Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

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Abbey Slusinski

3/15/2021

click here for more information on issue 44

Abbey Slusinski - Illinois
Nomination and Photography by Michael Sullivan Photography
Issue 44 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Abbey works hard in every sense. She maintains straight A's while staying busy with clubs and activities. She is in STEM Club and also did student council at school. Abbey has received most dedicated student awards this past year. She is inspired by the medical field, which is also a big passion of hers, and hopes to be a part of it in the future. Abbey received student of the quarter for math this school year. Abbey is also very creative and loves art and dance. She also dances 20 hours a week and also teaches hip hop for little kids.

Photography by Michael Sullivan Photography

What is your passion?
My passion is dancing. Not only is dance an amazing sport to be a part of, I get to share my knowledge of dance with other dancers. I get the amazing opportunity to teach kids every week at my studio, and it is a huge passion of mine to be able to share my love for dance with others. When I get to see students' faces light up when I teach, it is truly the best feeling in the world. I feel at home, and ready to take on anything when dancing. That is why dancing is my passion.

Photography by Michael Sullivan Photography

What is your coping mechanism for dance?
The way that I cope is through dance. Dance is not only just a sport, it's an art form as well. Dance is my way of expressing everything I am feeling. Think of it as a therapist, but even better. I am able to freely express my body with my emotions, whether it’s listening to a certain song, or storytelling. When I’m struggling with anything, dance is always there to put me back on my feet. Being able to dance is such a blessing because without it, I don't know where I would be.

Photography by Michael Sullivan Photography

Share with us more about your 3D modeling and your invention!
I love 3D printing. 3D printing is when I can go into a program, such as Inventor and make anything I want. I am obsessed with how amazing 3D printing is. I have created things such as key chains to little characters from cartoons that I like. 3D printing is an amazing tool that I love to use. From having nothing in a 3D printing machine, to having whatever you want made by filament is absolutely insane to me. It's something that inspires me everyday, and always keeps me busy.

Photography by Michael Sullivan Photography

Tell us about your community service. What is a favorite memory from it?
Some of the community service hours that I have done have actually been at my old elementary school. I go there on the field days to help out with all the fun activities. I personally have a blast with the kids. My favorite memory from it is when I get to see the kids having fun, knowing that I helped them have fun that day. I love being able to put a smile on anyone's face!

Look for Abbey in issue 44 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Lily Catherine Bury

2/18/2021

Lily Catherine Bury – Tennessee
Nomination and Photography by Cate Connery Bury Photography
Issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Lily Catherine Bury lives in Nashville, TN. As the oldest of three, she often finds herself called on to help with her younger siblings. At school, Lily Catherine loves her science classes and spending time with her friends. She loves spending time with people who she says she can be 100% herself around. Lily Catherine is a passionate and gifted dancer who spends many hours in the evenings and weekends in the studio working on her technique and learning new choreography. She loves spending time at the dance studio both with dancers her own age as well as loving on and mentoring younger dancers in the same way that others once did for her.

Photography by Cate Connery Bury Photography

How did you get started with dance and where are you with it now?
I started dancing at Ann Carroll School of Dance when I was just two years old. My mother grew up dancing there and wanted to put me into classes so that I could fall in love with dance as she did. My first classes were just ballet and tap until I joined the competition team. Since then, I have studied jazz, contemporary, tap, hip hop, and pointe. In 2017, I auditioned for the pre-professional track at my studio and made it in. Since then, I have moved to the highest group in the company. I have traveled to Los Angeles to study at The Edge, with Debbie Allen, and at Disneyland. I have also performed at Walt Disney World, in four Christmas parades, and participate every spring in competitions and every summer in my studio recital.

What is a favorite memory and/or accomplishment from dance?
My favorite memory of my dance career, along with my best accomplishment, was when I danced in a Walt Disney World showcase and parade when I was 11 years old. I loved that I was able to experience what it is like to be a professional dancer. We had eight-hour rehearsals and learned choreography one day before performing it. I found it compelling to see what the life of a professional is like. This gave me the drive to pursue a professional dance career.

Photography by Cate Connery Bury Photography

How has COVID-19 affected your dancing, how did you feel about it, and how have you stayed committed and optimistic to honing your craft?
At the beginning of the pandemic, we couldn’t have any dance classes at all, but that only lasted about a week. My dance teachers quickly figured out of they could teach us entirely on zoom, and my afternoons were quickly filled with classes again. We brought plywood in to tap on and rolled the rugs out the way for the rest of my classes.
The hardest part was when the pandemic forced my studio to cancel our big recital in June. It was supposed to be a big 50th-anniversary recital celebration at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. We still found a way to perform though, and we had an outdoor recital in September.

Tell us more about your volunteer work with the homeless. How did you get started and what specifically do you do? What are your goals for 2021 with it?
It has been hard to do much since the pandemic started, but I have worked with my church both through a program called Room in the Inn and by creating blessing bags for the homeless, which are filled with gift cards, snacks, hygiene products, and a bus pass. Volunteering with my church was my pathway to starting my work with the homeless.

Photography by Cate Connery Bury Photography

What about social injustice do you want your peers to know and why are you so passionate about it?
I am very passionate about equal rights for all marginalized communities. I believe that we are called to love our neighbors meaning every neighbor no matter race, gender, nationality, socio-economic status, etc. I want my peers to know that, even if they do not believe this, that by loving our neighbors will bring a better sense of unity throughout our community and the world.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I’ll be a senior in high school and preparing for college. I want to go to college to study both dance and follow a pre-med track.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love hanging out with my friends and getting to be completely myself.

Photography by Cate Connery Bury Photography

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My hidden talent is being able to put my leg behind my head.

What are 3 Things on your bucket list?
Three things on my bucket list are Skydiving, find my distant relatives in Greece, and Dancing in New York.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my mom and dad to be inspiring because my mom owns and runs her own photography business by herself and my dad has worked extremely hard to get where he is today.

Look for Lily Catherine in issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Becca Atkinson

2/18/2021

Becca Atkinson - Ohio
Nomination and Photography by
Snapped Candy Photography and CinCity Dance Photography
Issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Becca is a hard worker and pushes herself and team mates to always do better. She is kind and friends with everyone. She goes out of her way to make others feel welcome. She has a huge heart and sees world through rose colored glasses or the glass half full kind of mind set.

Photography by Snapped Candy Photography and CinCity Dance Photography

What do you love about dance?
Some things I love about dance is how it makes me a better person as I learn to become a better leader, a better teammate and more disciplined. I love how I have met so many great friends through dance and that it has brought me so much closer to everyone in the dance community as we are all truly family. I love all the intense moments when we are on the stage either dancing together or alone and even just waiting to see how we placed. Even though critiques are hard to take at times, they help me become a better dancer. Even when we get yelled at in practice, I love how myself and my teammates can still find something funny to laugh at. Having Improv time either at my studio in front of my peers or in my basement all alone is one of my favorite times to dance. I can just let the sounds of the music move my body through the song, which allows me to express how I am feeling at that moment. My favorite thing about dance is that it makes me feel calm and safe in my own space with just me and my thoughts.

What do you study and who would you recommend that kind of dance for?
I study various types of dance, including Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Ballet, Hip Hop, and Fosse. I would recommend Fosse for someone who is interested in a lot of different specific movements, and someone who is ready to work very hard in this type of dance as it is one of the hardest I have learned so far. For Jazz I would recommend it to someone who is into doing energetic, upbeat and sassy pieces. For example the song ̈Play That Sax ̈ is a great song for Jazz choreography because it is upbeat and fun. For Tap I would suggest a person who likes to make sound with their feet, since the taps on your feet are choreographed to be complementary to the music. Contemporary is my personal favorite. For this style of dance it is important that the person is able to tell a story through the way they move. Also showing a lot of emotion on your face and with your movements is very important for Contemporary pieces. It shows your connection to the music. Ballet is perfect for someone to show their technique, flexibility and skills. I would suggest Hip Hop to someone who likes to move and groove, let go and have an overall very fun time. Last but certainly not least is Ballet. Ballet is my least favorite style of dance, but the most important for a person, like me, wanting to dance professionally to try and master. This is because Ballet is the basis of all styles of dance.

Photography by Snapped Candy Photography and CinCity Dance Photography

Tell us a favorite memory from dance
My favorite memory from dance was the first time I got to go to Pageant. Every January Showcase America puts on a Showcase of Stars Pageant in Columbus, Ohio. Any soloist that competed in any one of their earlier competitions for that season is eligible to compete at the pageant. It is 2 days packed full of dancing and making memories! The competition is held in a fancy hotel that all our studio dancers stay in. The hotel is nice enough to allow us to decorate our room doors. All the dancers door decorations are based off the theme of their song. My song that year was ̈Let’s Hear It For The Boy ̈ my costume had a big red heart on the top. So my mom decorated my door with pink wrapping paper, a giant red glitter heart and a ton of pictures of me throughout the season that far. Looking back on it now, it was sort of cheesy, but I loved it then. On day one all dancers learned a big production number in a matter of a couple hours that was then performed at the beginning of the show. I remember lots of dancers being crammed together on the stage trying to be seen. What I would imagine a big audition would be like. I also got to wear my first pair of heels! They were only 1⁄2 inch, chunky heel, but hey, I was 8! I had to learn how to walk across the stage to model my pageant dress AND I had to walk with a boy! At the time I thought YUCK! I danced on the biggest stage in the biggest auditorium I have every danced on/in before. And if that did not make me nervous enough I was the very first girl to dance that year! I guess going first paid off because I made it through to the finale. I did not get a crown or sash that year, but I made memories that I will NEVER forget. The best part of that weekend was after everything was finished, we had one big party. Girls from all studios running around and in and out of each others rooms and making new and lasting friendships.

