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Alyssa Kyzar

9/12/2019

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Alyssa Kyzar - Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Trudy Kyzar
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio
Issue 26 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​Nomination: Not only is Alyssa Kyzar a 4.0 student, but she has taken on the role of SGA and Senior class president. She is active in her church youth group and has launched a youth missions committee, which she has been elected President. She has developed her own clothing line, “Thiest Threads” to help spread the word of Jesus to other teens. She was a member of FUGE SLA over the summer to become a church camp leader. She is currently enrolled in college classes while in high school.
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What inspired you to design your own clothing line, and what is the meaning behind your brand?
Sharing my faith openly has always been something I’ve struggled with, so I had the idea of creating apparel that would open doors to easily share my faith with others. So, I created Theist Threads. What’s that mean? We are all aware of an atheist; someone who doesn’t believe in God. A Theist is the exact opposite. I’ve realized from previous experience, something as simple as a T-shirt can serve as an amazing tool for sharing the gospel with others. The design for most of my products is unclear. I WANT people to ask “Hey, what’s your shirt mean, or what bible verse is that?” Explaining the purpose and meaning behind the design can turn into a life changing experience for another person. My saying is “let’s open doors and wear cool clothes while we do it!”

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How do you choose to stay active in your faith through your youth group?
Every day, I try to be a better person than I was the day before. My number one goal of each day is to always stand in the word and share encouragement. Being one of the oldest in my youth group, I try my best to set a good example to the younger ones. I try to keep special bonds and connect with each person. This summer, I created a youth missions committee to help the local community. Growing up in a small town, I learned little things can make a big impact.

Tell me a little bit about FUGE SLA and how you became involved in it.
The camp I got saved at, Fuge, holds a very special place in my heart. This summer, I had the amazing opportunity to be accepted into their Student Leadership Apprentice program. It’s a two week long experience for students who want to gain hands on leadership experience in a camp environment. I was trained to be a missionary, and even got to lead bible study for other students!

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How do role models like Sadie Roberston inspire you?
My favorite quote by Sadie is, “My passion is to speak, to write, to encourage.” Even with her large social media platforms, she isn’t afraid to be vulnerable. She’s a loud voice to those in need of an inspiring, nonjudgmental presence in their lives. She embraces her role as a beacon of light and I strive to do the same.

How have you been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA while also being very involved in your community?
I wish I could say it’s easy, but it’s not. The biggest thing is to stay motivated. Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me. I’ve learned not to limit my challenges but challenge my limits.
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What do you love most about helping others through your faith?
Serving others has been a Christian tradition since its establishment. Jesus Himself washed the feet of others and died for us! If Jesus, our Master, gave His life in service to others, how can we expect we’ll do anything less? You’ve probably heard the words, “love your neighbor as yourself” a thousand times by now. We live in such an individualistic society it’s easy to get caught up in our own thing most of the time and not even notice the needy. When I serve others, I’m joining the Lord in his work. And gosh, it feels so good.

Alyssa will be featured in Issue 26 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase issue 26
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Jocelyn Jung

8/22/2019

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Jocelyn Jung – North Carolina
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Georgette Jung
Photography by Suzanne Melendez Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​The Nomination: Jocelyn Jung is a beta club member and on the academic principal's list. She is currently a first-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Her biggest passion is with a nonprofit charity she founded with her siblings called Donatesport.org to help underserved children in North Carolina, and around the world with the gift of sport and clothing. The charity repurposes the gear and clothing donated to bring hope, inspiration, self-worth and most of all smiles to the children. Jocelyn has worked hundreds of hours and collected and distributed over a half a million dollars’ worth of sports clothing and gear in just three years. She is a true inspiration.
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​Please tell us about the nonprofit charity you and your brothers started.
Our nonprofit charity, DonateSport.org was started by my brothers and I to help children all around the globe with the gift of sport and clothing. We want to try and make a difference by gathering donations to ship out to those who need it most.

How did your passion of volunteering begin?
My passion of volunteering began when I heard about my grandma’s stories of being in an orphanage until she was 16 in Swidwin, Poland. This was caused from a tragedy that took both of her parent’s lives. She was separated from her sisters and put into an orphanage where she was only given one pair of shoes and hardly any articles of clothing every year. This gave us the idea to help kids in the same situation as my grandmother experienced when she was a child.


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Tell us about some of your other volunteering opportunities.
A volunteering opportunity that I’ve had is Adopt-A-Highway, in which my family and I go a few times a year to our assigned street that is over a mile long and pick up litter and trash. I really care about the environment and want to help anyway I can. Another opportunity is Beta Club where I participate in gathering donations for charities through projects and events. 

If you had the opportunity to start another charity, what would you name it and what would it be? 
If I was able to start another charity, it would be for helping animals since I love animals and I have two dogs currently (Boykin Spaniels). I would call the charity Furry Friend Rescue. The charity would gather donations to help rescue animals and care for them. 
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What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am also an aspiring photographer and often take photos of my friends. Making my friends feel good about themselves. My favorite subjects are studio and outdoor portraits of people, and nature photography. This is because I love increasing my knowledge by taking photos of my friends and family inside and outside, shooting in manual mode with soft boxes and backgrounds. 


Jocelyn will be featured in issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase issue 25 of inspiring teens magazine
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Anna Grace Scholten

8/19/2019

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Anna Grace Scholten - Georgia
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Amber Bounds Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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Anna Grace Scholten is a varsity tennis player, varsity cheerleader, currently top 5 in her class and a natural leader! She can be found volunteering in the community or working on missions. She spent much of this summer on a church mission trip giving her time to help those less fortunate. Anna Grace is the epitome of a teen that inspires others and I am more than proud to nominate her! ​
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​What is your favorite activity or pastime?
My favorite pastime or activity is tennis. I started in the 5th grade taking private lessons and then began to play USTA tournaments and then school tennis. This is truly where I learned the most about hard work and determination. I began to realize early on you are only going to get out, what you put in. It has been through many long, hot, and cold practices, camps, and tournaments that have brought me to where I am now. As an 8th grader, I played #1 singles for the high school JV team. As a freshman and sophomore, I played #2 singles for the varsity team. Last year I played #1 singles. For the past three years, we have been region champs and have gone further in state playoffs than in years past. I love being part of a team and supporting each other. Last season, I was nominated by In the Game magazine as one of two outstanding girl tennis players in southeast Ga. I am excited about my upcoming senior season. 

​How does your work ethic help you stay positive through hard times?
I am a very driven person. When I put my mind to something, I am determined to achieve whatever that may be. I believe that if you are going to do something you should put in 110%. My work ethic is something I am very proud of because not everyone is driven. Not everyone wants to put in the work even when it's hard, whether that is school, cheer, or tennis. As a student, I have always taken my academics very seriously. I am currently ranked 5th out of 401 within our student body. It's not about the number, but it is about doing my best. One of my favorites quotes is “Stay Positive, Work hard, Make it happen.” I stay positive through the tough times by trusting that God has a perfect plan, and everything always happens for a reason. 
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​How did you get involved with cheerleading? How long have you been a cheerleader for?
As a child, I took years of dance and gymnastics. So, I knew that when I was of age, I wanted to try out for my school’s cheerleading squad. I have cheered for the past six years. This year I am a senior, and I am unfortunate it is my last year. I love being on the sidelines, cheering and dancing for our Coffee High Trojans.

What was it like becoming an All-American cheerleader?
One of the highlights of my high school cheerleading career was making the All-American cheerleading team my Junior year of 2018. It is not an easy process. To try out for all-American, you have to be first nominated and then go through a tryout, where you do a cheer and jumps by yourself in front of the whole camp. The process can be very intimidating. I did not make the team my freshman or sophomore years, but I didn’t get discouraged or give up on a goal I had set. I came back my junior year and made the All- American NCA team. 
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What is it like being a part of the FCA leadership team for 4 years?
Fellowship of Christian Athletes is a great club that I am so proud to be affiliated with. I begin in the club while in middle school. It was there I was asked to be on the leadership team. We meet every week and have a student-led devotion and pray for our school, students, and teachers. Having a Christian club on school campuses is such a blessing. We have been able to give out over 1,000 bibles to students. We also have raised money for missions work in third world countries. 
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Tell us about your church mission trip this summer. What was your favorite part of the trip? Why? 
In the past two summers, I participated in a local community camp, known as Camp One-fifty-one. During this camp, we go and repair the homes of the less fortunate in my hometown of Douglas, Ga. The camp is split into groups of about 9 or 10 people. Each group is assigned a house to repair for the week. During the week, we get to know our homeowners by bringing them food, talking, and sharing the gospel with them. This past summer, my site group worked on a single-wide trailer. We repaired the roof, replaced the floor, installed five new windows, new cabinets and a door. This camp has become very dear to my heart. I love meeting new people and serving God together. Yes, I do have over 175 community service hours, but it is so much more than just that. It is about the gift of serving others. 
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Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I plan to go off to college in the fall of 2020 and pursue a degree in biology or chemistry. So, hopefully, I will be in a pharmacy program soon. I am so excited about meeting new people and pursuing my dreams. 

What are three things on your bucket list?
I want to attend a grand slam tennis tournament, travel Europe, and meet Thomas Rhett.

Is there anything else you would like to say?
Something else I would like to say is even though this interview seems like everything has been good with some hard work along the way, it has not been easy. I have had many setbacks and frustrations along the way. Many times, I have felt like things were going against me. However, I do think that it is in those times of heartache you grow as a person in your character and strength. I would encourage anyone to never give up on something you put your mind to. All things are possible! 

Anna Grace will be featured in Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase issue 25 of inspiring teens magazine
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Harli Ferrell

8/7/2019

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Harli Ferrell – North Carolina
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Robin Miller Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​The Nomination: Harli Ferrell graduated June 2019 from East Burke High School. She was very busy during high school with being a good student and getting her CNA. She also participated in multiple clubs including the Anchor Club where they achieve volunteer hours to stay in it. Harli was voted by her student body for Senior Homecoming Court. 
She was a member of the pie club, spirit club and a cheerleader all 4 years of high school and started cheerleading since Kindergarten. In the Fall Harli will begin Caldwell County Community College with a major in Cardiovascular Sonography. 
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​How did you become interested in cheerleading? 
I have been cheering for as long as I can remember. Cheering is a huge part of my life and very important to me. I started cheering before I entered kindergarten and have never stopped. My mom coached me from then through the 6th grade and really encouraged me all the way through it. 

