Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

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Paulina Prieto Chivardi

1/7/2021

Click here for more information about issue 42

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!

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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!

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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

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!

2 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

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!

0 Comments

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!

1 Comment

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!

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Sienna Ni

10/29/2020

Click here for more information on issue 39

Sienna Ni - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Dana Ni
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Sienna Ni is a high school freshman who uses her love of dance to inspire others. She was one of the few 8th graders on her school system's All-County Dance Ensemble and was awarded the Most Valuable Pom by her Poms team due to her leadership, confidence, and positivity. In addition, she recently performed solo at a virtual gala for the Rockville Women's Center, a non-profit organization that serves and supports women with unplanned pregnancies. Through her expressive dance, Sienna was able to influence others by encouraging emotional and financial support for women in crisis.

Photography by Erica Land Photography

It sounds like you are on a lot of different dance teams! Tell us about them and what makes them different.
I am currently on two different dance teams in Maryland. I compete on the Maryland Twisters Senior Poms team, and I just started on my high school’s virtual Poms team. My MD Twisters coaches and teammates are like family since we’ve been together for years! And being on my high school’s team is a dream come true. I was also the only student from my middle school to be on the All County Dance Ensemble during the 2019-2020 school year, which meant a lot to meet students from other schools with a similar love of dance.

Tell us about your solo at the Rockville Women's Center. How did you get it and how did you do it virtually?
My solo at the Rockville Women’s Center’s Gala was a great opportunity for me to dance and raise money for women struggling with unplanned pregnancies. My aunt works at the Center and asked if I would be willing to dance a lyrical solo. Because of COVID, my performance had to be recorded in an empty auditorium. The Center then included my dance in their virtual gala that aired in October.

Photography by Erica Land Photography

A fellow Disney Fan?! Tell us about your love of Disney and how you combine it with your love of dance.
I have been to Disney World almost every year since I’ve been born! I am a Disney fanatic!! I love to perform dances to Disney music and take dance photos with Mickey ears. The entire time I did my individual dance photoshoot with Erica Land, we played Disney music on her speaker to make me feel comfortable and relaxed! I plan to join the Disney College Program and become a Disney cast member!

Photography by Erica Land Photography

How did you get hooked on Star Wars? What do you love most about Star Wars?
I have been hooked on Star Wars since my uncle and cousins took me to see “The Force Awakens”. My bedroom is decorated with Star Wars – I even have a 6 foot Kylo Ren cutout! I love watching the movies over and over, especially the lightsaber scenes so I can learn how to use mine!

Photography by Erica Land Photography

Tell us more about Hope's Journey. How do you help it?
Hope’s Journey is my aunt and uncle’s non-profit organization that is working to end homelessness in the DC area. They are building a small community of four homes called Hope Preserve. They want to restore hope to the families that will live there. I have volunteered at their fundraising events, including making all the table centerpieces one year. Last month, I helped provide lunch for those working to clear the land for the new homes.

Look for Sienna in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Sofia Weidknecht

10/28/2020

click here for more information on issue 39

Sofia Weidknecht – Colorado
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Photographer Jennifer Denton Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: In late March, 2020, Sofia Weidknecht and her younger sister Kate decided on their own that they would start a GoFundMe page for the Denver Public School Food Security Fund. Some children in the DPS system rely on this meal as their one and only hot meal of the day so when Covid hit, the girls knew they had to help. With the backing of their dance company, in less than a month, the girls were able to raise over $10,000 dollars to feed hundreds of DPS kids.

Congratulations on your success with the GoFundMe Page. What led to the GoFundMe page you started for Denver Public School Food Security Fund?
I have family in the Denver Public School system, and I knew that there are a lot of families that rely on the school system to get breakfasts and lunches. I was concerned about how kids would get their food when we were on COVID lockdown and didn’t know how they would stay healthy through the quarantine season. My sister and I brainstormed and with the help of our dance company, we managed to raise over $10,000 for these kids in need!

How did you get people to know about it and to donate to it?
When we first started it, we asked family and friends from our dance company to donate a few dollars to help us get started. As we began to gain leverage, we put links on our social media profiles and got a ton of donations through that. Eventually, we had the opportunity to go on our local TV news station and that is what blew our GoFund me up. We got hundreds of donations over the span of two weeks and really made me and my sister realize how easy it was to make an impact on people’s lives.