What is a favorite accomplishment in dance?
One of my favorite dance accomplishments happened this year when I made it onto one of my studios Senior teams, as just a 7th grader. Luckily our older dancers at the studio are such great role models and do not mind having us younger girls on their team. They try and do all they can to support us and push us to be better dancers. Another favorite accomplishment was during my time on our Mini team, we competed at a State competition and won Grand Champs. We were a very young team and beat out lots of other wonderful teams and even older teams. It was such a great feeling of accomplishment that we were all crying.

Photography by Snapped Candy Photography and CinCity Dance Photography

What do you love most about your dance photoshoots?
What I have loved most so far about my dance photoshoots is all the creative things I get to do. My photographer, Candy, really makes me feel comfortable and encourages us to do what makes us feel good. The photo may not always come out how we first planned, but we make adjustments and try again. I really enjoy all the different locations we have been able to go to. My favorite has been when we went to downtown Cincinnati. There are so many beautiful parts of the city and so many fun photos that can be captured. Another thing that makes my heart happy when doing photoshoots is the other dancers I have been able to meet and form friendships with. Mixing someone else’s creativity with mine has really captured some great images. Overall I just enjoy the fun and laughs that comes out of doing a photoshoot. So many bloopers!!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why? (What do you feel passionate about or could talk forever about?)
The topic I would present about would be dance. I have been dancing for 11 years and have grown and learned so much. As I continue to grow in my craft I want to teach other girls and boys the things I have learned and help them strengthen their passion as well.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
One major inspiring thing about me that my nomination does not cover is my love for my family and my fur babies. I have a big family that includes 1 half sister, 2 half brothers and 1 step brother. I'm lucky enough to have 2 homes with 2 sets of loving parents, 2 dogs and 2 cats. I enjoy spending time at my Nana and Papa house the most! My Nana always has something good to eat and my Papa always has the cheesiest jokes. We enjoy playing various card games together and sometimes I even win! I have more support than most and for that I'm grateful.

Look for Becca in issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Isabel Konz

2/17/2021

Isabel Konz – California
Nomination by Wendy Streyle
from Showstoppers Dance Studio
Photography by Glitter and Sand Photography
Issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Isabel Konz is a 13-year-old with a passion for dance and entrepreneurship. She has been dancing for most of her life, taking classes 4- 5 days a week and being part of a competitive team. Isabel always pushes herself to be her best. Shortly after COVID-19 happened she started her own Instagram apparel company called Second Image Tie-dye. Keeping herself busy and motivated during the shutdown was extremely inspiring. Isabel found a way to make staying home fun, but productive. It was so positive to see this young lady find an outlet to express herself and bring happiness to so many through her fun and bright creations. Can’t wait to see what her future holds!

Photography by Glitter and Sand Photography

Tell us how you got started in dance, about your dance studio, what genres you are studying - everything about your dance journey so far!
I started dancing when I was 3 at a dance studio doing mainly ballet! When I was 6, I transferred to Showstoppers Dance Studio, where I am today! I have come a long way in my dance skill! I never thought that I would be competing on the stage! I take classes 4-5 days a week in the genres of ballet/pointe, jazz, lyrical/contemporary, and hip hop! My favorite is contemporary! My solo this year is contemporary, and I am so excited for competition where I can compete it! I have come so far from dancing in tutus at two years old to now competing my solo at competition 11 years later!

We see you get to do photoshoots as part of your dance experience. Tell us about that.
I recently just started doing dance photo shoots and I love them! I think it is a great way to showcase a dancer’s skill and really capture the moment! Dance is such an amazing art and when you combine it with amazing photography, you can get some breathtaking photos! I am so lucky to get to work with Juanita from glitter and sand photography! She is amazing!

This image was taken by Juanita at Glitter and Sand Photography! It is from one of my favorite dance photoshoots!

What is something positive that came from the pandemic that you never expected.
Something positive is that I spent so much time dancing that I really improved! When I got back in the studio, I was so much more skilled than I was before! I had grown so much because I was practicing so much at home! I think it was a great thing that I had so much time to focus on my dancing!

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I’ve ever accomplished was getting on pointe. This was hard because it took lots of physical strength and I had to be prepared mentally! It was difficult but I am glad that I pushed through because I love dancing on pointe.

Share with us how you got started with your own business ~ your tie dye company, where it’s at now, and what your 2021 plans are for it.
During lock down, I needed something creative to keep going! I started my own small business doing tie dye! It has come a long way! I was scared at first that I wasn’t going to make profit. But now, it is thriving! I am so glad that I can make others happy with my colorful tie die pieces too! In 2021 I hope my business can continue to grow and I can find ways I can serve my community through my business and donate to charities!

This photo was taken by my mom! I am working hard on packaging orders for my small business!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell someone that they shouldn’t let what others think stop them. You should continue pushing yourself and working hard for yourself despite what others say. If you let what others think bother you, you are going to miss out on so many amazing opportunities!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years I will be 18 and graduating high school! I hope that I will get into a good college that can help me turn my passion for dance into a career! Since I will be 18, I hope that from now to then, I will accomplish so many things and get offered more opportunities and that can decide what my future holds!

Who do you find inspiring?
I find many other accomplished dancers inspiring! I always hope that someday I can be like them! I also look up to the older dancers at my studio! Every time I watch them, I always think how crazy it is that someday I could be in their place!

This is me and my kitten that we adopted during lock down! Her name is poppy!

What else should we know about you?
I also enjoy music! I think music is an amazing art and is great to help express a story with your dancing. I also love animals! During lock down we adopted a new kitten, and she is so cute! I love animals, and one day I hope that I can put some of my small business earnings towards a charity for animals in need.

Look for Isabel in issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Brelynn Beck

2/3/2021

Brelynn Beck – Mississippi
Nomination and Photography by Jessica Slade Photography
Issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Brelynn Beck is an inspiration by all of her peers. She has achieved so much in her life. She is a great ballet dancer. I feel strong enough to say she would make a great dance instructor. She thrives for the best. She lights up the room with her smile. She is a hard working young adult. I’m proud to know this great soul.

Photography by Jessica Slade Photography

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
my inspiration

What are you most passionate about?
 dance
 What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
 I lead worship at church, and I also love to act.

What things have you done in your life?
 auditioned for the voice (didn’t make it)
been in a dance magazine
Was in a movie

 If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
Dance, because I can talk about it for days. 

Let's talk about your dance career. When did you start, what do you practice the most, and how much time do you spend dancing a week?
I started dance when I was three years old. I do ballet, tap, hip hop, jazz, and pointe. I spend 3 days a week dancing.

What is a favorite memory from dance?
My favorite memory from dance is just growing in dance with my four closest friends.

Tell us about your greatest accomplishment in dance (so far anyway!)
I got the lead role in a movie because of dance.

(above images by Brelynn)

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
My hardest accomplishment would be going to competitions and competing. I got through it by breathing and taking things slow.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Believe in yourself, and keep pushing

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
To become a journalist and continue my love for dance

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Dancing at football games

3 Things on your bucket list
To make it on a big stage
To write my first book
To inspire kids by writing

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I am very hardworking, and I don’t stop till I get to where I want to be.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I used to do beauty pageants when I was a kid

Look for Brelynn in issue 43 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Bella Whitby

1/22/2021

click here for more information on issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Bella Whitby - Florida
Nomination and Photography by AT Dance Art
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Bella Whitby is not only an extraordinary ballet dancer, but she is also an upstanding example of good citizenship, strong work ethics, academic excellence, and a kind heart. I believe Bella is an inspiring teen because she has shown an astounding strength over this last year of global pandemic challenges. Bella’s goal of becoming a professional ballet dancer was greatly thwarted when the arts were affected by lock downs, and that didn’t stop her from overcoming obstacles to continue her daily training. Zoom is great, but advanced level classical ballet in one’s kitchen is less than optimal. Bella somehow made it work and excelled.

I was fortunate enough to photograph Bella before the pandemic began, and this past October, and I was astounded by her growth as an artist, and in her technical skills in October. I expected to see setbacks, or limited development in her ballet skills due to the obvious limitations of 2020, but I was very wrong! I believe my thought was “she’s an entirely different dancer!” Bella is also a multifaceted artist, and plays the guitar, and as well creates stunning visual art. During the most difficult year for the ballet world, Bella didn’t give up on herself, and continued to inspire her peers. Bella is a beautiful person, inside and out, and never flaunts her achievements or treats others as if they’re beneath her. I believe Bella’s warmth and kindness are equal to her dance and academic skills, and that she should be honored in every way possible, as a shining example to us all.

Photography by AT Dance Art

Walk us through your dance journey. When did you start right up to what do you study now & what is a typical dance week like for you?
I began dancing at 3 years old in Maryland, where I lived until I was about 12. I always did Nutcracker every year, and took technique classes every week, but I never considered perusing dance as a career. It wasn’t until I started training with Servy Gallardo at the St. Pete Ballet Conservatory that my passion for dance really grew and I felt my confidence in my dancing and myself improve rapidly.
Now, I’m in the pre-professional program, planning for a future in dance and loving it more and more each day. During a typical dance week, we have technique and pointe class in the morning, then we rehearse pieces for our show in the afternoon. After rehearsals, I spend the evening working on school.

What is a favorite dance memory and/or accomplishment?
I have so many amazing memories at dance, but I always have great memories from every show we get to perform. Some of my favorite moments happen while performing on stage, and also backstage with my friends. It’s an awesome feeling to be able to do something I love with the people that I’m closest to.