What is your favorite thing about being a cheerleader? Why? 
My favorite thing about being a cheerleader is actually being a leader! A lot of people think of cheering as just a girly sport but it is truly about leadership whether we’re leading our football team to a victory or leading our school and the community, that’s what it’s all about for me and setting a good example for the little girls that want to be just like us one day. Cheering under the Friday night lights is also one of the many things I loved about cheering.


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Image by one of Harli's parents
​Tell us about your involvement in the Anchor Club and your duties within the club.
 Anchor Club was huge part of my Junior and Senior year. We did tons of community service and had to earn hours to stay in anchor club, I always did my hours at a local nursing home called Trinity Village. The people there are so kind and welcoming, and I really enjoyed volunteering. We also have powderpuff football which is so much fun! We always got to play our schools rival team and we won this year actually! Also, we do anchor club initiation, where we dress up the members that are Juniors in crazy outfits and they have to walk around school in it all day! It’s so much fun and I truly enjoyed it.

What was it like being voted for the Senior Homecoming Court?
Being on Homecoming Court was honestly a dream come true! Ever since I was little and went to high school games, I always wanted to be on it just like my mom was. It didn’t matter if I won or not; it’s was the honor that my senior class voted me on it that was so special, and that my best friend since kindergarten, Austin got to escort me. It was such an amazing and fun experience!
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Why did you want to major in Cardiovascular Sonography?
The heart as always interested me especially in my health classes in high school. It’s so interesting to learn about the anatomy of the heart. But what truly sealed the deal is that my dad had 3 heart attacks in a matter of a few hours very recently. That’s when I knew this is the field I want to go into.

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


Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Gabriella Morando

7/27/2019

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Gabriella Morando - Ohio
Interview by Claire Path
Nomination by Elisabeth Morando
Photography by David Beckham Photography
Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​The Nomination: Gabi is inspiring because she is incredibly dedicated to and passionate about the things that are important to her. She has studied classical ballet for 12 years and devotes up to 20 hours per week to dance, striving for excellence and perfection despite exhaustion and pain from injuries. Ballet has taught her the necessity of practicing something over and over again in order to achieve every bit of progress, something that requires so much patience and focus. She applies the same qualities to metal sculpting and jewelry-making, for which she has won statewide awards. Gabi is an honors student with a 4.4 GPA and a flexible school schedule so she can work to advance her community service projects, too, like her volunteer work for the Ronald McDonald House and human trafficking charities like her own initiative, Prevent-Prepare-Stay Aware, and she has reached thousands of elementary students with her anti-bullying pro-kindness message. Gabi is currently Miss Ohio High School. 
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​How has your passion for classical ballet impacted your daily life, and what do you love most about dancing?
Ballet touches everything I do because studying this art has had such a huge impact on who I am. Classical ballet has taught me discipline, patience, appreciation for my mind and body, and it has given me a strong work ethic. Ballet is so focused on perfecting the smallest of moves that it has taught me the necessity of practicing something again and again in order to make incremental improvements. I understand nutrition and injury prevention and care because of ballet, and I have learned to love classical music and the beautiful stories that dancers tell without words. 
My favorite thing, though, is performing. So many hours go into preparing for just a few minutes on stage, but the feeling I get from performing is like none other, and it’s always worth it.

When did you first start pageantry, and what is one of your favorite experiences from it?
I started pageants at age 9. Since then, pageantry has truly been the most amazing journey, and I’m so thankful to be able to do it. One of the best things about it is being able speak with kids and hear their experiences. Just last winter, I made one little girl’s dearest Christmas wish come true. My first ballet teacher told me about a young student dreaming of being a pageant princess with a beautiful dress and crown, but her family couldn’t do that for her. I was blessed to be able to surprise her with a perfect ballgown and tiara, and we had a photo shoot to commemorate the day. It was something I’ll never forget. 

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​​Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
My dream and my goal is that in 5 years I will be dancing professionally in a classical ballet company, and I will be serving on the board of a significant anti-human trafficking non-profit, helping make changes in legislation and social programs to help victims. And I will be Miss Universe!

​What do you love most about volunteering to help others in need?
Volunteering is something I have grown up doing. I still remember visiting and helping to serve meals with my mom at homeless shelters when I was only 4 years old. I love being able to serve other people, and the feeling I get from doing that is so magical. I feel blessed that I have had role models in my life who have taught me the importance of giving back and helping others who are not as fortunate.

How has your involvement in your community impacted who you are and what you stand up for?
Community service has given me a certain perspective on life that I don’t think I would have if I only looked to my own needs. Seeing what other people go through makes me appreciate what I have so much more, and it reminds me to take nothing for granted. Helping others has done so much good for me, and I’m so grateful to all the organizations I’ve worked with for giving me a chance to make a difference. 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Don’t be afraid to go after what you want! It’s so easy to let fear stop you from trying things because, frankly, trying something new is scary. But if you face your fear and go ahead and try, you will always find that what you’re afraid of isn’t so scary after all. 

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
Time management is a real challenge but I’m really lucky that my school was just starting an online curriculum when I was an entering freshman, and they agreed to let me be the first student to try a blended schedule of some online classes and some in-school classes. So I get to use school labs and facilities for science and art, for instance, but I have the flexibility of online classes that I can do whenever and wherever I am. I like to work ahead as much as I can when I have time, too, so I can focus on dance more when I need to or do my community service projects. 
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Image by Elisabeth Morando
​What do you enjoy most about jewelry making and what awards have you won from it?
I love how jewelry making is so detail-oriented. It takes so long to make the smallest chain link or a single engraving, but the work put in shows in the final product. I have won gold and silver keys in the Scholastic Art Competition, was a finalist in the Ohio Governor’s Youth Art Exhibition, and I was the one student chosen to represent my congressional district in the Ohio House of Representatives Student Art Exhibition that will remain on display for this entire year. 

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
If I inspire others, I hope it’s because they can relate to me and the struggles I have had and hard work I have to do to reach for my dreams. When I was little, my shyness made me quit ballet after my first class because I couldn’t stand people looking at me. That shyness is still there inside me, and it’s a constant effort for me to fight it. But the effort has made me strong enough to be able to continually face my fear and perform onstage, speak in front of crowds, and put myself out there to be judged by pageant judges and everyone else who is watching. If I can do that, believe me — anyone can do it. 

Who do you find inspiring?
I get inspiration from many sources, including some famous people like my favorite, Audrey Hepburn. But mainly I’m inspired every day by the people I’m surrounded by—people at school who work so hard to get amazing grades, the girls I dance with who never give up even when it’s painful and difficult, my family and friends who believe in me and support me no matter what. 

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Image by Elisabeth Morando
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I’m so honored to be featured in Inspiring Teens magazine. I know I have had the benefit of being inspired by many amazing people, and the possibility that I can provide inspiration for someone else is wonderful and humbling. I’m very grateful. 


Gabriella will be featured in Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
Click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Ava Dwyer

7/18/2019

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Ava Dwyer - Maryland
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Kate Mitchem Photography
Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​The Nomination: Ava Dwyer lit up my day when she showed up for her Dance Photo shoot a few weeks ago. The grace and beauty just flowed through the tips of her fingers to the tips of her pointed toes! Not only is she an incredible dancer who attends an International Baccalaureate high school in D.C., and dances every moment that she's not going to school or helping to teach at a local elementary school, but she still finds time to help rebuild schools in Africa!! She loves different cultures and meeting new people but her beauty is best seen through her dance!
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​What do you love most about dance?
What I love most about dance is how free I feel. It allows me to release every bit of tension and focus on whatever story I am trying to portray. However, dancing is a constant battle to try to be better, forcing me to always push the limits and discover new and exciting ways to look at dance. I think that this urge to push myself to be better than I ever have been is what keeps me driven, and protects my love for dance.

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​What is the International Baccalaureate high school in D.C and how does it differ from other high schools?
I attend Washington International School, and I am currently going into my junior year (11th grade). WIS is located in Washington, DC, and it is a multilingual private school that offers a full International Baccalaureate program. WIS is different from other high schools because of the large diversity in nationalities students represent, the incredible faculty with international backgrounds, and the challenging educational program it provides. The school opens doors to a large array of opportunities, including attending college anywhere in the world based on the International Baccalaureate diploma. WIS has a large but close-knit community that I am proud to say I am a part of. 

Tell me a little bit about your experience volunteering at a school in Africa.
Each year at Washington International School, there are various trips students can apply to be a part of. Trips to New Orleans, China, Guatemala, Peru, and Morocco are among them. Along with 16 other people, I was accepted to participate in a trip to a small town in Morocco called Azrou. The town is quite beautiful, sitting below two mountains. There are funding issues for public schools in Morocco, particularly for small towns like Azrou, so our aim was to improve some aspects of a local elementary school. We brought a total of nine computers, taught workshops on technology, language, and hygiene, and built a new library for the school, complete with donated books that were donated by fellow students. It was an amazing experience. 

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What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Be ambitious. The only way to achieve your goals in life is to fight for them. For me, I always tell myself to not settle for anything less than the best I can do. If you want something bad enough, push yourself to get there and you will. Believe in what you are capable of, and more importantly, believe in yourself!

Ava will be published in issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Layken Sanders

7/5/2019

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Layken Sanders – Tennessee
Interview by Zoe DAngelo
Nomination by Jeni Sanders
Photography by Jeni Sanders & Amber McKellar
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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The Nomination: Layken Sanders is such an inspiring teen, because she has devoted the last 4 years to collecting shoes for Soles4Souls. She has currently collected 42,000 pairs of shoes and is on track to meet her goal of 50,000 pairs by the end of 2019. Layken has been on a mission trip to Haiti to deliver, size, and fit brand-new pairs of shoes on 450 children. She works hard every day for this charity, while keeping straight As in her honors classes, and being on multiple competition cheer teams, in which she has been named most reliable and best stunter, as well as numerous awards at school. ​
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Photography by Jeni Sanders
​Tell us about your involvement with Soles4Souls. How did it get started and what is it like?

