Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

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Angel Payne

1/17/2020

Click here for more information on issue 29

Angel Payne - Kentucky
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Erica Payne
Photography by Tooley Photography
Issue 29 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Angel Payne is an amazing young lady who deserves so much recognition. She is one of those girls that makes you realize that God has big plans for her life. She does not let the ways of the world compromise her morals or who she is trying to be. She has grown up in the outdoor amusement industry and has been working since she was old enough to walk. She always has that beautiful smile on her face and brings positivity to everyone she meets. Angel is a strong-willed, shy young lady who is always willing to step out of her comfort zone to accomplish her dreams. She is a member of the National Honor Society, volunteers where needed, and just finished a semester of Reading Mentorship with kindergarten students. She plans on becoming an Early Education Teacher, all while continuing with her family roots in the outdoor amusement industry. I cannot wait to see what God’s plans are for her future.

Tell us about your relationship with God.
I believe that having a relationship with God helps me to be a better person and I want to honor Him in all areas of my life. I turn toward God through prayer, listening to K-Love, reading the Bible/ devotionals, chatting with my mom, and remembering that no matter what life throws at me God is always by my side. My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 4:13 and my favorite song is Lauren Daigle - You Say.

What was it like growing up in the outdoor amusement industry?
This kind of sounds cliché but growing up in the outdoor amusement business has been an absolute roller coaster ride. My great grandpa started his business in 1954 with a pony ride. My parents do a great job at balancing our lifestyle while allowing us to follow our dreams. I enjoy traveling and being able to spend time with my family doing what I love.
People sometimes call me a “carny” and it used to bother me. Now when I hear the term, I often laugh and think, “We are showmen and we are in the outdoor amusement business.” We are people who work hard at bringing fun to different towns and watching families laughing and making memories. I am very lucky to have grown up in this business and I love exploring all the towns we travel to.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell others to never give up. Love yourself and Love God. Don’t focus on negative things in life and don’t let people bring you down. Find positive things through the negative situations. Life may not go the way you want it to, but remember God has bigger plans than what our eyes can see. Have faith and turn to Him.

How can someone not be afraid of standing out and being themselves while maintaining a positive attitude?
Everyone has a story that has made them who they are today. People come to me saying, “How are you always so happy?” or “You’re so strong.” I have watched my older brother struggle with addiction for the past 11 years. I am not afraid to be who I am because I have watched him try to “fit” in with trials like drugs, alcohol, sex, and vaping. I have watched how these things have impacted his life and how it also had a negative impact on my family’s life. I have days where I feel like I get left out or I am not invited to “hang out” because of my beliefs on these subjects. That is when I lean on God, my mom, and my church family. My mom reminds me that I am “not” missing out on life when it comes to hanging out with people who are making bad choices.
I am thankful for those everyday blessings in life including the struggles, they have made me who I am. I love who I am becoming, and I love being a great role model for my little sister. Life is too short to be anything but happy so don’t let anyone dull your sparkle.

Angel will be featured in issue 29 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Mikayla Childress

12/15/2019

Click here for more information on Issue 28

Mikayla Childress - North Carolina
Interview by Clara Soler
Nomination and Photography by Crystal Joy Photography
Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Mikayla is a 2-time state champion for competitive cheer and she’s the Cheer Captain for her high school team. Along with cheerleading Mikayla is involved in varsity track and field and chorus. Mikayla brings so much light and positive energy to my spokesmodel team. Her laugh is infectious and she’s always dancing. She is a member of the National Honor Society and a Crosby Scholar. She is an advocate for several volunteering agencies and deserves the utmost recognition.

Photography by Crystal Joy Photography

What opportunities have you gained from cheerleading?
Not only have I won two state titles with my team, I have gained so many friendships from this team that they are like family. We do pretty much everything together. We even have our own Instagram dedicated to post about what we do together outside of cheer!

Photography by Crystal Joy Photography

How has cheerleading helped you gain confidence for other aspects of your life?
Cheer has helped me with my confidence over the years. It’s truly been a stress reliever and I have enjoyed every moment of it!

How has cheerleading shaped you into who you are today?
Cheer has shaped me into an outgoing fun filled young lady. My freshman year was our first year competing and we did not win any competition that year, but we took those losses and turned that to drive. I now use that drive that my coach gave me in my everyday life!

Photography by Crystal Joy Photography

What’s a memory from cheerleading that you will always remember?
One memory I will never forget was one summer day we had team bonding after practice. We had twister with colored shaving all over it slip and slides and so much more! The joy and laughter will forever be a great memory!

Photography by Crystal Joy Photography

Tell me about the Miss Merry Christmas pageant and how it has affected you.
Being awarded the Miss Merry Christmas crown was such a humbling award. It afforded me the opportunity to show the inner beauty as well as outer beauty. I strategically planned my theme around the Christmas event for Jesus is the reason for the season. I will forever have the Miss Merry Christmas award in my heart. It was a night to remember.