What do you love most about dance?
I love being able to express myself and how I’m feeling through dance. If I’m feeling down, or having a bad day, dance always takes my mind off of it and makes me feel better.

Photography by family

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am in the pre-professional program at my studio, so I balance ballet during the day and then school online in the evenings.

What does this mean for you and your future in dance?
Being a part of the pre-professional program is a great preparation for a professional career in dance because it’s very close to how life in a company would be. I really love being able to spend the day at the studio rather than just a few hours after school. It makes a huge difference having extra time there.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
One of the hardest things to accomplish for me was getting through quarantine. It was very difficult not seeing my friends and family or dancing in the studio. Doing our ballet classes over Zoom was one thing that really helped me during that time.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would say that hard work and perseverance can help you achieve just about any dream you have. If you really want something, just stick with it and don’t be too hard on yourself.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, my dream would be to dance for a ballet company, and to be finishing my bachelor’s degree.

Photography by family

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love art, and I enjoy painting and drawing in my free time. I also love baking and watching Jeopardy.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I don’t know if it’s a hidden talent, but I love playing the guitar and learning new songs.

3 Things on your bucket list
Go to France, because I have been learning French for a few years, and learn how to play the piano.

Who do you find inspiring?
There are a lot of people who inspire me, but one person in particular would be my ballet teacher and artistic director of our studio, Servy Gallardo. He has so much passion for dance and for all his students.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think that my work ethic and kindness could inspire others.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I am extremely grateful for this opportunity!

Look for Bella in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Bella Reis

1/21/2021

Click here for more information on issue 42

Bella Reis – California
Nomination by Wendy Streyle
Photography by Glitter and Sand Photography
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Bella Reis is a talented and dedicated young lady to her passion of dance. Unfortunately, her senior year has not been what she expected, but she has found a new passion for teaching and spreading her love of dance to the next generation. She works hard choreographing, instructing and inspiring her students to give everything they have. She is giving them a foundation that will be carried on into their future. She has grown as an instructor and a person. Bella is always there when needed. Bella continues to push herself academically as well, even through distance learning her grades remain high and she is excited for her next chapter of attending a four-year university.

Photography by Glitter and Sand Photography

When did you start dancing and what has your journey been like since?
I took my first ballet class when I was just three years old and loved it. Soon after my mom enrolled me at studio where I began taking jazz, tap, lyrical and hip hop. I started competing when I was six and have been doing it ever since. Dance has been such a big part of my life and has taught me so much. I was a pretty shy kid, but dance gave me the confidence to be myself. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from amazing choreographers, meet people from all over and be a part of a team. I truly believe that dance has shaped me to be the person I am today.

Photography by Glitter and Sand Photography

2020 was a lot of missed opportunities for you. How did you keep busy and stay involved in dance?
2020 was not the Senior year I was expecting. Being on distant learning and not getting to go to school was hard. I missed seeing my friends and having a typical Senior experience that I had hoped for. I was so lucky I still had dance. At the start of quarantine my studio had to close for in person classes but continued virtually through Zoom. Although it wasn’t the same as in person, we could still see each other and connect.
I also did many virtual classes with well known choreographers, and even a virtual competition. We returned to in-person classes in early August with modifications. Since returning to the studio, I have kept very busy not only teaching but taking my own classes. Although we can't be close together and have to stay in our socially distanced squares,
I still am able to share my passion with each and every one of my students which brings me joy every day. Many people did not have the outlet I had which was going out and having the ability to practice my passion with not only my teammates but with the next generation as well and that is something that I will forever be grateful for.

Photography by her dad

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have been involved with Link crew at my school for the past two years and I have loved so many amazing leadership opportunities it has brought me as well as being the main outlet for at least 20 freshman as they merge into the new world of high school, teaching them the ropes on how to make these next four year the best years for them. I also participated in A Night to Shine the organization that Tim Tebow created to celebrate people with special needs by giving them a prom created just for them. I was a "buddy" and the boy I was paired up with was very inspirational. I love being able to help and bring joy to others.

Photography by Glitter and Sand Photography

Tell us more about your leadership opportunities. Which has been your favorite and why?
I have had many leadership opportunities over the years such as joining link crew, teaching at my dance studio, going to a night to shine and many more. If I were to pick one of my favorite leadership opportunities it would be joining link crew these past two years because it has been an eye-opening opportunity, getting to work with the freshmen who are new to this world, they don’t know what high schools like, and I am there guiding them through this transition is such a rewarding experience. In my past year I would check in with about 18 new freshmen each week, go into their class and check in with them. We would ask about their grades, if they needed any help with classes etc. I would not only check in with my freshman each week but in the mornings I would go to the library and tutor some of my freshman who needed my help with certain classes. To be honest most freshmen would have a hard time transitioning because high school is nothing like middle school and if you need help your link crew leaders are the ones who are always going to be there for you. I had about a handful of kids who would always check in weekly and let me know how they’re doing, if they needed anything, I was always there for them. But, of course this year is a little different and we can’t see our freshman in person, we still check in every week through email. Although this year has been very difficult trying to reach out to freshmen and seeing how they’re feeling with classes without talking to them in person, those few freshmen who do email me back and let me know that they’re appreciating my emails and telling me how their classes are going is more rewarding as ever. Knowing that I’m making a difference for someone who’s new to high school and helping them through the year is an experience I will never forget.

How would your friends describe your leadership style and what is most important to you about being a good leader?
I believe that my friends would describe my leadership style as caring and going above and beyond because of my willingness to go to the moon for people I'm leading. Every person whether they’re in my dance class that I teach, my freshman that I guide or anyone in general that I’m trying to lead is always in a positive and caring way. I care for each and every person that I’m teaching, guiding and leading through whatever journey they are going on because I’ve been there, I’ve been the new freshman confused and scared, I’ve been the girl in dance class who sometimes needs that leadership role to reach their goals. The most important thing to being a good leader is the ability to always be there for someone who needs your guidance and putting their needs first . Being a leader is helping someone to become their best, not only do you need to motivate but you also need to show empathy and be able to connect with people to become a successful leader.

Look for Bella in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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BaiYu Fisher

1/21/2021

click here for more information on issue 42

BaiYu Fisher – Iowa
Nomination by Ami Yaro
Photography by
Megan Ruth Photography & others
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: BaiYu Fisher was born in China with albinism and abandoned by her birth mother. She has difficulties with vision, yet she has become a great dancer and circus artist. She is a very positive and motivated person despite her difficult beginnings in life and her physical challenges. She has had the courage to come forward with even her toughest internal struggles and publicly tell her story in order to be a role model for others. At this point in my career, I have quite literally worked with thousands of young people. BaiYu inspires me.

Photography by KM Photography

Tell us about your childhood and physical challenges.
I was born in Xiamen City with a rare disease known as albinism. This means that I lack pigment in my skin, hair, and eyes. This disease is not curable, and its primary impact is on my eyesight. Growing up I had several accommodations in school to ensure my success. Even now that I am in college, Iowa State’s Student Accessibility Center has provided me with accommodations to aid in my educational success. Throughout my childhood I was extremely active and did several extracurricular activities and would not let my lack of vision stop me. As a dance, self-taught aerialist, hand balancer and contortionist I have proven that there is no limit to success. There is no limit to what you can do because of what you were born with, where you came from or what society says you should be able to do.

Photography by Gary Merrick Photography

Where are you now with the internal struggles that have impacted you as a teen?
Today I am continuing to learn and grow from my past. I am becoming an advocate for others who may be experiencing similar internal struggles. As someone with depression and anxiety, I understand the feeling of not being good enough. I know several teens who have experienced that feeling and being a voice for others is such an empowering thing to do. Contributing to changing the stigma around mental health is my current priority because mentally ill people are still human beings and should be treated as such. I truly believe that no diagnosis should define a person. Being able to stand up and come forward with my struggles has inspired other teens to do the same and the beauty in that is breathtaking. To know that I have such an impact on others gives me hope.

Photography by Jaime Hough Photography

How did you get into dance and contortion, and what is your training like? Walk us through your journey as well as what a typical training day is like.
As a child, my siblings were dancers, I grew up playing piano and doing gymnastics everywhere I went. When my siblings were in dance, I decided I was just going to “try” it. Seven years later and I found a new physical activity. I had gone to see my first Cirque Du Soleil show and was inspired to be a contortionist from that moment on. Living in Iowa I knew there weren’t any contortion instructors, so I began teaching myself. I began learning and expanding my knowledge in aerial arts and contortion. On training day, I always start with a warmup whether that be learning a new tik tok dance, dancing around the house, or going for a run. I typically do strengthening after that to prepare my body for handstands and contortion. From there I will stretch out and work on various contortion poses. Then come the handstands and lastly will come the aerial stuff and I will end with another stretch session and conditioning.

Look for BaiYu in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Sommer Edgerson

1/8/2021

Click here for more information on issue 42

Sommer Edgerson – Texas
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by Angie Read Photography
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Sommer enjoys giving and seeing happiness in others. Every year, she asks her friends to bring a new stuffed animal in celebration of her birthday. Then, she donates the stuffed animals to MD Anderson Cancer Center to help comfort the children during their chemotherapy treatments. She volunteered with IGoPink, an organization that provided care packages to women who are fighting breast cancer, until it closed its doors this spring due to COVID-19. She also volunteers through Legacy League serving and fundraising to help support many other philanthropies. Sommer always thinks of others before herself, and that is what makes her an Inspiring Teen.