Tell us about the National Charity League. What do you do it in and what do you love about it?
National Charity League is a super fun organization where you have the opportunity to give back to your community in so many different ways through so many different charities. My personal favorite charity is Meals on Wheels, and I love that one because it gives me a chance to drive around the city of Denver and give back to people who really need it. The people receiving the food are so thankful and it’s so cool to see your impact first-hand.

That's exciting you started your own business in 8th grade. Tell us more about it. What was the hardest part about starting it and how did you advertise? Do you still have it?
The business that I created was called The Babysitting Bag, and it was a backpack that was easy to carry around to babysitting jobs with toys, coloring books, as well as first aid things like bandaids, antiseptic wipes, and instructions for CPR. The most challenging part of the whole experience was writing an entire business plan for my product. My product was completely unique which made it hard to answer some of the questions about competitors but through school advertisements, I ended up almost selling out. I stopped making more products after the end of 8th grade, however, I do have a couple of backpacks in my room that I haven’t gotten around to selling yet!

Your dance experiences sound super exciting. Tell us more about your opportunities.
One of the most memorable opportunities I had last year was performing for the Special Olympics in Denver. This wasn’t one of our bigger performances, and it was in a gymnasium. We performed right before the basketball game started and I will never forget the faces of the people we performed for. They watched every move, and it was so quiet, we could hear a pin drop. After we finished, they gave us the biggest round of applause we could ask for. After the performance, we made posters and went around to the games cheering them on, and it was overall a super rewarding performance to be able to put those smiles on people's faces.

Look for Sofia in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Ashlyn Sins

10/9/2020

click here for more information on issue 39

Ashlyn Sins – Louisiana
Interview by Inspiring Teens Team
Nomination and Photography by Trena Sins
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Ashlyn Sins is a 10th grader and aspiring dancer with interest in law. Ashlyn is always finding ways to help and provide for others. Whether volunteering for organizations that serve marginalized groups such as Options, Inc. or her school, the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, she is always willing to give her time. She also comes up with fundraisers for different groups, such as the Tangi Humane Society, the Tangi Food Pantry or items for hurricane relief. She does all of this and more between her high school schedule and her competition dance schedule.

Photography by Kathy Whittaker Photography

How did you get started in dance? How long have you been doing it and how many hours do you spend practicing?
I started dance at 2 years old at a daycare program. From there, I joined a dance company and then went to my first Nutcracker audition! I was a tiny mouse! Dew Drop Fairy soloist has been my biggest role to date. So, I’ve been a dancer now for 13 years. In all, between my dance company and my performing arts school, I am dancing or in dance education for approximately 28 hours a week. It may sound like a lot, as much as a job for some, but to me it’s fun and it’s my dream.

Tell us a little about your high school as well.
I attend the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts high school. In 8th grade I had to apply and audition. I was accepted by audition to the Dance Department as well as their full academic studio. I have the honor of attending a school with notable graduates such as Harry Connick, Jr., Branford Marsalis and Wendell Pierce to name a few. What I love most about my school is the diversity. There are many different departments, such as Culinary, Jazz and of course Dance! The school is full of creative people from many different backgrounds. It’s definitely New Orleans!

What was it like to have been selected by audition and danced at Orlando Ballet School, Austin Ballet and Joffrey Ballet School for summer intensives?
Since I am a dancer I love to stay on top of my technique. Over the past few summers, I have auditioned for and attended intensives with Orlando Ballet School, Austin Ballet and Joffrey Ballet School. These were all amazing experiences where I lived on university campuses for up to 5 weeks while training with world class instructors. Aside from the great training and growth, I loved making friends across the country!

Who do you find inspiring?
As a dancer, and as someone who embraces diversity, I find Misty Copeland’s story inspirational. She is a dancer that so many young girls look up to for so many reasons, such as being told you are not good enough. There are times when many of us don’t feel “good enough” but we keep working because it’s what we love. I say that if you dance with your heart, your feet will follow!

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
As far as being inspiring, I think I see myself more as a mentor or role model. I love to help the younger dancers at my studio, not only with their footwork but with their confidence. I’ve been in their (ballet) shoes. I worked hard to get where I am and I want them to understand that they can do it too!
I’ve had dance moms thank me for being nice to their children, helping them and just being good example. It’s nice to receive the compliments, but it’s even greater when I see a girl achieve her goal.