Mikayla will be featured in Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Clara Soler

12/12/2019

Click here for more information on issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Clara Soler - Pennsylvania
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Amanda Soler
Images by Inspiring Teens
Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Clara Soler is inspiring because she has overcome -and continues to overcome - health challenges. She was born with a significantly small and limited airway (and is creatively constructed internally in some other boring ways). Most people with her condition have trouble walking and talking. Clara not only walks and talks, she sings and dances. When she is exhausted, she keeps going. Every day she challenges herself and sets goals to be involved in chorus and theater. These activities require her to actively work hard on breath control and sustained movement. She pushes through obstacles without complaining and without making excuses. Clara is extremely creative, crocheting every day. Additionally, she sings and dances and acts. She is very strong – and unusually flexible. Her strength is not only physical, it extends to her emotional and mental construction. She has to visit Children's Hospital to have bronchoscopies and airway visits. She handles those procedures and visits with humor, grace and a positive outlook. When she doesn’t have to experience a procedure with anesthesia, she excitedly looks forward to eating at her favorite restaurant, the CHOP cafeteria.

Tell me about the breathing challenges you have continued to overcome in your life.
I have long stem tracheal stenosis with complete tracheal rings and Malaysia. This means that my trachea is very thin, collapsible and surrounded by complete rings. I get tired when I run extensively or dance a lot. Sometimes, I just don’t feel well and have trouble explaining how that feels. Humidity is usually what causes my breathing problems, but the cold can cause challenges for me too. My challenges are pretty much year-round.

What obstacles have you faced through your health challenges? How have you been able to accomplish your goals despite them?
I have difficulty breathing, but I really enjoy acting, singing, and dancing. I just persist and try my best even if that means having to catch my breath for the next few minutes. I know that if I want to accomplish my goals, I have to accept any/ all discomfort. Certain things cause me more problems than others. For example, ballet and tap have very different effects on my breathing. Ballet is a bit more calming in the sense that you are not always moving in some sort of walking or running movement. Tap is a lot faster (usually) and creates a few more problems for me.

What do you love most about theater and dance, and what has been your favorite memory of performing so far?
I love that performing gives me an outlet to be whomever I want to be. In theatre there is a final outcome where you’ll be able to see results, which motivates me to do my best and give it my all. I enjoyed the overall experience of being in Aladdin Jr because so many of my friends were in it. I met many new people through that production too. I still have a lot of the friends I made during that show and see them regularly. Theatre also provides a chance to meet people who aren’t in my grade or school, giving me more chances at creating long lasting friendships.

Can you elaborate on what your life has been like growing up multicultural?
My father is Hispanic, and he speaks Spanish, makes Spanish food and we have often traveled to Puerto Rico. It has always been a lively part of my heritage. I’ve become more aware that some people have a prejudice toward people of Hispanic origin. Because of this, I believe that I have gained more compassion and empathy toward victims of prejudice.

This is from when Clara volunteered to help save Oscar Hammerstein’s home and make it a theater center.

As an inspiration to many, how have you been able to reach out to others through your passions and all that you are in?
I enjoy helping my sisters prepare for auditions and help my friends practice for their involvement in theater and dance. Right now I am in conversations with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia about how I can volunteer my time to help children with health challenges. I’ve spent so much time there and know that most people want someone to talk to. When you’re at a hospital for an extensive amount of time it can get boring and scary. I’d want to be an example of someone who wasn’t given much of a chance but has been able to live a happy life.

Clara will be featured in Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Rylee Courtney

12/9/2019

Click here for more information on Issue 28

Rylee Courtney - Mississippi
Interview by Claire Path
Nomination by LaQuisha Courtney
Photography by Jeannie Meyer Photography
Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Rylee Courtney sets high expectations for herself and strives to achieve them. She isn’t afraid to take on any task and loves to volunteer her time, especially with younger children. Even after spending the day at school, she spends three days a week volunteering in her town’s elementary school. Students love to see her coming because they know she will know them by name and spend time with them. She builds relationships with all kinds of people from all different roads of life.

Photography by Jeannie Meyer Photography

How has your dedication to volunteer work impacted your life and what you want to accomplish in your future?
Volunteering is about giving back and helping others. All of my volunteering experiences have shaped me in one way or another, but the main experience that has brought so much happiness to me is volunteering in classrooms at my city’s elementary school. I strive to serve as an example of a good, hard-working student to my third and fourth graders. I wish to apply my love for helping others to a career in nursing in my future.

What do you love most about volunteering and helping others in your community?
Petal has been home to me since I was 3 and I love giving back to the community that has given so much to me. High school can be tough, but volunteering gives me something positive to look forward to.

