Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

Madison Welch

10/23/2020

Madison Welch - Virginia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Jenna Moran
Photography by Jolly Jen Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Madison Welch is a compassionate person. She shows grace in situations that don't always deserve grace and inspires others to be better people. She pushes people to see the good in others and shows compassion to others by helping. Madison has been a huge part in helping her little sister through her severe struggles with mental illness. It also goes to show since nursing is her planned major. She will be able to show her patients with her knowledge, caring, and nurturing side to help get them back to good health. Madison encourages us all to do better and be better to each other and is a great example of inclusiveness.

Tell us about your main experience with mental illness, how it has affected you, and what you do about it now.
My main experience with mental illness has been with my little sister. About two years ago she had severe depression and anxiety. I had never been around anyone that had something so severe. It was very real and very scary for her along with everyone around her. It made me a better person in so many ways and made me more aware of the battles some people fight. It taught me patience and opened my eyes to appreciate a healthy family. Ever since watching my sister fight her battle I see things a little differently. I see that it takes more than just words to get someone through their battles and that they are not cured overnight. I realized that it takes patience and strong will to overcome these obstacles.

How has this helped shape your future and your plans for college and a career?
Going through this with my sister definitely solidified that I wanted to be in the medical field. I feel like walking this journey with her opened my eyes to the joy of helping someone overcome huge obstacles. I am so proud of her for what she has overcome and the battle that she beat. I owe her a huge thank you because she opened my eyes to so much and she helped lead me to what I want to do for a career.

What would you say is the biggest “hidden” mental health issue among teens, and how do you recommend teens reach out to get help?
I think there are a lot of teens that suffer from anxiety and depression. I feel like with all the pressures from school, friends, and other outside sources it’s easy for teens to feel overwhelmed and not know who to turn to. I hope to be an advocate for my peers and teens to reach out when they are struggling. I think it’s a huge problem with teens and they don’t feel comfortable talking about it which leads them down other dark paths. I recommend teens to reach out and get help no matter how scared they are because there is always someone who wants to be there to help them.

Please share your story of overcoming a devastating injury and how you got back to being able to play again. What drove you to work so hard?
My freshman year I tore the labrum in my shoulder at the beginning of softball season which resulted in surgery and many long months of recovery. I had to do 6 months of physical therapy which was extremely painful and exhausting. Physical therapy was not only physically draining but also mentally. Not being able to be out on the field opened my eyes to all the time that I took advantage of when I was able to play. Watching all my friends out on the field drove me to work so hard to get back to the game that I loved most. The whole process taught me a lot about myself and how to have patience and trust the recovery road.

Look for Madison in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 39

click on here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Ansleigh Youngblood

10/16/2020

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Ansleigh Youngblood - Georgia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Deena Youngblood
Photography by Amy Honea Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Ansleigh Youngblood is a creative, unique, and inspiring young woman. She is comfortable setting her own trends and loves to make a statement. Ansleigh is very passionate about her views on women and racial injustices. She has her own opinions and thoughts, and she doesn’t conform. She is not only confident in her beliefs, but she is knowledgeable about the reasonings for her beliefs. Ansleigh is extremely giving and compassionate. She is known for her acceptance for everyone and her encouraging attitude towards anyone she is around.
To explain Ansleigh in a few words would be, “inspirational advocate to always be yourself.”

Photography by Amy Honea Photography

Please tell us more about your views on Women's Rights and why you feel so strongly to not conform.
Women’s Rights is so much deeper than the surface issues that have already been fixed. Women’s Rights is being able to be comfortable with yourself and not having to worry about male agenda. It’s about taking a walk and feelings safe. It’s knowing your voice is heard and important in a room full of men. It’s not allowing yourself to be talked over, pushed aside, or counted out. I refuse to conform and settle for any less because in the future i want women to be respected all of the time, heard all of the time and treated as equal, all of the time.

