Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

Jennifer Theis

6/29/2021

Jennifer Theis - Arizona
Nominated by Agnes Theis
Photography by Steve Chadwick Photography
Issue 47 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Jennifer Theis is the title holder of Miss Teen Arizona US Nation 2021, and a signed model. She is very determined to fundraise money for her college and title holder expenses. She takes academics very seriously and is attending ASU in the fall. She is majoring in Biomedical sciences with hopes of becoming a Physician's Assistant in the future. Part of every amount that she receives goes to the Wounded Warrior Regiment to help support Marines in recovery. The Marine Corps is very close to Jennifer’s heart as her brother is currently serving and is one of her biggest inspirations.

Photography by Steve Chadwick Photography

Tell us more about your title. What made you decide to go after it and what was a favorite memory from the experience? I decided to embark on my journey as a title holder during Super Chic Phoenix Fashion Week. With my modeling career beginning, I knew holding a state title, earning sponsorships, and participating in the opportunities that came along with it, would help me get a leg up. My favorite memory so far is being able to meet many different people that share the same interest as me, from across the USA!

What are your duties as a title holder? My duty as a title holder is to all around make a good image for myself and my state. For example, donating and supporting programs such as the Wounded Warrior Regiment, and showing up to events held in my town as a public figure. Being a title holder is all about setting a good example, while inspiring others around you to do so as well.

Photography by Deric Miller

Tell us more about your modeling career. I began my modeling career a little over a year and a half ago, when I decided being a competitive dancer was not something I wanted in my future. It has been an amazing experience so far and I have had the opportunity to walk the runway during fashion shows in Phoenix, Chicago, and New York. Meeting such talented models and photographers constantly pushes me to keep working on my career.

Photography by Deric Miller

How are you involved in your community? One of the ways I am involved in my community is by promoting small businesses. For example, ShopPhoenixGlam is a small boutique owned by Liz Mendariz. She is currently one of my sponsors, and in return I can wear her clothing and promote it on my Instagram and tik tok to help her grow her business! Another way I am involved is by attending important events in my community. The Memorial Day Ceremony was held in Gilbert AZ, and I was invited by the mayor to join. It was an amazing experience that I will always remember, especially since my brother is a Marine.

Photography by Luke Buras

What does your academic future look like? I am so excited for my academic future, and the journey that is soon to start. I have always wanted to have a career in the medical field, while still fulfilling my dreams as a model. I am currently enrolled to start my studies in the fall at Arizona State University and will be majoring in Biomedical Sciences. My hopes are to complete my Bachelors and Masters degree, and become a Physician's Assistant. Academics are something that I was always taught not to take lightly, and to keep consistent.

Look for Jennifer in issue 47 of Inspiring Teens!

click here for more information on issue 47

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Holly Pearcy

1/21/2021

Holly Pearcy – Ohio
Photography by Cole Shawala
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Holly Pearcy is inspiring because she is a full-time working call center representative who also is a marketing student at SNHU. On top of that she is America’s Most Beautiful Miss Ohio going to nationals in July. Through pageants Holly created her platform Holly’s Help Line that educates on mental health and mental illness through her own story. She battled through ulcerative colitis and SIBO learning how to balance school and her mental health. This drove her passion to help others with visible and invisible illnesses.

Photography by Cole Shawala

Tell us about Holly's Help Line. What inspired you and how did you get it started? Who does it serve and what do you hope for it's future?
Holly’s Help Line is a platform I started during my pageant journey. It is a platform that educates on mental health and mental illnesses as well as incorporates my story into it. What inspired me to get it started was realizing how much my mental health played into me healing through my illnesses as well as going through many hospital treatments. I also realized that a lot of other people that were dealing with illnesses or disabilities felt this way too. this platform serves everyone because mental health is something that everyone has and mental illness is something that the majority of people have. Everyone can learn better coping mechanisms to get through daily life or hard times. I hope that in the future I can travel to more schools and educate people on this topic.

Photography by Cole Shawala

Share with us your journey to America's Most Beautiful Miss Ohio. What has it been like on the road to that title, and what's next for you?
My journey to America’s most beautiful miss Ohio is unconventional. This is a new pageant and I actually was appointed the title. I will be going to nationals in July. Through this pageant I can speak my mind on my platform as well as get other women involved in it. I am grateful that we have social media that I can share my journey on. Through this pageant I am really trying to do as much community service as possible. It sometimes is harder with the circumstances we are living in right now, but I try to do a lot of virtual events as well.