Photography by Jeannie Meyer Photography

Tell me a little bit about your role as an Athletic Trainer’s Aid at Petal High School.
As an Athletic Trainer’s Aid, I was able to learn under my state’s very first Certified Athletic Trainer, Pedro Moreno. I primarily helped with Petal’s football team, which involved attending every practice and every game from April to the end of the season. This volunteer experience has allowed me to learn several aspects of medical training and gave me a front seat view on Friday nights.

Can you tell me about the CTE programs your school has to offer along with the opportunities that come along with it?
CTE stands for Career and Technical Education. My school offers several of these classes that pertain to jobs in the real world. The class I took was called Allied Health, which is a two-year program. During the first year, I learned medical terminology and information about body systems in the classroom. In the second year, however, I was able to take my knowledge from the first year and athletic training and apply it to clinical settings in my community and Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Observing in clinical settings helped me to log over 100 clinical hours in my junior year of high school.

How have you managed to maintain a 4.0 GPA while also dedicating over 230 hours to community service throughout high school?
Luckily, learning is something that has always come easy to me. However, it was hard to balance volunteering and homework or studying at times. The key is to utilize every spare moment of free time. For example, it is typical to find me doing homework on the sideline of the football field during practice.

What advice would you give to teenagers who have dealt with adversity, and how does it relate to your own life experiences that have resulted in positive outcomes?
As a teenager, it is easy to get caught up on hard moments and let them get you down. But you always have a choice in how you let the past affect your future, whether it’s negatively or positively. After losing my grandfather in a devastating accident in November of 2018, I was absolutely heartbroken. Although that loss has always stayed with me, I constantly work hard not only for myself but also to make him proud.

Rylee will be featured in Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 28

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Shelbi Patterson

12/4/2019

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Shelbi Patterson- Illinois
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Flatt Photography
Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Shelbi Patterson is an outstanding young lady who loves softball, her community, and above all her family. She is involved in many academic and extracurricular activities as well in school. Shelbi is hardworking and dedicated to maintaining her high GPA. She will graduate in 2020 and is recently committed and signed to play softball at Webster University this next fall. Shelbi is such a beautiful young lady inside and out. Not only will Shelbi be playing softball at Webster, but she will be studying to become a cardiologist in the future. This girl is unstoppable on the field and in the classroom!

Photography by Flatt Photography

How did your brother inspire you to join the medical field for cardiology?
When I was 9 years old, I finally became a big sister. I was truly so excited. Two weeks after my brother, Jeremiah, was born my family found out he was born with 2 congenital heart defects. He would eventually need open heart surgery to save his life. I remember this being a very stressful time for my family, especially my mom. I knew I wanted to be the best big sister but for quite some time I couldn't even be around him, for fear he may get sick.
At 2 months old he had open heart surgery. There were complications after his surgery. Which meant once again I wouldn't get to see my baby brother for a while. My brother and mom spent a month in the hospital. I was only able to see them one time in that month. Once they finally came home, I knew all I wanted to do was help. I learned how to feed, help my mom with his heart meds, and care for my new brother, finally.
Throughout the years I enjoyed tagging along to his cardiologist appointments, learning about his CHDs, and getting involved with my family helping spread CHD Awareness. He has truly been my biggest inspiration to pursue cardiology in my future education. I hope I can help others, like my brother, and their families in the future.

Photography by Flatt Photography

How did you overcome the loss of an important family member who supported you through everything?
Last year I lost my grandpa unexpectedly. I had gone to my first prom the night before. It was such an exciting time. That afternoon my whole life changed. My biggest fan, best friend, and greatest supporter was gone. I truly didn't understand or know how to move forward from my first major loss in my life. I was blessed and honored to speak at my grandpa's memorial. Speaking in front of my family and people who knew my grandpa wasn't easy but digging deep and remembering the strength my grandpa taught me absolutely helped me push through. And I haven't stopped since. I'm determined to make him proud, and I know he's watching me.

Photography by Flatt Photography

What are some ways you are going to spread CHD awareness to people everywhere?
In 8th grade I wrote a letter to the CHD Quilt Project, and was able to get an AED donated to our schools new gym. My family and I have been involved in volunteering annually in our local MLH t-shirt sales. This helps raise money for our local heart group to make bravery bags for families during their stay in the hospital. I plan to continue to volunteer as much as possible and continue to celebrate CHD Awareness Week in college Feb. 7-14.

What is one thing you really love about softball more than anything else?
I love everything about softball! But if I had to pick one thing it would be the bond I have with my teammates. Being on a team with such amazing ladies and the chemistry of a good team is absolutely my favorite part of softball. Win or lose we're not just a team...we're family!

What are some ways to stay positive and encourage others when they are down?
I like to remind others of why I think they’re so great. Especially because I truly believe we are all so unique and special in our own ways, and we only have this one life to showcase our gifts.

Photography by Flatt Photography

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In 5 years I'll still be in school, working towards my doctrine in Cardio-thoracic Medicine so I can become a Cardiologist. I plan to be a Cardiologist in a Hospital maybe in Tennessee or Ohio and hopefully have a family down the road.

