Lilly Mueller - Texas Nomination & Photography by Angie Read Photography Issue 104 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: Lilly is inspiring because she has faced many challenges throughout her life with determination and courage. Despite obstacles, she continues to work hard, stay positive, and push forward. She never lets setbacks define her or stop her from pursuing her goals. Lilly's perseverance, resilience, and strong work ethic serve as an example to those around her. No matter how difficult things become, she refuses to give up, proving that dedication and determination can overcome adversity. Her strength and unwavering spirit make her a true inspiration to family, friends, and everyone who knows her! Photography by Angie Read Photography What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? Lilly has been a competitive golf team member throughout her high school career. She was a choir officer this year. She volunteers for Operations Pets Alive and fosters puppies. How has being involved in golf helped shape the person you are today? Golf has shaped me into a more resilient, focused, and determined person. It has taught me to overcome setbacks, stay positive, and focus on what I can control instead of dwelling on mistakes. Through challenges both on and off the course, I've learned that perseverance, patience, and hard work lead to growth. Golf has also strengthened my confidence and taught me to remain calm under pressure. These lessons have helped me become a stronger student, athlete, and person, and they will continue to guide me throughout my future. What has been one of your favorite experiences volunteering with Operations Pets Alive? One of my favorite experiences volunteering with Operation Pets Alive has been receiving updates from the families who adopted the animals I helped care for. Seeing pictures and hearing how the pets have adjusted to their new homes is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me that even small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference. What have the puppies you've fostered taught you about compassion, patience, or responsibility? Fostering puppies has taught me a great deal about responsibility, patience, and compassion. Many of the puppies were very young, sick, or underweight and depended on me for feeding, medication, and constant care. Watching them grow stronger and eventually find loving homes showed me the importance of being patient, dependable, and committed to helping those who cannot care for themselves. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? My biggest goal right now is to play golf in college. I am working hard to improve my game through practice and tournaments while maintaining strong grades and staying involved in my community. I hope to find a college where I can continue competing, grow as a student-athlete, and challenge myself both academically and on the golf course. What inspired you to pursue golf at the collegiate level? I want to pursue golf at the collegiate level because it gives me the opportunity to continue playing a sport I love while opening doors to colleges I may not have otherwise considered. Golf has challenged me to grow both as an athlete and as a person, and I'm not ready for that journey to end. I look forward to continuing to compete, improving my skills, and being part of a team while earning my college degree. What do you hope to accomplish both on and off the golf course during your college years? During college, I hope to continue growing as a golfer by competing at a high level and contributing to my team. Off the course, I want to become more independent, develop important life skills, and earn a degree that prepares me for a successful career. I hope my college experience helps me become a confident, responsible, and productive member of society while continuing to challenge myself both personally and academically. What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? I could talk about puppies for hours, especially fostering them and helping them find their forever homes. It means so much to me because every puppy deserves to feel safe, loved, and cared for. Watching them grow stronger, gain confidence, and then join a family that will love them is incredibly rewarding. Knowing I played a small part in giving them a better life makes all the time and effort worthwhile. If you could encourage more people to support animal rescues, what would you want them to know? I would want people to know that saving just one life matters. Every animal that is rescued, fostered, or adopted gets a second chance to be loved and cared for. You don't have to change the world all at once—even helping one animal can make an incredible difference. Small acts of kindness add up, and together they can save countless lives. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? Over the past year, I've learned how resilient I really am. Even when others weren't kind or supportive, I chose to keep moving forward instead of letting their actions define me. Those experiences taught me to stay true to myself, treat others with kindness, and lead by example. I've realized that real leadership comes from perseverance, and encouraging others, even during difficult times. Photography by Mary Mueller What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? One of my favorite memories is making smores with my Mom by the fire. We always have the best talks. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? I connected with my photographer through my best friend. They had reached out to my best friend about taking senior pictures, and my friend asked if it would be okay for us to do our sessions together. That's how we met! 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 my photographer after my senior photo session. Being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine means a lot to me because it's an opportunity to celebrate this exciting milestone in my life while connecting with other inspiring teens. It's an honor to be featured and to share a small part of my story with others. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? Earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine would help me pay for my college tuition and bring me one step closer to pursuing my passion for animals. It would ease some of the financial burden of college, allowing me to focus on my education and work toward a career where I can make a positive difference in the lives of animals. Are you part of a model team with your photographer? If so, tell us about it. Yes! I'm part of a model team that is about much more than taking photos. We focus on building friendships and getting to know people from different communities around the Houston area. We also give back through volunteer opportunities and participate in team activities like self-defense classes, which help us build confidence and learn new skills. Being part of the team has taught me the importance of community, supporting others, and growing both personally and professionally. Now that you have your interview, which leaderboard level are you most looking forward to and why? I'm most looking forward to achieving Scholarship Eligibility because it will help me begin preparing for my future and make college more affordable. I'm also excited about earning the Icon distinction because I've always dreamed of being featured in a magazine that celebrates strong, accomplished young women with high morals and positive values. To me, both achievements represent more than recognition—they reflect hard work, character, and the goals I'm striving to accomplish. If another teen is thinking about joining the Inspiring Teens Magazine Leadership Challenge but feels unsure, what would you tell them? I would tell them to go for it! It may feel scary and strange at first, but stepping outside your comfort zone is how you grow. You never know where the experience might lead or what opportunities it could open, so don't let fear keep you from trying. Beyond votes or placements, what are you hoping to gain from this experience—and what would make you feel truly successful at the end? Beyond votes or placements, I hope to gain confidence, new friendships, and opportunities to grow. What would make me feel truly successful is knowing that I represented myself in a positive way and that my face and story inspired others for the right reasons. I want to be seen as someone with strong values, kindness, and determination, and I hope this experience reflects the person I strive to be every day. Look for Lilly in issue 104 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

Gracie Callahan – Michigan Nomination by Morgan Callahan Photography by Harrington Photography Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: Gracie Callahan is a Senior at Lakeshore High School who found her love for teaching! Not only does she help coach the Lakeshore Rocket cheerleaders, she was a teacher cadet for a 4th grade classroom. Spending time with Lakeshore’s youth has helped her decide a future career goal of elementary education, focusing on special education. She continues to inspire the next generation while being a member of the advanced class of Berrien County Dancers and cheering for sideline and competitive. What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? I am studying sign language to help with my future career. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? I am spending time in the gym weight lifting and tumbling so I can stay healthy and improve my strength and skills to try out for a college cheer team. What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? I could talk for hours about teaching my fourth grade class. They really inspired me! What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? I have learned how important communication is. I spent time with special needs children this year and learned that different methods of communication can be effective. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? I was nominated by my Mom. My favorite memories with my mom are attending concerts. We have so much fun together! Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? Kevin Harrington is my photographer for senior pictures. He and his wife Cathy make me feel beautiful and confident every time we have a shoot! How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you? Kevin Harrington sent the link to me for Inspiring Teen Magazine. Being a part of the magazine matters to me because it is a great opportunity to highlight my leadership skills. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? A scholarship will help with college expenses while I earn a degree to teach elementary education, focusing on special education. Look for Gracie in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

Aubrey Silvas – Texas Nomination by Cristina Silvas Photography by Forke's Photography Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: Aubrey is 15 years old and goes to Bishop High School. She runs Cross Country and plays Soccer. She is in Student Council and she is her Class Spirit Leader. Aubrey is starting the Early College program, as well as, the RNA program. Outside of school, Aubrey loves to dance and she attends classes at Eleve Center for the Arts. She has been dancing since she was 3 years old. She does ballet, contemporary, jazz and many others dance styles. She is also a part of the studio's Competition Dance team. She plans to start student teaching at her studio where she will help with the younger ballet students. What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? I always try and do very best in school and I always stay ahead of my requirements. My teachers say I'm a kind person and a good friend. I was voted class Dutchess this year and I represented the Freshman on the Homecoming Court. This competition season 2024 -2025, I danced in 4 dances and won several awards including 1st place in my Trio and in my Senior group dance. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? Right now, student teaching at my dance studio is something I am really excited about. I plan on dedicating my time to learning from my dance teachers to help the younger students. I am excited to teacher 3 and 4 year olds how to do ballet. I also earned a solo, 3 group dances, and duet/trio for the up coming competition dance season, so I'm really excited about that! What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? Dance! I love dance. Dance has given me the opportunity to learn, grow and make great friends. I love being part of a team, and working together to get better. I love to see our whole team do well. I love that I can express myself, and step out of my comfort zone. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? On my competitive dance team, I am one of the older girls. I learned that the younger girls really look up to us and they learn from us. I know we are setting the example for them. It is important for me to be a good role model. Showing them how to be kind, respectful, and courageous. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? My mom is truly my best friend, and she always goes above and beyond for me. She's my biggest cheerleader and always makes me feel special. She has taught me to appreciate every experience and to always be thankful. My favorite memory with her, is probably running from roller-coaster to roller-coaster at Disney World. We had the best time together. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? Another awesome thing I did this year, was join the Forke's modeling representative. crew. I get to take fun photos and add them to my portfolio. All thanks to Roy Garza. I like that he makes us laugh and gives us creative freedom. How did you first hear about Inspiring Teens Magazine? Why does being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matter to you? From my photographer Roy How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? I'm starting early college and want to continue after High School and one day go into the Medical field. I would like to attend Baylor University. Look for Aubrey in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!* Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