Photography by Angie Read Photography

Tell us about your dance career.
Dance is the art of expressing myself through the way that my body moves. My body is like my own instrument. I am able to make others feel emotion simply by the movement I make when I let the music take control. I can express sadness, joy, happiness, pain, frustration, and even anger. Dance is a universal language that you don’t have to speak to understand.
I began dancing when I was 3 years old. I love to entertain, and I've always known that the stage is where I want to be. My favorite style of dance is Jazz Funk. It can be fast or slow with syncopated beats to set any mood. My favorite memories are with LA Dance Magic’s Senior Company. I am in my fourth year of LADM Company and this year I am a part of Pro Track where I am the lead dance assistant at conventions and travel to different cities throughout the United States. This opportunity gives me insight into the dance industry and business world. I have gained friendships with dancers from all over the world. I will always cherish the memories of dancing and practicing until late at night with hotel restaurant food for dinner, sharing our goals, encouraging each other, and uplifting one another.
How has Covid changed dance for you?
The studio has always been a safe haven where I am free of judgment and constantly motivated. Dance has drastically changed but the passion will always be there for me. At the beginning of the pandemic, I spent much of my time practicing my choreography, stretching, and watching YouTube videos of dance classes. Kevin Durant once said, “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard”. Not being able to go to the studio gave me the opportunity to work even harder. Now I am having virtual and in person classes being very cautious to follow the rules of wearing a mask and sanitizing my hands and the studio. It is all worth it to be able to do what I truly Iove.

Photography by Angie Read Photography

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have accomplished is balancing dance and school. I love dance so much and I want to be a good student also. I work really hard at both and at an early age; I began connecting my expectations from dance to my expectations at school. This meant turning my work in on time, abiding by all classroom instructions, and staying out of trouble. I knew this behavior is what my dance teachers would expect of me outside of class. There were days when I wasn’t responsible, left my tights at home and unfortunately had to miss class, however, these experiences guided me to have the accountability of my mistakes.

Even as a senior in high school, I take pride in the discipline I have been taught throughout my dance years. I am responsible, accountable, and determined with my actions due to many of my experiences with dance. Most importantly, the people I surround myself with have never failed to be supportive. Although life is challenging, one must accept the challenge to become successful. Dance shaped me into the young woman that I am today and as I pursue my dance career, I hope to never lose who I am right now.

What is Legacy League?. What are your roles and responsibilities and what do you love most about it?
Legacy League is an organization made up of mothers and daughters who work together to fund raise and support philanthropies in our community. Several high school girls and I volunteer at the philanthropies to serve at events, sort and organize donations, and write letters to comfort senior citizens. My favorite philanthropy to volunteer for is iGoPink where we create encouraging cards and gift bags for breast cancer fighters and survivors. I experienced the loss of my aunt to breast cancer last year and started a fund for donations to IGoPink in my aunt’s name. I am very sad to say that IGoPink closed its doors due to the pandemic.

Photography by NA

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice is to put God first in your life. Always stay focused, stay positive even when things are not going well, be dedicated, and don’t let anyone tell you can’t do something. Be true to yourself and not follow others but be lead by your own passion and drive to become who God’s leads you to be.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In five years, I plan to start my professional dance career after completing college. I plan to dance in commercials, movies, television shows, and music videos. My biggest goal is to dance on tour with a major music artist. I love to perform and entertaining a huge audience is the kind of work I want to be doing in my future. I see myself traveling the world doing what I love. Possibly even teaching dance to young dancers who have the same dream as I do.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My hidden talent is singing. I often break out in song and get weird looks because it is so unexpected to hear such a great voice come out of me. My mom and friends say I will get discovered one day.

Photography by NA

Who do you find inspiring?
My mother has always been my biggest advocate throughout my life. I am inspired by her dedication, determination, and optimistic attitude that she puts forth in all situations. Growing up, I have always aspired to be a commercial dancer in California. From an early age, I loved to entertain and perform in front of audiences. My mother has supported me through every dance competition, dance performance, and dance convention. Her love and support have impacted the way I have grown as both a dancer and a person. At late age, my mother went back to college to achieve her goal of a Master's degree. This has shown me the importance of continuing one's dreams until they are met by never giving up. My mother has also shown me what a role model looks like and how I can encourage others to accomplish whatever they desire.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my passion inspires others. I put my best into everything I do whether it is volunteering, my class work, teaching preschool students, or dancing. I make sure I have done my very best to complete every task with care, dignity, respect, and perseverance. I am a hard worker and I take pride in everything I do. I think others see this and are inspired by it.

Look for Sommer in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information about issue 42

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Paulina Prieto Chivardi

1/7/2021

2 Comments

Paulina Prieto Chivardi - Texas
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by
New Trends Photography
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Paulina Prieto Chivardi is the president of Borderland Teen Court, teen court is a nonprofit organization that deals with Class C misdemeanors of juveniles. She is also a mentee of the El Paso Women's Bar Association, with this background, she hopes to attend Yale Law School and become a Criminal Defense Lawyer. As a Hispanic woman she wants to inspire young girls to fight for their rights.

Photography by New Trends Photography

What is it like to be a Hispanic woman with hopes of becoming a lawyer? What steps have you already taken for your future and what goals do you have?
Living in El Paso, Texas has helped me feel more included in the field of law as many of the female lawyers I know are Hispanic like myself. I’m very blessed to be in an environment like this because it’s women like myself who at times get their abilities questioned due to our gender and ethnicity. Some steps that I took were joining the UTEP High School Law Camp which introduced me to Borderland Teen Court and the Women’s Bar Association.

How do you hope to inspire young girls like yourself?
With the help of social media, I would love to be a guest speaker once I have graduated Law School and had a few years of experience as a lawyer. I will take my past experiences and obstacles that were thrown my way to show them that anything is possible, it would be great to travel around the world and give talks to young girls or even start my own group of young girls with hopes of becoming a lawyer.

Photography by New Trends Photography

Tell us more about Borderland Teen Court. How did you get involved and what are your roles and responsibilities as president?
Borderland Teen Court is a nonprofit organization that was created by teenagers. High school students with hopes of becoming lawyers get a chance to be in action in the court room by playing the role of prosecutor or defendant when a juvenile has plead guilty of a class c misdemeanor. As president I was able to write the new Constitution. Alongside the rest of the board, we were able to come up with a solution to shifting to Zoom. Being president has taught me how to lead while being able to take everyone’s feelings into mind and being the person people can trust.

What is being a mentee the El Paso Women's Bar Association? How did you get involved and what have been your biggest achievements or rewards as part of this organization?
I was introduced to the mentee program in the El Paso Women’s Bar Association from the UTEP High School Law Camp, with the program I now have a mentor who will help guide me in my journey to Law School. It’s an amazing opportunity because I was partnered with an amazing woman who has done so much in her life, the program just started but I am so excited to see what the future holds for me in the El Paso Women’s Bar Association.

Photography by New Trends Photography

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Besides being the president of Borderland Teen Court I have also been a ballerina for 15 years. Being a part of the dance world tends to cause emotional distress on a person, but I have been able to overcome the expectations that society puts on a ballerina.

Look for Paulina in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Frankie Rai Jensen

1/6/2021

Click here for more information on issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Frankie Rai Jensen – California
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Robin Jensen
Photography by
C.M.Elle Studios & Amy Wenzel
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Frankie Rai Jensen is a Competitive Dancer, Business Owner and Author.
Frankie suffers from life threatening food allergies, has endured relentless bullying and she is also an animal rights activist.
Despite suffering from food allergies and bullying from her peers and adults alike , she has shown strength , courage and has continued to persevere through her experiences.
Frankie wrote a book, STRONGER, to help her peers cope and realize that they are stronger, than any obstacle they are confronted with.
Frankie started a business, frankie + u,
Her online store is a space that is inclusive and offers products that set her peers up for success.
Frankie has helped raise funds for a TNR program in the Los Angeles area.
Frankie tries to educate people on the importance of spay/neutering their pets, so there is hopefully less animals in the streets and in shelters and more living in loving homes.
Frankie tries to bring happiness and smiles to everyone she meets.
Frankie's hope is to provide continued support, encouragement and smiles to her peers.
Reminding them that they always have a friend in Frankie.

Photography by Amy Wenzel

What is it like to be a supporter of I'm a Dancer Against Cancer and an Ambassador for HopeDance Cure?
It is an honor to be a supporter of I'm a Dancer Against Cancer and an Ambassador for Hope Dance Cure. Children, adults and their families that have been impacted by Cancer are some of the strongest, resilient and brave people. I try to help encourage, educate and support others who have been impacted by cancer, through a shared love of dance and from a genuine support of Friendship.

Photography by Amy Wenzel

What is an example of a challenging situation you have been confronted with, and how did you handle it?
I have had a few situations in my life where I have been bullied by my peers as well as adults.
From having food that I am allergic to thrown at me, being called a liar and a fake about my food allergies and being made fun of because I have to carry an EpiPen in case I have an anaphylaxis reaction.
Other situations that I have been through has been kids excluding me from friend groups, gossiping and ignoring me when I try to speak to them.
Adults have not always been the most supportive either. One taunted me before I went to compete my dance solo and one made a social media post targeting me, regarding a situation that happened during class.
In all of the situations that I listed above, the one major thing I did was to persevere.
It wasn't always easy , but with the right support, the most important tool I have kept with me, is that you are stronger than you think you are in any situation and that you can conquer anything.
I am stronger because of each of these circumstances that I have gone through and it has given me strength, determination and focus to become a better version of myself

Photography by Amy Wenzel

Tell us more about your website.
My website is called frankie + u. I created this business because, I wanted to create a space for kids can be themselves without fear of being judged. I wanted to space where I can share my life experiences and passion of dance .
I want people to walk away with the message, that you have a Friend in Frankie.

