She owns her unique style without following the latest trends. Chloe is artistic, smart and has a beautiful heart. She will go far wherever life may take her.

Photography by Greyscale Photography LLC

What do you love most about art and how has it impacted who you are and what you like to do?
I grew up around art, mainly from my mother. I was self-taught. Art was a continuous “outlet” for me, even when I was younger. It helps me to express myself, grow, and keep a peaceful mindset. There’s nothing more I enjoy than starting a new project and being able to present it to an audience. I take part in various contests locally. If I were to describe my “art style,” I would say its anonymous! You will never know what I come up with, but I make sure there is always meanings to my pieces.

What is one of your favorite pieces of artwork you have done? We would love for you to supply a picture of it!
One of my most successful pieces is a stippled drawing of actor, Johnny Depp, inspired from his role in “Pirates of the Caribbean.” I choose this piece because it displays one of my most concentrated concepts—emotion! It won “Best Crowd Pleaser,” displayed under the name, “Sparrow” in 2019.

Photography by Greyscale Photography LLC

Tell me a little bit about the unique style of clothes you enjoy wearing and what you would describe your fashion sense to be like.
Shopping is definitely a big hobby of mine, as well as a favorite activity I like to do with my friends! My fashion sense is inspired by latest/vintage trends-stretching from 1980s retro all the way to 2002 bell bottoms and crop tops! I can wear sweatpants but make it fancy if the occasion calls for it. Miss matches, funky colors, or over sized pieces... it all comes together when you work the confidence!! fashion is one of the many ways I can tell you WHO I am.

What are your plans for the future, and what do you hope to accomplish in life?
My plan is to go into the medical field when I hit college. I want to attend West Virginia University in Morgantown. I’d like to be a Dentist, advertising a great attitude and an even bigger smile! I hope to be a part of something great when I older.

Photography by Greyscale Photography LLC

How would you describe yourself and who you are as a person?
I’m extremely spunky and warm-hearted. I’m a girl who really enjoys making her friends laugh and spending moments with anyone wholesomely. I’m independent. You can depend on me and I’ll always give more than my 100%. Effort is a big key for me. I’ll always try something different than before—it’s good that I like surprises.

As an inspiration to others, how can your bubbly personality and positive outlook on life inspire other teens to make friends with new people and branch out like you have?
My message is simple. Be open minded. If you can do that, there will always be a door of possibilities, so take them! If there’s anything I’ve learned about myself, it’s to be more relaxed. We have our whole lives ahead of us, be excited and hopeful. Instead of stressing the future, think about what you can do and how you’ll achieve yourself. Keep your TRUE friends close.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I’m not afraid to be a little awkward, and I’m not afraid to be myself. I laugh loud, and smile BIG, but I think that’s what people enjoy the most.

Chloe will be published in issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 36

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Jenna Lowery

5/6/2020

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Jenna Lowery - Missouri
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Stephanie Lowery
Issue 33 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Driven, passionate, determined, leadership, optimistic, patient, loving, understanding, compassion, strength....just a few of the characteristics this beautiful young lady has carried throughout her entire life. She has been a role model to her two younger siblings, as she navigates this challenging time of uncertainty & the emotions of "missing out" on all the "experiences" that her siblings will one day get to have. I have watched her handle the ups and down with dignity & a new found sense of maturity inspiring me to be the best version of myself I can be, not only for myself but for her, her two sisters and my husband.

Photography by Stephanie Lowery

How are you making the best of the situation you are in right now, especially being a senior?
To make the best of the situation that we are all in I try to keep myself busy so I am not just sitting and dwelling on all of this. I focus on the positives in my life, like my family, friends, and all the good memories I have had the past four years of High school. I have used this time to spend more time with my two younger sisters, and I will say it has really brought us all closer to one another.

What are some activities you have been doing to pass the time through this pandemic?
I have spent most of my time doing artwork and drawing. I love to draw; it is a really good way to pass the time for me. Additionally, it is something that helps me gather my thoughts and relax. The biggest project I have tackled would have to be my closet wall. I drew henna designs all over it and then went back and painted it. I have also drawn things for others like my friends and family.