How Straight-A Online Scholar Brynlee is Shaping the Future of Childcare Brynlee Kober - Kansas Nomination & Photography by Taylor’d Images Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Brynlee Kober - How Straight-A Online Scholar Brynlee is Shaping the Future of Childcare Nomination: Brynlee is an inspiring example of resilience, compassion, and determination. After facing challenges in a traditional school setting, she chose a new path through online school, where she has earned straight A’s while working full-time at a daycare. She spends her days caring for young children and supporting families, bringing patience, kindness, and a genuine love for helping others. Despite the demands of work and school, she continues to excel in both. She is also a devoted sister who always shows up for those she loves. Her perseverance, compassion, and dedication to others make her truly inspiring. What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? One thing I would like readers to know about me is that I am dedicated to personal growth and helping others. Through challenges in my life, I have learned the importance of resilience, kindness, and perseverance. I enjoy working with children and creating positive experiences that help them learn and feel supported. I am someone who strives to be dependable, compassionate, and hardworking in everything I do. I believe that even small acts of encouragement and care can make a meaningful difference in someone's life, and that is something I try to bring into my everyday interactions! What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? My biggest goal right now is to build a future that allows me to make a difference in the lives of others. I am working hard in school, gaining experience in childcare, and challenging myself to grow through every opportunity and obstacle. I believe that personal growth is a lifelong journey, and I am committed to becoming someone who can positively impact my community! What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? I could talk for hours about art, animals, my family, and the challenges I’ve faced in life because each of these has shaped who I am in a meaningful way. Art is where I find comfort and expression, especially when words aren’t enough, and animals have always brought me a sense of peace as well as connection. My family has been my foundation, teaching me love, strength, and what it means to keep going even when life gets difficult. The challenges I’ve faced have helped me grow into a stronger, more understanding person. They’ve taught me resilience and how to turn difficult moments into lessons. These experiences matter so much to me because they have shaped my heart, my perspective, and who I am becoming. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? Over the past year, I have learned that being a leader is less about being the loudest voice and more about being consistent, supportive, and aware of others’ needs. I’ve realized that I naturally lead by example through how I treat people, especially by showing patience, kindness, and understanding. I’ve also learned that my influence comes from staying true to my values and being willing to grow from feedback and obstacles. I don’t have to be perfect to make a positive impact I just have to be intentional in how I show up for others. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? One of my favorite memories with my mom is when we went location scouting together. We visited places like Sailboat Cove, a flower field, and parts of the city, just enjoying the day and exploring together. One of the funniest moments was seeing a raccoon on the dock at Sailboat Cove, which made the day even more memorable. I’ll always remember this experience because it wasn’t just about where we went, but the time we shared and how much fun we had together. What means the most to me about her is her constant support and belief in me. She always encourages me and makes me feel understood, I know I can always rely on her no matter what. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? My mom took the photo that was nominated, we connected through the experience of taking my first senior photos together. This moment meant a lot to both of us because it marked an important milestone in my life, and it made the experience feel even more special sharing it with her. As we went through the photoshoot, my mom even got a bit teary-eyed! We laughed, got emotional, and truly enjoyed the moment together. It turned into a memory that I will always cherish. 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 from my mom and on Instagram. Being a part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matters to me because it is a meaningful way to recognize growth, resilience, and the experiences that have shaped who I am. It gives me a chance to reflect on my journey, the challenges I’ve faced, and the people who have supported me along the way, especially my mom. Being featured would be a reminder that kindness, perseverance, and growth can positively impact both your own life and the lives of others How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? Earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine would help me continue my education and pursue my goals in early childhood education. It would ease financial stress and allow me to focus more on learning, gaining experience, and growing in my field. More than that, it would be an encouragement to keep working hard and staying committed to personal growth. Being recognized in this way would motivate me to continue making a positive impact on others and to use my education to support and inspire children in my community. Look for Brynlee in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

Yaneli Sotelo – Future ultrasound technician student Yaneli Sotelo – Texas Nomination & Photography by Loretta k Wall Photography Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: Yaneli is a bright , bubbly, fun person to be around ! She loves fiercely and makes friends easily. To know her is to love her . Yaneli Sotelo – Future ultrasound technician student What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? I am a dedicated student who works hard to balance school, personal goals, and helping others. I enjoy encouraging my friends and family, and I always try to stay positive during challenges. I believe growth comes from perseverance and learning from every experience. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? I am focused on finishing high school strong, preparing for my future career as an ultrasound technician, and becoming the best version of myself. I am working on improving my leadership skills, maintaining good grades, and creating opportunities that will help me achieve my long-term goals. What could you talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? I could talk about personal growth and self-improvement for hours. It matters to me because I believe everyone has the ability to become stronger, more confident, and more successful through hard work and determination. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? I have learned that leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room. It is about setting a positive example, supporting others, and staying strong during difficult times. Watching my mom battle breast cancer taught me resilience and helped me realize that life is precious. That experience encouraged me to live life to the fullest and inspire others to stay hopeful through challenges. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? One of my favorite memories is spending time together and having meaningful conversations. Her support and encouragement have helped me stay motivated and believe in myself. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? The person who took my photo is one of my friends named Loretta, who has been very supportive and encouraging. Taking these photos with her was a fun and memorable experience because she helped me feel comfortable, confident, and relaxed in front of the camera. I appreciate her willingness to help and her positive energy throughout the photo session. 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 my nomination. Being part of it matters to me because it gives young people a chance to share their stories, inspire others, and be recognized for their achievements and potential. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? Earning a scholarship would help me continue my education and work toward my future goals. It would also reduce financial stress and allow me to focus more on learning, leadership, and personal growth. Look for Yaneli in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Left to Right: James Romero, Addison Patnode, Colby Vieth, Alli Price, Matthew Buenrostro Hello! My name is Addison Patnode, I am 17 and a senior in High school. I am from Wichita Falls, Texas, and I was in issue 93 of the Inspiring teens magazine and lets just start with if you told me I would have this opportunity a few years ago, I would have never believed you, but here we are after all and I wouldn't trade it for the world. But, what I also wouldn’t have believed you on then was how joining the FFA would completely change the way I saw myself, teaching me lessons about confidence, belonging, and stepping out of the shadows, lessons I still carry with me today. Now, I know we can all probably agree there has been a time where life seems like it was swallowing us whole, and some of you may feel that way now. Where the waves may seem too big and like you need to go back to the shallow before you can't keep yourselves above the waves and a few years ago, that was me. My freshman year I started a new thing, I got involved in the FFA, and to say the least, I had no idea what I was doing. We've all probably been there, being the newest addition with people above us that have been here already that know what they're doing, and it can be terrifying. The constant fear of messing up, not wanting to give your ideas, and just being the shadow in the corner of the room. We’ve all been here, and it's not until we stand up, and help each other we are able move past this, and that is exactly what I am here to do right now. Everyone thinks the FFA is a group of people who just show animals, and although, yes it can be that's not all it is. Don't worry at first I thought that to, and me not showing any animals in with all the ones that did, I didn’t feel like I belonged, and that may be a challenge a lot of us face, not feeling like we’re enough to be in the spot we are, or just feeling like we don't belong in general. I’m here to tell you that is not true. During my first year, I was pushed to join the LDE teams with my FFA officer group, a group of people I didn’t feel like I belonged in. I almost said no but the sense of feeling included with them pushed me to do it, and I’m so glad I did. We all had to work together and that forced me to stop being the shadow in the corner of the room and step up, and that led me to soon realize I did belong in that group because of the fact I was different, not because I was just like them. Now I know not everyone does FFA, but this can also be applied to any aspect of life, we can all think back and remember how much stress times in life may have given us, or even times where we joined something and felt like we just didn’t belong, we can all agree we've had one of these moments. While I was a part of this team, I learned something that applies far beyond the FFA. A lot of teenagers struggle with feeling unseen, unheard, or like they are not enough compared to those around them. Nowadays social media, pressure from school, or even the fear of being judged can make it harder for teens to step beyond what they're comfortable with because being unseen feels like the safer option, and I know what it feels like to stand there and feel like you don't belong, but I also know how much it can change your life when you take that bold first step forward. Over time, I learned confidence does not come from being perfect, it comes from trying, failing, learning and continuing anyways. It also comes from all the stress, not wanting to keep going, and feeling like you're being drowned by the waves of life. Sometimes all it takes is one group of people you thought you would never fit into, to believe in you before you finally take the steps to start believing in yourself. If you ever feel like you don't belong, or like you aren’t good enough, take it from me. You are more than enough. For me, that step was the FFA, what will that step be for you? If you're new to the FFA, here are five things I wish someone would have told me when I was first starting out. Don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. It’s going to push you, that's the point. There are going to be times you're going to want to give up because fear overwhelms you, but the moments that helped me grow the most as a person through the FFA were the ones that I was the most terrified of at first. So don’t be afraid to step beyond what you're comfortable with. Everyone starts somewhere. Don’t look at how long others have been there before you, because doing that is what may cause you to stay in the shadows. At times it may feel like everyone else already knows what they’re doing, but every member was once new too, and nobody expects you to be perfect. It's okay to mess up. At first I was always so scared to give my ideas because of the fear of my ideas not being good, or them not working. But if it's something new, you’ll never know unless you give the idea and try it. Mistakes are a part of learning, and some of my biggest lessons came from the mistakes. When you mess up, learn from it, and use it to make something better. FFA is about more than just agriculture. At first I thought it was all about the kids who showed animals, like some of you may think, but that's not the case. This organization teaches you confidence, leadership, communication, and life skills that help far beyond high and school and even after you take off that blue jacket. The game of life can be hard, but believe in yourself and you can accomplish anything. XOXO Addison Patnode, Issue 93 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Read Addison's full feature in Issue 93 of Inspiring Teens® Magazine HERE

