Vote for Jasmine Gladman for our Issue 87 Scholarship & Cover Winner! (Thanks for your donation!)
See inspiringteens.com/87 for more details on prizes this teen can win with your help!
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Jasmine Gladman - North Carolina
Nomination & Photography by Joanne Frost Photography
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Nomination: Jasmine’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Jasmine was a quiet, reserved young woman who took a courageous leap of faith by changing schools and education systems. She embraced opportunities to broaden her circle and deepen relationships, blossoming her into a current outgoing and bubbly woman. As Black Student Union President at Salem Academy, she created engaging activities that strengthened bonds within her community. Her leadership extended to Jack and Jill of America, where she thrived in communication and activity creation. Jasmine’s vibrant spirit and genuine nature shine as a Salem Academy ambassador, making her environment better for everyone.
What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I've been fencing since freshman year. This sport taught me discipline, strategy, and resilience, which I apply in every aspect of my life. As a member of the Athletic Council at Salem Academy, I've used these lessons to foster school spirit and encourage others to face challenges. I’ve held leadership positions throughout all of my four years, learning to inspire others, lead by example, and make important decisions. Whether on the fencing strip or in my school leadership roles, I approach every opportunity as a chance to grow, inspiring those around me to push past their limits as well.
What else would you like to talk about?
I am a trained barista, I took a class at Forsyth Tech and fell in love with making coffee. I love the artistry of brewing the perfect cup and the connections I make from it. My training has taught me attention to detail and the importance of customer service. I'm in love with the process of learning different techniques, and flavor profiles, the feeling of the milk foaming wand, and pulling the perfect shot of espresso. I’m always excited to share what I've learned with others. Being a barista has taught me the importance of quality in everything I do.
What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
I'm passionate about intersectionality and social justice, and the unique experiences and challenges that come with being a Black woman. People don't realize how many of our modern-day practices stem from slavery and how understanding how race, gender, and other factors intersect to shape our lives is so important. This drives my commitment to advocating for fairness and inclusion. I’m passionate about lifting marginalized voices and fighting against systemic inequalities, especially for all the women who look like me. In embracing these factors I will help build a world where everyone can thrive and feel empowered to create positive change.
How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
I found Joanne through Instagram and working with her has truly been wonderful. From the first photoshoot we ever did, she instantly made me feel comfortable and brought out a side of me I'd never seen before. Before I started working with her, I felt very awkward in front of a camera and didn't enjoy taking pictures. Ever since that first session, I've seen my confidence skyrocket and it's impacted so many areas of my life improve because of it. All this I can attribute to Joanne's amazing photography and character!
Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine to share my journey, inspire others, and connect with a community of driven, talented teens. Being featured would let me showcase my passions, accomplishments, and lessons learned, encouraging others to pursue their goals and overcome challenges. I hope to motivate teens to embrace their unique talents, give back to their communities, and work for personal growth. This opportunity would also help amplify my voice and spread a positive message of perseverance, creativity, and self-confidence.
What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
One of my favorite memories with Joanne was my senior photoshoot. I was nervous at first but she made me feel so comfortable and confident. Her kindness and encouragement brought out my best self, and by the end of the session, I felt truly beautiful. That photoshoot wasn’t just about the pictures, it was an experience that boosted my self-esteem like I've never seen before which left me with memories I’ll always remember. Joanne’s talent and genuine personality made all the difference, and I’m so grateful for her support and for capturing such a special moment in my life.
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Inspiring Teens is one of our "by teens for teens" productions to celebrate teens doing amazing things with their lives – such as the teen listed above!
Each vote is $5.00 and goes towards our scholarships, magazine production, awards, prizes, and other fun stuff that are included for the teens who participate in our fundraising and magazine endeavors. It also goes towards nonprofits and teen sponsored events as our extra profits allow.
We have given away over $175,000 in scholarships & over $100,000 to non-profits!
Thank you for helping us help them out!
* Teens must be between ages 13-19 and live in the continental USA to win a scholarship. Teens cannot win more than $1000 in a year's time.