“At Gulf Coast Teens in Motion, we believe in the power of community and the importance of nurturing the next generation.”.
In This Issue
In this issue, delve into the compelling journey of young athletes like Sheldon Stapleton, who have seamlessly transitioned from basketball courts to academic pursuits Discover the challenges and triumphs as they balance sports with scholarly success, and learn how dedication on the field can translate into achievements in the classroom. Gain insights from experts on how to navigate both sports and studies effectively Join us as we explore the dynamic interplay between athletic discipline and academic excellence !
Hello and welcome to another exciting edition of our magazine!
As we step into this new issue, I want to take a moment to talk about something very close to our hearts here at the magazine empowerment. Each story, each article, and each interview we've curated for you this month aims to not only inform and entertain but also to inspire you to take action in your own lives.
This issue is particularly special as we highlight the remarkable stories of young individuals like Ty'Ssan Alexis, who has not only started his own business, "The Little Trash Can Man," but is also making a significant impact in his community. Ty'Ssan's story is a powerful reminder that no matter our age, we all have the potential to make a difference.
We also dive deep into topics that matter to you from the latest in teen fashion to essential tips on mental health, especially pertinent as we observe National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It’s crucial for us to discuss and destigmatize mental health issues, ensuring that everyone knows they're not alone and that help is available.
Our goal is to provide you a space where you can see yourself and your peers not just surviving, but thriving. We believe in celebrating the diverse voices and unique stories of our generation. We believe in the power of youth your power to innovate, inspire, and influence.
As always, we love hearing from you. Your feedback drives our magazine and helps us improve. So, reach out, tell us what you think, and let us know what you want to read in the future. Remember, this is your magazine, and it’s crafted with you in mind.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Grab your favorite snack, find a comfy spot, and dive into our latest issue. We hope it lights a spark within you to pursue your passions and dream even bigger.
Warm regards,
Blessings,
Elyssa Marie Editor-in-Chief Gulf Coast Teens in Motion
FINDING YOUR IDENTITY
byBrittneyFairley
WhatIsYourIdentity?
Finding our true identity is a journey that many of us think about throughoutourlives.Itisapursuittodiscoverwhoweareatthecore of our being, beyond the external labels and titles that society places on us Questions like "How much money do you make? What kind of house do you live in? What kind of car do you drive? What type of clothes do you wear? What kind of job do you have? How many degrees do you have?" and more, perpetuate a list of societal expectations that can trap us in a cycle of constantly trying to “keep up.
During my school days, “keeping up” with the latest trends was a major part of my life, and being a basketball player defined who I was. It wasn't until my basketball aspirations took an unexpected turn that I realized how much my identity was tied to these external labels.Facedwiththequestionof"WhoamI?"Iquicklyshiftedgears and embraced a new identity as a nurse It became evident that I believedmyworthwassolelydeterminedbythecareerpathIchose While there is nothing wrong with finding joy and success in being a basketball player, nurse, or any other profession, I came to understand that our identities should extend far beyond our job titles and hobbies. Our worth is not solely based on our achievements
The journey of finding myself took a significant turn when I encounteredtheloveofGodandacceptedJesusintomylife.
Through my relationship with God, I began to understand that my true identity is not found in the things I do or the roles I play, but in the fact that I am a beloved creation of God I am His child, created for His glory and to do His good works This realization brought a senseofpeaceandfulfillmentthatIhadneverexperiencedbefore.
As I continue to walk in faith and seek God's will for my life, I am no longer caught in the trap of trying to "keep up " with the ever-changing standards of the world. Instead, I find my identity rooted in the unchanging love and purposethatGodhasforme.IamHis,andthatisenough. So,ifyoufindyourselfaskingthequestion"WhoamI?"IencourageyoutoseekGodthroughHissonJesus,toknow His love, and to discover the unique purpose He has for your life. Your true identity is found in Him, and in Him alone.
Hey, young athletes and fitness enthusiasts! It’s Charade Casey here, and today I want to share with you some essential tips on how to maintain a fitness routine that keeps you healthy, happy, and energized. Whether you're aiming to be the next star athlete or just trying to stay active, fitness can be fun and rewarding for everyone. Let's dive into how you can keep fit and make the most of your teenage yea
byCharadeCasey
1
FindYourFit
First things first, finding an activity you love is key to maintaining fitness. Not everyone is into traditional sports like basketball or soccer. Maybe you’re into skateboarding, dancing, or even rock climbing. Experiment with different activities until you find something that feels more like fun than work. When you enjoy what you do, it’s easier to stick with it!
2
SetRealisticGoals
Setting goals is great, but make sure they are achievable and tailored to your personal fitness level. Start with small objectives, like improving your running time or increasing the number of push-ups you can do. Small victories will boost your confidence and motivate you to keep pushing forward.
3
KeepaSchedule
Consistency is key when it comes to fitness. Try to set specific times and days for your workouts and stick to them. Whether it’s a 30-minute session after school or a longer workout on the weekends, having a routine helps cement the habit. Plus, regular exercise can improve your mood and energy levels, making school and daily activities more manageable.
4
BalanceYourDiet
Fitness isn’t just about physical activity; it’s also about fueling your body properly. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. Stay hydrated, and yes, it’s okay to have a treat now and then balance is key!
FASHION JOURNEY
Hey fashion friends! I'm Teach Lavina D, and I'm super excited to help you dive into the world of personal style. Think of fashion as your secret language. It's how you can shouttotheworld,"Thisisme!"withoutsayingaword.Ready tostartyourstyleadventure?Let’sgo!
Step1:Mix&MatchMagic
First up, let’s play mix and match! Grab some fashion mags, scroll through somecoolInstafeeds,orcheckoutTikTokforthelatestvibes Tryondifferent styles maybe a funky hat today or a vintage jacket tomorrow It’s all about experimentingtoseewhatmakesyoufeelawesome
Step2:ClosetDetective
Now,let’sdosomedetectivework.Diveintoyourclosetandseewhat'sinthere. What do you find yourself wearing all the time? Is there something you love but never wear? Figuring out what you’re into helps you understand your fashionfaves.
Step3:LabelYourLook
What’s your style vibe? Are you all about comfy and casual, or do you love beingextrawithatouchofglam?Youdon’tneedtoboxyourselfintoonestyle mixing things up is way more fun! Jot down a few style words that feel like YOU.
Step4:VisionBoardVibes
It’s time to get visual! Create a cool style board on Pinterest or in a notebook. Pinorpastepicturesofoutfits,colors,andevencoolsneakersthatscreamyour style.Thisboardisyourstyleguide it’slikeyourfashioncompass!
Step5:SmartShopping
Armedwithyourstyleboard,it’stimetogoonatreasurehunt.Whetheryou’re at the mall or browsing online, keep your style words in mind. Remember, building the perfect wardrobe takes time. Oh, and don’t forget thrifting is yoursecretweaponforscoringuniquestuffonabudget!
Step6:RockItwithConfidence
The secret ingredient? Confidence! Rock your outfits with pride and remember, your style will grow as you do Maybe today you’re all about skate park chic, and next year, who knows? Fashion is all about change, and that’s whatkeepsitexciting
WHYCHOOSEUS?
6-8 WEEKS OR LONGER AS NEEDED
COMPLETELY VIRTUAL AND CONFIDENTIAL
ASSIST WITH ACHIEVING GOALS
ENHANCING PERSONAL GROWTH
IMPROVE WORK-LIFE BALANCE
BUILDING BETTER RELATIONSHIPS
COACH BRADLEY
Choosing life coaching is ideal for ambitious individuals who are dedicated to personal development, goal attainment, and achieving a balanced life with professional guidance. Life coaching provides tailored support to help individuals navigate challenges, set clear objectives, and stay motivated. It's a valuable resource for those seeking to maximize their potential, overcome obstacles, and maintain harmony between their personal and professional aspirations.
Finding Balance: A Teen Athlete's Journey to Excellence SHELDON STAPELTON
Flexibility and Preparedness
As a teen athlete, I understand the importance of being prepared for the unexpected My primary goal is to secure an athletic scholarship, but I've also prepared a Plan B pursuing a career in dentistry. It's crucial to have flexible plans and be open to different paths, like attending an alternative college or switching sports, to ensure success regardless of the obstacles
Continuous Learning and Adaptability
Adapting and learning new skills is part of my daily routine. Whether it's improving my athletic abilities or excelling academically, being adaptable helps me stay prepared for any changes that might come my way.
Guidance from Mentors and Coaches
The guidance I receive from my coaches and mentors is invaluable. They not only provide feedback on my performance but also help me navigate the complex balance between athletics and academics.
The Role of Family and Friends
My family's emotional and financial support is foundational to my journey They are my loudest cheerleaders at every event. My friends also play a critical role by keeping me grounded and supported through all ups and downs
Staying Motivated Amid Challenges
Staying focused on my goals, especially when faced with distractions or setbacks, is crucial. I maintain motivation by visualizing my success, keeping a positive mindset, and rewarding myself for small victories. This approach keeps me moving forward and not losing sight of my goals.
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, I plan to maintain a rigorous training schedule and continue building relationships with my mentors and coaches. These relationships are key to my growth and success. I'm also focused on keeping a balanced schedule to manage both my academic responsibilities and athletic training.
Biggest Dreams and Goals
My biggest dreams include excelling in my sport and earning a scholarship to play at a collegiate level, ideally at LSU Academically, I aim to maintain high grades to be eligible for scholarships, continuing the commitment I've had since being in advanced classes and participating in programs like BETA Club and Gifted from elementary school.
R E F L E C T I O N S O F M E
UNDERSTANDING AND SUPPORT: NATIONAL SUICIDE
PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH
September marks a vital time for everyone, especially teens it's National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month This month, communities across the country unite to share resources and stories, aiming to shed light on this often-taboo topic. Here’s what you need to know and how you can get involved in creating a supportive environment for everyone
Why It Matters
Suicide is among the leading causes of death among teenagers, and it's preventable. Many young people face mental health challenges, but they often go unnoticed or undiscussed This month is about breaking the silence and stigma that surround mental health and suicide, ensuring that help and hope are accessible to those who need them
Know the Signs
Part of prevention is understanding and recognizing the signs that someone might be struggling. These can include:
Withdrawing from friends and activities
Extreme mood swings
Expressing hopelessness or having no reason to live
Sleeping too little or too much
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Acting anxious or agitated
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
How to Help
If you notice a friend or someone you know showing any of these signs, there are ways you can help:
Speak Up: If you ’ re worried, say something Ask how they’re feeling and express your concern
Listen: Sometimes, the simple act of listening can provide huge support Let them talk about their feelings without judgment
Encourage Professional Help: Encourage them to talk to someone who can provide professional help, like a counselor or mental health professional
Stay Connected: Continue to be there for them. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there can make a big difference.
HELP.
Dear Teens,
ADVICE ON NUMBERS
By Lavina Dedeaux
I hope this school year is off to a great start, especially for Math. Here are some great tips for Math to kick off the school year:
Practice Regularly:
Consistent practice helps reinforce concepts and improve problem-solving skills.
Understand the Concepts:
Focus on understanding the 'why' behind mathematical rules and formulas.
Use Visual Aids:
Diagrams, graphs, and charts can help visualize problems and solutions.
Break Down Problems:
Tackle complex problems by breaking them into smaller, more manageable parts.
Review Mistakes:
Learn from errors by reviewing and understanding where you went wrong.
Use Resources:
Utilize textbooks, online tutorials, and after-school tutoring for additional help.
Stay Organized:
Keep notes and assignments well-organized for easy reference. These tips can help make your math study sessions more effective!