Share with us your beliefs on racial injustices and how you advocate for others.
My beliefs on racial injustice include simply demanding equal treatment and basic human rights for EVERYONE. There should not be a single person in this world that is treated differently or feels less than anyone else due to the color of their skin. When I get older, if I choose to have children, I plan on teaching them that they are no more and no less than anyone else and they should always value and respect people despite the differences between them. And in my opinion, that’s what everyone should strive for. All the stories of injustice recently have hit me very hard, particularly Breonna Taylor’s case. When I heard the verdict my heart sank and if I didn’t know before, i knew then there was still work to be done. I truly believe there is entirely to much hate in this world and I refuse to be a part of it or be close to anyone who allows/supports it. With that being said I chose to be an ally, and I will stand by this.

What issues in foster care hit you hardest and what do you feel should be done about it?
I always knew there were very prominent issues with foster care but it wasn’t until last year in Ms. Fox’s AP Lang class when I was required to put together a research paper on the issues in foster care that I really understood it’s seriousness. The foster care system is like a second chance for kids that haven’t been in the most fortunate of situations but, only when executed correctly. The number of horror stories in foster care I read in preparation to write my essay was nothing short of devastating. Kids did not ask to be brought into this world and we have to do better for them. It’s like a trend, just when one story ends, there are plenty to follow. I believe that when issues arise, they should never be swept under the rug. I’m sure everyone is pretty familiar with Gabriel Fernandez and the events to follow his death. In his story if actions had been taken the first few times authority figures were contacted, a child would still be alive today. A few ways to help improve this system is supporting social workers, placing focus on prevention, making sure there are proper assessments and that the children and families have proper resources.

Tell us about your love of art, your mom's nonprofit and the mural you're painting there. (Please also send a picture of it so far if you have one!)
For as long as I can remember I’ve loved art. I’ve even painted and designed almost every wall in my room. Art is something that has become therapeutic for me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, frustrated or anything really I can paint or draw to bring me almost immediate tranquility. I recently started painting a mural for my Mom’s nonprofit business in my city. This business is dedicated to my Grandmother and being that she was one of the most giving and loving people i have ever met, being able to do something for the kids who attend there feels fantastic. All the kids told me what they like and I’ve been trying to incorporate all their favorite things in the mural. So far we have a green dragon, a ginormous sun, flowers, watermelon and a robot. I love seeing their faces light up when they see their idea finished on the wall.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Don’t strive to be where anyone else is. Strive to be where you want to be and never left other people dictate your choices and opinions. We are all different and that is what makes us strong. So instead strive to be your most authentic self.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years I plan on being finished with college or close to it. If I’m not yet finished with college, I hope to be studying abroad. But if I am finished, I hope to be started on my career in speech pathology helping people. If possible, I’d want to be working with trauma patients specifically. Overall, I just plan on being happy. In the future if my plans change and I don’t get to do everything I dreamed of, I just hope I’m happy and never allowed myself to become content.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Another one of my favorite activities is skateboarding. I’ll admit I’m not very good, but I find it so fun and I’m still working on learning a few tricks

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
Full transparency, when I’m exceedingly busy it’s hard to keep my schedule straight and I usually find myself stressed, overwhelmed and annoyed. But that’s just human nature. We find ourselves biting off more than we can chew and after plenty of struggle and heartache we preserve, somehow. It would be dishonest of me to say I have a perfect plan for busy weeks. The important thing is that we get through it the best we can.

Look for Ansleigh 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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Anna Riddle

9/24/2020

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Anna Riddle - Canada
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Abbie Riddle
Photography by In His Image Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Anna Riddle moved with her family to Canada in 2016 as missionaries. She was in the northern interlake region of Manitoba. At 16 she organized a concert event for the area - the first ever, initially paying for the event from her personal savings. In 2019 she held another much larger one. It is her heart to hold events in Canada like WinterJam in the states. She works with Canadian artists, does all the fundraising, organization and event planning and promotion.