3 Things on your bucket list
1. I would love to be able to save others in the future and make a difference in someone's life.
2. I want to see the beach for the first time.
3. I want to travel and see the world.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my Mom inspiring because she has served in the U.S Army and has raised us on her own for a while. I wouldn't be who I am or working hard without her pushing me to do my best.

Shelbi will be featured in Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Gianna Pelella

12/2/2019

Click here for more information on issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Gianna Pelella - New York
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination and Photography by rGRAYphotography
And Dyanna Pelella
Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Gianna Pelella spends much of her free time as a community volunteer, helping at her church as a worship leader, as a crew leader during Vacation Bible School, and volunteering as a helper at the annual Hope Day New York events since 2015.

At school, Gianna has been an Honor Roll student since 2015, and was inducted into the National Honor Society in 2017. She has been the President of the Warriors of Faith Club since 2017 and has been a recipient of the CPMA Music Scholarship since 2016.

Much of what Gianna does revolves around her family, faith and education.

Photography by rGRAYphotography

How did you become interested in starting your own makeup business?
Since I was young, I’ve had a passion for makeup. I always wanted to be able to use my face as a canvas to express myself. After learning throughout the years, I got the hang of it and people started to notice. One of those people was my cousin who asked me to do makeup for her wedding party. Doing makeup on other people showed me a new passion. Since then, I’ve created my own makeup business called Gianna’s Beauty Zone in which I do makeup for and get to bond with so many amazing people.

Photography by Dyanna Pelella

What kind of community service projects have you done?
Growing up, I was taught that other people’s needs are just as important as my own and made it a goal that my life will help meet the needs of others. Therefore, community outreach plays a huge role in my life. One outreach took place in 2017. My school put together a team to organize a supply drive to help victims of Hurricane Maria. Together, we filled the auditorium with supplies to be sent and we got them sent at no cost. This event was awarded by the town! Being able to bring hope to these people was such a fulfilling feeling. Along with this I have also been a part of Operation Christmas Child, Hope Day New York, Vacation Bible School, and more.

Tell me a little bit about vacation bible school.
Vacation Bible School is a week full of happiness where you get to meet so many children who want to learn about God. Being Christian, this is something so touching. When I volunteer at “VBS”, I’m a crew leader so throughout the week, I form bonds with these children and really get to impact their lives. It’s truly an amazing experience!

Photography by Dyanna Pelella

What is it like help at Hope Day New York?
Helping at Hope Day New York is one of the most unreal experiences I have ever had. At Hope Day, dozens of organizations provide free services such as groceries, shoes, health care, prayer, etc. to a community. Each organization has a tent on a football field and anyone in the community can stop by and receive what they need. Being able to volunteer and give hope to these people is a priceless, untradeable experience.

What opportunities come with being president of the Warriors of Faith Club?
A lot of opportunities come with being the president of the Warriors of Faith Club. Our club does many outreaches. Recently, we worked with Operation Christmas Child and packed 25 boxes with toys to be sent to kids all around the world who haven’t received Christmas gifts. Soon, we are hoping to work with Project Reason to raise awareness for improving mental health and preventing suicide. This club has given me strong relationships that I am so grateful for. It has changed my life in a positive way.

Gianna will be featured in Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Kristyn Alford

12/1/2019

Click here for more information on issue 28

Kristyn Alford - Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Kelly Landry
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio
Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Kristyn Alford is such a sweet, loving child, who suffers from RA (rheumatoid arthritis). She loves her dog Mazy who we adopted 4 years ago. She takes very good care of her. She also been volunteering for the animal shelter in West Feliciana Parish for 8 years. She makes great grades and she tries her best to always help others. She inspires us a lot - she keeps going despite her RA (rheumatoid arthritis), which is contained to her knees. Sometimes they swell and we have to get them drained, but she just gets up and keeps going!! She is one positive child who loves others. :)

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

How has your rheumatoid arthritis affected you, and how have you been able to work positively through it?
My arthritis has affected me in many ways, it’s a thing I had to adapt to over time. I was bullied and arthritis isn’t a normal thing to have as a kid, so I didn’t have a normal life as kids usually do. My positivity came from my struggles. I know that some people have it worse than me. I would always think of the positives over the negatives. No matter how hard it got, I always kept my positivity because there’s no point in being negative about the situation when you still have hopes, dreams, and heart.

What advice would you want to give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice to someone would be to spread the love. Everyone in this world is different, but the same in many ways. No matter who the person is, you should be kind to them, express love, and be positive towards life.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

Tell me a little bit about the animal shelter you been volunteering at for 8 years.
The animal shelter is like a home away from home. It’s a no kill shelter and I still volunteer when I have the time! Every animal deserves a loving home and I’m glad to help anyone who is interested in helping, wanting to foster, or just wants a good, loving animal! The shelter I been volunteering for is Animal Humane Society, but I’m willing to help any shelter that needs it!