What is your story?
My story is that my freshman year of high school I developed ulcers and it ended up taking eight months to diagnose. Then, again my junior year of high school I was diagnosed with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. This also took around nine months to diagnose. I missed around 60 days of school in total yet maintained a 4.0 gpa. Both are invisible illnesses so no one could see how much pain I was in. This made me struggle with mental illnesses a ton. I was in so much physical pain, but nobody could see it, and everyone expected me to be the “happy Holly'' they were used to. This is what inspired me to start my platform. This helped me a great amount. I was able to seek counseling and improve my mental health. While also helping others.

Photography by Cole Shawala

What advice would you give to someone who is seeking a counselor?
The advice I would give to anyone seeking a counselor would be to be open minded. I use the three-time rule, if you meet with a counselor three times and you don’t feel like you connect with them then try a new one. A lot of people end up giving up on counseling because they don’t connect with their first counselor. Sometimes it takes many tries but when you find a great connection it can help you so much. I feel like everyone can benefit from talking to someone that has no relation to them and can help work through difficult situations. It’s a great outlet for anybody.

Look for Holly in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 42

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Claudia Kenny

1/6/2021

Claudia Kenny - Michigan
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Brandy Kenny
Photography by Lindsay King Photography
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: 2020 was to be Claudia’s year...her year to dip her pageant heels in the pool and make a splash! She finished 2019 with some wins, but she wanted a local pageant title. She was supposed to gain experience by participating in Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen pageant...but COVID hit. She’s lost a whole year of competing but she’s still hustling and working on her social platform - Claudia’s Closet 4 Kids. She’s even donated some of her personal hygiene items to a local YWCA campaign. She’ll continue to move forward and practice until it’s her time up on the stage again.

Photography by Lindsay King Photography

Tell us more about your career in pageantry. When did you start and why? What have you accomplished, and what do you love about it?
I started competing in pageants in 2019 and completed three pageants prior to COVID-19 shutting down the ability to compete. In those three pageants, I placed in the top three while competing against other teens up to age 17, and I was 12 at the time! I love to do pageantry and compete in the Miss America Organization (MAO) because I get to meet new people and because I get to do things I have never done before. I have met so many new people through this organization that are now my friends that I love dearly, and I love spending time with them.

What is Claudia's Closet 4 Kids? How did you get it started, where is it now and what are your goals with it?
Claudia’s Closet 4 Kids is a closet in my school office where students can go to get any personal hygiene products they may need. When kids enter middle school, their bodies start to change and some kids do not have the necessary products they need to help them, so I decided to create Claudia’s Closet 4 Kids so they have access to the items free of charge. I currently keep the closet stocked through personal donations. My goals for Claudia’s Closet are to expand my closet to other schools and communities in Michigan and find corporate or local sponsors to keep the closet(s) stocked.

Photography by Lindsay King Photography

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have been involved with dance since I was 3 years old. I have danced competitively the last 5 years for Kim's Dance Dynamics. Tap dancing is my pageant talent, but I enjoy all types of dance.
I am also involved in our local theater and have participated in their stage adaptations of Tarzan and Matilda. I have also danced in their annual Holiday Christmas Show the past two years.
I was recently selected to be a photography model for Lindsay King Photography. She has created a Model Squad of six girls to represent her photography business.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
Why volunteering is good for students and essential to your community.

Why do you think volunteering is beneficial? Who do you volunteer for and when did you get started? How would you recommend others to find ways to volunteer in their community if they never have?
I think volunteering is important because it gives you the chance to make a difference and give back to your community, it also helps you develop or discover new skills. To get started in volunteering, find something you are passionate about and research places and organizations that offer volunteering opportunities. I find my volunteer opportunities through local channels or school functions that I can easily donate my time to.

Photography by Lindsay King Photography

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
To keep pushing at whatever it is you want to do and do not let other people’s opinion stop you from doing what you are passionate about.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In five years I see myself graduating high school and going to college for a Teaching degree or a degree in Orthodontics.

Photography by Brandy Kenny

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
In my free time, I love to play softball, Model for Lindsay King’s Model Squad, and I also participate in our local archery club.

3 Things on your bucket list
Win a local title and become Miss Michigan’s Outstanding Teen
Travel outside of the United States - I would like to go to London, France, and Italy.
Watch a Broadway play in New York City.

Look for Claudia in issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 42

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Elizabeth Weidner

10/10/2020

Elizabeth Weidner - Illinois
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Jennifer Weidner
Photography by Loker Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Elizabeth Weidner's shirt says it all "Bald, Beautiful and Badass" after fighting cancer for 4.5 years. She advocates so other families will not know the pain/hardship this devastating disease known as pediatric cancer causes.