Photography by Trena Sins

What does it mean to be a Major Donor Ambassador for DanceHopeCure?
was designated this title due to the amount of funds I have raised for pediatric cancer research. I wanted to be involved with this organization because my family has been touched by cancer in many ways and I wanted to find a way to be involved in giving back. I make social media posts occasionally and I keep a link on my Instagram @ashlynsins where people can make donations.

How did you get started with volunteering and what are some of the volunteer services you have participated in?
My volunteerism truly began when I started in pageantry with National American Miss when I was 8 years old. I joined the Tangi Food Pantry as the youngest ever volunteer! I was allowed to stock shelves, bag groceries and make bread bags. As a current contestant for Miss Louisiana Teen USA, a place to volunteer close to my heart is Options, Inc. They help people that are physically and mentally disabled find a place in the community to work with a sense of purpose.

Tell us more about how you got started with organizing fundraisers, and some highlights from the events you've organized.
While volunteering is fun, there is always a need for fundraising. I’ve been able to have food drives for the Tangi Food Pantry at my dance studio and I’ve even had a supply drive for the Tangi Humane Society. Something that can be devastating in my region of Southeast Louisiana are hurricanes. So, occasionally there is a need for me to gather donations for hurricane relief for people that are displaced.

Photography by Trena Sins

Tell us about you’re the pageants you ‘ve been in.
Pageantry has been a constant in my life since age 8. I would always tell my mom that I wanted to be in a pageant. My mom was unfamiliar with pageantry, so she didn’t look into it until the day I received a referral to a natural pageant in the mail. She said, “if I don’t have to worry about hair and makeup then you can do it.” And so, I did my first pageant with National American Miss and won 4th runner up to queen and I won talent! Dance, of course! The rest, as they say, is history! I am now a contestant in the upcoming Miss Louisiana Teen USA pageant in January 2021.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I have a very full schedule, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. I guess that’s how it is when you do what you love! I have my Mom to thank, of course, for helping to keep me organized and getting me everywhere I need to go. I do keep a calendar of events and notes of things I need and want to do!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In the future I see myself attending a university to pursue my education in dance as well as my interest in law. It seems like an odd combination to some people, but to me it’s all about balance. It’s about following your calling. I’ve always loved dance and recently in the current state of our nation I’ve started finding a passion for law. I want to help those that need a voice and deserve to be heard.

Look for Ashlyn in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Nathalie Gutierrez

10/5/2020

click here for more information on issue 38

Nathalie Gutierrez - Texas
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Katia Lopez
Photography by Gary Hufham Professional Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The nomination: Nathalie Gutierrez, 13 years old is celebrating her 10 years in dance trajectory.

Photography by Gary Hufham Professional Photography

What do you love most about your passion for dance?
My passion for dance honestly started when I was 10. Even though I loved dancing since I was 3, I never really knew why. When I was 10, I joined junior company at my studio. And ever since the first week of me being in that company it made me realize my passion for dance. Dance is all about expressing your feelings of the character you are playing or even yourself. It has always been hard to express my feelings towards others but with dance it has made me conquer that fear. Through the music and arm movements and with the faces you perform with, the audience and you know how you feel.

How has dancing for 10 years impacted your daily life and routine?
Dancing has always been a part of my life ever since I was a little girl. Before I started dancing at a studio, I’d dance all over the house listening to music. When my mom signed me up to classes when I was 3, I’ve never been so happy to finally take dance classes. My love for dance has only gotten bigger. Even though I wasn’t the best dancer in my classes that didn’t matter to me because of the amount of love I have for it. When I was 10, I decided to join the junior company of my studio. And that’s when I started to learn how to dance more professionally which meant more classes per week. I would come home from school get ready for dance and straight out the door to class. Whenever I got older my routine just got more complicated. I had to find space for homework since each grade level assigned more homework and projects. All I thought about every day, every hour was school and dance. And that is still what I think about today.