When I was 10 years old, I decided to stop receiving birthday gifts and in the place of presents I asked for gently used shoes to be donated to Soles4Souls. This nonprofit charity organization based in middle TN seemed like the perfect charity for me to be involved with, because of their outreach to so many children and families all over the world. Once I dropped off the shoes I had collected for my birthday, I was given a tour of the warehouse, and given so much information about how they impact so many lives. At that point, my brother and I set a goal to collect 50,000 pairs of shoes and become Ambassadors for Soles4Souls. We are currently at over 42,000 pairs collected. 

Other than shoes, would you be interested in donating different articles of clothing?

Yes, I have been interested in donating other items, as well. I have helped with a local coat drive and was able to collect 161 coats to be donated. That was a great cause that I will continue to support. 

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Photography by Jeni Sanders
​How do you keep yourself organized with helping with Soles4Souls while keeping straight A’s in school?
I keep myself organized with my commitment to Soles4Souls, my straight As in honors classes, and my multiple All Star and School Competitive Cheer Teams by having a goal oriented attitude. I stay focused on my goals, create new ones as I go, and stay positive when times are tough. I always want to strive for the best and I'm not afraid of putting in a lot of hard work and effort to achieve my goals. 
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Photography by Amber McKellar
​Tell us about the trip you are taking to Haiti.

I went on a mission trip to Haiti a year and a half ago. It was life changing! To be a part of an organization who helps improve the quality of life for other living beings is priceless. I got to see firsthand how children couldn't attend school if they didn't have a pair of shoes. That affected me deeply, because I couldn't even imagine not being given the opportunity to get at least a basic education. I learned so much during this experience that I will value for a lifetime. Such as, not taking anything for granted and how to be an advocate for change. I loved getting to go to several orphanages, schools, and villages to deliver 450 pairs of brand-new shoes to excited kids. It was also amazing to visit the Haitian American Caucus to meet two ladies who were apart of the microenterprise program. I can't wait to go back soon! 

Layken will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Janiya Cadney

6/29/2019

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Janiya Cadney - Tennessee
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Jaleesa Larry
Photography by Incredibly Wee Photography
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​The Nomination: Janiya is 17 years old and entering her Senior year at Bartlett High. She is known for being a strong Alto in her schools’ honors choir and holding 3 Top 10 chairs for the Alto 1 section in the All South West Honor Choir. She also has taken coding classes for 3 years and helps update websites for local businesses. Not only does she have great determination, but she also has leadership. She has worked her way up to the role as President in her school’s club R.O.S.E.S where she has dedicated most of her time to help her community and raise money for scholarships!
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​What responsibilities come with being part of R.O.S.E.S? 
Respectful, Optimistic, Successful, Educated, Students is a huge responsibility with you just being on the roster. I’m usually the one who recruits members each year and we start the year strong with about 60 members and end the year with a little less than half the amount. It’s not that the students didn’t have those amazing qualities, but they did lack consistency and responsibility. We handle the largest fundraiser and the talent show every year and also participate in the fundraisers and community outreach to raise scholarship money and to see what around us needs to be addressed. The biggest responsibility with being a part of R.O.S.E.S. is simply doing something for someone, about something, and for the better .


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​How has your love for technology by coding given you different opportunities? 
Technology is something that I believe will proceed to evolve and never stop. Therefore, why not make it my profession. Aside from me enjoying coding, it’s allowed me a chance to work
with Archer Malm, help with school website updates, public relations, and it’s a promising lifelong career!

Tell me about how you plan on growing as a person. What goals do you set to succeed? 
Prayer, confidence, strength, and the courage to fail and try again. “Without struggle, there is no progress”- Fredrick Douglass. Setting a goal for me is to aim higher than I think I can go 
because if you can exceed your goals, you haven’t set them high enough. So, I never have a set goal for long periods of time, mine change every day because new things occur every day. After you have struggled to get to that recent revamped goal there is always something you can do better, so you progress continuously and never stop growing.

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Image taken by a choir friend
​What does it mean to you to hold 3 Top 10 chairs for the Alto 1 section in the All South West Honor Choir?
I’ve worked hard, practiced, and did my absolute best with no excuses and became part of only 200 people selected from thousands . It’s honestly where you go to be with others who share a love for music (and want to miss that day of school because it’s counted as excused).

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Image taken by Janiya Cadney
How do you balance all your responsibilities and having time to relax and have time for yourself? 

School, friends, R.O.S.E.S, Upstanders, choir, and my job gets pretty stressful and interesting. I honestly don’t know how I balanced my Junior year, but I do have a built-in lazy day each week that just comes natural. With Wednesday being the middle of the week and my responsibilities usually don’t fall on that day, I take that day to gather myself.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I will graduate from Spelman University with a degree in computer science and engineering technology with a minor in business and start working in web design for a short amount of time. After I’ve built a good base with a steady job, I would love to pursue my dreams of owning a wedding planning services aside from technology. Then of course hopefully working my way towards running my own household and having a family.

Janiya Cadney will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
0 Comments

Amanda Szymborski

6/25/2019

2 Comments

 
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Amanda Szymborski - Michigan
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination and Photography by Rebecca Houlihan Photography
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​Nomination: I met Amanda Szymborski about a year ago and immediately knew she was somebody special; she has a personality that exudes so much positivity and happiness. Things others say about her is she is always friendly and accepting. She sets an excellent example of work ethic by being in the National Honor Society, participating in school clubs, and being the varsity team captain for golf and tennis. Amanda has made an impact in the community through volunteering and assisting whenever needed. Amanda is someone who truly makes the world a better place and enhances the lives of everyone she is with.
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How did you first become interested in tennis to now being the Varsity team captain for your school?
I have “played” tennis ever since I can remember. But my version of playing was just hitting the ball in the street in front of my house with someone. I always enjoyed doing that so my freshman year I decided to join the tennis team, as soon as I stepped on the court, I knew I was meant to be there. I wasn’t very good when I first started, but I put a lot of energy and time into tennis year-round and eventually became one of the best players in the school.
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What is the Links program at your school and how did you become involved in it?
The links program is when you spend an hour of your school day to help a student on the autism spectrum be social. Students on the spectrum don’t have the best communication skills so that is why you are there. I joined the links program when one of my teachers suggested I should participate in it. They thought I would be a great link.

​Tell me a little bit about the student leadership committee and what your role is.
The student leadership academy is a selected group of outstanding students: students that participate in class on a daily schedule, are kind and polite, and responsible. Almost every single Wednesday morning the group would meet up and we would have guest speakers who would teach us how to speak in front of crowds. Part of the leadership academy is we plan a huge party and we raise money to go towards local charities. Going through the process of the party we set up meetings with local businesses to try and get donations.  With all the money we raise, we have to decide what to spend it on and how much to spend on things.​

​What responsibilities come with being a part of the National Honor Society?
​NHS requires you get at least 20 hours of community service per year. I like to spend my time at the local food bank and volunteering my time working at kids camps.
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How have you managed to balance all the activities you are involved in while maintaining a strong academic record?
I’m not going to lie it is very tough, but it is doable. Being involved with sports and other after school activities takes up a ton of time, but you just have to remember you are a student athlete. Being a student is always your first priority. On bus ride to games sometimes you have to study for that big test tomorrow or do your homework instead of talking to your teammates. If you’re stuck, your captain or other teammates probably took the class and can help you. All your friends want to hang out, but you have a boat load of homework, you might have to stay home and do your schoolwork over hanging out with friends. I maintained my strong academic by doing all the above, I would take my schoolwork to matches and miss out on times when my friends were hanging out, but it’s worth it in the end.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I always write stuff down in my reminders and calendar on my phone to make sure I don’t forget about something!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell them to never give up and always maintain a positive work ethic! Where you get in the future depends on what you are doing now, the amount of work you put into it. Everyone has bad days or weeks but don’t let it get in your head, prevail through the rough patch
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What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I believe I am so inspiring because I have the ability to remain free spirited in anything I do. I can adapt well to anything in any given circumstance, and love reaching out to new opportunities and people of all ages. I always maintain my smiling face and positive nature. I consider it an amazing blessing that I am looked up to by children, striving to work and become as talented, if not more talented than me, in the future. By seeing and observing my consistent, positive work ethic, I’ve learned and grown throughout the years. I hope this truly inspires many young people to always work hard and to never give up, ever.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I love to spend time with my friends! My friends mean everything to me and inspire me to strive to always become a better person each day and have helped to teach me so many valuable life lessons that have helped shape me into the person I am today.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
My whole life, friends and family always remind me of how determined and strong minded I am. Always striving to accomplish my goals whether they take hours, days, even years to accomplish.

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Who do you find inspiring?
I find all my friends, and parents inspiring and mind changing. All my friends have a special characteristic that no one else I know is anything like, they are all their own person each possess a valuable, inspiring, original outlook on life which has helped to shape my values opinions and beliefs. My parents both have a high education and worked their butts off in college to be as successful and diligent as they are today. Without all their lessons and work motives I would not be the person I am today.

Pizza or Tacos?  Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Pizza but it has to be just cheese
Pink lemonade mixed with sprite
Dogs because they are so loving and loyal

3 Things on your bucket list
I want to participate in a mission trip, travel through Europe, and lastly go to all the tennis opens (French open, U.S. open, Australian open)

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Recently, to add on to my tennis career journey, I found out I was named all state for 1 doubles! I consider it an amazing accomplishment, that paid off with long hours of practice, and by maintaining a thoughtful, persevering mindset.