Creating a platform of self-awareness that allows her to take action with "Crowns Fight Cancer - Just a Girl Changing the World One Rhinestone at a Time" utilizes her pageant crowns to change how the world views pediatric cancer (a mere 4% of funding is dedicated to over 116 known types of cancer) and beauty. Together with her crown sisters they unite to fight cancer!

Nomination by Jennifer Weidner

How have you become an inspiration to others through fighting your 4 1/2 year journey with cancer to now advocating through your platform?
In my mind, I don’t believe I inspire people even though I’ve been told I do. I think I help people realize their potential. For example, there were multiple kids and adults in or around Effingham County, where I live, who were fighting or had fought cancer. They were initially unable to express their feelings. For some, going through cancer at a young age can be extremely traumatic. I encouraged them to speak, growing their advocacy voice through telling their story at the Effingham County Relay for Life. Now those kids and adults are advocating just like me. With a little bit of encouragement, just like I did when I was 12.
When I advocate, I am not doing it for myself. The average age a child is diagnosed with cancer is six. They should be running, playing, and learning how to ride a bike, not spending their days in a hospital bed hooked up to an IV pole! I fight for them; I use my voice for those kids because they do not deserve the horrible effects of cancer. They do not deserve to miss out on their childhood. They deserve to have friends their own age instead of the nurses who often become playmates.

Tell me about your platform “Crowns Fight Cancer-Just a Girl Changing the World One Rhinestone at a Time” and what it’s about.
In 2017, I ran for Jr. Miss Effingham County Fair Queen and won. That night, Crowns Fight Cancer was formed, utilizing my crown as a launch point for important conversation locally, statewide, and nationally. I use my platform to educate the public, influential people, and politicians about childhood cancer.

Nomination by Jennifer Weidner

How have you played a role in changing how the world views pediatric cancer?
Most people recognize the pink ribbon and what it stands for as soon as they see it, but there aren’t many people who know that the gold ribbon is for childhood cancer because children are as precious as gold. Through my efforts, I have made many people in Illinois aware of what the ribbon stands for, and that is HUGE. That’s awareness, the first step in finding a cure. I have also not been afraid to post on social media the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of my cancer journey so that the public sees every aspect of cancer.

Nomination by Jennifer Weidner

What has the journey been like for you becoming an advocate and helping change the world of others through your own experience?
At, first, it was scary and I was afraid I wasn’t strong enough to be able to advocate. I thought as a 12-year old I wouldn’t be able to create change, but now I have been speaking on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., helping pass bills, such as the STAR Act into law. It has been extremely rewarding, especially when I get to put a smile on a child’s face through my work. The hard part is when I see children in pain and suffering in their hospital rooms. I can deal with all the harsh medicines, but a sixth month-old is innocent and doesn’t understand what is happening. It is not fair to them!

Nomination by Annie Banton

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I absolutely LOVE to dance! I started when I was three and have been dancing since. I dance through a studio and am on the pom team at my school.

Look for Elizabeth in issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 38

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Shelby Cook

10/1/2020

Shelby Cook - Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Laken Brown Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Shelby Cook is a extremely talented young lady with a huge heart for others, and that shows in all she does. She is the sweetest and most well-mannered girl, and I am proud to say she is someone my daughter looks up to! It is no doubt she is an amazing role model for girls of all ages!

Photography by Laken Brown Photography

What is the Arkansas Outstanding Teen program and how did you get involved with them?
The Miss Arkansas Outstanding Teen program is part of the Miss America Organization. It is a state pageant that you have to win a local preliminary to compete at. Although it is a pageant it is so much more than that, the people and role models I have met, the children I have gotten to talk to and the volunteer work I have gotten to do is just a couple of wonderful things this program has given me the opportunity to do. When I was younger, I was terrified to talk to people and my mom wanted to find a way to help get me out of my comfort zone, so she entered me in a local pageant. That was the day I fell in love with pageants, people and being able to be a role model to others.

Tell me about Be the change, your anti- bullying platform. How did you come up with this platform?
As a kid I was bullied constantly, but not by some random kid from a different grade. I was bullied by my best friend. Many times, bullying spawns from people trying to find a way to make their friends laugh and sometimes that ends hurting others. Being the change is about more than holding the door open for someone it’s about being kind to everyone whether you know them or not. Being the change starts with you and your everyday life.

Photography by Laken Brown Photography

What inspired you to want to start dancing? How long have you been doing dancing?
My mom put me in my first dance class at the age of three. I hated it. I was not a people person and I was painfully shy. However, as I got older, I quickly began to realize that dance was my outlet and my safe place. It allowed me to express who I was and what I was feeling without having to say it. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given and the love and support I have received on my journey through dance.

What has been your favorite memory from competitive dance? Why?
The people and the friends I have met. I have no words to describe the feeling of walking on and off that stage or getting to stand up and receive an award. However, the amazing, talented, and kind people I have met throughout my dance career are indescribable. My entire life everyone has been nothing but loving, encouraging and supportive and I couldn’t be more thankful.

What goals do you have for your future? Do you hope to continue with dance?
Although dance is my passion and I know I will never be able to ever truly give it up, I have decided to go to college to become a physical therapist. I cannot tell you how many times I have been hurt and out of dance for an injury and the physical therapists were nothing but kind and encouraging. I hope to be the light for kids just like myself one day and hopefully get them back to doing what they love most in no time.

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
Getting over my fear of being perfect. When I was younger, I constantly felt like I needed to be perfect in everybody’s eyes. Whether in dance, school, cheer or just in general. Over the past few years I have learned that nobody is ever truly perfect we have to learn to love ourselves the way we are, regardless of the opinions of others.

Photography by Laken Brown Photography

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
WORK HARD FOR WHAT YOU WANT!!! Nothing is impossible if you want something you have to put in the work because nobody is going to do it for you. A lesson my dance teacher taught me when I was younger is if you are practicing 16 hours a week there is someone, somewhere that is practicing 17 hours. You have to work hard and set goals to accomplish.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In five years I hope to be starting my first year of physical therapy school, hopefully in Northwest Arkansas at UAMS. I hope I have a house a car and I’m close enough to home so I can still come watch my brothers at their games and see my parents. At the end of the day I hope to be living in my hometown and eventually raise my kids in the same town that I grew up in.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
Cheering! I absolutely love going to games and cheering on the players. I’ve always been someone that got super excited at games so when I got old enough, I tried out for the cheer team, and that was the best decision ever. I get to cheer for the boys and girls at my school while showing school pride.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
As a dancer, cheerleader, and pageant girl something about me that throws people off guard is I love to hunt. Specifically bow hunting, I’ve been shooting a bow since the age of six and haven’t looked back.

Photography by Laken Brown Photography

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
Kindness, it’s so important to be kind whether it’s a big or small act of kindness it never goes to waste. Something I try to always tell myself is just because I’m having an off day doesn’t mean I have to make everybody else have an off day. We all need to start by doing three nice things a day for three different people so we can start a chain reaction of kindness.

3 Things on your bucket list
Number one- drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, in a little red corvette all while blaring the song little red corvette.
Number two- visit Greece so I can get all the Mamma Mia vibes.
Number three- adopt a golden retriever and watch all the air bud movies with him.

Who do you find inspiring?
Now I know this may sound cliche, but my mom. She is the strongest most hard-working person I know all while taking care of three kids. She pushes me to be the best me I can be and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without all the love and support she has showed and continues to show me.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I try to be positive, kind and loving towards everyone. More kind people is something our world needs right now and I hope by being a positive role model and promoting my platform “Be The Change” I can help spread kindness to others.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
All I can say is thank you so much for this amazing opportunity it truly means the world, and I’m so excited for what comes next.

Shelby will be featured in Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 38

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Anna Claire Hay

10/1/2020

Anna Claire Hay – Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Raygan Sylvester
Photography by Jodie Kelly Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: After Anna Claire Hay watched her brother save someone’s life by saying five simple words -“You can sit with us”- Anna Claire went on a mission that took her all the way to Capitol Hill to lobby state senators about the importance of accepting others for their unique character qualities. Her message has reached the ears of over 15,000 students in numerous countries. She recently published her own book on the topic, available on Amazon. When she’s not volunteering, Anna Claire serves as captain of her cheer, track, and trap shooting teams at school and reigns as the current Miss Arkansas Teen USA.

Photography by Jodie Kelly Photography

Tell me more about the process of how You Can Sit With Us got started?
YCSWU started when I witnessed the impact of my brother saving someone’s life by stating those 5 simple words. I’ve always had a passion for volunteering and had been speaking to schools and civic organizations about anti bullying, inclusion and diversity. What you and how you say can help people develop confidence, competence, and self-control. Words can lift people up to their highest potential or tear them down and bring them down to their lowest lows. After traveling across the state of Arkansas and speaking to over 10,000 students mainly elementary aged kids I realized there were not a-lot of resources out there to help educate the younger generation on the impact of inclusion, so I self-authored a book that I now share when I go to speaking engagements. This book is for sale on Amazon for others to purchase to share.

How can other people spread this same message of inclusion, diversity, and equality that you are spreading?
I believe we all need to make diversity and inclusion more of a priority.
Feeling like you belong satisfies one of the most fundamental of human needs. It’s that sense of belonging that fuels the fundamental idea behind diversity and inclusion at work.
I started an You Can Sit With Us Ambassador program that puts ambassadors in schools and civic groups to ensure there is always a point of contact and go to person to encourage inclusion, diversity and kindness within these organizations.
When you feel included you feel valued and important.

What is it like getting to speak at so many schools and organizations? Can you share with us a little of what you tell them?
I feel honored each time I am asked to speak to a group. Knowing that I have a chance to encourage and empower them and potentially initiate change encourages me. If I can give students access to resources that can help them to build confidence and work in the direction of attaining growth and transformation, then I have done my job. I focus on talking to them about the power of their words, what it means to be B.R.A.V.E, how to be inclusive and encourage diversity. I believe when you can demonstrate a life applicable lesson it’s easier for kids to understand why, so I try to incorporate life applicable lessons when speaking to students.

Photography by Zac Grimaldo

What was going through you head when you found out you won the Arkansas top youth volunteer award? What other volunteer projects have you done?
I had no idea I had been nominated for this award so when I was called into the principal’s office at school, I was somewhat a taken back. To hear I was chosen out of 13,000 applicants out of the state of Arkansas to represent Arkansas in Washington, DC at the National convention I was ecstatic. I can honestly say to date this is the greatest honor I have yet to receive. The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program is the United States’ largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service.
Created in 1995 by Prudential and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), the program honors middle level and high school students for outstanding service to others at the local, state and national level.
Thus far, it has recognized more than 140,000 young people who’ve made a difference – and inspired countless others to consider how they might contribute to their communities.
The Spirit of Community Awards program also honors youth volunteers in countries outside the U.S. where Prudential has a significant presence: Japan, Taiwan, Ireland, India, China and Brazil.
I also have served two terms on my cities youth council board. While serving on the Springdale Youth Council Board I became involved in the workings of our local government, had the opportunity to job shadow City officials, performed community service projects for the benefit of Springdale residents, offered advise to local government officials on the issues that face young people in our community, and learned about local government and the importance of civic participation.
I stay actively involved with my Teens with Integrity and You Can Sit With Us Platforms speaking time many schools, churches and civic organizations.
I actively volunteer with the Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy.

How did you get your book published one Amazon? Can you share with me more of what the publishing process is like?
Let me just start by saying one of the things I’ve been challenged with my whole life and that’s been hard for me to talk about publicly is my disability. I am dyslexic. Reading, spelling sometimes writing those things are challenging for me. Although I am intelligent I had to understand that I learn differently from most people so if you would of ask me if I thought I would of ever written a book the answer would of been a firm NO!!! I had a wonderful support team to assist, a great family friend to illustrate the book a brother who provided the story for this book as well as a lifetime of character and life lessons and last but not least supportive and loving parents. It is a project I’m super proud of and something I hope helps lots of people.

Photography by Kelly Hay

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
I think the hardest thing I ever accomplished was getting You Can Sit With Us spread internationally. My goal is to have ambassadors and the message of You Can Sit With Us in all 50 states.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
You can really do anything you set your mind too. I know that might sound so cliche but it’s so true. I have made sacrifices missed out on social activities and in many cases lived a little different life than some of my peers but it’s all about choices. I have kept my eye on the prize and my ultimate goals. It takes self-discipline and dedication, it takes perseverance and sometimes reminding yourself that if at first you don’t succeed try again. It takes supportive loving parents and support from friends and family. For me, a key part has been my relationship and walk with my lord and savior.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In the next 5 years I hope I have been accepted to medical school at UAMS and I am on the road to becoming a physician.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
My dad and I duck hunt. I love the spending time with him doing something he enjoys; I love being outdoors and the challenge of the hunt.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
A year ago I learned how to high jump and I absolutely love it... I have enjoyed running on the track team for last couple of years in high school but never considered jumping until last year. I tried it and now I’m hooked.

Photography by Kelly Hay

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
Anti bullying... it’s such a problem on so many levels. It’s in our schools, workplaces, churches, nursing homes, everywhere we go. I encounter women all the time that still remember situations and things that happened to them in high school. All those years later and these things are still impacting them!!! So yes this is something that if I could educate on and talk about I will anytime I’m given a chance.

3 Things on your bucket list
*skydive
*having peanut butter
*getting a banded duck

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I hope my work ethic, ability to connect with others, kindness and passion for my platform is inspiring to others.

Anna Claire will be featured in issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 38

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Paige Mercer

6/6/2020

Paige Mercer - Ohio
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Stephanie Mercer
Photography by DSW Photography
Issue 34 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Paige Mercer is the reigning Teen Miss Ohio Earth and will be competing at the national Miss Earth USA Pageant for the title of Teen Miss Earth USA in Las Vegas in August. She is a 16-years-old sophomore who maintains a 4.0 GPA. She is also a varsity cheerleader, plays the violin, and volunteers in her community as often as she can.
Paige loves being a role model for younger girls and is pursuing her dream of modeling/pageantry!