Look for Frankie Rai in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Reagan Webb

12/19/2020

Reagan Webb – Missouri
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Suzy Zollinger
Photography by
INfinite Smiles Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Reagan is an inspiring young lady because of her work ethic, intelligence, and commitment to achieving her goals. This is evidenced by her devotion to her passion of dance. Reagan has danced with a local studio for over 14 years. Each week contains hours of practice and traveling for competitions and performances. She has embraced the very definition of discipline, perseverance, and sheer grit. This is only one example of why I consider her to be inspirational. She also has achieved high academic success while participating in several activities including the tennis team and working part time at a local restaurant.

Photography by INfinite Smiles Photography

What inspiring things about you does your nomination leave out?
I feel that my nomination was accurate to who I am, but if I had the chance, I would highlight the service hours that I do at Camp Kanakuk. This past year I had the honor of getting to be a part of Mi7, a missionary to serve others for seven days. During those 7 days I got to truly be a servant for the Lord and help others along the way. The best part of the week was when I got to go shadow my teepee to help them grow in their faith. I also would add that in my high school I try to be as active as I can and help encourage my peers to get connected. Some clubs and activities I'm in are NHS, DECA, FBLA, FCA, dual credit, student council, Concert Chorale, Innovation Track through UCM, Student Leadership team at my local dance studio, the IN crowd through Infinite Smiles Photography, and my job at a local restaurant Heroes. Throughout all of this I have had the honor of being a leader and role model for my peers and younger kids.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
I would present on perseverance and overcoming adversity. This year has been rough and challenging on everyone especially the 2021 seniors. This year we've struggled with whether we're going to school, where we want to go to college next year, knowing if our gpa and act/sat scores are good enough, scholarships, and so many more. I feel that this year with COVID-19 has added extra obstacles to our daily lives than any other group of seniors. I would also talk about staying strong the remainder of the year. With being stressed out of so many things we have to remind ourselves that it's okay to take a break and to remember the things that matter the most.

Photography by INfinite Smiles Photography

Tell us about your life as a dancer. When did you start to where are you now with it?
I started dancing when I was 2 years old in a creative movement class. When I was in 3rd grade, I joined my studio’s competition team. I began to study all genres of dance and ended up falling in love tap. Now I am in the studio 5 days a week and share my love for dance with my students I teach.

What styles do you study? What are your favorite styles of dance and why?
I study all types of dance. I do lyrical, jazz, musical theater, tap, contemporary, ballet, hip hop, and I studied pointe for a while. My favorite style of dance is tap and lyrical. I enjoy tap because I like that I can make noise with my feet. The sounds that I can make with my tap shoes are always new and exciting. Lyrical is also exciting because I am able to express how I am feeling most.

What is a favorite memory from dance?
My favorite memory is being in rehearsals with my friends and having fun together. The best classes are the late ones after a long day of Sunday rehearsals because that’s when we're all tired and silly. As well as the competitions. We have all made some amazing memories together.

Photography by INfinite Smiles Photography

What keeps you motivated and how do you use that to impact others?
I am motivated because I want to excel in everything I do. Also, the best feeling is when I am getting ready to take the stage and I get a rush of excitement. I realize all my hard work will be showcased in this moment and my performance will leave a lasting impression if I do well.

How have your health issues affected your dancing?
My junior year of high school I was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome. I was unable to dance during this year and had to sit on the sides watching my friends do what I love. I started a therapy program that helped me return to dance slowly, and then completely. It is still sometimes difficult to keep up with the pace of my dance classes.

How do you mentor younger children and why do you think it's important?
I think it is important to encourage and support younger dancers. I teach two dance classes during the week and try to build relationships with the younger dancers. I encourage them, and support them by attending their competitions and providing notes of encouragement and small gifts to commemorate events like the Nutcracker, or a Dance Recital.

Photography by INfinite Smiles Photography

3 Things on your bucket list
Travel the world
Become a pediatrician
Adopt a child in need of a family

Who do you find inspiring?
My Grandma is the most inspiring person I know. Before she passed away, she taught me many lessons about helping others, and being encouraging to others. She is the nicest person I have ever known.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years I hope that I will be graduating college and on my way to premed. My goal is to become a pediatrician and help children in need.

Look for Reagan in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Reece Mack

12/18/2020

Reece Mack – South Carolina
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Tracey Werts
Photography by All American Imaging
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Reece Mack is an outgoing young woman who is always looking to help others and making others smile. She is a Jr Volunteer with the Jr League of Columbia, where she volunteers at the Ronald McDonald House, The Special Olympics, and pet shelters. Reece has been dancing since the age of 3 and dances 3 days a week while being on the Honor roll, A member of the Nation Honor Society, and Beta Club. Her future goals are to attend college and join the dance team and pursue a degree in Early childhood education where she plans to become a second-grade teacher.

Tell us your dance journey.
I started dancing at the age of 3 and started dancing competitively at age 5. I am a member of The Teen Performance Company at The Southern Strutt in Columbia, SC. I take jazz, lyrical, hip hop, ballet, and acro. Lyrical is my favorite type of dance. Dancing is my stress reliever, and I can get my emotions out thru dance. When we aren’t competing, we are performing at half time for high school and college basketball teams. During Christmas we have a yearly holiday show, The Grinch. This is one of the times that all ages and all different type of dance is performed. It so much fun for everyone!! My teachers and teammates have taught me how hard work pays off and doing things as a team only makes us stronger.

What is a favorite memory or accomplishment from dance?
One of my favorite memories has been able to dance at Disney World 3 different times. Such a fun and learning experience! I hope to be able to join their college program in the future.

When did you start teaching younger children, what style/s and what legacy do you hope to leave behind to this younger group?
I started being an assistant 2 years ago to the preschool classes and our boy team, Boss. I believe they have taught me more. Their smiles, laughter, and showing me what they are learning brings me joy. I love seeing them on stage dancing their hearts out. I hope that they see my love and commitment for dance and that I inspire them to love dance as much as I do.

Do you watch any dance shows or movies? Which is your favorite?
I watch Dance Moms, So you think you can dance, and World of dance. My favorite is World of Dance. I enjoy watching all the different types of dance from around the world.

Tell us more about your volunteer services.
Which one do you spend the most time doing and why?
I am a Jr Volunteer for the Columbia Jr League, a Youth Leader for the 6th grade girls at Gateway Baptist Church, and a volunteer for the Special Olympics.
Volunteering at the local children’s home for teenage girls on Valentine’s Day is one of my favorites! Talking with them as we made crafts and baked cookies makes you realize we are all one in the same. We all want to be the best that we can be, and we can all achieve it if we work together and believe in yourself.

Look for Reece in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Ashleigh Wells

12/17/2020

Ashleigh Wells – Texas
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination & Photography by Lyons Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: I am nominating Ashleigh today for her passion for dance and how she inspires others around her. I have known Ashleigh for about two years now. From our first shoot together to our most recent, she has grown a lot as a dancer and a person. She is a joy to be around and is a role model for those around her. The younger dancers at her studio love working with her and treat her like their big sister. She is hard working and loves to dance. She also teaches the younger kids at her studio how to dance as well. I look forward to watching her grow and share her passion in the years to come.

Photography by Lyons Photography

Please share with us your dance journey. How and why did you start and where are you with it now?
I started dance at the age of three at Dance Workshop. Before I started dance, all I wanted to do was dance. I would tap my feet and stand on counter tops anytime music came on. After my first dance class it felt meant to be. I have never stopped dancing since. I have competed in more dance competitions I can count, and I have been to the World Finals of Youth America Grand Prix four times in New York City.

What do you love so much about dance?
Dance allows me to express emotions I wouldn’t know how to deal with without dance. It’s almost like a therapy in a way. I also love dance because of its athletic nature. I’m able to stay active and fit while also staying flexible and healthy. Another reason I love dance is because of the discipline you learn in different dance styles/classes.

Photography by Lyons Photography

What styles of dance do you study, and which is your favorite? Why?
I study ballet, contemporary, jazz, modern, tap, and pointe. My favorite is ballet for sure! Ballet is the root of all styles. Without some sort of ballet training, you won’t make it in the dance industry. Ballet is the one style you have to take if you want a career in dance.

What ages/styles of dance do you teach? How has teaching influenced your dancing?
I teach ages 6-12 in the styles jazz, contemporary, modern, and ballet. Teaching has completely changed the way I look at dancing. It has taught me not to stress as much during master classes or just in any classes really. I used to get so caught up in what the teachers thought of me and if I was exactly how they wanted me to be. Now that I teach, I understand that all teachers really want is to see that you care, and they just want the best for you. Yes, teachers may seem harsh at times, but it all comes from their hearts and wanting you to succeed.

Photography by Lyons Photography

What legacy do you want to leave behind for this younger generation of dancers?
I want to leave a legacy of supporting my peers. I have struggled with jealousy issues in the past, and they taught me that I am getting nowhere by tearing down others to make myself feel better. When I support my peers’ success, I’m boosting my peers’ confidence, and I’m showing others the right way to act when someone else succeeds no matter how jealous you may be.

What is a favorite memory or accomplishment with dance?
When I was 11, my solo qualified for the Youth America Grand Prix World Finals in New York City. This is a huge deal in the dance world. I was given lots of opportunities to get scholarships and summer/winter intensive invites through this experience. I was actually accepted into The Rock School for Dance Education Summer Program through one of the master classes I took at the World Finals.