How has your love for people and animals impacted who you are and your passions in life?
My love for people and animals has allowed me to become a better person and learn new things each and every day. When I’m older I actually want to be a scriptwriter and author telling stories that impact people and bring them together. I would also like to start charities and organizations for people and animals.

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

As an inspiration to many, how have you managed to spread positivity and joy to others?
I have managed to spread positivity and joy to others by being myself and spreading the love. A good way to do this is to give compliments to people or talk to someone who sits alone at lunch (etc.), just be friendly!

Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio

Kristyn will be featured in Issue 28 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Alana Frederick

10/28/2019

click here to purchase Issue 27

Alana Frederick - Michigan
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Heather Frederick
Photography by Picture Perfect Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Alana Frederick is inspiring to everyone that she meets because she wears her heart on her sleeve and will do anything for others. She has balanced school, working at the apple orchard on the weekends, volunteering at the zoo, modeling, and babysitting all while still living life to the fullest. She does not judge others for their differences, but in fact embraces them. She is the one that includes others that may be left out, and often has been known to try to help others to be happy before herself. She loves to learn, laugh and love.

Photography by Picture Perfect Photography

My view on bullying would be someone saying or doing something harmful to someone else physically or emotionally, I have done many things to prevent bullying including being in a group called Splt. Splt is a group of students coming together to bring awareness to drugs, alcohol, and bullying, there are many things we do in that program from posters to going to different schools and giving presentations on the different topics. Another thing I do to prevent the spread of bullying would be if I see someone saying or doing something that is hurting someone else I stand up and show that everyone deserves to be treated equally and race, gender, or style does not matter

I manage to balance school, working at the apple orchard, babysitting, and volunteering at the zoo by using all of my free time to do these extra things and helping out the community. This not only made me happier but made the people around me happy too because I take my time to help out with extra things. It is always important to go out of your comfort zone to help others and do new things for the community.

Photography by Heather Frederick

I have spread positivity to others around me in many ways, some ways would be: always being there for everyone because you never know what someone is going through, not everyone is treated as well as they put off, I always give off positive vibes to make people feel more comfortable around me, if someone is down I always have positive things to say, I love to laugh and smile with everyone, I always show that being kind to others is always better than being mean and I show that you always need to lift people up.

To make people feel included in things I always ask people to join my group in school or if someone is sitting alone I will sit with them. I go out of my way to start a conversation with someone to show them that someone cares

Photography by Heather Frederick

I feel like helping others and being there for everyone gets you very far in life, it isn’t hard to show everyone a little love. Taking time out of your day to help and care for others helps improve your mental health. Seeing someone smile because something you have said or done can really make you a happier person overall. I think that love conquers all and everyone should do at least one good thing a day to make this world a better place to live in

The hardest thing I have had to accomplish would be the time I got depressed during freshman year. It was a long hard year of being sad all of the time, I did not get the grades I should have been, I never hung out with friends, and I was not confident at all. Throughout the year I got into modeling and it really helped me find my self-worth, it made me realize that everyone is put on earth for a reason and there is no need to feel like you’re not good enough or not worthy of love because every single person has a purpose. I believe that modeling has really improved my mental health and it has made me confident in who I am.

Photography by Heather Frederick

Some advice I would give to someone that is trying to get to where I am right now would be to stay down the right path and always stay true to who you are. Don’t let what other people say or do get to you because your mental health can really hold you back and always make sure you do what is best for yourself

In 5 years I see myself involved in or making a lot of organizations for teens to show that they aren’t alone. I want to be a counselor because I feel that even if you do go down the right path you have a second chance to turn it around and make something good out of it.

Alana will be featured in Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Taylor Jo Steele

10/24/2019

Click here to PURCHASE Issue 27

Taylor Jo Steele - Arizona
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Diane Kennedy
Photography by Lissa Ann Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Taylor Jo is an inspiration to all of us. She is the girl with a golden heart, always takes the consideration of others before her own. She loves with her whole heart and is grateful for all the individuals that have an impact on her life. She acknowledges and thanks all the veterans and police officers for their service as she sees them daily. She makes lunch packs for the homeless and distributes them in the streets of Phoenix. Taylor always motivates those that need it; she believes in them as we believe in her. She is one of the most incredible young ladies we know, we can all learn from her selflessness and love for life.

Photography by Lissa Ann Photography

What are some of your goals for the dance community you are involved in?
Some of my goals for the dance community that I am involved in include me leading by example showing love, connection and support for one another. To show that it doesn’t matter what level, ability, age or facility you train in. I want my community to be less focused on competing with sister studios and more about supporting one another and focus on the love that we share for the art of dance. I understand that I am young, but I have seen other dancers be sad, feel left out or judged simply because of where they go, how long they have been dancing and whether or not they compete. I want to be a part of a change that focuses more on what we have in common and less focused on our differences.