Photography by DSW Photography

What is it like being Teen Miss Ohio Earth, what was the process like to get this title?
Being Teen Miss Ohio Earth is so rewarding to me. I have a platform and a voice that I can use to connect with my community and educate, and that is what I have always wanted to do. I love being a role model for young girls. Wearing my crown and sash is like a dream come true. I am so blessed and thankful that I have such an opportunity to inspire people to change the world like I do.
The day I won my first title is one I will never forget. My state pageant was in Parkersburg, West Virginia. It was a fabulous weekend that I got to spend with beautiful girls who I will cherish forever. We completed a quick eco project and spent time getting to know each other. The next day was the most exciting, the interview and pageant. I will never forget answering my onstage questions and walking the runway. It was such an exhilarating experience. When I look back at that weekend, I see true friendship and sisterhood. We are not just beauties, we are beauties for a cause!!

Tell me more about your platform From the Ground Up and why it is so important to you!
My platform, From the Ground Up, is all about making the earth pure once again, working to restore its beauty, and using what the Earth gave us in its simplest form. I am all about eating and raising organic, non-GMO crops to nourish our bodies by how they were intended to be nourished and to not let the body be toxified with chemicals and unknown substances that can harm our health and our spirits. It is so important to me because people need to be educated on what pesticides are doing to our bodies and that GMOs have no long-term testing, so we don’t know what they can do to us, not to mention how these techniques are harming the environment. I feel as a society we have really lost our insight as what we are as human beings, and through my platform, I want to regain our clarity for us and the Earth.

Photography by DSW Photography

What is a typical pageant like, walk us through the process of preparing for one and what happens the day of!
A pageant is just exhilarating! In the preparation stage you must search for and gather all your wardrobe, which is a blast because who doesn’t love shopping? Also, you must work on all your techniques from walking and posing to speaking. Most importantly, you have to educate yourself on what you stand for and all that you may be asked, so you are properly prepared and professional. When you finally get there, you apply all you have prepared for, and take home that title you have worked so hard for.
First, you get your hair and makeup done, which is when you really start to feel like a star. You then go into an interview where the judges just speak to you and ask you some questions to get to know you better. The actual pageant starts next where you answer some onstage questions and walk in your swimsuit, evening gown, etc. Last but not least, your crowning moment where you come together with your sister title holders and start your new journey.

What is it like knowing that you are such a big role model for younger children?
It feels so empowering to know that younger children look up to you and all that you do. The young are the ones that will be changing the world in the years to come, so it is important that they have the proper role models and education to do good. Being such a big role model makes me feel good about the future because I know I will steer the youth in the right direction.

Photography by DSW Photography

Do you hope to continue doing pageants in the future? What is one goal that you have for yourself?
Honestly, I have no idea what my future in pageantry holds. I love where I am right now and what I am doing in the Earth system. Based off of my experience I have right now, I would love to continue to do pageants because of all the benefits it presents. But I also want to focus on my modeling and whatever life throws at me in the future. One goal I have for myself, no matter where I am or what I’m doing, is to just continue to inspire! I want to love what I do in life and to make others happy. I definitely want some kind of career in fashion, because I am so passionate about it and nothing makes me feel more thrilled!

Photography by Stephanie Mercer

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice to you would be to stay true to who you are, do not try to blend in with others. Your uniqueness is what makes the world go round. If you manifest your dreams and know that you were given everything you need in your life, you can do anything. Shoot for the stars, and never settle to being average.

3 Things on your bucket list
I want to travel to Italy soon and maybe even live there someday. I would love to experience the breathtakingly beautiful culture of Italy and all it has to offer.
Going to or being in a New York Fashion Week show. I live for the atmosphere there and I am infatuated with fashion. It would really be a dream come true.
I would love to meet Taylor Swift because she is one of my biggest idols. I basically grew up with her listening to her music and have felt so connected to her my whole life.

Paige will be featured in issue 34 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 34

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Morgan Day

8/20/2019

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Morgan Day – West Virginia
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Annie Simms Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Fun-filled, magnetic, beautiful, accomplished, selfless…just a few words to describe Morgan Day. She is a 2019 high school graduate; a member of the National Honor Society, BETA Club, FOR Club, and the Varsity Cheer Captain. With her demanding classes and the extracurricular activities, Morgan still managed to graduate in the Top of Class with a 4.2 GPA which lead to her being the recipient of an Academic Scholarship. She will attend UC in the fall to get her BSN and plans to work in the neonatal field. Just recently, Morgan was chosen to compete in the Miss Teen WV pageant in October.