Photography by Lyons Photography

Do you watch dance shows or movies? Which are your top favorites?
My top two favorite dance movies of all time would have to be Center Stage and Step Up! My favorite dance show would have to be Dance Moms! The movies and the show don’t really showcase how the dance world really works that well, but they are super entertaining and fun to watch! I totally recommend!

Look for Ashleigh in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Alaina Gallegor

12/17/2020

Alaina Gallegor – Pennsylvania
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination & Photography by Candi Benek Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Alaina Gallegor is a kind young woman. She plans on attending nursing school after graduation. She’s been dancing forn15 years and currently teaches young dancers in her studio.

Photography by Candi Benek Photography

Tell us your dance story. When did you start, where and what do you study now, & what do you love most about it?
I started dancing at Kristine’s School of Dance when I was just three years old and now, I'm eighteen years old. All my sisters grew up dancing and it is something we all enjoy. This year, I am studying Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Lyrical, Jazz, and Hip Hop. I love the energy of the dance studio the most. The second you walk in, everyone says hi and it’s the best feeling after a hard day of school. We all know each other and are super close. I like to call them my family.

What opportunities has dance brought to you?
Dance has brought me the opportunity to have a place to be myself. At school, I keep to myself but when I go to dance, I can just open up and I know everyone will be there to listen and help. It has brought me new, amazing friends. I guess you could say dance has brought me the opportunity to be in this magazine.

Photography by Candi Benek Photography

What is a favorite memory from dance?
One of my favorite memories was during Friendsgiving last year at the studio. We all brought snacks and slept in the studio. We watched a movie through a projector and played card games. It was a night I don’t think I could ever forget. Another memory is small but when I received this question, I couldn’t leave it out. The girls and I make a lot of jokes and we are very close with our instructors and we could laugh for the whole class. Even though that might get us in trouble sometimes.

What is your biggest accomplishment or success in dance?
I think my biggest accomplishment in dance is finishing every performance knowing I put so much hard work into it. I have finished every stage rehearsal, dress rehearsal, and performance that I've committed too. I go to class every day and I rarely miss so I know I have put in as much work as I can.

Photography by Candi Benek Photography

Tell us about the dance classes you teach and the legacy you hope to leave behind.
I am a student teacher in a lower level Acrobatics class. I make sure they are ready to go. I also go through their warm-up routine. My role in their classroom is to make sure they never fall. I hope they remember me as, “Miss Alaina, who always caught me.” They are all beautiful and strong girls who have a lot of potential and I hope they continue to dance until they graduate like I will be doing.

Look for Alaina in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Audrianne Speidel

12/17/2020

Audrianne Speidel – Pennsylvania
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Heidi Anne Speidel
Photography by Lisha Lee Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Devotion to others through leadership and positive role modeling is Audrianne Speidel. She aspires to bring joy to all and approaches every experience as growth and learning. Audrianne is French NHS & Interact President, FBLA Regional/State champion, in Art NHS, NHS, SADD, Cheer, Dance, and Girl Scouts. Audrianne is a vocalist and instrumentalist, volunteers with Bolivar VFC, works at Ligonier Paws on Main, is a ModelWeek Pittsburgh ambassador, BAA alumni, and will receive her LVHS diploma and an Associate degree, June 2021. Audrianne has a beautiful soul, inside and out, and inspires many with her genuine heart of gold.

Photography by Heidi Anne Speidel

Tell us about your passion towards the arts, performing arts and theater.
The arts have always been a huge part of my life. From early childhood, I always loved musicals and performers, and wanted to be on the stage or in the movie with them. I started dance at the age of 2, which then exposed me to a whole new aspect of the arts. I have gained so much appreciation toward those who pursue a career in the arts. So much, that I want to also pursue a career in that field. Unlike most theatrical performers, I didn’t participate in shows from a young age, focusing on my dance training instead. When I did begin working in the theater, I knew: that’s what I want to do for the rest of my life. The arts are also very underfunded and unappreciated, especially in my area. There are not many opportunities to pursue training or performance opportunities unless you want to travel. I am very lucky to have a mom who is up for weekend trips to New York City, where I do the bulk of my training. The pandemic has cancelled many of my trainings but has given me more opportunities to do Zoom classes with some incredible artists.

What are your highest accomplishments/what are you most proud of from each?
One of my greatest accomplishments is placing 5th overall in Publication Design at the FBLA Virtual Pennsylvania State Leadership Conference in April of 2020. Digital media and publication has always been something I was interested in, but I took the leap this past year to compete in the event. I placed 1st overall at our Regional Leadership Conference in December 2019 to my shock, as I was in fierce competition with people who work on digital media for their education. Being able to compete at the state level, and then to place in the top 5, was a complete shock to me and I hope to continue that streak in this year’s competition.

Photography by Lisha Lee Photography

What are your goals for 2021 with each and how do you think Covid will affect them?
Some of my goals for 2021 vary from getting to work with more Broadway professionals and growing as a performer, to growing as a person, and of course graduating from high school and leaving home. Covid has really changed how I run my life. I have always been such a Type A personality, planning everything out to a T. During this everchanging time, I have begun to relax into my choices and have the outlook of “everything happens for a reason”. So even though so much of my junior and now senior years have either been cancelled, postponed, or changed drastically, I appreciate the little things that we can still do, and hope for the best in the future.

Tell us about Bolivar VFC and Indiana County Miracle League. What are they, what are your roles in each, and what do you love most about being involved in each?

Bolivar VFC is our local fire company, where my dad is actually chief. I have grown up there, helping my mom, who runs the kitchen and assist with all the fundraisers throughout my life. I joined as an inactive member at 14, continuing in my parents’ footsteps. I have always loved helping in the kitchen before events, making sure everything is just right with my mom before the doors open and all the people come rushing in.

Indiana County Miracle League holds a special place in my heart. They approached me back in 2018 to begin singing the National Anthem for them, which I happily accepted. The Miracle League is the County’s baseball team for those with disabilities, through the Pittsburgh Pirates Foundation. Every time I sing it never fails to put a smile on my face getting to see everyone have so much fun doing something they love to do.

Photography by Lisha Lee Photography

What legacy do you hope to leave behind this year?
I would say that the legacy I would like to leave behind this year is just to be yourself and follow your dreams, no matter what people say. 2020 has been a rough year for everyone, but it has been a great period of learning who we are as people. The big things that were cancelled led the way for smaller, more meaningful occasions, which will matter more in the long run!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Never give up and keep following your dreams. There may be times where everything around you seems to be against you, but it will get better and you will overcome. And the person you become will be even greater than the one before.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I hope to be working in New York City, on Broadway, or travelling the country on a Broadway National Tour!

3 Things on your bucket list
Travel as much as humanly possible,
Lead a Broadway show (and maybe win a Tony Award for it),
and be the best version of me I possibly can

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
A lot of time management and planning in advance. When Spring rolls around (my busiest time of year on a normal year), I always make sure I have everything mapped out in my planner and phone so I don’t forget someone or something.

Look for Audrianne in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Ally Smith

12/17/2020

Ally Smith – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Vicki Smith
Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Ally Smith, a 17-year-old senior at Manchester Valley High, has excelled in all Honors and AP classes while assisting classmates with organization and studying. She has shown her leadership skills in the National Honors Society, Student Government Association, and Engineering Club, in addition to participating in the competitive dance team, D&J Dynamite Dance Company. She inspires younger dancers to reach their full potential and encourages their success. Ally expresses care for others, building them up and being an active listener. I believe Ally would inspire others to do the same as a positive role model for her community.

Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
Maintaining a positive outlook during the pandemic and in life in general.

How have you maintained a positive outlook & what advice do you have for your peers?
For me personally, it has been a lot about the way I have thought about things. It can be very easy to start thinking negatively about life when everything is so unpredictable, especially during the pandemic. By focusing on the future and what is yet to come, I have been able to stay positive and look for the good in every day.

Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Throughout my high school career, I have maintained straight A’s in primarily honors and AP classes and, in addition to my academics, I have put a lot of time into my community involvement and participation in a competition dance program. As a member of many clubs and organizations, I have been able to use my time to benefit others such as younger children in summer camps and in my dance company. Through my involvement, I have been able to inspire others to become engaged in their community as well.

Why is getting straight A's important to you?
Throughout high school I have always pushed myself to do the best that I possibly can. By taking advantage of my classes and the support of my peers, I have been able to be successful and do well in school. It has been important to me as it has something I’ve always worked towards.

What leadership opportunities have you had with younger children and why do you feel others should become involved in their communities as well?
I have been a camp counselor on many occasions along with being a leading member of a competition dance company. With dance, I have encouraged younger girls to keep working towards their dreams while having fun! I believe everyone should become involved in their communities in any way they can. You can have such an impact on the lives of others, even as just one person.

Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography

Please share with us your dance journey. How has it helped you become the person you are now?
I started dancing at age three and have now been a part of a competitive dance team for 10 years. I have done everything from ballet to hip hop, but my absolute favorite is tap! I have had to work very hard to make it to where I am in dance today, but I couldn’t have done it without my dance teachers and teammates. They have taught me so many lessons about perseverance and dedication that I will forever remember. I have been able to inspire others through dance to never give up.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
I could present a topic to a group of peers on ways to get prepared for the college process. I have learned the importance of staying organized when researching different options and schools during the final years of high school through my own college search.

What else do you want your peers to know about getting prepared for college?
It can be hard to know what you really want at such a young age, but no matter what, it is important to do something that you are interested in. There are so many different options making it important to look into a variety. Since the college you decide on may end up being the place you spend the next four years of your life at, it is crucial to find a place that you love.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
No matter what obstacles get in your way, always persevere. There will be people and events that try to stop you from getting where you want to be but focus on your goals and always push through.

