Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

Jon Cader

10/15/2020

Jon Cader – Louisiana
Interview by Inspiring Teens Team
Nomination by Misti Cader
Photography by Sprig Designs
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jon Michael Cader (Jmike), is an outstanding Christian role model at Ouachita Christian School. His outgoing personality along with his willingness to help others in need are just a couple of his great qualities. He is the epitome of what a student athlete should be and is a natural leader not only on and off the field but in the classroom as well. He holds a 4.8 GPA, scored a 29 on the ACT, is a member of the National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He will be attending Mississippi College after graduation, majoring in Pre-Med with aspirations to become an Anesthesiologist while playing baseball for the MC Choctaws.

Photography by Sprig Designs

Academics and Baseball are both particularly important to you. How do you create such high success in both, and where do you attribute the value of your high standards for yourself in these areas? How do you balance them both?
I believe to be successful in anything you must be passionate about it, and this is what creates the drive to put in the extra work required to succeed. From a young age my parents instilled in me to strive for nothing less than excellence, and all goals are obtainable as long as I am willing to put in the work and effort to achieve them. Balancing them both is surely a juggling act and a skill I am still learning to master, but ultimately academics is always first.

Let’s talk about academics first. Your GPA and ACT scores are outstanding. Does learning come easy to you or do you have a special study secret you would like to share with us?
Unfortunately, learning does not come easily to me. Maintaining my GPA requires a lot of effort. This year, I was struggling in AP Calculus, and I had to get a tutor to help me understand the material. Though this may not be a secret, refraining to procrastinate reduces stress and prevents a homework overload.

Where did your interest in going Pre-Med begin and why did you choose Mississippi College? What type of Dr. do you plan on becoming and why?
I have always wanted to go into the medical field because of the joy I find in helping others. The science behind the human body has always been an interest of mine. Healing and bettering a human being are extraordinary in my eyes. I chose Mississippi College because they offered me a scholarship to play baseball for them. During my official visit, I learned not only that they have the best pre-med program in the state of Mississippi, but also the only cadaver lab. I plan on being an Anesthesiologist. Though I love helping others, the profession will also provide a sound financial future.

Tell us about your baseball career and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. What are your positions/roles and what do you love about them?
My parents started me in baseball at the age of 4. I started playing travel ball around 8 years old. Around the age of 12, I developed a burning passion for the game. I have been fortunate enough to play baseball all over the United States, playing with some of the best talent in the country. I have played for prestigious programs which helped mold me as a player. As a Ouachita Christian Eagle, we won a state championship my sophomore year. Now, I am fortunate enough to further my athletic career at the collegiate level. I am primarily a middle infielder while also competing in the starting rotation as a pitcher. I love to compete. From the minute I step between the lines to the moment I hear “ballgame,” it is game time. I also love the role of leadership I have taken up in mentoring the underclassman.

What is your school like, and what legacy or positivity do you hope to leave behind to the underclassmen?
Ouachita Christian focuses on a college prep education while preparing its students for time and eternity by instilling Christian values in us. OCS athletically competes for state championships in multiple sports year after year. I hope to leave behind a positive Christlike legacy. When my name is brought up, I hope the thoughts of hard work, dedication, and child of God are mentioned.

Look for Jon in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 39

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Ashlyn Sins

10/9/2020

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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!

click here for more information on issue 39

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Lillee Engen

9/3/2020

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Lillee Engen - Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Aimee Williams
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Lillee Engen is the hardest working teen I know. She not only has a 3.9 GPA but is graduating with 18 hours towards her bachelor in May. She is a leader on the Danceline -choreographing or mentoring younger dancers. You can find her working out every day at F45. Committed, determined, and has her eyes set for her goals.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

Being a leader on the dance team comes with lots of responsibility. As a 3rd year veteran, I am responsible for taking care of all the new members and helping with making sure that everything runs smoothly. I also help with choreography on the dance team. As well as being a competitive team, we also perform at all the football games, basketball games, and band competitions. It is up to us as a team to work together to come with innovative choreography that is entertaining and impressive to the audience. Being a leader on the team is like a full-time job where you are always accounted for.

Being a dancer requires skill and commitment. I have been dancing for 15 years and of those 15 years, I have been competing for 12 years. Every week, I practice for about 8 hours at my school for the dance line and occasionally I will take dance classes at Evolve 26. Dance takes lots of strength and stamina to execute the moves we must do. To help with that, I work out at F45 every day where there is a mix of both stamina and strength workouts that last 45 minutes.

As a student with a 3.9 GPA, there is a lot of hard work that goes into that. I have been taking honors classes since I was 8th grade where I was able to receive high school credit as an 8th grader. As I transitioned to high school, I continued to take honors math classes as well as duel enrollment classes. Currently, I am taking duel enrollment calculus and English IV. I also took duel enrollment American History all through LSU. When I graduate, I will have 18 hours towards college credit.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

In the future, I would like to attend Louisiana State University. I have always had a passion for biology and sciences so I either want to study Biomedical Engineering or Forensic Science. I also would like to continue dancing in college, and I would like to try out for LSU Tiger Girls which is the competitive dance team for the college. After college, I would like to work in an environment where I can help people whether that be in a bioscience lab where I can help people continue their life or in a forensic lab where I can help solve crimes to bring justice and peace to families.