Amanda will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! 
Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
2 Comments

Diana Kolb

6/24/2019

24 Comments

 
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Diana Kolb - Texas
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Dede Kolb
Photography by Nate Johnson Photography (Swim),
​Color Dawn Photography & others
Inspiring Teens Magazine Issue 23

​The Nomination: Diana Kolb was born to an alcoholic mother in Kazakhstan, placed in an impoverished orphanage at age two, and by age four was adopted and brought to the United States. Unfortunately, the adoptive mother was mentally abusive and terminated the adoption after four years. This led Diana to her forever family, where she found a way to forgive and shine. She has chosen joy over bitterness. She’s a straight A student, on track to graduate high school with an Associate’s degree. She has big dreams as a competitive swimmer and a successful model and hopes her testimony will inspire others.
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Photo by Kim Vohs Color Dawn Photography
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​What have you learned from your adoption process? What good has come from it?

I learned people don’t determine my worth, God does; that people will fail you, but God won’t. Having been given up by my birth mother, and my first adoptive mother, I wondered what was wrong with me that made people not love me. It wasn’t until I experienced the unconditional love of my forever family that I was able to believe in myself. And when they taught me to forgive those who hurt me, I felt victorious, not victimized. My journey is who I am, and I want to encourage others facing rejection and insecurities to not give up on themselves, because our trials are part of a masterpiece that can only be created as we go through them.


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Photo by Bryan Grant Pixel Studio Photography Kazakhstan dress

​Tell us about your birth country.
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My birth country is Kazakhstan. It is across the world with bordering countries of Russia and China. I don’t remember much about anything but the orphanage. I remember freezing snow and a lot of it. I must have been a bad child, because I was beaten a lot. But I must have been a good child for a family to pick me as the child they wanted to adopt. These were the kinds of thoughts I had as a child. I never felt like I had an identity until I was loved unconditionally, which gave me the bravery step out and be myself.
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My mother dreams of making a trip to Kazakhstan one day, because she never got to see where I came from since they adopted me after I had been brought to the United States by my first adoptive family. I think it would be a little cool to make a visit myself, but Texas will always be my home.

We have brought a little bit of Kazakhstan to East Texas through some handmade traditional dresses a seamstress made for me in Kazakhstan. They are very tribal and fun to have as a memorial of my birth country. 
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Swim Image by Nate Johnson Photography
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​With UIL District, Regional and State honors and as a USA Sectionals qualifier, how rigorous is your training? 

My training seems insane to most people. I swim every weekday except Sunday, and three days I swim morning and evening. My morning practices start at 5:30 AM, and my evening practices are after school. I also have to maintain a healthy diet. That means preparing meals for the day so I don’t end up eating junk on the run, but eat enough to fuel my body for swim. Finally, I have to have plenty of rest. That means earlier bedtimes than most teenagers. It is challenging to the social life, but I’m willing to make sacrifices to become a better competitive swimmer.

Tell us a little bit about how you maintain a 3.95 GPA with all your swim training? 

Because of my late start with the English language, and my unstable childhood, I have had to play “catch-up” most of my school years. It hasn’t been easy. I study a lot. It requires discipline. I have to make the most of every minute, and find times throughout the day to study because “all nighters” are not an option with swim. It’s simple, I work hard for that GPA.


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Snapshot by Mom in my Bags of Love Tee
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​Can you explain the Bags of Love charity and what it means to you? 

This is a charity started by a lady who grew up in the foster care system. Her testimony is of being moved from place to place with her belongings in trash bags. She has made it her mission to provide duffle bags filled with supplies to foster children. Her motto is, “No Kid Deserves a Trash Bag.” When I heard about this charity, I knew I wanted to help. I knew what this felt like. When my first adoption was terminated, some of my belongings were transported in trash bags. No child should be made to feel like trash. I have volunteered by stuffing bags, and am proud to have been a part of the advertising for this charity. We both have decided not to trash our testimonies.

What does it mean for you to work at the Boys and Girls Club as a certified lifeguard and teaching swim lessons?

All of my team practices are at the Boys and Girls Club, and between that, work, and teaching swim lessons, I feel like I spend half of my life there. My first job was cleaning bathrooms. But, after completing their program to certify as a lifeguard, my responsibilities have grown. Plus, they are very accommodating with my schedule. I’m grateful for the opportunities the Boys and Girls Club have given me to train and work in the sport I love.

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Photo by Kim Vohs from Color Dawn Photography
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​What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today? 

Never stop trusting God. There will be times when that will be really hard, but He created us for a reason and has a plan our lives. Another thing I would advise is to have a good support system. For me, this quickly became my forever parents. They are always there for me, and I found that when I let myself trust people again, they helped me get through some of the toughest times with unconditional love. The last piece of advice I would give is to admit when you need help. This was the hardest thing for me because I did not trust others to see me as weak. After all I had been through, I had a chip on my shoulder. However, I made my situation worse when I refused to let people in. I had to learn that no one is perfect, but there will always be good people around wanting to help. Don’t let bitterness take hold; forgive and let others love on you. Don’t waste time being angry at your past. Take pride in overcoming, then work hard on worthy goals.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?

In five years, I hope to still be swimming competitively, which means at the highest levels. I hope to have a bachelors from Texas A&M University by then, and I also see myself eventually coaching swim. I also unexpectedly discovered I have a passion for psychology through an entry level college course. When I first enrolled in this class, I was nervous because I heard it was difficult. The first time I opened the textbook, I freaked out because I didn’t understand most of what I read. It was this class, however, that revealed to me my passion for studying the social behaviors of others. Having been adopted twice and mentally abused as a child, I was very interested in understanding why I reacted differently than most people would have given the same situation. I learned there are reasons people respond to situations as they do. In the future, I want to learn more about those responses to be able to help other children overcome adversity instead of giving up. In five years, I hope to have found my niche in a career that combines my interests in coaching and psychology.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?

I have just lived my life the best I knew how as all the challenges hit me. I think that through my story and everything in my life, it shows God and His glory. This will always be inspiring to people because it helps give others hope. Discovering God’s purpose has taught me that God loves the orphan, but somebody has to be the orphan. Instead of asking, why me? I’ve learned to ask, with expectation, why not me?! Am I always up? No. I have definitely been, and can still get, discouraged. But I have learned that not being discouraged cannot be the goal. That’s unrealistic. The goal is to keep getting back up.

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Photo I took of my Charm Cover at the publishing office

​What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?

Swim does not allow much for pastime activity, but I have enjoyed a little success with a modeling hobby. One thing that stands out is my Charm cover. When I first came to my forever home, I fell in love with a local magazine, Charm East Texas. I got to know and love a lot about my new community through this magazine. I dreamed of having my picture in there one day, because that would mean I was truly part of the East Texas family, and family is a big deal to me. Well, not only did my dream come true, I made the cover. What an honor that was. I am a proud East Texas family member.

​How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?

Maybe feeling so out of control as a child created somewhat of a control freak. I also can not stand to be still, so I keep my days full, and being disorganized, I discovered, did not work well. It took a few years in a stable home to figure out how to stay organized, but now I understand this is a necessary skill for success. I could not function without keeping a calendar. I write everything down and I prioritize. Swim, school and work; in that order;)



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Photo by Kim Vohs of Color Dawn Photography Joseph story and my coat of many colors
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​Who do you find inspiring?

My mom has called me her “little Joseph” from the first day we met. She says, like Joseph, in the Bible, I have known rejection and betrayal. But, like Joseph, I have a special purpose. I really like Joseph. He represents how I want to be known – unbreakable.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?

If I had to name a “hidden talent”, I suppose it would be mentoring younger children. I seem to have the personality for dealing with children – both in my church activities and in swim. I have taught younger children in both arenas, and we all seem to benefit from my involvement with them.

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs?
Lots of water, and Jimmy Johns

3 Things on your bucket list

I want to adopt
I want to skydive
I want to travel the world

Anything else you’d like to tell us?

My first adoption ended tragically. I was not told I was leaving the family until the day I was sent away. I never saw it coming and had no choice. I was not given a chance to say goodbye to anyone who had been a part of the past four years of my life. It was painful and I was terrified. Since then, I have been so blessed to reconnect with some very important people from that time in my life – including my godmother and my second-grade teacher. They helped me reconnect with my school family by arranging an after-school reunion party. It was a great time of healing. They encouraged me so much and it felt good to finally have some closure.

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Diana will be featured in Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! 

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click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
24 Comments

Abigail Strickland

6/6/2019

0 Comments

 
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Abigail Strickland - Colorado
Interview by Shaina Zaccagnino
Nomination and Photography by Carol Dunnigan Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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The Nomination: I consider Abigail Strickland to be an inspiring teen for all the amazing things that she does for her community. Besides being the Varsity Co-Captain of her school's cheerleading team, she's part of the National Honor Society, the A-team which is a tutoring program and part of 4-H. Outside of school she fundraises for Honor Flight Veterans and makes Valentines for local teachers, bus drivers and doctors. She's helped with canned food drives and donating supplies to shelters. Now, she is starting a job as a program aide at the YMCA! I'm proud to have such an amazing young woman on my model rep team!
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​How long have you been involved in cheer and what do you love most about it? 
I have been involved in cheer since I was a freshman so about 4 years. I love tumbling and cheering at football games under the Friday night lights! 
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Tell us about Carol Dunnigan's Model Rep Team and your involvement.
 
I recently joined Carol Dunnigan’s Model Rep Team. So far, I have done two photography sessions. We will be doing more sessions and completing community service. I love taking pictures with some of my classmates and making new friends who are also a part of the team!

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Image by Corina Strickland
How did you learn about 4-H? Why did you decide to join?

I learned about 4-H from my mom. She was actively involved in her 4-H club when she was young. A student that my mom had in her 5th grade class was part of the local club. He had told us about the cloverbud program for the younger kids.
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Once we found out about a club that was located near us, I joined it to follow my mom’s footsteps. I was seven years old when my 4-H journey started in cloverbuds.