Image by a friend

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I hope to be working towards getting a degree in college and starting a career. I hope to major in Health Sciences in college and eventually become a Physician’s Assistant.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love to bake different things for my friends and family!

3 Things on your bucket list
Explore the world, go skydiving, and see the seven Wonders of the World.

Who do you find inspiring?
All my friends and family are inspiring to me in so many different ways.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I am a very hard worker and I push myself to be the best that I can. I also always try to stay positive through life.

Look for Ally in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

1 Comment

Emily Olson

12/16/2020

3 Comments

Emily Olson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Layla Olson
Photography by Jennifer Didio
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Emily Olson is an amazing child. She had a brother that is special needs and has defended him in many situations throughout their lives. She wants to be a child psychologist/ therapist to assist children like her brother. She is a motivated student and competes with a local dance team. She is super kind to everyone (a lot of younger children) look up to her. She continues to impress us every day.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

What inspired you to want to work in children’s therapy?
My brother has disabilities so I have seen how cruel and closed off adults can be to a child like my brother. This led me to develop the understanding that maybe it is not just my brother adults don’t understand. A lot of adults don’t try to understand what is truly going on with their children, they may seem happy, but all children need someone to talk to an open up to. I figured I could be that person and help these children with their problems that some adults do not have time to focus on.

Tell us about what you are doing now to help you prepare for that occupation in the future.
I decided to take a psychology class with Carroll Community college to help me better prepare to deal with people and their minds. Psychology explains a lot of why people act the way they do, and I felt as though I can relate those topics to children. I used to work with children at summer camps, and dance classes, but due to covid I had to stop. Those experiences also helped me to observe behavior of children and try to figure out why they act the way they do.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I would talk about how unrealistic beauty standards are in today’s society, because a lot of people tend to believe whether they are men or women that if they do not look a certain way, they are not beautiful, but I completely disagree with that and I want my peers to know this too.

What is the main thing others should know about unrealistic beauty standards?
Unrealistic beauty standards lead people to want something that is impossible to achieve, it is okay to want better for yourself, but you should do so in a healthy way. You should take care of your body, do not push yourself, drink water, and change your diet if you want to but make sure to not restrict yourself. If you do not want to change your diet or exercise that’s okay too, live your life in the body you were given because all bodies are beautiful.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

Please share with us your dance journey. Where did you start and where are you now? What do you love best about it?
I started dance when I was three years old at NCRC a non-competitive dance company, I performed at many recitals. When I got to the age of 8 or 9 I saw a single production put on by the competitive dancers and I knew that’s what I wanted to do too. The next year I joined the competitive dance team D&Js. I started out in the lower groups made great friends; I found a family within that studio. I tried every different genre of dance, but I decided my favorites were tap and hip hop. Each year I worked hard to get to higher and higher companies, and now I am in the highest hip hop, and tap group. I worked hard to get into the dances I am in now and have come a long way from where I was when I started 7 years ago. I love that family I developed in the studio, and how every time I go in the stress leaves my body, for the few hours I am there I can just let go.

What is your favorite dance memory?
My favorite dance memory is each time we would go on stage for our award sessions. Each person in our company would gather together excited to hear the results and placements of each group. Everyone would cheer and congratulate each other. Our whole team for most of the sessions were together we would dance on stage joke around and cheer each other up if we did not do as good as we had thought.

How has covid changed dance for you and your classes?
Covid caused us to be out of the studio for months and be not able to compete at any competitions. I had to adjust to dancing in a closet instead of a big open studio for a while (I am not joking it was an actual closet). Now that we are back at the studio, we are there for less time, and there are not as many classes. Many people who once all danced together are now separated into smaller groups.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
Getting to the higher group in hip hop was one of the hardest things I have ever accomplished. In fact, for a few years when I tried out, I did not make it. I do not give up however, so I continued working and practicing, and giving all the energy I had. I put so much work into getting to where I am in hip hop, if I had given up, I would have never gotten there.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
As cliché as it sounds never give up. The things you want to achieve may seem impossible at first, but you can get there if you continue to work for it. Push yourself work as hard as you can and if you make a mistake, put it in the past and move on there is no point in focusing on mistakes you made. When people make a mistake, they tend to think it the end of the world, but it is not just keep working for what you want and you will get there.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I hope I am on the path of my career and have a job that either involves children’s therapy or will lead to it. I see myself in a happy relationship not only with a significant other, but with friends and family. I will have a good support system and figure out decisions involving where I will end up living as I go.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I enjoy drawing and even painting sometimes, I consider myself to be a creative person, so anything creative I can do.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Most pictures I see I can draw from just looking at them, usually cartoon types of pictures.

3 Things on your bucket list
Travel to New York and see a Broadway show, go skydiving, see the grand canyon

Who do you find inspiring?
My oldest brother, I have seen every hard thing he has gone through in his life and I know he does not think I notice, but he was able to work hard to get where he is now, and he still is working to accomplish more. One day I want to be as smart and hardworking as my brother is.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my kindness inspires others to be more kind to each other. I know what it is like to have people be unkind to you, and I know I am not the kindest person in the world, but I truly hope I do inspire others to be nicer to one another.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I usually have to write down things to remember them. I also choose a day to do each task and try to give myself some break days. For example, I may decide on a night I do not have much dance to do more of my assignments than I normally could. I also find days I can hang with friends or my boyfriend and try to make sure they do not clash by letting people know the days I am actually available.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I do not think there is anything else I would like to share, just excited to be participating.

Look for Emily in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

3 Comments

Mackenzie Seifert

12/15/2020

Mackenzie Seifert - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Krista Seifert
Photography by Becca Matthews
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Mackenzie Seifert is so hard working and dedicated to everything she does. She is a pre-professional dancer and the reining national champion of Imagine Dance Challenge in Hershey Pennsylvania.

Photography by Becca Matthews

Tell us your dance story. When did you start, where and what do you study now, & what do you love most about it?
I started dancing when I was only 2 years old and began a competitive team at 4. I have danced for D&J’s Dynamite Dance Company my entire life. I started in a ballet class for 2-3-year-old and I know train in ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, lyrical, ballroom, and my most favorite style, tap. I love that dance has provided an outlet for me for so long to be able to do something that takes away all of my stress. I also love that it has allowed me to travel so much to meet so many amazing dancers and choreographers all around the world.

How has dance changed you over the years?
Over the years, dance has formed me into the person I am today. Without the incredible support from my amazing teachers along with my family, I would not be the responsible person I am. Being at the studio for long hours every day has forced me to have really good time management skills in order to keep up my good grades in school. I also work and assist at my dance studio whenever they need me and I even teach a solo and two duets that will compete on stage. I always try to be an inspiration to the younger dancers to keep pushing even when it's hard because that is what all the incredible dancers before me did.

What opportunities has dance brought you?
Dance has brought me so many incredible opportunities throughout the years. At one point, I was a part of the American Tap Company which represents the Unites States at an incredible competition against all other countries. I am also in 3 tap videos with the Jam Youth Project, another tap group. By training hard and always being at the studio, my teacher allowed me to assist with younger classes which have eventually led me to teach. I have also worked with many choreographers and contestants from So You Think You Can Dance by attending conventions.

Photography by Becca Matthews

What is school like for you while spending so much time at dance?
For me, school is still very important even though I love to dance so much. I would never sacrifice my grades, even if that meant staying up super late to get all my work done. Dance has motivated me to do better in school because it is important for me to be able to do my best at everything I do. I also try to miss the least amount of school possible for dance but when we have a competition far away, I would have to miss Friday or leave early on Friday but we only had 3 competitions a year so I didn’t miss much for dance.

What would you like to share with us about girls working in the Sports Industry?
There are so many talented women in the Sports Industry and I can’t wait to join them in 4-5 years. I love watching football and am so fascinated by everything involved specifically the draft the college players go through to get to the NFL. There aren’t many women currently working in the Sports Industry but there is more than ever before which shows that it is growing in a good way. My ultimate goal is to be a Sports Analyst in the NFL.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
I won 1st place at Imagine National Dance Challenge Nationals in Hershey, PA out of 180 15-19-year-old, and I was only 15. I practiced my solo so much because I wanted to get in the top 20 but they announced me as winning the Technique award, the most important part of your score, and I couldn’t have been more excited to be named the National Champion 2019.

Photography by Krista Seifert

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
To always practice and try and inspire the younger people around you because everyone wants to have someone to look up to and simply saying Hi to someone can make their day.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I see myself either working for the NFL or working for a specific NFL team at an entry-level position to eventually work my way up to Sports Analyst.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love to travel and go to the beach but those aren’t always easily accessible, so I also love shopping.

3 Things on your bucket list.
Go to Hawaii, go to Greece, Become a Sports Analyst

Who do you find inspiring?
All of my dance teachers and my parents.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think others love my dedication and notice my dedication and see how helpful I am to my dance teachers and one day they want to be the assistant.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I use Google Calendar but I also have a pretty good memory which helps a lot.