How do you help those in need through your kindness and compassion towards others?
I believe being involved with our communities by doing small acts of kindness can make a change in our world. Some weekends I help the homeless by making lunches for those that are living in the streets of Phoenix. These lunches include a Peanut Butter and Jelly or Ham and Cheese Sandwich, Chips, Oreos and a bottle of water. It’s something small but worth the smile that will stay with me when I see and hand deliver their lunch packs.

Tell me a little bit about the walks for charities as well as fundraisers you have been a part of it to help those in your community.
Every year my family and I pick walks, runs or rides for a cause that helps donate towards local charities such as an adult or children’s hospice, hospital charity, funding for eating disorder education prevention and support, make a wish foundation, and burned victims. My sister and I also created our own tradition to purchase with our personal money a present every holiday for a little girl or a little boy who are in need.

Image by Joyce Steele - Supporting others from another facility

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I’ve ever accomplished was rock climbing. I kept my focus up and didn’t look down.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Keep making goals and work toward achieving them.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In 5 years from now I will be graduating high school. My plans are to go to college and graduate with a Doctorate Degree in Medicine.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
Besides dance being my number one, I enjoy hiking, taking long bike rides with my family, camping and drawing.

What is your hidden talent?
I can draw very well!

Image by Joyce Steele - Lunches for the homeless

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
I have great parents that help with that. We have schedules for all activity and work hours listed on my fridge that way I can pack my clothes the night before for dance and school.

3 Things on your bucket list.
Skydiving when I turn 18, visit Ireland and create an epic event fundraising for a cause.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my parents inspiring, they have taught me everything I know about helping others in need, they are hard working parents and give my sister and myself everything we have.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I am a bighearted person that enjoys making someone smile whether I give my peers a compliment or give them a hug on a bad day, I love to help people.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
Never give up on your dreams!!

Taylor Jo will be featured in Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Mia Bohanan

10/17/2019

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Mia Bohanan - Maine
Interview by Clara Soler
Nomination and Photography by Creative Chaos Events
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: I met Mia several years ago when she came to volunteer for a theater camp I run. She is a dancer, babysitter, hospital volunteer, and is always there to help whenever anyone who needs it. She is kind and respectful and willing to work hard. She has become an invaluable asset in my work and personal life.

Photography by Creative Chaos Events

Do you see dancing as a future career? If not, what have you learned from dance that you can use in your future?
Going into my senior year in high school I decided I wasn’t going to pursue dance as a career because I’d like to work in health care. I’ve learned so much from dance. It’s helped me be more confident and creative. I’ve also learned perseverance and discipline. I know these skills will help me in my life.

What challenges have you faced while pursuing dance?
One challenge I face in dance is managing my nervousness at performances and competitions. A way I relax my nerves is to work with my teammates before we go on stage. We go over the routine a few times so everyone can be more confident.

Photography by Creative Chaos Events

What opportunities have you gotten from volunteering?
I’ve had the opportunity to work in many different departments at the hospital. I’ve met a lot of professionals in the health care field and I’ve learned a lot about what it’s like to work in a hospital. some of the nurses have given me a great advice about starting a career in the health care field.

What’s your favorite part about volunteering?
My favorite things about volunteering in a hospital are working with different people and helping patients have a better day.

What kind of photography would you like to take part in?
My hobby is portrait photography. I love working with people and creating
memories they will have forever.

Photography by Creative Chaos Events

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
The advice I would give to somebody is to stay focused and do what you want to do. Don’t be afraid to try new things your friends might not be interested in.

How do you keep yourself organized with everything you have on your plate?
In order to keep myself organized I have a calendar to keep track of all my extra activities and schoolwork.

3 Things on your bucket list
Work in the health care field after college.
Travel all over the world taking photographs.
Learn how to fly a plane.

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Aleesia Monteleone

10/17/2019

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Aleesia Monteleone - Ohio
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Tonya Monteleone
Photography by Twenty20 Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Aleesia Monteleone is a senior and keeps herself busy being involved in the community and school. She is a varsity tennis player, a member of the advisory board at her school, a member of the Best Buddies club and holds the office of secretary in the leadership club. After school she mentors in the big brother/ big sister program, and also holds down a job. She does all this while keeping her grades up. She does this in preparation of attending college to become a special education teacher.

Photography by Twenty20 Photography

Tell us about some of the clubs you are involved in at your school.
At school I am involved in three clubs. The first club is FCCLA, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. It’s focus is to develop skills for life through career preparation, character development, and creative and critical thinking. In this organization they have competitions that I am hoping to participate in this year! It is a national competition.
Second, I am in Leadership Club. Leadership Club is to enforce kindness all throughout the school. We plan activities to try to encourage students to act with kindness throughout every aspect of life.
The last club I am in is Best Buddies. Best Buddies is a global organization to create one to one friendships with people of intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are paired with a person with IDD. We enjoy doing activities together both in and out of school. I'm still friends with my buddy from last year. It's a great club to encourage inclusivity.