Hard work is very important in my life. Nothing comes easy in life so everything that I have earned has been done through hard work. Working hard in school has led me to be apart of National Honor Society, Student Council, and the Honor Roll every year. The dedication I have had to dance has allowed to travel to nationals with my team and place in the national finals. All the hard work that I have put forth will pay off in the future.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

The hardest thing that I have accomplished was being able to complete my first duel enrollment class through LSU. That class really pushed the limits on how much work I would be able to complete along with all the other classes I was taking at school. It does pay of in the end because I was able to complete the class with an A and I have 6 college hours already done.

The advice that I would someone is that the hard work you put in now will pay off in the long run. Some things may be difficult now and cause lots of stress but if you are able to get through the stressful times, you will feel very accomplished.

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

click here for more information on issue 37

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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AnnMarie Brumley

8/29/2020

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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!

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

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Isabella Daspit

8/20/2020

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Isabella Daspit - Louisiana
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Lasting Impressions by Josette
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Isabella lives in Erath, Louisiana and is a senior this year at Christian Home School. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her high school years. She is active in 4-H. This will be her 9th year as a member. She has also been active in the National Beta Club for the past three years. She is active in her on campus Student Ministries Team. She is a member of The National Society of High School Scholars. She was chosen by her peers as the Captain for her cheer squad. This is her 4th year cheering with Acadiana Christian Athletics. Isabella holds a state title and is continuing her reign through 2021 as the 2019 Teen Alligator Festival Queen. The Alligator Festival is based out of St. Charles Parish in Luling, LA. Jesus is at the center of Isabella’s life! Her favorite thing to do is spend time with her family and her pet chicken!

Photography by Lasting Impressions by Josette

How did you get involved in cheer? What is your favorite memory you have made with your team?
Someone told my mom about an athletics program that offers athletics to students whose schools don’t offer it. So, my mom signed me up and the rest is history! My favorite memory is when I was given the opportunity to go with my team and compete at FCC Nationals. We ended up winning! The entire weekend is one I will never forget! It was the opportunity of a life time, and I am so grateful to have been given such an opportunity!!

How do you balance your various clubs, dance, cheer, softball and your schoolwork?
Time management!! When I am at school, I use all of the time I have to finish my work and study for any tests coming up! It also requires me to be organized and prepared ahead of time!

Photography by Ashley Hanks

Tell me about the Alligator festival? What is the process like to be chosen as the Alligator Queen?
The Alligator Festival is put on by the Rotary Club of St. Charles Parish to raise money for scholarships. The scholarships are given out to local students. To be chosen as the 2019 Teen Alligator Queen, I had to compete in a pageant. The pageant included: an interview, a themed outfit, and a formal dress.

Photography by Lasting Impressions by Josette

What does it mean to you that you get to continue your 2019 Alligator Queen reign into 2021 and that so many young people look up to you?
When I was asked to reign another year because of COVID-19, I was so excited! Being able to reign another whole year, representing something I love, I took that opportunity in a heartbeat! When a little girl notices your crown and banner at a queen event, their eyes light up, and it is the absolute best feeling in the world! It means the world to me that so many young people look up to me! I try my hardest to set the best example I can for young girls!

Photography by Isabella

What are some goals that you have for your future?
I would like to finish high school, then graduate from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a degree in international business. After that my future is wide open to do anything I set my mind to!

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

click here for more info on issue 37

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Jon Cader

Jon Cader – Louisiana
Interview by Inspiring Teens Team
Nomination by Misti Cader
Photography by Sprig Designs
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Ashlyn Sins

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

Lillee Engen

Lillee Engen - Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Aimee Williams
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

AnnMarie Brumley

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

Isabella Daspit

Isabella Daspit - Louisiana
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Lasting Impressions by Josette
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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Jon Cader

Jon Cader – LouisianaInterview by Inspiring Teens TeamNomination by Misti CaderPhotography by Sprig DesignsIssue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Ashlyn Sins

Ashlyn Sins – LouisianaInterview by Inspiring Teens TeamNomination and Photography by Trena SinsIssue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Lillee Engen

Lillee Engen - LouisianaInterview by Claire PlathNomination by Aimee WilliamsPhotography by Luckett Portrait StudioIssue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

AnnMarie Brumley

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

Isabella Daspit

Isabella Daspit - LouisianaInterview by Olivia BushNomination and Photography by Lasting Impressions by JosetteIssue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Featured

Archives

Categories

Jon Cader – Louisiana
Interview by Inspiring Teens Team
Nomination by Misti Cader
Photography by Sprig Designs
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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

Lillee Engen - Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Aimee Williams
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio
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.

Isabella Daspit - Louisiana
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Lasting Impressions by Josette
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine