Volleyball for All: How Kallee Johnson Organized a Special Needs Tournament with Hope Enterprises
- Inspiring Teens Magazine
- May 28
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Kallee Johnson - Pennsylvania
Nomination & Photography by Albright Studio Photography
Issue 102 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
Nomination: Kallee is one of the sweetest girls you could meet. She attends St. John Neumann where she takes pride in her faith and academics. For her senior project, she organized a volleyball tournament with Hope Enterprises. This allowed individuals with special needs to participate in a day of fun volleyball games in a positive environment. Kallee also takes pride in her athletics, as she is a member of the varsity basketball team. Kallee is a family oriented, inspiring young woman for many younger girls to look up to.
Volleyball for All: How Kallee Johnson Organized a Special Needs Tournament with Hope Enterprises
What inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you were not mentioned in your nomination that you’d like readers to know about?
During my freshman year of high school after dealing with severe migraines for years the doctors found a large cyst on my brain. This left me absent from school and sports. Being sidelined left me feeling isolated and struggling with depression. I had to face challenges I could not control and learn how to rebuild myself mentally. Over time, I found strength in pushing forward, even on the hardest days. That experience taught me resilience and the importance of mental health is something I believe all teens should understand. It's okay to struggle, but it's just as important to keep going.
What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now?
As of right now I plan to to attend the University of Delaware and major in sports management. As a female athlete I experienced first hand how under appreciated female sports are. I hope to promote and strive for equality to mens sports as I work toward a career in the industry.
What is something you feel passionate about or could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you?
I could sit and talk about music for hours. The way music can make you feel and control your emotions is so powerful. I grew up in a household with a father who is an artist and his passion influenced me and all of my siblings. It not only brings us together but people all over the world. Music is a true universal language.
What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or person in the past year?
I was appointed captain of my basketball team this year and being a member of my schools varsity basketball team since I was I was a freshman gave me time to learn from my upperclassmen teammates. Leadership isn't about being the loudest or the best player, it's about being consistent, supportive, and accountable. I learned that people watch what you do more than what you say, and your attitude can shape an entire team. As a person, I had to learn to be strong and more patient, especially in tough moments. Leadership pushed me to grow, not just for myself, but for everyone around me and that's something I'll carry with me beyond basketball.
What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you?
I met Maddy my eighth grade year and her junior, she and I bonded over our love for Celsius energy drinks and quickly became friends. Maddy has always been a role model for me. The way she always is her authentic self and the confidence she always walks around with is something so admirable.
Tell us about the photographer or person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like?
My friend Maddy who nominated me is a part of her families photography business, Albright Studios. They have taken all my school photos, sports photos, and fun shoots I got to do with Maddy. I wouldn't have wanted anyone else to take my senior photos. Their dedication, passion for photography, and attention to detail made the shoots so meaningful.
How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you?
I first heard about Inspiring Teens Magazine through social media while looking for opportunities that highlight teen voices and real stories. Being a part of it matters to me because it gives teens a platform to be seen and heard for who they truly are, not just for achievements but for their journeys. I faced challenges that shaped who I am, and being a part of something that celebrates resilience, growth, and authenticity is really meaningful to me.
If you win a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine, how would you plan to use it and what goals would it help support?
If I were to receive this scholarship, I would use it to support my college education and continue perusing my goals of making a positive impacts in my community. It would help cover expenses like tuition, books, and opportunities that allow me to grow academically and personally.
Look for Kallee in issue 102 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
* Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.
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