"This is the Henna wall in my closet, photo taken by Steph aka mom" - Jenna

What are you most looking forward to doing after this pandemic is over?
After this pandemic is all over I am really looking forward to seeing the rest of my family. We are all super close and I am very thankful to have such a supportive family. I am also looking forward to seeing all of my friends again. Especially from my dental assisting school sense we had a last day of school together without even knowing it.

Who or what is inspiring you to get through this tough time?
I would have to say my family and my tech teacher are the main ones who are inspiring me to get through this pandemic. Without the love and support from my family I have no idea where I would be right now. The support from some of my best friends is also very helpful knowing that they all want me to succeed. My tech teacher has pushed me to do my best and continues to help me prepare for my Mo Basics test that I will take after this pandemic is over. Her support has really strengthened my confidence, I would be very stressed during this time trying to keep everything organized without her help.

This is a photo of Jenna assisting while having the opportunity to work with underprivileged children through a program called give kids a smile. Photo was taken by Jenna's Dental Class Instructor

What are you going to study in college? Why did you choose this?
I plan on attending St. Louis Community College in the fall. I will continue my education in dentistry and major in dental hygiene. My plan is to work as an assistant while attending college and then become a hygienist. I am planning and hoping to work as a hygienist right after college. Ever since I was younger, I would always want to see what the ortho or the dentist was doing in my mouth. I also love helping and working with people and children. My original plan was to become a dentist, but throughout my two years attending South Technical High School for assisting and shadowing/interning with dental offices, I have come to realize that hygiene is my passion rather than becoming an actual dentist.

Photography by Stephanie Lowery

What is one goal that you have for your future?
A goal that I have for the future is to take the Mo Basics test and become a certified dental assistant, so that I can start working in an office and get experience.

Jenna will be featured in Issue 33 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 33

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Jacqueline Hennecke

2/8/2020

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Jacqueline Hennecke - Florida
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Christa Joyner Moody Photography
Issue 30 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jacqueline Hennecke is one of two girls playing boys varsity hockey at her school, is an accomplished artist, an NHS member and co-founder of the school club GOALS (Girls Outdoors Adventure and Leadership) currently the largest club on campus with over 150 members in a high school of 635. Under the GOALS umbrella she also formed Girls Outside. Girls Outside strives to mentor underserved middle school girls by giving them "a safe and inspiring environment that encourages leadership and communication while learning outdoor skills". Girls Outside was approved as a 501(c)(3)! Just a few highlights from this amazing HS senior.

Christa Joyner Moody Photography

What is the main focus of the GOALS program?
The school club GOALS (Girls Outdoors Adventure and Leadership) is a broad group supporting numerous girl-focused causes, including Berkeley Academy and Girl UP. Within the club, we promote civil discourse on issues affecting intersectional feminism and gender equality.

What inspired you to cofound Girls Outside?
In tenth grade, my team and I wanted to start a club for my school that would support underprivileged middle school girls in the Tampa Bay area. Sixth grade is a pivotal year, when the “anything is possible” dreams of youth collide with an emerging adult reality, and that this effect is heightened in communities where schools and families are underserved. From my camp in Canada, which serves many underprivileged girls, I had seen the confidence girls gain from learning outdoor skills. When combined strong mentorship from older girls, the effect can be life changing. Girls Outside aims to provide middle school girls with skills and tools necessary to become advocates for their community.

Christa Joyner Moody Photography

What are your plans for the future of Girls Outside?
The future of our organization is very bright – Hopefully, we will grow chapters that run across a larger region in Florida. By instituting training programs for high school girls to run Girls Outside in their local middle schools, we hope to bring the opportunity to more challenged communities. Additionally, we’ll institute initiatives to involve past participants beyond middle school, who will come back as “Junior Leaders” with special training.