Tell us about your cheerleading career.
I started cheering when I was three years old for my local midget league football team. I continued cheering for midget league until I was old enough to cheer for my school. I started cheering for my elementary school, then middle school and all the way through high school. It hasn’t always been an easy journey for me, and I believe that is what made me want to continue to push myself to be better every single year. My senior year, I had waited four years to become captain. I tried my absolute hardest to be the best role model, and leader I could be. I got chosen to be a captain and that was the best feeling in the world. My favorite thing about being a cheerleader is seeing all of the people and kids in the stands smiling and cheering along with you because then you know you’ve successfully done your job at making people believe in cheerleading and the wonderful person it makes you become.

What are some of your favorite places to travel and why?
I have traveled many different places in the U.S., but there are a few that I would go back to any day of the year at any time. My absolute favorite place to travel is Florida. I love warm weather, beaches, and feeling like I have no worries. My next favorite place to travel is Pigeon Forge, TN. Just in 2019, I have visited Tennessee five different times, and I still haven’t gotten the chance to do everything there. Last but certainly not least is New York City, NY. I had the chance to visit NYC with the National Honor Society organization at my school.

Tell us about some of your volunteering opportunities at nursing homes.
My experience and volunteer work at nursing homes has been one of the most heart-warming and educational things I have ever done. I learned so much from watching nurses distribute medication, give shots, and care for every single patient and not miss a beat. Just over the course of two days, the patients were so kind and loving to me and it created a bond with them that I’ll never forget in a lifetime.

How do you feel about being chosen to compete in the Miss Teen WV Pageant?
I am beyond grateful to be accepted to compete in the Miss Teen WV Pageant this fall. I want to be a great role model to all the young teenage girls out there who just need a boost of confidence every now and then. I hope that this experience shows teenage girls that they can do anything they put their mind to. I am beyond blessed to even say I’m competing.

What are 3 adjectives to describe yourself? Why did you pick them?
Three adjectives to describe myself would be outgoing, kind-hearted and energetic. I think that I am a very outgoing person because there is never a dull moment around me. I think I’m kind-hearted because I have sympathy for everyone no matter what their situation is. I describe myself as energetic because in order to be a cheerleader, you have to be energetic and completely fun-filled.

Morgan will be featured in Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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click here to purchase issue 25 of inspiring teens magazine

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Faith Jacobs

2/16/2019

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Faith Jacobs
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Studio Bloom by Shelley
Kansas
Issue 17

The Nomination:
This is Faith Jacobs. She's a class of 2020 high school senior. Besides being such a fun and beautiful girl, she's an amazing dancer and has been for 8 years. She's on the honor roll and plans to pursue a degree in pre-law or psychology after high school at the University of Kansas. She's won the American Miss Kansas Covergirl title in 2015 and again in 2018. She's an inspiration of determination and setting high goals for herself.

Tell us about your dance experience.

My love for dance began when I was in need for a creative outlet. Dance provides the opportunity to express myself while exploring the importance of hard work and dedication. Throughout high school, I have been a member of my high school dance team as well as Radiant Dance Studio’s competitive dance team.

Image by proud parent, Hollie Jacobs

What are your pageant titles and what have you created through your title as the American Miss Kansas Covergirl.

I have competed in the National American Miss Kansas pageant where I am a two-time title holder of the National American Miss Kansas Covergirl title and was the recipient of the National American Miss Kansas Top Model title. Throughout my experience in competition, I have created my three keys to success; confidence, preparation, and dedication!

Why do you think you are so inspiring?

Through my personal diligence, I have obtained an honor roll GPA, the 2015 and 2018 National American Miss Teen Kansas Covergirl Title, while being a member of my dance team! I believe I am an inspiring and ambitious teen whose hard work and determination led to the achievement of my personal goals!

Faith will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine, due out in March 2017.

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Lily Crane

1/21/2019

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Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Joyce Crane | Photography by Dawn Brosie & Kelly Averett
Texas

The Nomination: Lily is profoundly deaf but has not let that stop her from accomplishing anything. She is a great basketball player, barrel racer, and has won numerous pageants (current title is Miss Rodeo for a Reason 2019). We were told she would never talk, she talks pretty clearly and she “hears” by reading lips. She does not want to be treated any different that anyone else. She is absolutely beautiful but has not clue, is extremely funny and outgoing, and has a huge heart. She’s pretty much perfect.