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Image by Corina Strickland
What have you learned as being a member of 4-H? 
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I have learned a lot from being a 4-H member. I have learned about citizenship and government, how to be a leader, how to help my community, and how to become a better person. Through one of the projects that I did over a three-year period, I learned about citizenship and government. At the end of the project, I traveled to Washington D.C. to experience these things in person. The workshops there focused on being a better citizen and leader. Government was exhibited by a mock trial to create new laws and bills. I have learned how to be a better leader by the multiple leadership conferences that I have attended. Also, with being a previous president for my club and the current vice president, I have been able to lead meetings and manage large groups of people. I have learned how to help my community by all the community service that 4-H is involved with. Whether it be donating to shelters or just making someone’s life a little easier. All of these have helped shape me into the person that I am today.
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Image by Abigail Strickland
Do you think other people should join 4-H?
Of course, other people should join 4-H! It offers so many amazing opportunities and teaches so many applicable life skills. It makes people become their best versions of themselves. And though, most people believe you need livestock to be a 4-H member, this is not true. All my projects have been without livestock. My first 4-H project was baking. In addition to baking I entered the scrapbooking project for several years. In more recent years, I have added painting and sketching for visual arts. There are hundreds of different types of projects to choose from. These are just a few of my favorites.

What do you plan to do with 4-H in the future?
Even though my 4-H experience will be done when I turn nineteen, I can apply my leadership skills that I have learned to a future career. In these last couple of years, I plan on being even more involved in 4-H by becoming a district representative. It is the next level from my current county club, and it is more state focused. I’m excited to see where these last few years take me!


Abigail will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
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Claire Amyx

5/28/2019

3 Comments

 
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​Claire Amyx – Texas
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination and Main Photography by Angie Read Photography
Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​The Nomination:
Most teens these days are super busy, and Claire Amyx is definitely no exception! As a junior this past year, Claire was involved with the Child Guidance program at her high school, which fostered her love for teaching elementary aged children. On top of that, Claire is a dancer and figure skater, which requires hours of practice every week. Claire isn't only gorgeous, she's also a high performer at school and was just inducted into National Honor Society. On top of it all, she has a sweet personality and has been a pleasure to have on my model team. She's got a bright future ahead of her!
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​What got you interested in the child guidance program at your high school?

When I first discovered the child guidance program it seemed really cool to teach children for a good part of the school day. I was put into the child development class during my sophomore year of high school and I really enjoyed learning about the development of children. At the end of the year I applied to be in the Child Guidance program, and luckily, I got in!
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​How did this program foster your love for teaching? 

Child guidance really opened my eyes to the teaching world immediately. This program fostered my love for teaching because working with the preschoolers almost every morning wasn’t your average high school class. It was a serious class, but it was extremely fun and engaging. 
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Tell me a little bit about the program and what you do. 
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Each week during the school year we have the preschool students Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays. Monday’s and Friday’s are the days where we lesson plan as well as discuss and prepare for the upcoming weeks. All nineteen of the children stayed for four class periods, so we split us high school students in half (Nine students in 1st and 2nd period. 10 students in 3rd and 4th periods). I was one of the nine students in the morning class. The morning starts with carline, washing hands and morning play time. Next is our 1st circle time, then we dismiss the children to their learning center groups. After completing the rotations of the learning centers, we have them wash their hands and then go to their second circle time. Shortly after, 3rd and 4th period students come in and take over from there. We have five different color groups that we separate the children in. Red, orange, yellow, green and blue. We send the groups off to five different stations which include reading/language, writing, math/science, art and dramatic play. Us high school teachers write lesson plans based on which centers we teach each week. Another important job is each day there is an assigned lead teacher. This student teacher teaches both circle time lessons as well as helps assist the learning centers. We also have people called “floaters” in which they also assist the learning centers just in case something goes wrong or if another teacher needs help.
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Picture by Claire Amyx
​How do you know that you want to become a teacher as a junior?

When I was in 3rd grade I remember coming home and playing school. As a child I loved playing teacher. I was never really serious about becoming a teacher until I finished my junior year, which was also my first year in child guidance. After watching the nineteen children in child guidance grow and develop throughout the year, I knew that teaching was what I wanted to do. 

Claire will be featured in Issue 22 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
Click here to nominate an Inspiring Teen
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3 Comments

Libby Neveau

5/6/2019

0 Comments

 
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Libby Neveau – Wisconsin
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Gail Cameron Photography
Issue 21 Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​The Nomination: I am nominating Libby because she has done more for others in her young life than most people do their entire lives. Libby is currently a Senior at Oshkosh North High School. She plays Varsity Tennis, Softball, is a member of National Honor Society and has received a scholarship to play softball at Winona State. She starts each school year with a list of community service projects that she has planned for the year. She organizes, schedules the volunteers and carries out each event. You won't find a nicer young lady than Libby Neveau, anywhere!
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Photography by Gail Cameron Photography
What is it like being a part of the National Honor Society? Personally, what is most interesting about it?
National Honors Society was really enjoyable to be a part of. I was the secretary on the exec board which kept very active in my school and community. My favorite part was doing the polar plunge to raise money for the Special Olympics.
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What kind of community service projects have you been involved in? Which one has been your favorite to be a part of and why?
I have been in many community service projects ranging from helping The Boys and Girls Club, making root beer floats for a retirement home, and organizing events to raise money for The Children’s Tumor Foundation. My favorite has been the efforts of raising money for CTF because my cousin had NF (Neurofibromatosis), so this is near and dear to my heart.

Tell us about your cousin Owen. What kind of fundraising efforts have you done to raise awareness for NF?
Owen is 17 years old and is a high school junior. He is a very involved teenage that is sometimes held back due to seizures and his NF. This year I took on a big role in raising awareness for NF by holding an event at my softball game that raised money for a seizure dog for Owen. This dog will be a great companion for him as he moves in to more independent living a few years down the road.
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Photography by Gail Cameron Photography
​When it comes to tennis, what is your favorite thing about the sport? How long have you been playing for?
My favorite thing about playing tennis is being doubles partners with my best friend Sophie! We have made big improvements throughout the past three years and have enjoyed every moment.

​​Tell us about your career with softball. What position do you play? How long have you been playing? 
Softball is a very large portion of my life. I have been playing since I was six and will continue to play in college. I play third base and occasionally shortstop and catcher. 
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Photography by Gail Cameron Photography
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Stay positive and be yourself all while having clear goals and working hard. Never give up.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I hope to be in a Physician’s Assistant program learning the ropes of the medical field.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I have a very detailed calendar with a lot of lists. Another big thing is I never procrastinate, which helps me keep on top of things.

Who do you find inspiring?
My cousin Lauren because she has always been a great role model and fills the room with energy. She is the reason I started playing softball as well as why I am involved in many other activities.

Libby will be featured in Issue 21 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
0 Comments

Maya Sheklow

4/17/2019

0 Comments

 
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Maya Sheklow - California
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Main Photography by Launa Penza Photography
Featured in Issue 20 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​The Nomination: Maya Sheklow is accomplished and grounded, and beautiful with a heart of gold. She is finishing her gold award having been a girl scout for 12 years and is a volunteer at Club 21 which is an organization that helps kids with Down Syndrome and their families. She is a second-degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do, plays lacrosse and volleyball, and was selected to be school ambassador by the principal of Crescenta Valley High School where she has been a scholar athlete all three years.
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​How did you become interested in being a Girl Scout? What is your favorite thing about it? 
I started Girl Scouts in Kindergarten when I was five years old. At that time, I thought it would be a fun experience with my friends. However, as I continued Girl Scouts, I realized it was more than a playdate; it was about a commitment to my community and becoming a strong young lady who could learn to become a leader. Over the years, Girl Scouts has brought much joy into my life, including lifelong friendships, and learning the importance of giving back to others.

Tell us about your volunteering opportunities with Club 21 and what you have accomplished.
At Club 21, which is an organization that provides support for children with Down Syndrome and their families, I spend my time supervising and assisting the children with activities. I also take pictures to update their website and create a costume box that helps the children with expressing themselves. 
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Image by Sandy Hesse
When did your careers begin with Lacrosse and Volleyball? If you had to pick one, which would you choose and why?
I started playing lacrosse six years ago in 6th grade, and actually did not start playing volleyball until my freshman year of high school. Even though I greatly enjoy playing both, I would pick lacrosse over volleyball because I find the competitiveness and physicality of it challenges and pushes me. I also have developed a great comradery with my teammates, and I hope to continue my career of playing lacrosse in college. 

​When did your career in Taekwondo start? What made you want to start?
I started Taekwondo when I was in 3rd grade to build confidence and strength. I continued to benefit from the classes by gaining flexibility and did achieve more strength and confidence. Therefore, I decided to continue for the next five years, at which point I received my second-degree black belt. Even though I am no longer taking classes, I continue benefiting in the present from the skills I learned in the past.
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Are you liking high school? What are your likes and dislikes? 
Like most teenagers, high school for me has had its ups and downs. For the most part, it has been a great experience- from meeting new friends to having a few inspirational teachers. There are definitely times where I can feel overwhelmed due to the amount of homework assigned. Also, there are classes that I don't necessarily enjoy, but it is all part of what will make me a strong and successful adult. 

What is something you want your class remembering about you after graduation?
I hope that when I leave Crescenta Valley High School I will be remembered as someone who is kind, and a person who became friends with people regardless of their social status or what their disabilities were. I hope I was able to make people smile and laugh.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today? 
The advice I would give would be to stay true to who you are; to do things you enjoy (not just because others are doing it), and to always smile. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?

In five years I see myself finishing my MBA and art degree. After I graduate my hope is to start taking over my family’s business, Drawn to Art, which teaches fine art, drawing and painting classes to students, ages 4 to adult. 

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring? 
I think that everyone is inspiring in their own way. I hope that when someone is reading my article, they see I can enjoy being a teenager, but also give back to my community, be there for my friends, and still be a scholar athlete. 

How do you keep yourself organized with everything on your plate?
I keep myself organized by keeping lists and a regular schedule each week. It also helps for me to focus on things that I enjoy doing and that I am passionate about. 

What is your favorite activity to pass time that wasn’t in your nomination?
To pass time, I enjoy drawing and singing even though I cannot seem to hold a tune. 

Who is inspiring? 
I find my great-grandmother inspiring for many reasons. My great-grandmother is someone who from day one I looked up to. She is probably the strongest woman I know, and never gives up without a fight. Although she is 95 years old, she still has the motivation and determination to keep moving forward. Through hard times she pushed through to give her children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren an amazing life - a life she thought they deserved. Without this woman in my life I can honestly say I wouldn’t be the strong, independent, and caring young lady I am today. I am so lucky to have her in my life as she continues to inspire me every day. 