Best, Miss. Dedeaux
Coastal Community Leader
Ms.CarrissaCorbett
Memorable Moments Outreach, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Gulfport, Mississippi, is dedicated to supporting youth aged 12-24 in reducing rates of youth violence and teen pregnancy. Our mission is to empower youth by connecting them and their families to resources that will enable them to be successful in our everchanging global society.Our vision is to improve communities by providing quality change, access to resources, and enlightening the evolution of youth and their families with dignity for the future and a better tomorrow.
Our programs include academic support, mentorship, personal development workshops, recreational activities, and leadership opportunities. We aim to foster a sense of belonging and community among youth, particularly those from low-to-moderate income families who face various challenges. By providing tutoring, mentorship, life skills training, and leadership development, we help youth navigate their personal and educational journeys with confidence.
I am deeply passionate about helping teens on the Gulf Coast because I believe in the power of community and the potential of our youth. As a former Head Start Teacher and the founder of Memorable Moments Outreach, I have seen firsthand the impact of dedicated support and resources on young lives. My work with various community organizations and my role at Climb CDC’s Rapid Re-housing program have reinforced my commitment to making a difference. I strive to empower each young person I encounter, embodying the philosophy of "Reach One, Teach One" to create ripple effects of positive change. Through Memorable Moments Outreach, I am dedicated to building a brighter, more equitable future for all.
Coastal YouthMonthly
KAMERON BOLDEN
Kameron Bolden is a dedicated studentathlete from the Class of 2026 at West Harrison High School. A member of the National Honor Society and the English Society, Kameron excels both academically and athletically. He plays for the West Harrison Varsity Basketball Team and the KOTC Travel Basketball Team, demonstrating his commitment and passion for the sport. Beyond school, he is an active member of the International House of Prayer in Moss Point, MS, where he continues to nurture his faith and community spirit.
ADJhasthepowertosetthetonefortheentireevent Fromthemomentguests arrive, the music played can influence the mood and energy of the party. A professionalDJunderstandshowtoreadthecrowdandselecttracksthatcreate theperfectatmosphere,whetherit’supbeatandenergeticorrelaxedandmellow.
OneofthekeyrolesofaDJistokeeptheenergyhighandthepartyflowing.Agood DJknowshowtotransitionsmoothlybetweensongs,maintainaconsistenttempo, and keep guests engaged. They also use their skills to blend tracks seamlessly, avoidingawkwardpausesandensuringthedancefloorremainslively.
The right DJ will work closely with the event organizer to understand their vision and preferences This customization can include specific song requests, favorite genres,orthemedplaylists Bytailoringthemusicselectiontotheguestofhonor’s tastes and the event’s theme, a DJ creates a personalized and memorable experience
Fact: A customized music experience makes the celebration feel unique and special,reflectingthepreferencesoftheguestofhonorandenhancingtheoverall enjoymentoftheevent.
4.EngagestheCrowd
A talented DJ is more than just a music selector they’re also a master of crowd engagement Through microphone announcements, interactive activities, and personalized shout-outs, a DJ can connect with the guests and encourage participation This engagement helps create a lively and interactive atmosphere, makingeveryonefeelincludedandinvolved
Fact:EffectivecrowdengagementbyaDJbooststheparty’senergyandfostersa sense of community among guests, leading to a more memorable and enjoyable celebration
In Harrison County, a remarkable business venture is flourishing, thanks to the ingenuity and hard work of Ty'Ssan Alexis, a young entrepreneurfromPassChristian Atjust11yearsoldanda5thgrader at Pass Christian Elementary, Ty'Ssan has transformed a simple idea cleaning trash cans into a thriving, eco-friendly business called The Little Trash Can Man Here’s how this ambitious youngster is turning a mundane chore into a booming business, all while juggling school,sports,andhisentrepreneurialambitions.