Image Taken By Coach

1. Tell me about your illness and how you deal with it throughout everyday life.

I try not to let my disability effect my life. I play basketball, I ride horses and barrel race, I compete in pageants, and I work as a host at a restaurant! I wear hearing aids which helps me hear loud noises so I am not in complete silence when they are on, however I do turn them off a lot because silence isn't always bad. =) This is the life God blessed me with and I don't know anything different so I can't really complain.

2. What was competing in Miss Rodeo for a Reason like and how was it winning the pageant?

Competing in the Miss Rodeo for a Reason pageant was probably my best life experience to date! I was first picked to be in the top 10 and then we all traveled to Vegas during the NFR to compete in different challenges. We had to do impromptu interviews with vendors, make runway outfits out of feedbags, etc. I made 10 friends for life and was completing shocked when I won because the other girls were all so perfect! Truly an honor to be apart of such a great team of people!

Was it difficult learning how to read lips?

I really have been doing it for longer then I can even remember. I do know when I was in kindergarten they had interpreters there signing for me but I didn't want to watch them. I wanted to watch the teachers lips. I think I have been practicing it so long it just seems natural. I only really have difficulty when men have beards or people are mumblers and don't move lips a lot!

What advice would you give a child who is dealing with the same disability as you?

You can do anything you set your mind to do, just try it. It might be hard but trying is worth it in the end. Don't worry about what other people think or say about you, their opinion doesn't matter. You are who you are because God made you that way and wanted you that way so love yourself!

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to go to college, major in equine science and live on a farm with my horses. I would like to have a rescue farm for horses and dogs and eventually have clinics for disabled kids to come and ride!

Lily will be published in Issue 16, scheduled to be released 3.1.2019

click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know

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Jennifer Theis

Jennifer Theis - Arizona
Nominated by Agnes Theis
Photography by Steve Chadwick Photography
Issue 47 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Holly Pearcy

Holly Pearcy – Ohio
Photography by Cole Shawala
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Claudia Kenny

Claudia Kenny - Michigan
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Brandy Kenny
Photography by Lindsay King Photography
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Elizabeth Weidner

Elizabeth Weidner - Illinois
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Jennifer Weidner
Photography by Loker Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Shelby Cook

Shelby Cook - Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Laken Brown Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Anna Claire Hay

Anna Claire Hay – Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Raygan Sylvester
Photography by Jodie Kelly Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Paige Mercer

Paige Mercer - Ohio
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Stephanie Mercer
Photography by DSW Photography
Issue 34 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Morgan Day

Morgan Day – West Virginia
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Annie Simms Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Faith Jacobs

Faith Jacobs
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Studio Bloom by Shelley
Kansas
Issue 17

Lily Crane

Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Joyce Crane | Photography by Dawn Brosie & Kelly Averett
Texas

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Archives

Categories

Jennifer Theis - ArizonaNominated by Agnes TheisPhotography by Steve Chadwick PhotographyIssue 47 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Holly Pearcy – OhioPhotography by Cole ShawalaIssue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Claudia Kenny - MichiganInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Brandy KennyPhotography by Lindsay King PhotographyIssue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Elizabeth Weidner - IllinoisInterview by Claire PlathNomination by Jennifer WeidnerPhotography by Loker PhotographyIssue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Shelby Cook - ArkansasInterview by Olivia BushNomination and Photography by Laken Brown PhotographyIssue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Anna Claire Hay – ArkansasInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Raygan SylvesterPhotography by Jodie Kelly PhotographyIssue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

​Paige Mercer - OhioInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Stephanie MercerPhotography by DSW PhotographyIssue 34 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Morgan Day – West VirginiaInterview by Zoe D’AngeloNomination and Photography by Annie Simms PhotographyIssue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Faith JacobsInterview by Zoe D’Angelo Nomination & Photography by Studio Bloom by ShelleyKansasIssue 17

Interview by Zoe D'AngeloNomination by Joyce Crane | Photography by Dawn Brosie & Kelly Averett​Texas

Featured

Archives

Categories

Jennifer Theis - Arizona
Nominated by Agnes Theis
Photography by Steve Chadwick Photography
Issue 47 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Holly Pearcy – Ohio
Photography by Cole Shawala
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Claudia Kenny - Michigan
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Brandy Kenny
Photography by Lindsay King Photography
Issue 42 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Elizabeth Weidner - Illinois
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Jennifer Weidner
Photography by Loker Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Shelby Cook - Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Laken Brown Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Anna Claire Hay – Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Raygan Sylvester
Photography by Jodie Kelly Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Paige Mercer - Ohio
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Stephanie Mercer
Photography by DSW Photography
Issue 34 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Morgan Day – West Virginia
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Annie Simms Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Faith Jacobs
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Studio Bloom by Shelley
Kansas
Issue 17

Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Joyce Crane | Photography by Dawn Brosie & Kelly Averett
Texas