Look for Mackenzie in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

0 Comments

CherryAnna Meadors

12/3/2020

2 Comments

Cherry-Anna Meadors - Ohio
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination and Photography by
Candace Meadors
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Cherry-Anna Meadors is so inspiring because she has the biggest heart. She is a friend to all and knows no stranger. She helps kids feel comfortable and leaves no one out. She gave up her birthday and Christmas money last year for other kids to join her at camp. She puts her heart into anything that comes her way and gives 100% to it. She is a second-year dancer blew the judges out of the water with her first year. She was crowned dancer of the year at her first competition and took first overall. And again, at nationals.
She makes sure kids don't go hungry at school. Trust me she would come home and tell me they would change to her account she knew I would pay.
She helps old people she will open doors and help take groceries out.
She learned this in girl scouts that stayed with her. There are no homeless pets when she is around; she finds all pets a good home. No pet left behind.
She sees the good in everyone even if they have been nothing but bad to her.
She will be the girl who grows up knowing that fairy tales and people can be real because in her world she creates them. She doesn't give up hope.
A lot of kids always says how nice she is and how big her heart is. A lot of parents say how sweet and and helpful she is and notice her and her actions are genuine.
It’s hard for me to write this she is my kid of course I’m will think she is great. But everything is true. She gave up Christmas and her birthday for kids to join her from public school to camp.
God and the universe seen this and gave back times 10.
She has a heart as big as the ocean.
And we are creating her fairy tale.
This is part of it.

Candace Meadors of snapped Candy Photography and Cincinnati Carousel dance Photography

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I believe in compassion and think the world needs more. I am the change I want to see in the world it starts with me.

What is your favorite part about girl scouts? How long have you been in it?
I was in girl scouts as a child and I loved the facts I made my first friends there and showed me courage.

What is your favorite volunteer opportunity and why?
My favorite was cleaning up the Ohio River because I hate litter.

Candace Meadors of snapped Candy Photography and Cincinnati Carousel dance Photography

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing was my solo because I'm super shy.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Never give up keep your head held high and have courage and belive in yourself

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I want to be a dancer and tumble teacher

Candace Meadors of snapped Candy Photography and Cincinnati Carousel dance Photography

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love to hike, swim, tumble and climb trees

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

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
All I talk about is dance but to be honest I would talk about being nice to someone else. Strangers. We don't know why goes on at home and to give everyone a chance.

3 Things on your bucket list
To perform in Hollywood, to be the next biggest dancer on east coast, to get my full

Candace Meadors of snapped Candy Photography and Cincinnati Carousel dance Photography

Who do you find inspiring?
Savanna Acree and Emma Sandker

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I am inspiring because I'm kind and I’m selfless not selfish. I always help others before myself and have a huge heart.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
Pay attention to time and alarms on phone.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
Tumbling is my life

Look for Cherry-Anna in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

2 Comments

Annabelle Costa

12/2/2020

click here for more information on issue 40

Annabelle Costa – Massachusetts
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Rhemi Costa
Photography by Michelle Bonos Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Annabelle Costa is inspiring because she puts her whole heart into whatever she is doing. She really goes out of her way to do the best that she can. Annabelle will help anyone in need and has been this way since she was very little. If you need something, she will find a way to get it for you. She inspires me be a better person and I know she inspires others as well.

Photography by Michelle Bonos Photography

Tell us about your dance career. How and when & where did you start and what types of dance do you do now?
I started dancing when I was two years old, I wanted to dance because I come from a family of dancers. My sister was taking dance classes and I wanted to be just like her. I stopped dancing for a short time but continued to dance at home all the time. In 6th grade a dance studio from down the street came to visit my school. That was when I started to dance again but took it more seriously. Every day I worked hard to catch up with the other girls and I slowly came more passionate about dance getting into competitions. I was putting all my energy and time in dance to getting better. I was able to learn Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Jazz, and Tap but I soon found out that tap wasn’t my strong point and not fun compared to the other classes I was taking. So after many years of training I went from a novice to being an advanced dancer.

What is one of your favorite memories from dance?
My favorite memory from dance was at a dance competition where the competition had a hip hop master class before awards. I’m definitely not a hip hop dancer but it was fun to try something new even though you hate it. I got do it with my friends and make new ones while getting to dance and learn a cool combo.

Tell us more about your volunteer involvement. Who is it for and what does it entail?
I volunteered at my dance studio every week by helping them teach little kids to dance. I also participate in a food drive and I got to help and donate a lot of much needed food to the people that might not be able to get it. I like to go and donate toys to multiple toy drives. I’m also in the process of working at my local food pantry.

Photography by Michelle Bonos Photography

Your puppy is adorable! Tell us more about Jules' rescue process.
Before finding Jules we searched for a puppy for months but due to Covid it was very hard to do this. We found a shelter in Alabama that was willing to help us with the application and maybe find us a puppy that would best fit our family. She there was a litter of puppies left deep in the woods with his tail cut off. We fell in love with the puppies but decided Jules needed us the most. He was transported to us and we brought him home and new family.

What do you think is one of the biggest struggles teens have today and what do you see as an option for a way to overcome it?
One of the biggest struggles teens have today is their mental health especially during quarantine it’s definitely got harder to focus on yourself and finding things to keep yourself busy. Mental Health is very important and there should be more outlets for teens that could be struggling. Ways I helped myself during this quarantine have been finding a hobby and dancing but also putting myself first. Take a day to yourself do things that generally make you happy, talk to your friends help each other. I know that this has benefited me and helped me maintain my mental health.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing that I’ve accomplished is getting straight A’s while dancing 10-15 hours a week both inside the studio and at home. I focused on school for the day and made sure to have my homework done before dance and after that I would focus on dance at night and when I didn’t have work to do.

Photography by Michelle Bonos Photography

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Prioritize what is important to you, work hard and don't give up on your dreams.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I will be 5 years out of high school mostly done with college and starting the process of owning my own business and continuing to inspire others to dance.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
When I’m not dancing I like to relax and paint or do some sort of art project.

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
How dance has got through stages in my life and that if you believe in yourself at all times it will lead you to success and help you along the way to improve more in the things you love.

3 Things on your bucket list
Travel
Go see a Broadway musical
Choreograph a dance

Photography by Michelle Bonos Photography

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom because she puts everyone first before her and is always here for me and is so supportive of my dancing.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I’m very determined and if I can’t do something I work hard to make it perfect the next time I do it. I think I’m inspiring because I’m showing others that hard work does pay off.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I have a calendar on the wall so when I’m busy I can look to see what I’m doing at all times.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I’m very excited to be in your magazine and hope to inspire other people to follow their dreams.

Look for Annabelle in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

0 Comments

Jiya Arora

11/20/2020

click here for more information on issue 40

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

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

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

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

Lessons as a Leader: Being a Dance Teacher

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

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

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

My Dance Career

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

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

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

Project Beauty

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

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

My Favorite World Culture Documentaries

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

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

Look for Jiya in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Georgia Kontoyianis

11/6/2020

Click here for more information on issue 40

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

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

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

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

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

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

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

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

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

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

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

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

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

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

Look for Georgia in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens!

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Breann Dyer

10/29/2020

Click here for issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Breann Dyer - Michigan
Interview by Diamond Orin
Nomination by Babe Dyer
Photography by Massie Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Breann Dyer has overcome so much to be where she is today starting with struggling with school since 1st grade. We had her tested and got her a IEP, she did summer school and had a tutor at the age of 6. We then switched her to a charter school and with her hard work and determination she was at grade level and never looked back by 7th grade. All along while dancing up to 20-30 hours a week at 2 dance studios. This past December she lost her oldest brother and has pushed forward as our entire family has been struggling and was at a 2.9 gpa and currently getting a 4.0 gpa even though it's all online. She's had to work hard for everything and continues to do so with grace, caring, and compassion. She plans to study interior design.

Photography by Massie Photography

What is your favorite kind of dance and why do you love it?
I have spent many hours training in ballet which is part of the reason it is my favorite kind of dance. I love ballet so much because it is so graceful, and it always tells a story. There is always a meaning behind each movement, and you can learn how to make it your own, to tell your own story within every performance. I have grown a lot through dance, and ballet is a type of dance that will always hold a special place in my heart.
My favorite part about dancing is being able to escape the outside world as soon as I walk into the studio. I could be going through a rough day, then I go to dance and it’s like none of that ever happened, because I have dance to help me let go, and be free. Dance has always been a part of my life, and it has helped me get through so much. I started dancing when I was three years old, and never stopped. Though I may not remember my first ballet class, I do know that it is what started my love for ballet.

Photography by Massie Photography

Why do you choose to dance at 2 dance studios? What is the difference?
My passion for all forms of dance is why I choose to dance at two studios. The difference between them is one studio is strictly ballet, and the other is where I get to learn my other genres of dance. At Greater Lansing Ballet Company, I get to do big ballet productions like the Nutcracker, which is one of my favorites to perform, and I also learn a lot of ballet technique. At Fusion Dance Center I not only take extra ballet classes, but I also get to perform jazz, tap, contemporary, hip hop, pom pon, lyrical, heels, and pointe. For the past three years I have been on the Imagery competition team as well. I love dancing at two studios so I can be a well-rounded dancer and get to have more opportunities.

Photography by Massie Photography

What is your favorite memory from dance?
My favorite memory from dance is the first class I took at Fusion Dance Center. It was just a summer class so I could get to know the faculty and my future classmates. I made the choice to change studios to find a healthier, and more challenging environment. Within the first few minutes of class I knew I made the right decision, by the support I was getting from everyone around me, and I couldn’t be happier.

Photography by Massie Photography

What do you do in school to stay ahead?
School doesn't come easy to me. I have always had to work extra hard to do well. To dance as much as I do, and still succeed in school, I had to figure out what tools work best for me. Whenever I get the chance to work ahead on schoolwork, I take it. I also learned that time management, asking questions, and taking notes that I understand, is the key to my success. What I do know is that no matter how hard school gets for me I will never give up on anything.

Look for Breann in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!