Pizza or Tacos? Soda or Water? Cats or Dogs? 
I would have to choose tacos, water and dogs. 

3 things on your bucket list? 
Travel the world, take over the family business, and have a family. 

Maya will be featured in Issue 20 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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​The Season of Giving:

4/13/2019

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Simme Salguero - Pennsylvania
Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine


This year me and my family wanted to do a kind thing and be in the holiday spirit and we raised money organization called PAWS! Let me tell you a little bit about PAWS. PAWS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to saving Philadelphia’s homeless and at-risk animals. PAWS is the city’s largest rescue partner and provider of low-cost, basic veterinary care for pet owners and rescue organizations that cannot otherwise access or afford it. Through its three no-kill shelters, foster care network, and special events, PAWS find loving homes for thousands of animals each year. PAWS is working to make Philadelphia a no-kill city where every healthy and treatable pet is guaranteed a home. We started last spring and was thinking about doing it around December and Christmas time. At that point we were collecting these glass yogurt jars that we were going to use for our candles that we were going to sell. Fast forward a few months and now we had around 50 jars! At that point we stared to make the candles, and my mom was crocheting these hand warmers that we were also going to sell as well with the candles. Once we got everything done we were deciding were we should set up, finally we decided to set up at a store in Doylestown. The day of was great! So many people were so generous, some people bought a candle and or a wrist warmer, and some people just gave us a donation! In total we raised $350 for PAWS! And all of the money we raised went to PAWS. 
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Kaitlyn Bowles

4/6/2019

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Kaitlyn Bowles - Indiana
Interview by Sierra Zaccagnino 
Nomination & Photography by Connie Etter Photography
Featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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The Nomination: What an inspiring young lady Kaitlyn is. She brightens the room when she walks in. Kaitlyn was nominated to the Fall Foliage Queen's court in Martinsville, IN her senior year 2018 she was also crowned Home Coming queen. Kaitlyn is also a 2019 Senior Rep for Connie Etter Photography. Kaitlyn stays busy at school keeping her GPA up to National Honor Society standards and is the Vice President of Student Council, Class Secretary and is in the Spanish Club. Her sports include Track & Field, Cross Country, Cheerleading (where she is the Co-Captain). She has also been dancing since she was young and continues to compete. Kaitlyn had attended many sports camps teaching children and been involved in a mission trip. She will further her education at Butler College in Indiana majoring in Biochemistry.

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​Describe some of the leadership responsibilities that come along with being co-captain of your cheerleading team, Homecoming Queen, and any other roles that you have.
Some responsibilities that come with being a cheer co-captain include being a role model for the team and setting an example. As co-captain, I help make some decisions to help better the team. As Vice President of Student Council, I help make decisions regarding pep rallies and planning the homecoming dance. I am also Secretary for my class. Last year I was involved in planning the prom, and now I am helping design graduation announcements.
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​Tell me about some of the academic and athletic activities you take part in and how do you balance all of them?
I participate in various activities including cheerleading (co-captain), track, cross country, dance, National Honor Society, Student Council (Vice President), Senior Class Officer (Secretary) and Spanish club. Although I am very busy in many sports and extracurricular activities, I am still able to balance school, my family and my social life. I use a planner and try my best to plan ahead and stay organized. There are times when I have conflicts and have to prioritize what is most important. 
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​What is the most important leadership lesson that you have learned?

I think the most important leadership lesson that I have learned so far is that as a leader you are a role model and you are setting expectations for the team. I believe that every person reacts differently to different leadership and therefore a leader needs to learn their team’s individual’s strengths and weaknesses to help keep the team working together at their highest potential. In other words, there is no way to “blanket” lead a team because every team and person on the team is different.

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What are some qualities that you believe make you a leader, and how are they incorporated in your everyday life?
Some qualities that I believe make a leader are accountability, confidence, and compassion. As a leader, accountability is important because as a leader, you are a role model and your team needs to know that they can count on you. Outside of leadership, it is important to be accountable to your friends and family, as well as your teachers. Confidence helps make a leader be able to show that you are sure of your decisions as a leader, and compassion helps a leader be more aware of others’ needs, which helps the team work better together.

What will you be doing after High School?
I will be attending Butler University in the fall to study biochemistry. I plan on going to medical school to hopefully become a pediatrician. 

Kaitlyn was featured in Issue 16 of Inspiring Teen Magazine!
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Alexandria Poe

4/3/2019

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Alexandria Poe – California
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Christa Poe
Issue 19 Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​The Nomination: Alexandria Poe is one of the most kind, giving and caring teens I know. She is an older sister to a severely disabled teenage sister, holds a 4.57 GPA, has had nothing but straight A's through her entire high school education and is on track to be Valedictorian; she is a leader, plays in band and jazz; she volunteers for Special Needs children in her free time as both a buddy for local nonprofits and through Challenger Baseball. She also works for special needs parents to give them a break. She is ALWAYS thinking of others and is beautiful inside and out.
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​What are some of the volunteering opportunities you have had?
By far, the greatest thing that I have done with my life up to this point is volunteer my time with special needs children. Growing up with a severely disabled sister has allowed me to develop a passion for helping others succeed in all aspects of life. Altogether, I have participated in a wide variety of volunteer programs including Special Olympics, T.E.A.M. Vacaville, T.E.A.M. Dixon, Vacaville Challenger Baseball, and Dixon Challenger Baseball to name a few. Each program has allowed me to connect with amazing children that each face various challenges in life. Undoubtedly, each kiddo that I have worked with has changed me as a person and will forever hold a part of my soul. There is nothing else in the world that compares to knowing that you have made a difference in someone else’s life–a difference that changes someone else’s entire world–and yet would go unnoticed by nearly everyone else. 
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​Tell us about some of your leadership opportunities you have had. 
Throughout the years, I have held a variety of leadership positions in all aspects of my life. From holding the first chair position in music class to coaching for the Special Olympics basketball team, or even captain of the girls’ basketball team, each leadership opportunity has allowed me to improve upon myself. All in all, I have learned to appreciate differing opinions to my own and to act as a voice for those who would otherwise go unheard. Undoubtedly, each leadership position I have held has allowed me to flourish into the confident person I am today, unafraid to change the world.
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​How do you maintain an outstanding 4.57 GPA with all your amazing extracurricular activities?
My grades are nothing short of hard work and long nights. Competing as a three-season athlete, participating in my high school’s orchestra and jazz bands, as well as volunteering my time in the community does not leave a lot of free time. With that in mind however, I always make sure to prioritize the free time that I do have between hanging out with my family and completing all my school work. Often, this leads to studying a particular subject for a set duration of time and then moving onto a second subject. This method proves to be the most successful for me personally, because it forces my brain to switch train of thought and prevents the work from becoming monotonous. 

What are your plans for the future?
In regard to my plans for the future, I intend to further my education at a university while pursuing my degree in Cultural Anthropology. Over time, I have come to fall in love with the individual characteristics and quirks that make each person unique. Cultures work in much the same way, just on a global scale. For that reason, I hope to advocate for the beauty and knowledge that each culture, and person, has to offer the world.

Alexandria will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Brianna Guerra

3/31/2019

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Brianna Guerra - Texas
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Photography by Vintage Couture Photography
 Nomination by Marisa Rosales
​Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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The Nomination: Brianna Guerra is inspiring because she never stops moving. She does great academically and she still has time to be a part of Student Council, National Honor Society, Peer Assistance Leadership, help in the community and be an amazing cheerleader. She is caring and she is always willing to help anyone at any time. ​
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​How long have you been a cheerleader? How did your career begin? What is your favorite part about the sport?
I have been a cheerleader for six years now and it all began accidentally. I went to a gym to enroll in gymnastics and throughout that season I would see these beautiful cheerleaders learning impressive things and I wanted to be just like them. The following season I tried out and made a level 3 team! My absolute favorite part about competitive cheerleading is the adrenaline you get when you’re standing in front of a huge crowd about to show them and the judges what you’ve been practicing for countless of hours. 

Did your cheerleading team compete at Nationals this year? If so, how did your team do? What was the experience like? Tell me about it!
Yes, my team competed at Nationals in February. Prior to, we had been working extremely hard and spending so many hours in the gym to prepare for this prestigious competition. Teams from all over the country come to Dallas, Texas to compete in this competition and It’s every cheerleader’s dream to win NCA. The nerves were high, and the adrenaline was rushing. Our coaches gave us a chilling speech right before we went on stage and our performance was incredible! We hit a zero-deduction routine both days of the competition and took home the national title! 
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What is your favorite part about helping your community? When did you start helping?
I started helping in my community ever since I was eight years old. My favorite part about helping in my community is meeting so many different people. People from different countries and cultures. I love the experience I gain from helping others, but nothing beats the feeling of seeing their faces light up with joy when you’re able to help them in some way. 
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Tell us about the Peer Assistance and Leadership organization you’re a part of. How long have you been involved? What are your duties within it?
The Peer Assistance and Leadership Program focuses on enabling young people to use their potential to make a difference in their lives, school and communities. This is my first year in PALs because only seniors can be in the program at my school. Our duties as PALs include visiting different elementary schools in our district and mentoring our palees. Throughout the school year, we discuss a variety of key youth issues with our palees such as bullying, teamwork, responsibility and behavior problems. Our overall job as a PAL is to be a positive influence on the youth. 
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​What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I don’t see myself as inspiring, but people always seem to take my advice or want to do what I do. I don’t think I’m doing anything special, but I only stand up for what I think is right. 

Brianna will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Rosie Gadus

3/29/2019

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​Rosie Gadus - Texas
Interviewed by Zoe D’Angelo
Nominated by Seeley Casey - Two Girls and A Lens
Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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​The Nomination: Rosie Gadus is the light that everyone is attracted to. She strongly encourages and guides others to become strong in their faith. She is very active in her church and enjoys volunteering in the church and the community. She is outgoing, adventurous, spontaneous, funny and a beautiful soul.
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What are you involved in at your church?
Once a week I am a bible study leader for a group of junior high ladies. I help them grow their relationship with God, and let them know they have someone to confide in when they are having issues. I also attend my own senior bible study, which allows me to continue growing and developing my authentic relationship with God. I also attend weekly church services in the high school ministry at my church.

