The Kids Hall of Fame Inductees
12-Year-Old Extraordinary Achievers
ACTIVIST: ANIMAL ADOPTION
Roman McConn, through Project Freedom Ride (PFR), the organization he founded at age 5, had fostered over 40 dogs and helped save more than 4,800 dogs. Roman explains, “I just love working with dogs. I want to give them a second chance.”
(Augusta, Georgia: 2021)
Photo: Courtesy of The McConn Family and Project Freedom Ride
Visit Roman’s Website.
Learn about Roman as:
– an activist: animal adoption: age 4, age 5, age 7, age 10
– a founder: age 5
– a speaker: age 7
– a TV host: age 8
ACTIVIST: ANIMAL RIGHTS
Justin Sather, an animal activist, conservationist, is determined to save frogs and the rain forest which are becoming extinct.
(Calibad, California: 2022)
Illustrated by Elgin Bolling
Visit Justin’s website.
Learn about Justin as:
– a fundraiser: age 10
ACTIVIST: ANIMAL RIGHTS
Nellie Shutte
(Hong Kong: 2014)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
ACTIVIST: CHILDREN'S RIGHTS
Iqbal Masih served as an international spokesperson and activist to end child labor worldwide (1992-1995)
(Pakistan: 1994)
Illustrated by Elgin Bolling
ACTIVIST: VOTING RIGHTS
Madison Kimrey wrote a petition and got it signed by over 12,000 people, objecting to the North Carolina law preventing 16 and 17 year olds from pre-registering to vote when they reached the voting age of 18. She also started the NC Youth Rock Movement. Madison’s message, “We should be encouraging young people to take an active part in their government, not discouraging them.”
(North Carolina: 2013)
Illustrated by Danielle Alexander
View Madison’s presentation.
ACTIVIST: WATER RIGHTS
Autumn Peltier, often referred to as the “Water Warrior,” is on a mission to ensure everyone’s right to have clean water. After she spoke to Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, at the Assembly of First Nations, about the choices he made for her people, he promised Autumn, “I will protect the water.”
(Canada: 2016)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Warwick Davis, who, at age 11, was cast as an “extra” ewok in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, got the role of lead Ewok Wicket. Kenny Baker, who originally had that role, became ill, so Warwick was selected to replace him.
(Epsom, Surrey, England: 1982)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
Learn about Warwick as:
– an actor: age 11, age 13, age 17
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Zachary Gordon played the role of Greg Heffley in the film series Diary of a Wimpy Kid.
(Oak Park, California: 2010)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Rupert Grint played the role of Ron Weasley in the film Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, as it’s entitled in the United States, India and the Philippines, but entitled Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in the rest of the world. The film is based upon J. K. Rowling’s children’s novel. The film was released in 2001, when Rupert was 13 years old.
(Harlow, Essex, England: 2001)
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Thomas Horn played the role of Oskar Schell in the film Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, for which he earned several award nominations. Thomas, who had no prior acting experience, was “discovered” by a film producer after winning a Kids Week episode of the game show Jeopardy!
(California: 2010)
Christina Ricci played Jessica in The Cemetery Club. She also played Wednesdays Addams in the comedy film Addams Family Values, the sequel to The Addams Family.
(Los Angeles, California: 1993)
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Albert Tsai
(San Jose, California: 2016)
Aidan McCann was cast as David Flynn in season 1 of “Bad Sisters” for Apple TV. Aidan also played the role of Niall Mohan in BBC’s TV series “Clean Sweep”.
(Ireland: 2022)
Story: Courtesy of Aidan, his parents & Brennan Acting Agency
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Fred Savage played in Princess Bride.
Illustrated by Jake Reher
ACTOR / ACTRESS
ACTOR / ACTRESS
Jaleel White played role of Steve Urkel on the TV program Family Matters.
(Culver City, California: 1985)
Illustrated by Michael Dubisch
ADVOCATE: ANIMAL RIGHTS
Thomas Ponce, an animal rights advocate, created Lobby For Animals. It is a non-profit lobbying organization that educates and helps people who want to protect animal rights. Thomas believes this can be done effectively by lobbying. He explains, “I am a firm believer that knowledge is definitely power and when you speak with knowledge and from your heart, people will listen, regardless of your age…Learn how easy it is to lobby for animals. Learning to lobby is really a lot easier than you’d think…Don’t just dream of change. Lobby for it.”