Photography by Gary Hufham Professional Photography

Tell me a little bit about one of your favorite memories or experiences you have made through dance that stands out to you.
My life is full of happy memories, especially from dance. Every year we preform our annual Nutcracker. Every year I got a bigger role. But my biggest role yet was the soldier doll. My favorite memory was seeing my name as that part. I never knew I could get my first solo that year. When I saw my name on my home screen next to “Soldier doll”. I’ve felt more accomplished in my life. I knew I made it. To be honest I never really thought I was a good dancer compared to the other girls in my group. But when I saw my name. I knew I was able to do anything.

What type of dance is your favorite and why?
Every type of dance is different in its own way. And I’ve tried almost every type so far. But favorite has to be jazz. Jazz has always been my favorite ever since my first jazz class when I was 7. Jazz has been my favorite because it has all the ballet technique plus the fun arm movements and music. Jazz is all about having fun through the music. And music is something that is very important to me. Ballet is to strict, tap is all about footwork, modern is all about jumps and abstract. While jazz is all basically every type of dance into one.

Photography by Rita Harris

In what ways have you balanced school, dance, and other activities you are involved in?
Dance and school take up my whole life to be honest. I wake up early morning and go to school. After school I go home, get ready for dance, and don’t come back from home until 9:40 pm and do my homework and finish projects. It has always been super difficult to balance everything all in one whole week. But I’ve been getting the hang of it ever since I learned how to manage my time. During school hours I’ll try to finish some of my homework and projects, so I don’t have to do as much as I have to do after school. When I get home from school I get dressed quickly and eat something before I go out the door. Since my little sister always has class before me, I always find time to do some homework or study for exams before my classes. And since we always have late night rehearsals, some nights I would try to not do my homework during those days so I can have a break occasionally. When I get back home I would barely have any school work to do so I go shower, eat, and straight to bed, but if I have still have school work to do , I do it right before go to bed.

Nathalie will be featured in issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Aubrey Stewart

10/1/2020

Click here for more information on issue 38

Aubrey Stewart - Texas
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Tyler Lyons Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The nomination: I am nominating Aubrey because I have watched her grow as a dancer and a person over the last year and a half. She never stops growing in her skills and she is an inspiration to all the younger dancers at her studio. They look up to her as an example of who they want to be when they grow up.

Photography by Tyler Lyons Photography

My mom was working as a tumbling teacher at United Performing Arts Company, and she wanted me to work on my coordination. She enrolled me into pre-school tap/ballet and tumbling, and I have been tumbling and dancing ever since. My aunt and grandmother were dancers, so I have it in my blood. My cousin is also a dancer and now one of the choreographers at my studio. She works for many local studios in the Metroplex. I believe my passion comes from inside. I have a hard time expressing myself with words, so this is how I can express what I am feeling. I love how dance makes you feel free. Free to move and get out anything that you need to get out. When I was younger we used to shake out our nerves by jumping and shaking, kind of like that with dance. If you are sad, you can dance sad; mad, find song and let that anger out.

I still attend a public fine arts school, so my daily routine revolves around education and dance. The last period of my school day is dance, so I have an 1.5 of dance at school before I head to the studio. I am up at the studio 4-5 days a week, from 3-4 hours a day. Stretching is the most important, and I try to fit that in at some point during the day. I like to attend different master classes, conventions, and intensives to improve my skills. It is always good to learn from different instructors and receive different insights on how to improve your skills. It is a lot of fun too!

Performing a solo called “One Beautiful Evening”. It was the first time I worked with my cousin, and she choreographed my solo. It was a breakthrough year for me in my performance and growing as a dancer.

I don’t really talk and express myself verbally very well, so using movement through dance helps me express myself.

I love working with the younger dancers to show them where they can go with their dreams, and that they can accomplish anything when they put their mind to it.

My cousin Jayci inspires me because she has had some struggles through injuries but keeps on pushing herself and has stayed strong to this day.

Something that you don't know about me, When I was 5 years old, I had eye surgery. I was diagnosed with strabismus in both eyes. This basically means, to put it simply, that I had two lazy eyes. It was actually one of my dance instructors that suggested to my parents that I might need to go get my eyes check out. I was referred to an ophthalmologist, and was then diagnosed. Since, I was about to be 5 and enter Kindergarten, the doctor and my parents wanted me to have surgery as soon as possible. So, I had surgery the day after my 5th birthday party. Many people do not even know that I have this issue, and sometimes I have to let new teachers know, or remind old teachers or instructors. Even though I can now focus both eyes on objects and see 20/20, I don’t see depth perception as well as others. I also have some problems with 3D and color scale. I have to go to the ophthalmologist twice a year for checkups. My doctor says I’m his best patient. He believes that the reason my eyes have done so well is because of dance. I am exercising my eyes every day, building up the eye muscles and keeping them strong through dance. I want other young people to know that if you have disability, you can do anything you put your mind to, push through it and get stronger. Dance has helped me in so many ways, emotionally and physically, and I love it with my whole heart.

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Mara Rouse

9/20/2020

click here for more info on issue 38

Mara Rouse - Ohio
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Julie Rouse
Photography by 12.9 Dance
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Mara Jade Rouse is a wonderful and beautiful teen who has an even more amazing work and dance ethic. Her compassion and dedication to her friends, family, school and dance is a great attribute. She has been dancing since 4th grade! I love watching her dance and grow. She never gives up when given a task and keeps going!

Photography by 12.9 Dance

What I love most about dance is the feeling I get when I’m on stage. When the lights hit me, and I start dancing. All my worries and stresses slip away as I’m doing what I love most. I don’t have to worry about drama, or any of my other stresses when I walk on that stage. That’s the only place I can get away from it. I also love the drive and the adrenaline rush I get. All my nerves and excitement combined drives me to do a great job. It has impacted who I am by teaching me there are bigger and better things in life, and to be kind to everyone. Dance has taught me more about being human than any school ever did. I haven’t danced for very long. Only 5 going on 6 years. And it was never a huge part of my life until around 7th grade when I quit cheer for dance. Then dance became a whole lot more important when I moved to my studio I’m at now. I have so many memorable experiences but that is the biggest one. Moving from cheer, to dance, then to another dance studio. This new studio made me realize how much I actually love dance and wouldn’t trade it for the world. Some topics I am very passionate about is of course Black Lives Matter, but also Women’s Rights, abortion, and people’s body images, insecurities and how people compare themselves to people on social media. I believe that women should be able to do exactly what men can do simply because they can. Don’t discriminate over gender. I also believe that abortion is murdering a person. If you got pregnant by accident and really didn’t want the baby, there are other options, like adoption. Don’t kill an innocent baby that isn’t even born yet and doesn’t have a choice. My biggest inspiration is my dance instructor Miss Melody. She is my biggest inspiration because she has done so much for me and took me in as though I was her own. She is so kind to people and does everything she can to make people happy. I love her so much and I wish to be like her when I get older. My passion in dance can make other teens be inspired because I am so determined. When I can’t get something right, I do it over and over and over again until it’s right. This can inspire teens to never give up and to always keep pushing themselves to make them better.

Photography by 12.9 Dance

Some advice I would give to someone who wants to be where I am is to always be humble and always stay determined. Things will get tough and to the point where you think to yourself “Why am I even doing this?” but you can’t let those thoughts get to you. You have to remember that you are doing this because you love it and committed to it and you’re not going to let anything get in the way of that. If I were to publicly present a topic in front of my peers it would be about people’s body images, insecurities, etc. I am passionate about this topic because although I do these things, and I’ve been through them, I hate seeing when, not just a girl, but anyone is down on themselves and hate how they look. I could go on all day about this topic. 3 things on my bucket list are one, to go to Hawaii. My mom used to live there and I’ve heard it’s beautiful. Two, meet Shawn Mendes. I have listened and been obsessed with him since I was little. And three, work as a dancer at Disney. I would love to have this job because I love to dance and I absolutely love Disney.

Photography by 12.9 Dance

Mara will be featured in issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 38

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Isabelle Johnson

9/17/2020

4 Comments

Isabelle Johnson - Indiana
Interview by Diamond Orin
Nomination & Photography by
Moments In Time by Kimberly Krueger, LLC
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Isabelle Johnson is an inspiring teen because of how selfless she is. She is always putting others first making sure they are on task with their goals in class as a teammate and friend. She pushes them to go that extra mile even when they feel that they cannot. Isabelle assists in teaching the littles in pre-ballet, she finds great joy in showing them that they can be amazing at anything they do when they put in the effort. Not only is she an amazing dancer but she is a beautiful painter. She uses both arts to share her light and love for those around her. If it’s giving someone a painting to brighten their day or having silly dances with friends to make them smile, she will always go above and beyond for anyone in life.