Photography by In His Image Photography

Tell me about your experience moving to Canada as a missionary! What work do you do as a missionary there?
When my parents said that they were considering mission work to Canada I was shocked and upset at first because it meant leaving everything I was familiar with. However, once I got here I realized how big of an opportunity there was to share the Word of God and the Hope found in it. This move stretched my faith, challenged me and caused me to look at the needs of others. I can’t say it was without challenges but I have learned that challenges help us become better people, help us to grow in our faith.

How did you get the idea to hold a concert event for Manitoba?
I had been praying about ways God could use me in this new mission field. I have always loved the music and the impact it has had in my life, how it connects people no matter where they are in life or where they come from. Back home I grew up attending WinterJam, sometimes two or three times a year in Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana and other events like it. I also led a music ministry called Praise In Motion that was an ASL ministry to music. It just seemed natural to take this love of music and bring a concert event to the remote location we were in. No other events take place in the Northern Interlake. This would be opportunity to share the Hope of Christ in a way that transcends religion, race, creed, colour or social status.

What type of work goes into planning an event like this? Walk me through the step by step process!
By it’s very nature this will be more than 100 words. You will have to take what you want. The first concert event came about quickly. I knew God wanted me to do it so I told my parents. They told me that they supported me but that funding would be an issue. I committed in my heart to pay for the concert myself. First step was to secure a venue – our local Community Hall, and set the date for the event. Next was the more difficult step. I began praying God would open up doors for me to reach Christian bands. I did not know many in Canada so I began to look for artist and send out emails. After several emails and several months and a little bit of a feeling of disappointment I finally got a first response from Canada’s Christian Band ‘The Color’. They agreed to not charge but to make their money from ticket sales. After this I began searching for a speaker, I contacted Tim Hague Jr – from Canda’s Amazing Race. After hearing my heart and my story he agreed to come for a reduced price. Next was working to make sure the event was advertised and tickets were sold (100). After the first event our church association refunded me most of the money I had spent (almost $4000). And doors were opened as the story of what I was doing spread. Bands, Speakers and Artist were contacting me to be a part of something great.
The next event was a little different. I had learned a lot. As soon as event one was over I jumped into planning the next. I knew God was leading me to do something bigger than the last. The following are the steps it now takes to pull off the events:
(1) Securing a date, and venue.
(2) Setting a budget that is detailed. This includes what I will pay for bands, speakers, equipment, accomadations, food, ect.
(3) Securing bands and speakers. The bands for concert two were Ezekiel, Lyndsey Mineker, Fresh I.E., Sky Terminal. The speakers were Ryan from Give the Word, and Anthony Mineker.
(4) Fundraising. For event two I traveled to Texas and spoke at several churches, petitioned friends, family and church members to sponsor the event, and asked for donations from local businesses and people. My budget was $10,000 the second time around.
I also worked this time on writing a grant with the local city government to pay for part of this event.
(5) Advertisement. I advertised on air, in local papers, and with posters. This included on air interviews on the local Christian radio station. I also sent all information to churches to help spread the word and handed out free tickets at schools.
(6) Securing all acommadations and travel.
(7) Securing all rental equipment needed by the bands.
(8) Set up of the event.
(9) Feeding the bands, speakers, and volunteers throughout the weekend long event.
I was in the beginning stages of planning event three when CoVid hit. I was also helping other organizations plan similar events in different areas. This also opened the door to personal relationships with many artists and bands that have opened many opportunities to serve.

Photography by In His Image Photography

What is it like for you to see your concerts be such a success and to see the finished product? What advice do you have for others who would like to plan a concert like this in their area?
I can’t really explain how it feels, it is simply an overwhelming and amazing feeling to accomplish what God has called you to do. I would tell someone to always follow God, even when it seems impossible and hard to do. God’s plans are better than ours, the hope that these concerts give to others is life changing. For one night the kids and teens, young and old adults are free from the worries and struggles they face.