What is the big brother / big sister program you are involved with?
I am involved in the after-school mentoring program for Big Brother/Big Sister. In this program we are paired with a little in our school district. One day a week, after school, pairs meet up and help our littles with their schoolwork and self-confidence through games, fun activities, and helping with homework. I have been involved in it as a big for all four years of high school and all throughout my elementary years as a little.

Photography by Twenty20 Photography

Why did you start playing Tennis? How long have you been playing?
According to my mom, when I was three years old, I saw kids playing in the summer tennis program and I said I wanted to play. We stopped to watch them, and the instructor invited me to play. From there, my love of tennis began. I have continued to play in the summer program and upon entering high school, I began my competitive career. All four years I played as part of the doubles team. This year I was chosen to receive the Coach's Award. It recognized my passion and hard work even in adversity. I played with 3 different partners during the season and won with all of them.

Photography by Twenty20 Photography

How long have you been playing violin? What is your favorite song to play and why?
I Have been playing violin for 7 years. I started playing violin when I was in 5th grade. My favorite song to play is the Speckled Hen Overture because our teacher disliked the song and drove him insane. We had a running joke about hens throughout my orchestra career.

Photography by Twenty20 Photography

Where would you like to go to college? Would you consider still playing tennis and playing violin in college as well? Why or why not?
I plan on attending The University of Akron. I am considering playing tennis for Akron. I would like to further my career of tennis. I want to focus on my education so I am going to play violin in my free time when I go to college.

Aleesia will be featured in issue 27!

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Jarret Michael

10/16/2019

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Jarret Michael – Maryland
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Jennifer Didio Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jarret Michael is one of those rare kids who actively engages to make the world a better place. He volunteers countless hours via Young Life and vests deeply in students with special needs at Capernum. Jarret decided that video games were consuming too much of his day with nothing to show for it, so he decided to start making the most of every day set before him.

Photography by Jennifer Didio Photography

Tell us about some of your volunteering opportunities you have had in the past.
Throughout my middle school and high school years, I have volunteered with a few different organizations. I started serving with Generosity:Global in 7th grade. This amazing organization provides food, coffee, haircuts, clothes, and showers for our homeless brothers in sisters in Baltimore. Then, in 10th grade, I discovered my passion for working with special needs individuals. I became a junior leader in Young Life’s Capernaum, a ministry for young adults with disabilities. Now, as a senior in high school, I am the director of the program team and alongside our head leader we have been able to grow the size of our monthly club. Each summer, I am a Buddy at the Capernaum camp. It’s an amazing experience and I would encourage any young adult to try it!

Summer camp is such an amazing place. Tell us about your experiences there.
When I am not working with friends with special needs or training at the Jiu Jitsu gym, I enjoy being outside. I love hunting, fishing, riding my four-wheeler, and hiking with friends and family. God has created some beautiful views on this planet, and I love to appreciate them with the people I love most.

Image by Ellie Pruitt

What is "Young Life". How did you get involved?
I’ve been so fortunate to find Young Life, a ministry that introduces teens to Christ. I became involved my freshmen year of high school. It has helped me grow in my faith and has provided me with mentors that have guided my teen years.

Tell us about your passion for Brazilian Jujitsu.
My passion my Gaijin Ryu Jiu Jitsu is one that is incredibly important to me. Jiu Jitsu has been a huge part of my life for the past four years. Gaijin Ryu Jiu Jitsu, which directly translates to the “foreigner school of the gentle art,” was founded by a man in Maryland and it combines the best of a few martial arts, including Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Judo, as well as Korean Hapkido and Yudo. It is a true martial art that has taught me patience, when necessary, and has also taught me the skills I need to defend myself and others, when necessary. The confidence it provides is immeasurable.

Photography by Jennifer Didio Photography

What do you like to do in your free time?
One of the hardest things I ever did was testing for my blue belt rank in Gaijin Ryu with only about 3 weeks’ notice. I did not have much time to get into the shape I needed to be in for the cardio aspect of the test. However, with the support of my family and coaches, I pushed myself and never gave up. I left everything I had on the mats and, to this date, it is one of my biggest and proudest accomplishments.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
I would tell anyone younger than to get out there, explore, make friends, and find something you love and are passionate about and stick to it. I know it can be easy to get caught up in our day to day lives of school/ work and forget to take time for what is most important. God has created so many amazing things for us to witness. This is truly a beautiful country and world, but you will never get to see how beautiful it truly is if you never come out from behind the screen.

Jarret will be featured in Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Seanna Camacho

10/10/2019

Click here to vote for Seanna for the Cover and Scholarship Contest for Issue 27

Seanna Camacho - Georgia
Interview by Julia Ischinger
Nomination by Sujaie Fernandez
Photography by Amy Honea Photography
Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Seanna is a very outgoing and kind young lady who loves to model with Amy Honea Photography. Modeling is her escape from anxiety and is a way to express herself and pour emotion into every picture.