TheSparkofanIdea
TheideaforTheLittleTrashCanMansprangfromTy'Ssan'svisionto help his community, particularly the elderly, who often struggle with the physical demands of cleaning their trash bins Recognizing the need for this service, Ty'Ssan armed himself with a pressure washer and a commitment to use eco-friendly cleaning products to start his business The service offers convenient and affordable curbside cleaningthatleavesbinssparklingandodor-free
ExpandingReachandBuildingCommunity
What started as a modest venture quickly gained traction Ty'Ssan’s dedication to customer satisfaction and his entrepreneurial spirit helped him grow The Little Trash Can Man to over 50 regular customers His efforts have significantly raised community awareness about the importance of hygiene and proper waste management, makinghisneighborhoodacleanerandhealthierplacetolive.
BalancingAct:SchoolandEntrepreneurship
Managing a growing business is no small feat, especially for an elementary school student Ty'Ssan not only runs his business but also actively participates in football and basketball, and is committed tomaintaininghisgrades.Hisabilitytobalancetheseresponsibilities demonstrates remarkable time management and dedication. “It’s about making the most of every moment,” Ty'Ssan reflects on how he juggleshisbusyschedule
Voices Teen
BY AUBREY HOLTON, 9TH GRADER AT HARRISON CENTRAL HIGH, GULFPORT, MS
AS A FRESHMAN AT HARRISON CENTRAL HIGH, NAVIGATING HIGH SCHOOL LIFE HAS BEEN BOTH EXCITING AND CHALLENGING. AMID THE HUSTLE OF NEW CLASSES, EXTRACURRICULARS, AND SOCIAL DYNAMICS, I’VE LEARNED THAT MAINTAINING MENTAL HEALTH IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS KEEPING UP WITH SCHOOLWORK. HERE’S HOW I’VE BEEN ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH AND WHAT I’VE LEARNED ALONG THE WAY.
1.AcknowledgeYourFeelings
One of the first steps in managing mental health is to acknowledge your feelings. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed. Recognizing these emotions is crucial infindingwaystocopewiththem.
My Approach: I’ve found that talking about my feelings with friends or family helps a lot. Sometimes, just expressing whatI’mgoingthroughmakesmefeelbetterandlessalone
2.DevelopHealthyCopingStrategies
Findinghealthywaystocopewithstressisessential Forme, this means developing strategies that work for my mental health, whether it’s through physical activity, hobbies, or mindfulnesspractices.
My Approach: I enjoy journaling and drawing as a way to express my thoughts. It’s a creative outlet that helps me process my emotions. Additionally, participating in sports helpsmereleasepent-upenergyandreducesstress.
3.ManageYourTimeWisely
Balancing schoolwork, activities, and personal time can be overwhelming Time management is key to reducing stress andpreventingburnout
My Approach: I use a planner to keep track of my assignments and activities. Creating a schedule and breaking tasks into smaller steps helps me stay organized andlessstressed.
4.BuildaSupportSystem
Having a support system is vital Surrounding yourself with understanding friends and family can make a significant difference in how you handle mental health challenges.
My Approach: I’m grateful for the supportive friends I have. We check in with each other regularly and offer support when someone is feeling down. Having people who understand and care makes a big difference.
5.Don’tHesitatetoSeekHelp
If you’re struggling, seeking help from a school counselor, therapist, or trusted adult can be incredibly beneficial. It’s important to know that asking for help is a sign of strength.
My Approach: I’ve spoken with my school counselor when I’ve needed extra support It’s reassuring to have someone to talk to who can offer guidance and help me navigate difficult situations
6.PracticeSelf-Care
Taking care of yourself is crucial Self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate; it can be as simple as setting aside time for yourself each day
My Approach: I make sure to set aside time for activities I enjoy, like reading or hanging out with friends. It’s important to take a break and do things that make you happy.
7.StayPositiveandSetGoals
Maintaining a positive mindset and setting realistic goals can help you stay motivated and focused. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.
My Approach: I set small, achievable goals for myself and celebrate when I reach them. This helps me stay motivated and reminds me of my progress