What goals do you have for your future? Do you want to work in the ministry like your parents or focus more on music?
I would eventually like to obtain a degree in ASL to help give the Gospel to the deaf community. I surrendered to mission work when I was 13 years so I want to make sure that what I ever do in life glorifies God. Music is a way to bridge the gap and reach people because it transcends barriers and is a universal language. Ministry and music for me are one and the same. Music is the way I can serve in ministry. These concerts and the friendships and relationships I have made have opened so many doors. I have met so many amazing people with a heart to serve others and love on them. It most recently opened the door for me to be able to help a very talented friend get her first album published. In the future I have been invited to work with various artists in planning events and take part in events that they are planning. I was also recently invited to serve in Danny MacKay’s I am Second ministry here in Manitoba.

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The first concert was probably the hardest thing I have accomplished on my own. I did it through prayer and the amazing support of my family.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
When God calls you to something – just do it. Trusting His plans are important, and they are better than anything you could dream up on your own. I would say in short – pursue your dreams.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
It’s hard to really tell. I plan on attending university and go on a mission trip. I also hope to be working on many more concert events, maybe even working with artists to help plan their tours and scheduling.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
Baking. I absolutely baking cupcakes. I mean all sorts of fancy filled cupcakes. I also love making cinnamon rolls. Next to this is spending time with my family – which includes 8 siblings, and my friends.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I don’t know. I haven’t ever thought about this to be honest. I can quickly learn and pick up ASL so learning new praise songs is easy for me

Photography by In His Image Photography

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I think the topic of trusting God is big in my life right now because we often think we know better than him or that he might need our assistance in making something happen. And really these periods of waiting we find ourselves in are really important – it is a time to reflect on God’s grace and what he has already done for us.

3 Things on your bucket list
Visit Paris, Finally go on a mission trip (moving to Canada is missionaries does not count), Travel the world or open my own café.

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom. She’s really shown me what it means to have a faith without borders. And the importance of really taking time to spend time in God’s Word and making sure that what I am doing lines up with Him. She has shown me what it means to have a strong faith even when times are difficult and it’s hard to see God at work. And what it looks like to be fully surrendered to God. And my Dad. His heart for outreach and ministry and the desire to want to be exactly where God wants us.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
It’s hard to envision myself as inspiring. What I was doing and am doing is all about what God has called me to do it wasn’t ever about being noticed or making a name for myself. I wanted to share the love of God. My parents have always reached out to others, we grew up with an open door at our home and my parents have a heart of hospitality. They always invited us to walk alongside them in ministry. As children that meant homeless ministry, soup kitchens, ministry to poor and in the bad neighborhoods, it meant inviting anyone and everyone to eat at our table and to talk with us. So…..my life is about that message. I want to love others the way God has loved me, and the way I have seen Him love others through my parents. Maybe I am inspiring because I aspire to live according to the Gospel with a transparent faith and walk - it’s not about denominations or religion. Its all about relationship, transparency, love, faith, hope. It’s about God. I’m just a girl who wants to follow God and I’m okay with being imperfect and falling down because God is the one who lifts us up.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
No, but if you have any questions I’d love to discuss them with you. I am so excited to share with others. Thanks for the opportunity.

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

click here for more info on issue 38

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Makenzie Cox

9/24/2020

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Makenzie Cox – Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Amber Aaron Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Makenzie Cox is such a sweet fun-loving young lady!! She joined my Teen Model Rep team for 2020 and is absolutely amazing to work with! She has really came out of her shell and is blossoming into an amazing young lady. She inspires me to be a better photographer ever session we have!

Photography by Amber Aaron Photography

How did being a teen model rep help you come out of your shell?
What is your favorite memory so far from it?
I was very skeptical about being a teen rep because I am so shy! I hate being the center of attention and honestly did not think that I would enjoy it as much as I have so far. Being a teen model has given me so much confidence to be myself and be comfortable in my own skin. My favorite memory so far is during the first group photoshoot where I was able to meet all the girls. Everyone was so nice, helpful, and encouraging. I never felt left out or out of place. These girls are like family!