Photography by Amy Honea Photography

What got you into modeling?
I was helping my mom’s friend promote her photography company.

What do you like most about modeling and how has it helped you?
I get to travel to new places and express my personality through photos.
It makes me feel more confident and helps subside my anxiety.

What kind of community service projects have you done?
I have helped feed a community for the holidays and have helped Ms. Myrts House, a nonprofit. I have also helped boost young girls dreams of being a cheerleader by coaching with Pop Warner teams. I actively assist with church community events and missions.

Photography by Amy Honea Photography

What inspired you to want to be a role model and what is important that you share with them?
Seeing how the world has changed and what impact is has had on our generation.
I want to be able to show kids it is ok to be themselves and be open to express how they feel without worrying about anyone else’s opinions or what they think of you.

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
I had to leave school due to anxiety, and I have worked really hard to be able to finish home school early.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
I see myself graduated from college with a business degree. Becoming a real estate agent working my way to having my own business.

Photography by Amy Honea Photography

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
Cheerleading, Makeup, and hanging out with my dog.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Talking really fast kind of rapping.

3 Things on your bucket list
Zip line
Visit bora bora
Swim with dolphins.

Who do you find inspiring?
Selena Gomez

Seanna will be featured in Issue 27 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

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Mallory Farris

9/20/2019

Mallory Farris – South Carolina
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Angi Farris
Photography by Kristy Lynn Photography (top)
& Angi Farris (4 bottom)
Issue 26 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Mallory Farris has been dancing since the age of 6 and competing since age 8. Dance is her outlet and passion. Mallory recently started assisting with the tiny ballerinas and has fallen in love with teaching. She loves to see them learn and accomplish new things! Volunteering her time and talents at her studio is something her parents are really proud of!

Tell us about your experiences with dance. Where did you start and where are you now?

My dance experience started when I was 6 years old. I fell in love when I started competing in 3rd grade. I started at another studio, but I am so thankful that I switched studios a year ago. Elite Dance Academy has been the best experience I’ve had. I always feel welcomed and know that I can accomplish anything there.

If you never picked the sport of dance, what do you think you would be involved with?

Probably gymnastics because I have always loved to compete and would to be able to tumble.

What is it like teaching younger kids?

There is something very special about teaching little ones. The best thing is when you see that light bulb finally go on in their heads. They know all their hard works has paid off. It makes my heart full of joy to know that they have accomplished something new.

You mentioned you want to be a kindergarten teacher. Why do you think this is what your career should be?

I want to be a kindergarten teacher because I believe we need more teachers that care about their students. I want each child to be able to walk out of my classroom knowing they learned something knew. I want them to know how much I care for each of them.

Where are some of your favorite places to volunteer at?

Some of my favorite places are at my dance studio and school. I love to help the young dancers learn new moves and teach the art of dance. At school, I love to help the children learn and show them how to be self-confident.

Mallory will be featured in Issue 26 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here to purchase issue 26

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Alyssa Kyzar

9/12/2019

Alyssa Kyzar - Louisiana
Interview by Claire Plath
Nomination by Trudy Kyzar
Photography by Luckett Portrait Studio
Issue 26 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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.

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!”

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!

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.

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 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

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.

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.

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.

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 purchase issue 25 of inspiring teens magazine

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Anna Grace Scholten

8/19/2019

Anna Grace Scholten - Georgia
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Amber Bounds Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 purchase issue 25 of inspiring teens magazine

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Harli Ferrell

8/7/2019

Harli Ferrell – North Carolina
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Robin Miller Photography
Issue 25 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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.

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.

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!

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!

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Gabriella Morando

7/27/2019

Gabriella Morando - Ohio
Interview by Claire Path
Nomination by Elisabeth Morando
Photography by David Beckham Photography
Issue 24 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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Ava Dwyer

7/18/2019

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

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!

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.

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.

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!

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Layken Sanders

7/5/2019

Layken Sanders – Tennessee
Interview by Zoe DAngelo
Nomination by Jeni Sanders
Photography by Jeni Sanders & Amber McKellar
Issue 23 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

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.

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.

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.

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!

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Janiya Cadney

6/29/2019

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

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!

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 .

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.

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).

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!!

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Amanda Szymborski

6/25/2019

2 Comments

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

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Diana Kolb

6/24/2019

24 Comments

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.

Photo by Kim Vohs Color Dawn Photography

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.

Photo by Bryan Grant Pixel Studio Photography Kazakhstan dress

Tell us about your birth country.

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.

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.

Swim Image by Nate Johnson Photography

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.

Snapshot by Mom in my Bags of Love Tee

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.

Photo by Kim Vohs from Color Dawn Photography

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.

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;)

Photo by Kim Vohs of Color Dawn Photography Joseph story and my coat of many colors

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.

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