What is your favorite about being a part of your church?
My favorite things about being a part of my church is being accepted for who I am and the opportunities I have available in volunteering, such as growing relationships and potentially having an impact on someone's life.

Tell me about some of your volunteering opportunities within your church and community.
My volunteering started at a young age when my family and I helped the community around us after Hurricane Ike in 2008. Afterwards, every year on Thanksgiving my family and I gather with a large group and go out into our community and provide Thanksgiving dinners to people that might not have the chance to have one. At church, in addition to my junior high group leadership role, I also volunteer at church services on the weekends to help out with the pre-k students. Over the summer I volunteer at a local church VBS (vacation bible school) church camp. I also help organize and participate in local fundraisers.
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With friends Carrington Nixon (blonde) and Zeynep Kardes (brunette)
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Why would consider yourself adventurous and spontaneous?
I would consider myself adventurous and spontaneous because I’m open to anything at anytime. I love trying new things such as zip lining, hiking, and traveling. 

When you’re not in church, what do you do in your free time? 
When I’m not attending or volunteering at church, I spend my time doing what I love with people I love. Some things I like to do is hanging out with my friends whether we are shopping, hanging out, or seeing a movie. I also love spending time outdoors doing fishing, hunting, and taking my dog to the local dog parks.
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Image by a friend of her with her dog, Chance
​Pizza or tacos? Soda or water? Cats or dogs?
Pizza, Water, and Dogs

3 things on my bucket list.
I would love to go on a mission trip, go skydiving, and to see the Northern Lights.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/ what are your plans for the future? 
In 5 years, I see myself still in college working towards my doctorate degree and becoming a pediatric physical therapist. Being a pediatric physical therapist will allow me to impact, encourage, and help kids accomplish their goal and recover.


Rosie will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Angela Santalo

3/27/2019

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​Angela Santalo - Florida
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Carmen M. Santalo
Photography by Cesar Santalo
Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine - Volunteer/Entrepreneur

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Angela Santalo is a talented and excellent scholar, but she is especially committed to giving back to her community. In 8th grade, she & her brothers formed an art appreciation club & in 2016 created a non-profit organization, Art for Others. They bring art supplies and conduct workshops for needy children.
www.angelasantalo.wixsite.com/artforothers 
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​Tell me about your non-profit organization y and your brothers created together, Art for Others? 
Art for Others has become a mission for us. My family and I had a large fire when I was in second grade. It was a difficult time for all of us. We were out of our home for a year and half. My mom and dad made sure to keep our lives as normal as possible. Ballet classes, and Spanish dance for me and baseball and art for my brothers…. everything continued. My parents reminded us of everything we still had. We didn’t have things, but we had each other. The walls of the rental house were bare because we lost my dad's artwork among many things. My mom made it our mission to fill those walls with all Santalo originals! And that's what my brothers and I did. 

My older brother and I realized how important this was for us. We knew we needed to share this with others. We first started an Art Appreciation Club in the summer of my eighth grade. A lot of our friends didn't even know about all the great art venues throughout Miami. We later realized that there would be kids who would not be able to join us and were the ones who needed art the most. We formed Art For Others to bring art and art supplies to needy and sick children from my community. All three of us are passionate and committed to bringing art to others.

Our nonprofit has several goals. The first is to let young people know about all the great art that is available in Miami. My father is an artist, so we have been surrounded by art our entire lives. Every month, I plan an outing. I research the events and coordinate the time and place and communicate it to the students. We have kids from all over Miami. We have even included exchanges students from Italy and Spain in many of our functions. We have visited different art venues including Art Basel, Wynwood Walls, Coconut Grove, Coral Gables Theater, the PAMM. We have even done a bike tour around our city to see the Art in Public Places.
The second and most important goal is to bring art to the children who need it the most. We work with many of the sick children at the Ronald McDonald house and their families. We also work with the children at Centro Mater, a low income after school care.
The last goal is to collect art supplies for them so they can continue to create something beautiful even when we are no longer there. 
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What do you love most about art and why?
I love the arts. It has been a huge part of my growing up. My father is an artist and we have been around exhibitions and museums always. Music, dance, and art were also infused in my grammar school curriculum. I have danced and performed since I was four years old. I enjoy singing and love being on stage. I have discovered a love for musical theater at St. Brendan. I enjoy creating and working with others. I am a very dedicated and committed student, but the arts complete me. 
I have always been at the top of my class. I take my studies very seriously and put forth maximum effort. I have always been driven and have a commitment to do things well. I have had great teachers and have done well in my classes, but I have learned a great deal about myself in drama in high school. I gained confidence and many wonderful friends. I have been dancing since I was 4, but in drama I found my voice. I really did not know that I could sing, but more importantly, I learned that my voice was powerful, and my ideas were meant to be shared. 
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Why do you think you are inspiring?
I am so fortunate that so many people believe in my vision and have supported me. Helping others brings me joy. I think since I am happy, that may be contagious. 

What are some of the ways you keep yourself organized?
I have always been very involved in many activities, so from a young age I learned to prioritize. 
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​What are your plans for the future?
My entire life, I thought I was going to study something in medicine. I graduated from high school with 37 college credits. After my first semester, I realized that it was not what I had envisioned. I did well in my classes, but it did not complete me in the way I thought it would. I have switched to Communications Art. It is still a lot of work since I am in the Honors College at Florida International University, but I am enjoying my classes and what I am learning. I hope to be able to help Art for Others continue to grow with all my new skills. 
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What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today? 
My advice to any young person is to become involved in anything and everything. These years go by too quickly. I also would tell them not let set backs get you down. I have been dancing my entire life and did not make my high school dance team, but it was because of this set back that I discovered that I can sing, and that I love theater. It is because of this, that I met some amazing people and learned so much about myself. I didn’t even know I could sing! Because of this setback, I was able to form the first high school Dance Honor Society for my Conservatory of the Arts where I have danced since I was four.

Be open to possibilities. Sometimes the plan is even bigger than just us. Take chances, be open, and don't give up.

What is your favorite pastime?
My favorite activity in addition to Art for Others, includes singing with my friends. I also enjoy traveling, and I love going to the theater!

Any hidden talents?
My hidden talent, which is not so hidden any more, is that I can sing. I am also very funny.

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Who inspires you?
My mom is inspiring because she always puts the needs of others before herself. My parents both always look at the positive side of everything. They inspire me to be better.

Pizza or tacos? Soda or Water? Dogs or Cats? 
Tacos, always tacos! I love soda, but I will drink water. Dogs are great!
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Three things on your bucket list?
I would love to travel the world, swim with the pigs in the Exuma, Bahamas, and be on Saturday Night Live!

Anything else you want to add?
I am very grateful and honored to have been selected among so many amazing teens. ​
Angela will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
Click here to nominate an inspiring teen
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Zoe Sears

3/14/2019

1 Comment

 
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Zoe Sears - 17 - California
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Juanita Sears
Photography by Stacy Jacobs Photography
Issue 19 - Inspiring Teens Magazine - Volunteer

​The Nomination: My daughter Zoe Sears is very inspiring. She has always been a go-getter. She dreamed of working with animals at a very young age, in the fifth grade she raised money for the animal shelter in Palm Springs. She has volunteered at Martha’s Village for Thanksgiving and Christmas here in Indio. Her first time volunteering was when she was seven years old. She wanted to feed the homeless for Thanksgiving in Fullerton. As well as being caring, she is also competitive; she has been in soccer, swimming, gymnastics, boxing, and karate. She loves music, sushi, and the beach.
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​How did your interest in animals start?

Ever since I was a young child my mom would have me around animals. When I was about six, I lived in Norco in a farm style house. We had goats, bunnies, an iguana, four dogs, and two cats. I learned from a very young age how to properly care for animals. I was very passionate about treating animals as if they were human. When raising a puppy, it is very time consuming and you need patience. They cry and we can’t understand them, but over time we can get more of a feel for what they want or need. During that time a bond is created. I love all my animals as if they were my own children really, and I feel that’s how everyone should think and feel for all animals. 

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​Tell us about your volunteering opportunities. 

When I was seven, I wanted to give up my Thanksgiving to go feed the homeless people in Fullerton. When I was in 5th grade I had to volunteer time at any place of choice for a project. I chose to volunteer at an animal shelter but unfortunately, I was too young, so I sold donuts to save dogs. I raised about three hundred dollars for the Palm Springs Animal Shelter which was a no kill shelter. In 8th grade I volunteered at Martha’s Village during Christmas and Thanksgiving. I helped wrap donated gifts for the people living in the shelter. I also helped serve food at the shelter during Thanksgiving. Currently I am I volunteer at Loving All Animals. They are in the process of expanding the shelter which is very cool to be a part of. 
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Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself still in college ~ in Los Angeles with a part time job or internship at a hospital hopefully. I see myself sharing an apartment with a roommate, trying to complete school and donating my spare time at local animal shelters when possible. 

What are your plans for the future? 

I have always been about helping animals, as well as people. After my dad passed away my freshman year my mom was diagnosed with cancer. I thought very heavily about cancer, and how many lives it takes. I became very intrigued to know more about this disease. I had a lot of questions. Since my sophomore year I have been interested in Pediatric Oncology. I feel that is where the most lives suffer. I hope to eventually pursue a career in the medical field. 


Zoe will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nomination an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Clarissa Castro

3/14/2019

2 Comments

 
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Clarissa Castro – 18 - California
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo 
Nomination by Mayra Castro
Main Photography by Stacy Jacob Photography
Issue 19 Inspiring Teens Magazine | Volunteer


​The Nomination: Clarissa Castro is an Ambassador for the Ophelia Project, a woman support program and for the Coachella Valley Missionary Program where confused teens need a wise guide in rough times. She also was on the varsity tennis team for three years, in the medical program at her school, and coordinated an event. 