Christa Joyner Moody Photography

How did you get into art and what is your favorite art piece you have designed?
I’ve been taking art classes in my extracurriculars since I was eight years old. Until a year ago, I had been working with acrylic paint and digital media. For an extra challenge, I took a class this year in 3D design. My concentration has been in using natural materials to spark a discussion in dependency on nature. My biggest piece so far has been a throne made with a wooden base and interwoven vines and leaves, which received a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art and Writing competition.

Christa Joyner Moody Photography

Lastly, What inspired you to start playing ice hockey?
For 12 years I was a competitive figure skater, completely absorbed by the thrill of jumps and the feeling of metal against ice. Being a hockey fan, I was already familiar with a lot of rules and techniques of ice hockey. The coach of the school team had been encouraging me for years to try hockey. Realizing I wasn’t going for the Olympics, I figured I could afford to take a season to try it. Since there was no girls team, I joined the Varsity Boys Ice Hockey team. Though it took some adjusting, I have never regretted the decision. At the end of the season I was in a defensive pairing.

Jacqueline will be featured in issue 30 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 30

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Amanda Kelly

10/12/2019

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Amanda Kelly - Michigan
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Amy Clement Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Amanda Kelly is one of the most talented young artists that I have ever met! Her interest in art & fashion started at a young age when her Grandparents bought her and her sister fabric pieces. The two of them used safety pins to turn those pieces into "clothing" and put on fashion shows at home. Love it!
Amanda always has had a love of art. From colored pencils to oil pastels to pottery... she creates beautiful works of art. Always "giving back" she has volunteered in numerous classrooms and religion classrooms with young children to teach, inspire and share her gift.
Amanda's current High School art teacher has inspired her so much in the way he teaches art. So much so that she is now going to turn her passion and gift into her job after college. A true example of how one teacher "inspiring" a student has "inspired" that student to "inspire" other children. So awesome.
Amanda maintains a 3.5 gpa and plans to attend the University of Toledo to study Art Education after she graduates next Spring. Best of luck to her!!

A favorite image that showcases her artistic passions by Amy Clement Photography

Why is art so special to you?
Art is very special to me because it is a way to “escape” my reality. There is no such thing as being perfect in art because everyone is different. I have been through a lot in my life and art has been one of the best ways for me to make peace. I have always felt as if I have to be perfect.

Tell us about some of your favorite art pieces you have created.
It is very hard for me to decide what piece is my favorite. My favorite art piece to create was a painting of lemons. It was my first time painting with acrylics on canvas, so I was very nervous. With all my projects comes a challenge. In the end I was very pleased with the outcome and it made me feel accomplished.

My goal was to use contrast in color to show different textures.

Why do you think art is a way for people to escape if they are feeling down?
In art you can be or do as you feel. I think of art as a movie. People endure certain emotions when they look at it. In today's life it's hard to be unique. In the world of art unique is desired and no one gets judged for it.

Would you be interested in opening your own art studio? Why or why not?
The thought of opening my studio has crossed my mind. My dream is to inspire others with the power of art. Although teaching is my number one goal. I want to be able to teach others what the impact from art can really do.

This is a sketch of part of the famous "Creation of Man". I had chosen to sketch the hands to challenge myself with shading.

Do you like using paints or markers/pencils more? Why?
My favorite media to use would be colored pencils and paints. I like to use these because I can build up the colors I need. With any project my teacher has always taught me to start from light to dark. Colored Pencil and paint allow me to do that.

What is the hardest thing that you have accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have accomplished is gaining my self-confidence. Not only have I struggled with mental concerns I struggled with my appearance. Whether it came to my acne or my weight. Not having the confidence in myself made my mental stability weaker. Surrounding myself with people who give me the utmost positive vibe and listening to compliments saved me.

Who do you find inspiring?
The person that I find most inspiring would be my art teacher. Every day I am eager to get into his class. He makes everyone's day a million times better. He has inspired many people to follow their dreams and ways to accomplish them. He has been the one to inspire me to teach others.