How to Start a Nonprofit by Aanya Mukherjee California Photography by Amrita Dhar Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Aanya Mukherjee - How to Start a Nonprofit When I started my nonprofit, I thought the hardest part would be figuring out the paperwork or raising money. I was wrong. The hardest part was believing that, as a teenager, I was actually capable of creating change. I founded Buy Yourself Flowers (BYF) after experiencing bullying and struggling with my own mental health. During that time, I noticed something that frustrated me: adults were constantly talking about teenagers, but rarely with them. I realized that the people most affected by mental health challenges were often missing from the conversation. That became my motivation to build something different. If you're thinking about starting a nonprofit, my biggest piece of advice is this: don't wait until everything is perfect. I didn't have all the answers when I started BYF. I didn't have a large team, a detailed business plan, or years of experience. I simply had a mission that mattered deeply to me. Start by identifying a problem you genuinely care about solving. The most meaningful organizations come from lived experiences because your passion will carry you through the inevitable setbacks. Once you have a mission, take one small step. That might be organizing a local event, creating educational resources, or reaching out to a nearby school or community organization. Small actions build momentum. As BYF grew, I learned that no nonprofit succeeds alone. Some of the best opportunities I've had came from simply sending an email or asking someone to meet for coffee. Teachers, business owners, mental health professionals, and community leaders were often far more willing to help than I expected. Don't be afraid to ask. The worst outcome is hearing "no," but one "yes" can completely change the direction of your organization. I've also learned that success isn't measured by social media followers or fundraising totals. It's measured by the people whose lives you impact. Whether it's a student who tells you they finally felt understood, a parent who learned something new, or a school that adopts one of your ideas, those moments matter far more than any statistic. Starting BYF has taught me that leadership isn't about being the oldest person in the room or having every answer. It's about listening, learning, and caring enough to keep showing up. As teenagers, we often underestimate the value of our perspectives, but our experiences are exactly what make our ideas powerful. If there's a cause that keeps you awake at night, don't wait for someone else to solve it. You don't need permission to make a difference. Sometimes, all it takes is one person deciding to start. Look for Aanya in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each article is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

Julianne Castillo - Harlingen South’s Top Hurdler and Future Dental Pro Julianne Grace Castillo – Texas Nomination by Prissy Castillo Photography by Mario Molina Photography Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination Julianne Grace Castillo is a beautiful, kind-hearted, and driven young lady from Texas who shines both on and off the field. At just 17 years old, she has balanced academics, athletics, dance, and leadership throughout her high school years while always carrying herself with grace and humility. From track and field to Southern Stars, Julianne has inspired others through her dedication, perseverance, and sweet spirit. During her senior year at Harlingen High School South, she was honored as Masquerade Princess and Prom Queen—accomplishments that reflected not only her beauty, but also the love and admiration the community has for her. She also earned her Dental Assistant certification after passing all three state exams. Julianne is excited for all that lies ahead in this next chapter and hopes to continue making a positive impact wherever life takes her. What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? One thing I’m proud of is being able to balance academics, athletics, dance, leadership, and personal growth throughout high school while staying true to myself. I’ve learned that perseverance, humility, and kindness can take you far in life. Throughout high school, I was involved in band, wrestling, soccer, flag corps, track and field, Southern Stars, Student Council, Hawks for Christ, and I also served as the PTSA Secretary. These experiences helped shape me into the person I am today. One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is ranking in the Top 10 in the Valley for the 300m hurdles during the 2026 season. Through all of these experiences, I’ve made memories and friendships I will cherish, and I hope to inspire others to work hard, stay confident, and never give up on their dreams. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? Right now, I am focused on continuing my education and pursuing a career in the dental field while exploring opportunities that allow me to grow personally and professionally. I hope to continue inspiring others through leadership, positivity, and perseverance, just as so many people have inspired me throughout my journey. My dream is to build a successful future doing something I love while making a positive impact on others wherever life takes me. What could you talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? I could talk for hours about dance, track and field, and all of the memories and friendships I’ve made throughout high school. These experiences have taught me discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and confidence while helping me grow into the person I am today. I love how sports and activities bring people together, create lifelong memories, and push you to become the best version of yourself. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? Over the past year, I’ve learned that leadership is not always about being the loudest person in the room. It is about encouraging others, leading by example, and treating people with kindness and respect. I’ve realized that even small acts of positivity and support can make a major difference in someone’s life. Being involved in different activities and organizations has helped me become more confident in myself and has taught me the importance of uplifting others along the way. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? One thing that means so much to me is having people in my life who have always believed in and supported me throughout my journey. My parents have always encouraged me to work hard, stay humble, and chase my dreams while reminding me to stay true to myself. I’m also very thankful to my photographer, Mario Molina, for his beautiful photography, for capturing so many special memories throughout my senior year, and for introducing me to this opportunity. Some of my favorite memories are the little moments shared with the people who have supported me every step of the way, and those are memories I will always cherish. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? I connected with my photographer, Mario Molina, through my family. He has captured special memories for my siblings and me throughout the years, including all four years of my high school journey. The experience has always been comfortable, fun, and memorable, and his beautiful photography has helped capture so many important milestones in my life. He always made every photoshoot feel natural and helped bring my vision and personality to life in each photo. I’m very thankful for the memories he has captured over the years and for the kindness, support, and encouragement he has shown throughout the experience. 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 my photographer, Mario Molina, after he tagged one of my senior photos on Instagram. After learning more about the magazine and everything it represents, I loved that it highlights teens not only for their accomplishments, but also for their character, leadership, and perseverance. Being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine means a lot to me because it gives me the opportunity to share my journey, inspire others, and represent the importance of hard work, kindness, and staying true to yourself. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? Earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine would help me continue pursuing my education and future career goals while easing some of the financial stress that can come with college and training programs. It would also motivate me to continue working hard, growing as a leader, and making a positive impact on others. Knowing that my story and experiences could inspire someone else makes this opportunity even more meaningful to me. Look for Julianne in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Sophia McTeague, a Compassionate Leader and STEM Volunteer Minnesota Nomination & Photography by Erinn Letts Photos Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: Sophia is a compassionate leader who is driven to make a positive impact in her community and beyond. At a local senior living community, she demonstrates kindness, patience, and respect while serving older adults. During a volunteer trip to Sicily, she worked with children in need, offering her energy and heart to make a difference. Her curiosity and work ethic are matched by her academic efforts. She spent over 40 hours volunteering with a STEM cohort and graduated with honors this spring. Sophia is an inspiring example of what it means to use one’s talents and time to uplift others. What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? I'm known for my resilience and my ability to connect with people of all ages. I believe I bring a quiet energy, empathy, and a genuine desire to make others feel seen and valued. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? My next goal is to join a sorority and enter college with a fresh perspective and an open mind. I want to embrace all the new opportunities, step outside my comfort zone by moving away from home for the first time and learn more about myself along the way! What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? Embracing the perspectives of others has always been so important to me. It builds understanding, demonstrates respect and care and can build stronger connections. Hearing another point of view helps me grow by challenging assumptions and ensuring others feel heard and valued. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? That leadership isn't just about a title or a specific role I play. I can lead and influence in the way I interact with others and show up as my genuine self. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? Erinn saw the potential for me to shine through my session and really made me feel so comfortable the entire time. She listened to what was important to me, having a planning meeting ahead of our photo session. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? My mom found Erinn through a mutual friend who had used her for photography services in the past. Erinn made me feel so comfortable right from the start - like we had known her and been friends already! 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 Erinn Letts who was the photographer for my Senior photo session. Being a part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matters to me as it would be an opportunity to share my story in hopes of encouraging others to believe in themselves and use their strengths and talents to make a difference. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? Earning a scholarship will be extremely beneficial to use towards housing and tuition expenses as I will be going to college out of state. Look for Sophia in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

Aubrey Silvas -Texas Photography by Cristina Silvas Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Bright lights, new stages, and different cities. Competition dance is much different, then studio dance classes and recitals. Competitive dancing can be fun but remember, you also want to win. And I don't mean, always win against others. You are trying to win against yourself. So, in this essay, I will tell you how to become a competitive dancer. First, you have to try out. There are different kinds of tryouts, but they are usually two or three days. You have to learn new choreography. This can be challenging because it's something you've never seen and you have to learn it in a short period of time. Then, you get to do a few run throughs. Next, you have to try out in front of judges. It's important for you to do your very best. If you get nervous, I always tell myself just have fun and smile. If you mess up, don't take it too seriously and continue. The judges don't always know your choreography so just own it and keep your head up. When you make the team you will have extra practices. Practices are so important because you are working with a team. Competition classes are not like regular classes. You cannot miss them. So, it is important to know and write down your schedule each week. About two weeks before your competition coaches usually require you to have mandatory practices and rehearsals. You may miss out on some other events. You must be disciplined and know that competition dance comes first. Last season, I was in four dances. In all four I was part of a team. I knew my presence was mandatory. I had to learn four different choreographies. Learning choreography can be difficult so practice is important. Recording yourself to find mistakes is helpful. Finally, you compete. Going to competitions, you must be prepared. Organization is key. Put each costume and all accessories in garment bags. Competition weekends are three days long. Your call time is about two hours before you compete. You have to be dressed and ready to go. Your coach will want to do run throughs before you compete. I love that we are essentially competing against ourselves. Each time we go to dance, we try to improve and do better than the last time. Can competitive dance be difficult? Yes, but just practice, be organized, and have fun! Look for Aubrey in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each article is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through.