Photography by Moments In Time by Kimberly Krueger, LLC

How long have you been dancing?
I started dancing seven years ago at the age of nine at Dreams in Motion Academy of Dance by Miranda, Inc. I found a huge passion the second I walked in and learned a dance. I love how much the teachers push us to be the best we possibly can be and support us every step of the way.

What do you enjoy about helping the younger dancers?
I enjoy seeing the little girls come in excited and ready to learn and have fun. They always have fun stories to tell with such great animation, it just makes you smile. Also, knowing that you are helping them learn and succeed makes you feel great inside.

Photography by Moments In Time by Kimberly Krueger, LLC

How does it feel knowing you are an inspiration to others?
To be interviewed feels absolutely amazing! I pride myself on being someone that others can look up to. I couldn’t be doing it without my photographer, Kimberly Krueger, who has put in so much effort in each photo for this outstanding opportunity.

Why do you think it’s important to put others before yourself?
First and foremost, it makes me happy to put others before myself. I love to see the smiles of joy that others have because of something I have said or done. I have been raised to always be kind to others, no matter their background. We do not always know what a person is feeling, as some people hide their feelings. It’s as simple as making a person smile that can change their day and maybe their course of action.

Photography by Moments In Time by Kimberly Krueger, LLC

What sort of things do you like to paint and why?
I paint what I am drawn to, whether it is a landscape, portrait, or even abstracts. I like to experiment with many different resources to further my skills.

Tell me a little bit about racing go karts
When I was younger, my dad took my brother and I to a race in Indianapolis for the Brickyard 400. It was then when I realized that I loved being around fast cars and the environment of racing. My brother and dad race go karts on a dirt track and I’m with them each race supporting them with help and learning any new information I can. Recently, I have been doing practice laps to get the feel of being behind the wheel. I hope that one day I will have advanced enough to participate in racing and go further than go karts.

Photography by Moments In Time by Kimberly Krueger, LLC

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell them to never give up. All you can do is try, although you may not succeed the first time. Keep pushing forward, if you give up, you won’t get there. Be your own biggest cheerleader.

Isabelle will be featured in issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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AnnMarie Brumley

8/29/2020

Click here for more information on issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

AnnMarie Brumley – Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath.
Nomination by Mindy Rose.
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studios.
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

The Nomination: AnnMarie Brumley is a teen dancer with multiple rare disabilities. Some are visible; some invisible she hasn’t let this get in the way of her reaching her dreams, and she keeps dancing to the best of her abilities. Even after having spinal surgery it truly amazing that she has the passion for it.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studios

What do you love most about dance, and how has it impacted your daily life?
What I love most about dance is that we are all a big family. We all take care of one another, and I think that is an essential part of being a team. When I first started back with dance, I ended up in the hospital, and the girls visited me, then I had surgery a few months later. They have all been there to help me and get through my battles. Dance has also taught me how to be part of a team and sew a little bit.

How have you overcome having multiple rare disabilities by keeping a positive outlook and continuing to pursue your passion in dance?
Overcoming rare disabilities by keeping a positive outlook and pursuing my passion for dance hasn't been easy, but I keep a goal in mind and reached for the stars. What I learned through dealing with everything I have gone through is all you need is a little patience and some chocolate cake.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studios

How has dance become an outlet for you to express yourself in a different way?
It's indeed become my way to take whatever is going on that day and put it into my dancing. It can make it fun, and it can make it serious, make it sad, and think of it as Disney's Inside Out but dancing style.

How have you managed being involved in many different activities while also dedicating your time to dance?
I've managed to be involved in different activities while dedicating my time to dance because I attend a virtual public school. So, I do all my schoolwork from home. As soon as my work is done for the day I get to go to dance or do anything else I need to get done.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studios

Tell me about the program 2020 class of the St. Jude Leadership society you are a part of and being State Officer for Louisiana DECA. What responsibilities does it come with?
St. Jude Leadership Society is a leadership experience for high school students who like to give back to their community by promoting and supporting the mission of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in high schools and colleges around the world. As a State Officer, my position makes me responsible for initial member recruitment, branding, promotions, correspondence, and social media.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studios

What advice would you give to other teens to encourage them to stay true to who they are and to never be afraid to show the real them?
The one thing I could say is, don’t copy anyone. We always want to look like the popular kids at school, but we do not realize that there is someone out there wanting to be like us. Be yourself, don't be someone else, don't be someone you're not. You're beautiful or handsome, just the way you are!