Photography by Amber Aaron Photography

Tell me about the work that goes into wanting to graduate high school with 2 years of college credit?
My goal to graduate high school with two years of college is going to take a lot of work, motivation, and dedication. I must be able to focus on my studies while understanding what classes I need to complete for my goals. My first steps in accomplishing this was to determine that I wanted to go to medical school. Once I figured out that I wanted to become a doctor, I researched what classes I needed and what the fastest route to complete these courses were. I spoke with my parents after researching our area high school programs that offered concurrent college credit and made the decision to switch high schools my freshman year. I have started studying for the ACT, taking college preparatory classes, and have even read through my mom’s medical books.

What inspired you to be what to become a surgeon in a rural community?
Growing up in a rural community has proven to be both satisfying and challenging. Small town communities typically do not have a lot to offer when it comes to community events, medical providers, or opportunities for advancement. There are so many people within our community that struggle to find transportation to nearby metroplexes for their healthcare needs. My goal is to bring medical care to them, in their community, to be better serve my community. If we can keep our community members local for their healthcare needs, we can inevitability increase our community’s revenue.

Photography by Amber Aaron Photography

What helped you push through and overcome bullying? What advice would you give people going through a similar situation?
Over the past year, I have learned that bullies say things to hurt you or bring your down because they are unhappy with themselves. I have always been raised by the “Golden Rule” and strive to achieve this every day. I am always encouraged to push through harsh words from bullies with my Christian faith. My advice to others that are being bullied is to simply stand up for yourself. You are your best advocate and should always be your number one fan.

Tell me more about how you got into fostering animals? What is the process like?
My grandmother retired recently and needed a hobby. We are a pretty close family so when she found puppies one day, we were over the moon excited to help her take care of little babies. Since that time, we have helped several of her foster dogs socialize, give medications, bath them, and deliver them to their new homes. It is sad to see them leave my grandma’s house but I know they are going to a good family with a good life ahead of them.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice to anyone that is given the opportunity to become a teen rep is to take the chance. I have met new friends and become more confident in my abilities to speak with others about standing up for what you believe in and always doing the right thing.

Makenzie 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

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Jazlyn Yanssens

9/24/2020

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Jazlyn Yanssens - Pennsylvania
Interview by Olivia Bush
Noination and Photography by Photographybyalessa
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jazlyn Yanssens is selfless, helpful, caring and a life saver. One early morning this summer I witnessed a man collapse in the park across the street from our house. After calling 911 I ran to check on him and discovered he was not breathing. The 911 operator asked if I knew CPR and I answered “no, but my daughter does.” I ran to get her, she was asleep, but jumped out of bed, and ran to the park without hesitation. She immediately began CPR, and it WORKED! She saved his life. After a week in the hospital, and many prayers he came to visit her to thank his “Angel”. Thankfully, Jazlyn knew what to do because she was a lifeguard. She has inspired me to take CPR and she hopes she inspired others to do the same.

Photography by Photographybyalessa

Tell me about the moment when you were woken up by your mom, what was going through your head in that moment?
The moment my mom woke me up, I instantly thought I woke up late for moving my brother into college. I never would have expected to be saving a life.

Why did you decide to get your CPR certification and why do you believe it is important for others to get theirs?
I got my CPR certification during my life guard training. I decided to do this because I thought it would be a fun job to work at our local pool with a bunch of my friends from the swim team. I think it is very important that others get certified because you never know when you’ll need to step into help someone like I did.

Photography by Photographybyalessa

What does it mean to you to be an inspiration to many people because you saved this man's life?
It means a lot to me that people see me as an inspiration because I saved a mans life. I love knowing that people feel safe around me because of what I did, it’s also an honor knowing people look up to me and want to learn CPR because of my story.