Aanya Mukherjee – California Nomination & Photography by Amrita Dhar Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: Aanya Mukherjee is a student entrepreneur, mental health advocate, and founder of Buy Yourself Flowers, a youth-led nonprofit dedicated to making mental health resources more accessible to teens. After experiencing severe bullying, she transformed her own challenges into action, creating Bloom Boxes, hosting school workshops, and producing a podcast featuring psychologists, educators, and community leaders. Through partnerships with schools and organizations across the world, Aanya works to ensure that young people have a voice in conversations about their well-being. Her mission is simple: create mental health support that is built by teens, for teens. What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? One thing I hope readers know is that my journey has not been linear. During high school, I experienced severe bullying that affected my confidence, mental health, and academic performance. For a long time, I felt defined by those challenges. Over time, I learned that resilience is not about never struggling; it is about continuing to show up even when things are difficult. Beyond my nonprofit work, I am passionate about understanding people and systems through business, psychology, and research. I hope to spend my career creating solutions that make communities more supportive, inclusive, and accessible for young people. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? Right now, I am focused on growing Buy Yourself Flowers and expanding its impact beyond individual schools. My goal is to partner with more schools and community organizations to provide teen-led mental health resources, workshops, and Bloom Boxes to students who may not otherwise have access to support. I am also developing my podcast, where I interview psychologists, educators, and advocates to make mental health information more accessible to young people. In the future, I hope to combine my interests in business, psychology, and social impact to create systems that improve youth well-being on a larger scale. What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? I could talk for hours about why so many young people feel disconnected from the systems designed to support them. Whether it is schools, mental health services, or social media, I am fascinated by the gap between what adults think teenagers need and what teenagers actually experience. This topic matters deeply to me because I have lived through that disconnect myself. Through my nonprofit, podcast, and research interests, I have learned that meaningful change happens when people are willing to listen to the voices they are trying to help. Understanding that gap is what drives much of the work I do today. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? Over the past year, I have learned that leadership is less about having all the answers and more about creating opportunities for others to contribute. When I first started my nonprofit, I felt responsible for doing everything myself. As the organization grew, I realized that real impact comes from trusting others, listening to feedback, and building systems that allow people to take ownership of the mission. Learning to delegate, adapt, and remain open to different perspectives has made me a stronger leader and has shown me that collaboration often achieves more than individual effort. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? One of the memories that means the most to me is a conversation I had with my mom during one of the hardest periods of my life. After experiencing severe bullying, I was struggling with whether to leave the school I had attended for years. I felt like transferring meant I had failed. Sitting at our kitchen table, my mom reminded me that choosing my well-being was not weakness, but courage. That conversation changed the way I view success. It taught me that strength is not about enduring every hardship alone, but about knowing when to advocate for yourself. Many of the values that guide my work today, especially my mental health advocacy, can be traced back to that moment. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? The person that took my photo was my mom! She has a bit of prior photography experience and has helped record my experiences as I've conducted workshops at different schools. She's been by my side throughout. 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 because one of my friends was featured on the cover. It matters to me because I love how Inspiring Teens promotes high achievers and teenagers that use leadership to do good, and I would love to be part of a platform that does that. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? I would use my scholarship towards college to pursue an education in the intersection between business, psychology, and advocacy. Look for Aanya in issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine! * Each interview is shared in the teen’s own words, so their authentic voice shines through. https://www.buyyourselfflowers.org/

Alexia Stofanak – New York Nomination & Photography by Eve Taverne Photography Issue 103 of Inspiring Teens Magazine Nomination: I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Alexia’s senior portraits during the beautiful spring blossoms of 2026. We started at a local college where the crabapple trees were in full bloom, then headed to the orchard to take advantage of the gorgeous apple blossoms. Alexia was such a joy to photograph, and we had so much fun creating these images together. Her hair, makeup, outfits, and bouquet were absolutely perfect and complemented the spring blossom theme beautifully. Photography by Eve Taverne Photography What other inspiring qualities, achievements, or experiences about you, not mentioned in your nomination, would you like readers to know about? 
 I have served in Student Council at my high school and am in National Honor Society as a high honors student. As a child, I volunteered at a ranch in Pennsylvania as a reflection of my love for animals and nature. I also enjoy music because of the messages they convey and believe they can help others understand their emotions. What goals, dreams, or projects are you currently working toward right now? 