A favorite image by Amy Clement Photography

3 things on your bucket list
Three things on my bucket list would be to make a positive change for the environment, start my own family, and adopt a dog from a shelter.

Amanda will be featured in Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to PURCHASE Issue 27

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Artwork by Julia G. Dymek

8/26/2019

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Julia G. Dymek - Pennsylvania
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

click here to submit your artwork to inspiring teens magazine

click here to purchase issue 22 of inspiring teens magazine

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Artwork by Shaina Zaccagnino

8/25/2019

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Shaina Zaccagnino - Pennsylvania
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

click here to submit your artwork to inspiring teens magazine

click here to purchase issue 22 of inspiring teens magazine

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Willow Larson

3/7/2019

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Willow Larson
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Cloud Nine Studios Photography
Minnesota
Issue 15

The Nomination: Willow Larson, she loves art. She works hard to learn new skills, takes constructive criticism well, she tries new mediums, and is always creating original work--she hates copying what someone else has done.

How did you become interested in art?
I have been interested in art as long as I can remember.

What are your favorite pieces of art you've created? Tell me about them.
It is hard to pick just a couple favorite pieces, but my favorite subjects usually involve people and nature. My favorite art mediums are pencil, acrylic paint, and copic markers.

Who is your biggest inspiration when it comes to art?
Bob Ross, because he encourages you to create art that is unique to you, rather than directing you to do art a certain way.

If you encountered a child who wanted to start a career in art, what advice would you give them?
Practice ALOT and find inspiration in many different places. Be true to you.

Do you plan to continue pursuing a career in art in the future?
Yes. I hope to be an animator for Disney/Pixar when I grow up.

Willow was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

click here to buy issue 15

click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know

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Kristen Ramirez

Kristen Ramirez - Texas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Yolanda Puckett
Photography by Kenneth Siscon Photography
Issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Chloe Monk

Chloe Monk – West Virginia
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by
Greyscale Photography LLC
Issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jenna Lowery

Jenna Lowery - Missouri
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Stephanie Lowery
Issue 33 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jacqueline Hennecke

Jacqueline Hennecke - Florida
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Christa Joyner Moody Photography
Issue 30 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Amanda Kelly

Amanda Kelly - Michigan
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Amy Clement Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Artwork by Julia G. Dymek

Julia G. Dymek - Pennsylvania
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Artwork by Shaina Zaccagnino

Shaina Zaccagnino - Pennsylvania
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Willow Larson

Willow Larson
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Cloud Nine Studios Photography
Minnesota
Issue 15

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Kristen Ramirez - TexasInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Yolanda PuckettPhotography by Kenneth Siscon PhotographyIssue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Chloe Monk – West VirginiaInterview by Claire PlathNomination and Photography byGreyscale Photography LLCIssue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Jenna Lowery - MissouriInterview by Olivia BushNomination and Photography by Stephanie LoweryIssue 33 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Jacqueline Hennecke - FloridaInterview by Olivia BushNomination and Photography by Christa Joyner Moody PhotographyIssue 30 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Amanda Kelly - MichiganInterview by Zoe D'AngeloNomination and Photography by Amy Clement PhotographyIssue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Julia G. Dymek - Pennsylvania​Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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Shaina Zaccagnino - PennsylvaniaIssue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Willow LarsonInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination & Photography by Cloud Nine Studios PhotographyMinnesotaIssue 15

Featured

Archives

Categories

Kristen Ramirez - Texas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Yolanda Puckett
Photography by Kenneth Siscon Photography
Issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Chloe Monk – West Virginia
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by
Greyscale Photography LLC
Issue 36 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jenna Lowery - Missouri
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Stephanie Lowery
Issue 33 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jacqueline Hennecke - Florida
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Christa Joyner Moody Photography
Issue 30 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Amanda Kelly - Michigan
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Amy Clement Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Julia G. Dymek - Pennsylvania
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Shaina Zaccagnino - Pennsylvania
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Willow Larson
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Cloud Nine Studios Photography
Minnesota
Issue 15