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Image taken by a friend
​Tell me about your duties as an Ambassador for the Ophelia Project. 
My duties as an Ambassador for the Ophelia Project include time. I volunteer at places such as Martha's Village, Senior Centers, Coachella Valley Horse rescue mission, etc. These events usually take place on weekends or weekdays after school. We have meetings throughout the year to attend at our main office. I also will be giving a public speech at our 2019 Ophelia Luncheon. 

Tell us about “Dancing in light with the Angels”, and what it has to do with mass shootings? 
I coordinated an event at my school called “Dancing in light with the Angels”, The reason behind it was to show other communities that together we are a whole. Also, to remember the lives we have lost in mass shootings around the country. During the event I read a speech written by me that goes into more detail on why we need to stand together as one always. In the middle of the event, above the crowd 50+ beautiful white doves flew making a figure of an angel. We took it as a sign that our loved ones were watching over us. It was said that the event was very “peaceful and therapeutic “. 

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How did your career in tennis begin? 
My career in tennis began when my dad constantly pushed my siblings and I to be better, and to go after the opportunities he never had so we would not struggle as he did in life. Finding the right sport was very difficult, but my sophomore year I tried something new - Tennis. Tennis gave me a home and let me open up to such amazing people. I left for two months in the summer of 2018 for the very first time ever for Independent Training and where I learned how to coach others. 
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Why do you think you are so inspiring? 
I believe that everyone is inspiring in their very own unique ways. I am convinced that I’m a miracle baby. Being born at only 6 months gestation and weighing a little over 2 pounds, doctors made no promise of me surviving to my parents. Yet I fought for my life, independently breathing on my own without assistance only three minutes after coming to this world. The doctors told my parents they’ve never seen a baby this small pulling off their oxygen mask and that I was one of a kind. I am living on my second chance to give back to the world and to be the change we wish to see. 

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Image taken by her mom

What are your plans for the future? 
My plans are to attend college and achieve my degree in Kinesiology to be doctor for Physical therapy. After I obtain my degree, I wish to live temporarily in Africa by teaching those what I know and helping on my free time by building houses, schools, and churches. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us? 
I am an ambassador for the Coachella Valley Missionary Program. Here we help teens see a better way to live life. 


Clarissa will be featured in issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
2 Comments

Hollie Nagy

3/14/2019

2 Comments

 
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Hollie Nagy – 18 - West Virginia
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Heather Shanna Nagy
Main Photography by Missy Cochrane from MC Photography
Issue 19 Inspiring Teens Magazine | Volunteer


​The Nomination: Hollie Nagy is a world changer and anyone who knows her would agree. She is a volunteer for the WeCan program and has over 300 hours of volunteering with foster kids. She’s the West Virginia Beta State President and she is a leader in everything she does. She is the president of her school’s Prayer Club. She’s very active in church and her youth group. She loves to sing, and she loves sharing her love for Jesus with others.
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Image by MC Photography
​Tell me about your volunteering opportunities you’ve had in the WeCan program.
Through the WeCan program, I volunteer at the summer camp and Christmas party, and it is through both that I get to personally interact with the children and learn about who they are. As well as this, I am a performer at their fundraising events. Through these experiences as a camp counselor and volunteer, I have realized that after college, I want to return to my home state of West Virginia and help children in the foster care system.

What is Beta and what are your duties as the West Virginia Beta State President?
Beta is a national club that promotes character development, community service, and academic achievement. Beta members are held to a high standard and therefore there are certain academic and service requirements to obtain membership. There are various state conventions throughout the school year and a national convention during the summer. During these conventions, students have the opportunity to compete in academic, art, and talent competitions as well as run for state and national office.
 
I adore the Beta club because of its members. When I attended my first national convention, I felt welcomed by everyone. I ran for national office and even those who were competing against me became some of my closest friends. I must say that the friendships I have developed through the National Beta Club are beyond compare. I know that the Beta Club is overflowing with real world-changers. I am proud to be a member and officer of such an amazing organization.

As the West Virginia State Beta President, I have been given many opportunities to organize community service events, travel throughout the U.S., and meet many other Beta officers and members. Some of my responsibilities have been to organize meetings and events, give speeches, and represent my club as their voice. 
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Image by Jake Nagy

​Why do you think you are so inspiring?
I don’t believe I am more inspiring than others. Everyone can inspire others. I feel that the reason I am considered more inspiring is because I am not afraid to live loudly. I do not apologize for who I am, and I am proud to find joy in all the things I do.

When you’re not volunteering, what do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I have many hobbies to keep me busy. I am an active member in my church. I go to multiple youth groups, worships services, and I visit churches in my area as a guest singer. My love for music plays a huge role in my life. I am also currently working in my high school’s spring production of Bye Bye Birdie in which I have one of the lead female roles. 

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Image by Hollie Nagy

​Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In ten years, I would like to see myself back in my hometown area, providing therapy to and advocating for children who have been affected by the opioid epidemic. After I obtain a degree in my desired field of Developmental Psychology, I would like to work with advocacy centers as a therapist for children who have been abused and/or neglected. 


Hollie will be featured in Issue 19 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
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Gaby Esquivel

3/12/2019

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​Gaby Esquivel – 17 - Maryland
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Danielle Lavis Photography
Issue 17 | Athlete


The Nomination: Gaby Esquivel. Gaby is someone that you love the moment you meet her. She is hands down one of the most kindhearted people I have ever met. She is genuinely interested in other people, will drop anything for someone in need and is a huge animal lover. Love, God, animals, and family are most important to Gaby. Gaby is a highly accomplished competitive equestrian. She is ranked as one of the best in the nation.

Gaby volunteers a lot in her community to make a positive impact. Specifically, at her church they garden, make lunches for the homeless, and raise money for poorer countries. She also went on a church retreat and mentored younger teens. With a few powerful words, she could see how much she impacted those around her with her life stories and messages about faith.

The fight against cancer is an extremely important cause in her life. This is because her dad is a well-known cancer surgeon. In addition, she is the Vice President in the Stand Up to Cancer club at her school.
​
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For the Stand Up to Cancer Club at my school I am the vice president. I help organize meetings, such as one to make blankets for kids with cancer at Johns Hopkins. I also assist in our annual Glow Run to raise money for those with cancer in honor of high school alumna Matsie Bosmans. I advertise the run, design t-shirts, and set up lights. ​
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My plans for the future are to attend college, most likely in Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania, and major in biology. As of now, I would like to attend medical or veterinary school in hopes of becoming a surgeon for either humans or animals. I also intend on keeping horses as a major aspect of my life. ​
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I have had a range of equestrian experiences ever since I was 9 years old. From jumping to polocrosse to dressage I have tried a variety of styles of riding. For pony club, I participated in “Games” which consisted of several interesting obstacles, such as attempting to land coffee mugs on poles while galloping on horseback and popping balloons on the ground. Polocrosse was similar to lacrosse, but riding a horse at the same time. I also competed in Tetrathlon which was similar to a triathlon, but with 4 phases (running, swimming, target shooting, and show jumping on horseback). More recently, I began competing in the Hunters through the equestrian team for my high school. This involves jumping and being judged on the position and equitation of the rider. I did however settle in Eventing, which is a three phase horse trial consisting of dressage, show jumping, and cross country. I currently show in this style of riding very competitively and have traveled to Kentucky, Virginia, Florida, and South Carolina for horse shows. 

Being ranked one of the best equestrians in the nation was most definitely a pleasant surprise. I always worked my hardest, did my best performance at shows, and spent endless hours at the barn, but never expected to become nationally ranked. When my instructor told me the news I was absolutely shocked and ecstatic. Yet, I focused on remaining humble and continuing my hard work and heavy competition season to further improve my riding ability. 

Gaby will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Lia Kurkimilis

2/27/2019

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​Lia Kurkimilis
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination & Photography by TAP Photography
Issue 17 | Music
North Carolina

​The Nomination: Lia Kurkimilis plays the piano and is the flute section leader in concert band and woodwind section leader in marching band. She is 4th in her class with a 4.4 g.p.a. and has volunteered over 200 hours. She intends to be a medical examiner, specializing in forensic pathology.
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​How did you become so interested in playing multiple instruments? Tell us about them.
My desire to play multiple instruments stemmed from my inheritance of my mom’s flute. I started out pretty poorly, incapable of playing even three notes-- but the more I used music to cope, the more I improved, and I knew I wanted to express myself through other outlets. I became interested in playing the piccolo when I joined marching band. It was such a bold instrument that I knew I had to learn it. I have always loved the piano; it’s my dad’s favorite instrument, and there is something really cool about being able to sit down at a piano anywhere and play. 

If given the opportunity, would you teach younger students how to play instruments?
I would definitely take the opportunity to teach younger students how to play the instruments I play. I am the flute section leader of my concert band, and I look forward to sectionals in which I can work with the other flutes. Furthermore, every Thursday for the first half of lunch, I meet with three to four underclassmen in order to teach and guide them on playing the piccolo. It is fulfilling to be able to share something I love so much while learning a couple things myself. 
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​How do you maintain your outstanding GPA of a 4.4 with your extracurricular activities?
I balance my academics and extracurricular activities through a structured schedule. If a deadline is not in my planner, it’s not in my brain. As long as I stay slightly ahead of my homework, I will have time to do the things I enjoy; more work now means more play later. 

Tell us about some of your volunteer opportunities that landed you with over 200 hours service.
I have volunteered with many clubs and organizations, but some of my favorites have been my work through the Yancey Humane Society and the VolunTEEN program at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. I instantly see the results of my work at the humane society, where simply walking a dog can coax them out of the fear of abuse. At the hospital, I served in the ER and main lab, helping patients on the front lines as well as behind the scenes. 

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What are your plans for the future?
I am fortunate enough to have received an academic scholarship from Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where I plan to major in pre-medicine biology. I will then study pathology in medical school and forensic pathology in a state-based fellowship. I am passionate about advocating for the victims of homicides, suicides, and accidents, who can no longer speak for themselves; I will strive to bring justice to them and comfort and closure to their families.

Lia will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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