 My goal is to attend college after high school to achieve a degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. I also hope to do volunteer work in humane societies to support animals without a home. What inspired you to pursue a career in Diagnostic Medical Sonography? I always wanted to do a career where I could connect with people. I think the human body is special and being able to help others with their health is important to me! I would love to connect with women and help them understand their bodies. What is one personal goal you hope to accomplish before graduating high school? Before graduating high school, I’d like to travel outside of the country. I have never been to another country. I would love to see the world from a different point of view and visit somewhere completely new! What could talk about for hours, and why does it matter so much to you? 
 Female empowerment. I think it is important to recognize the effort of women and continue to support their goals in achieving an education and a successful career. I also believe in inspiring young girls to pursue their own confidence and self worth. Who is a woman you admire most, and what qualities do you hope to emulate in your own life? A woman I admire most is my mother. She is one of the strongest, most resilient people I know. She is so incredibly smart and has raised me to be a courageous woman myself. What role does music play in your life, and are there any songs or artists that have especially inspired you? Throughout my life, music has been my therapy. It allows me to express my emotions when I don’t know the words to say myself. One song in particular that I consider a work of poetry is Piano Man by Billy Joel. Not only is it a song, it’s a story. What is something you have learned about yourself as a leader or influencer in the past year? 
 I strive to help others in need because I hope less people feel alone in their personal struggles. How do you hope to use your leadership skills to make a difference in your community in the future? I think volunteering is important, whether it is for local nursing homes, food banks, humane societies, etc. I believe it builds empathy in people and helps you think about those around us who may need help. What values are most important to you, and how do they influence the decisions you make each day? I would say empathy and forgiveness are two of the most important values to me. They play a huge part in uniting a community. They influence me to be more mindful of other people and to be more compassionate towards others. What has being a member of Student Council and National Honor Society taught you about responsibility and service? Being part of these communities has taught me the importance of being a leader and how the creation of new ideas can prove to be beneficial for everyone. What is one challenge you have overcome that helped shape who you are today? I’ve struggled with mental health and body image throughout my life. I’ve learned that empowering others makes a huge difference in how you see yourself and my journey of healing has taught me that you can’t let the past define who you are. You have to seek the light in everything. When you think about the future, what kind of impact do you hope to leave on the people around you? I would hope to have a legacy of kindness and to be known to help all who may be silently struggling and spreading hope throughout my community. If you could give one piece of advice to younger girls about confidence and self-worth, what would it be? As much as the cliche sayings “be yourself” and “don’t let what others say affect you” are true, they are hard to actually keep in mind. I would tell a younger girl that she should stay with the people that uplift her and that the only person that knows you best is you. So stay true to your values. What is one of your favorite memories with the person who nominated you, or something about them that means a lot to you? 
 One of my favorite memories with Eve was at Windy Hill Orchards. She taught me the importance of living in the moment. This helped to get some of the best candids. Tell us about the person who took your photo — how did you connect, and what was that experience like? 
 The photographer, Eve, was a special person to work with because she encouraged me to be myself. She gave me compliments, which built my confidence throughout the session and made the environment more comfortable. 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 from my photographer, Eve. Being part of Inspiring Teens Magazine matters to me because my mission is to inspire young girls to have self-confidence and empowerment to achieve their dreams and goals. How will earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine help you? Earning a scholarship through Inspiring Teens Magazine would be an incredible opportunity. I will soon be graduating high school and attending college to achieve my dream career of being an Ultrasound Technician. I hope to help improve the health of many women and others. What made you say “yes” to the Inspiring Teens challenge, and how did you feel when you first started? I was excited to hear about this opportunity because I hope it will help create a movement in uplifting young girls who struggle with self image. This experience made me feel hopeful that things may be able to change and that we can bring light to the struggles of young women. What is one moment during the challenge so far that has made you feel proud or realize you were growing - in confidence, mindset, or taking action? Seeing the support from others and being able to be part of it has made me realize how far I’ve come in my confidence journey. It’s also made me realize I can make an impact on the lives of others with my experience. If another teen is thinking about joining the Inspiring Teens Magazine Leadership Challenge but feels unsure, what would you tell them? I would tell them to take the leap and help spread awareness to make this movement happen. You can make an impact no matter how big or small. Beyond votes or placements, what are you hoping to gain from this experience—and what would make you feel truly successful at the end? Being able to hear back from girls that I have impacted them in a positive light would make me feel successful. 
 Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you get where you are today? My best friend Caiden, because she has always been there for me even when I was at my rock bottom. She has done nothing but uplift me and make me feel welcome no matter the time or place. Is there anything else you’d like to tell us? I’m grateful for this opportunity regardless of the outcome. Good luck to all the other participants!