What different volunteer projects have you participated in and which has been your favorite?
I have also volunteered at school tutoring for middle school students and worked in the tech department. I also walk my elderly neighbor’s dog a couple times a week. My favorite would have to be tutoring though, I love working with the students one on one. I also love hearing feedback that I helped raise their grades.

Photography by Photographybyalessa

What inspired you to want to become a lifeguard? How long have you been doing this and where else do you work?
Many of my teammates on the swim team are life guards and our assistant coach is the manager at the pool, so I thought it would be fun to work with my teammates at the pool. I only got to work at the pool one summer, since the pool got closed due to covid this summer. I now work for a sign company.

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
One of the hardest things I’ve accomplished was qualifying for the district championship for swimming. Our girls team qualified for the 200-freestyle relay. At the beginning of the season we never thought we would’ve made it, but we worked hard as a team and went all out at every meet, and qualified at our very last chance. It was such an amazing feeling we got to experience as a team.

Photography by Photographybyalessa

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In the future I plan on going to college and earning a bachelors degree in supply chain management.

Who do you find inspiring?
My mom is my inspiration. She is the hardest worker I know and would love to be half the woman she is one day. She is her own boss, working for her businesses she’s made for herself. She is such a hard worker and deserves everything she receives.

Jazlyn 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

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Abby Hayslip

7/11/2020

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Abby Hayslip - Alabama
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography
Issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Abby Hayslip was a member of my Class of 2020 Senior Representative Team! She is the kind of girl who always greets you with a smile and fills any room with laughter! Her next step includes attending my alma mater, Auburn University!

Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography

What aspirations do you have for your life, and what is one thing you are looking forward to in the future?
I have big dreams for my life, as I hope to become a travel nurse to be able to travel and see the world while continuing to work as a nurse. Eventually I hope to settle down and get married and have a family. After I stop taking travel nursing assignments, my plan is to go back to school to get my master's degree in nursing to work as an ER nurse practitioner.

Tell me about your plan to attend Auburn University and what you plan on pursuing.
Auburn University has always been my dream school, so it is so exciting for me to be less than a month out from beginning my childhood dream! I plan to major in Nursing with a minor in Spanish.

Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography

How has your faith impacted your life and what you believe in?
The Lord has been so gracious to me during this new season of my life, blessing me with an amazing support group to surround me each and every day. I have been called to become a nurse, as one of my biggest personality traits is compassion. I love lending a helping hand to anyone in need, and what better way to serve His kingdom than to serve people in need!

Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography

In what ways are you always looking to strengthen your faith?
I want to continue to strengthen my faith by learning to love more like the Lord each and every day. Working in an environment where you never know the reason someone may be there; I feel like is a great place to make a huge difference in allowing me to share my faith and my story with others.

Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography

What advice would you give to others to encourage them to accomplish their dreams through hard work just like you have continued to in your life?
I would give the advice to trust the Lord and trust the process. I never thought I would be where I am today accomplishing what I am without the Lord. His plan is far greater than I could have ever imagined. It is not always easy, but it is most certainly worth every minute! I have been gifted with some of my most treasured things while in a very difficult season!
do that!

Abby will be featured in issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 35

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Jayla Bailey

7/10/2020

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Jayla Bailey - Kentucky
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Julie Bailey
Photography by Paula Yates Photography
Issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jayla Bailey is a wonderful blessing. Full of laughter, love, and generosity. She greets everyone with a smile that shows just how contagious her personality really is. She is a massive confidence booster believing everyone should know there is something beautiful about them. To say Jayla is wise beyond her years is nothing short of the truth. She strives to do what she can to help & is always willing to put the needs of others before her own.

Photography by Paula Yates Photography

How have you not let being from a town that does not welcome change define you?
I believe there is beauty in everything and I refuse to let anyone convince me otherwise.

How have you learned to not be a small minded person?
The world has taught me not to be a small minded person because their is so much out there regardless of where you are from. You can do anything and be anything you want.