AnnMarie will be published in issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Sarah Barksdale

8/27/2020

Click here for more information on issue 37

Sarah Barksdale - Arkansas
Interview by Diamond Orin
Nomination by Laken Brown
Photography by Hope Mulanax Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Sarah Barksdale is a girl with a huge heart for others and for her dance & it shows in all she does. She is one of the best dancers I have ever seen & continues to push herself. She is immensely talented & has a true passion for dance.

Photography by Hope Mulanax Photography

When did you start dancing and what do you love so much about doing it?
I started dancing at age 2 and competitive dancing at age 5. I love that dance pushes me to work hard, be confident, and it brings out my competitive side.

What is your favorite kind of dance and why?
Contemporary is my favorite kind of dance because it puts other styles of dance together like lyrical and modern and I love the unique movements.

How does dancing help you cope with the hard times in life?
Dance helps me forget the hardest parts of my life. Right as I walk in the studio, I can forget everything negative that’s going on. Through dance, I can express the emotions that I’m feeling without saying a word.

Photography by Laken Brown Photography

Tell me about some of your favorite dance accomplishments.
Some of my favorite accomplishments are winning 2 National Dance Championships at ages 6 and 16. I have also won scholarships to 2 professional dance workshops. I have performed in multiple shows called Kidz Roc at the Clay Cooper Theatre in Branson, Missouri and I’ve had the honor to assist world famous choreographers at the Talent on Parade Dance Directive workshops.

Tell me a little more about the Madison County Health Coalition group you are in.
The Madison County Health Coalition is a group of high school students that meet once a month, attend events for teens, do radio ads, speak to our local schools, and have an ad on a billboard in our town about teen drug use and vaping.

What advice would you give to someone to maintain a high GPA while do extra activities (e.g. sports and clubs/groups) like you?
The advice I would give is to always know that education is most important, be confident in yourself and your abilities, and maintain your drive and passion in all of your activities.

Photography by Laken Brown Photography

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I’ve ever accomplished is winning the National Dance Championship at age 16. My dance studio had to close as a direct result of the CoVid-19 pandemic, so I put in hours of practice at home, had confidence in myself, and was determined to do my very best the day I took the stage.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The advice I would give would be to have passion, determination, a hard work ethic, and always be humble in winning and defeat.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I plan to go to college and in 5 years have a degree in dance and Diagnostic Medical Sonography. I want to have a career as an Ultrasound Technician and as a dance teacher. I also plan to be married and starting a family.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
My favorite activities are riding mules and riding ATV’s with my family.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
No, I’ve been fortunate enough to have family and teachers help me find all of my talents. They see the potential in me even when I don’t see it in myself.

Photography by Hope Mulanax Photography

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
The topic I would present to my peers would definitely be dance because it has been a huge part of my life for 14 years. I feel like I could speak not just about the technique of it, but also about teamwork, work ethic, and how you can become a role model for younger kids.

3 Things on your bucket list
The 3 things on my bucket list are to visit Paris, France, go on a hot air balloon ride, and swim with dolphins.

Who do you find inspiring?
My sister, Emily inspires me. At 15, she was diagnosed with a kidney disease. However, that didn’t stop her from following her dreams. She is 22 now, owns a small business, is married, and just gave birth to my beautiful niece, Amelia.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my work ethic, personality, and dancing inspires others. I am a student teacher at my dance studio and I think my students see me as a role model they can look up to and I want them to see the best in me no matter the struggles that I might be going through.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I go to a public school during the day and I’m thankful to have a dance teacher who works the dance schedule around cheer practices and games in order to make sure I don’t have to miss a dance class.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I would like add that in 2015, I danced with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders at AT&T Stadium. In 2019, I appeared as an extra in the recently released movie “Max Winslow And The House Of Secrets” and I appeared in a music video to a song called “The Answers” written and performed by Emery Kelly for the movie soundtrack.

Sarah will be featured in issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!