What are some ways that you find the beauty in being unique?
There are so many beauties in being unique but by far the most wonderful thing is that you are you. No one else can be you because you are unique.

Photography by Paula Yates Photography

What do you love about setting examples for younger girls and being someone that they can look up to?
I love the feeling of knowing that I can make a positive impact on others. Even just making someone else’s life better through my own.

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have ever accomplished is having to perform my best at my worst. To accomplish this I had to focus on the good in life and never let me worries get the best of me.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice is to never give up. The amount of work you put in is what you get out.

Photography by Paula Yates Photography

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
On a scholarly note I plan to attend Morehead State University and major in exercise science. My goals in life are to remain humble and to always be the best version of myself.In five years I see myself furthering my education at the University of Kentucky’s physical therapy program.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
My favorite activity is designing T-shirts and stickers!

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My hidden talent would be dancing! Being on the dance team always came natural to me!

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
To keep myself organized I try to plan out my day and what can be done. I never take any offers that would conflict with my schedule.

Photography by Paula Yates Photography

3 Things on your bucket list
Three things on my bucket list are to kiss a dolphin, see the Eiffel Tower, and visit the Bahamas.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my mom inspiring because she has accomplished so much and always pushes me to do my best!

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think I inspire others through my positivity. No matter how bad a day can get I always keep a smile on my face and treat others just as if I have had the best day ever.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I have been a cheerleader almost my whole life!

Jayla will be featured in issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 35

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

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Madison Welch

Madison Welch - Virginia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Jenna Moran
Photography by Jolly Jen Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Ansleigh Youngblood

Ansleigh Youngblood - Georgia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Deena Youngblood
Photography by Amy Honea Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Anna Riddle

Anna Riddle - Canada
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Abbie Riddle
Photography by In His Image Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Makenzie Cox

Makenzie Cox – Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Amber Aaron Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jazlyn Yanssens

Jazlyn Yanssens - Pennsylvania
Interview by Olivia Bush
Noination and Photography by Photographybyalessa
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Abby Hayslip

Abby Hayslip - Alabama
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography
Issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jayla Bailey

Jayla Bailey - Kentucky
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Julie Bailey
Photography by Paula Yates Photography
Issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Featured

Archives

Categories

Madison Welch

Madison Welch - VirginiaInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Jenna MoranPhotography by Jolly Jen PhotographyIssue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Ansleigh Youngblood

Ansleigh Youngblood - GeorgiaInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Deena YoungbloodPhotography by Amy Honea PhotographyIssue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Anna Riddle

Anna Riddle - CanadaInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Abbie RiddlePhotography by In His Image PhotographyIssue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Makenzie Cox

Makenzie Cox – ArkansasInterview by Olivia BushNomination and Photography by Amber Aaron PhotographyIssue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jazlyn Yanssens

Jazlyn Yanssens - PennsylvaniaInterview by Olivia BushNoination and Photography by PhotographybyalessaIssue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Abby Hayslip

Abby Hayslip - AlabamaInterview by Claire PlathNomination and Photography by Lauren Beesley PhotographyIssue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jayla Bailey

​Jayla Bailey - KentuckyInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Julie BaileyPhotography by Paula Yates PhotographyIssue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Featured

Archives

Categories

Madison Welch - Virginia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Jenna Moran
Photography by Jolly Jen Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Ansleigh Youngblood - Georgia
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Deena Youngblood
Photography by Amy Honea Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Anna Riddle - Canada
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Abbie Riddle
Photography by In His Image Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Makenzie Cox – Arkansas
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination and Photography by Amber Aaron Photography
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jazlyn Yanssens - Pennsylvania
Interview by Olivia Bush
Noination and Photography by Photographybyalessa
Issue 38 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Abby Hayslip - Alabama
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Lauren Beesley Photography
Issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jayla Bailey - Kentucky
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Julie Bailey
Photography by Paula Yates Photography
Issue 35 of Inspiring Teens Magazine