(Casselberry, Florida: 2013)
Note: Currently (2024) Thomas is a college student who accepts requests for speaking engagements.
Visit Thomas’ website.
ADVOCATE: UNICEF
YOUTH ADVOCATES FOR UNICEF
Maria Marshall (Barbados: 2021)
John William (Guinea-Bissau: 2021)
AMBASSADOR: LITTLE PRINCESS TRUST
Teiva Collins was invited to be an ambassador for Little Princess Trust 20 months after being diagnosed with Leukemia while still going through chemotherapy. She lost her hair very soon after being diagnosed in May 2019, at 9 years old. From the off, The Little Princess Trust was there to support her and her family throughout her journey, providing her with a beautiful real hair wig, giving her the confidence to go into school when she felt well enough.
Teiva and her family set up an Instagram account to share her cancer story and help raise awareness for Little Princess Trust, which included doing a number of radio, newspaper and TV interviews while going through her treatment.
(United Kingdom: 2021)
Story & Photo: Courtesy of Little Princess Trust
Learn more about Teiva as an ambassador.
AMBASSADOR: MARCH OF DIMES
Elijah Jackson served as the national ambassador for the March of Dimes for 2015. He and his family traveled throughout the US sharing his inspirational story and raising awareness of premature birth.
(Chicago, Illinois: 2015)
APP DESIGNER / CREATOR
Thomas Suarez developed a number of popular iPhone apps including Bustin Jeiber, and a whack-o-mole game. He uses his skills to help other kids become app developers.
(Los Angeles, California: 2012)
APP DESIGNER / CREATOR
Emma Yang created Timeless, the first mobile app designed specifically to help people with Alzheimer’s stay engaged and connected to their loved ones. It helps them keep track of faces, dates, events, and information important to them.
(New York: 2016)
Visit Emma’s website.
ARTIST: CARTOONIST
Joe Whale, also known as “The Doodle Boy,” was hired as a co-creator for Nike.
(Shrewsbury, England: 2022)
Illustrated by Kathan Dorriety
Visit Joe’s website.
Learn about Joe as:
– an artist: age 9, age 10, age 13
Aelita Andre created soundpaintings.
(Melbourne, Australia: 2019)
Illustrated by Jiani Ma
Visit Aelita’s website.
Learn about Aelita as:
– an artist: age 2, age 4, age 6, age 9
Janine Bolling was one of the winning artists whose creative design won her the opportunity to paint one of the life-size, fiberglass cows in New York City’s CowParade.
(Brooklyn, New York: 2000)
Illustration & Story by Elgin Bolling, Janine’s Dad
Learn more…
Kamila Valieva performed at the Exhibition gala of the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Rostelecom Cup 2018.
(Russia: 2018)
Learn about Kamila as:
– an athlete: figure skater: age 15
ATHLETE: GOLFER
Tiger Woods won the Optimist International Junior World Golf Tournament for the third time. Tiger went on to become one of the most accomplished athletes of all time.
(Cypress, California: 1988)
Visit Tiger’s website.
ATHLETE: GYMNAST
Alexandra Govere
(Zimbabwe: 2002)
ATHLETE: MOUNTAIN CLIMBER
Tyler Armstrong became the sixth youngest person to climb to the top of Mt. Denali, which is 20,320 feet high.
At age 12, Tyler also climbed to the top of Mt. Kosciuszko, in Australia. That mountain is 7,310 feet high.
(California: 2016)
Visit Tyler’s website.
Learn about Tyler as:
– an athlete: mountain climber: age 7, age 8, age 9, age 11, age 13
ATHLETE: MOUNTAIN CLIMBER
Merrick Johnston became the youngest female to reach the top of Alaska’s Mt. McKinley, North America’s tallest mountain.
(Alaska: 1995)
Illustrated by Michael Dubisch
ATHLETE: MOUNTAIN CLIMBER
Dor Geta Popescu climbed to the top of Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley.
(Romania: 2016)
Illustrated by Alexander Holliday
ATHLETE: MOUNTAIN CLIMBER
Lucy Westlake, with her father, Rodney Westlake, climbed to the top of Kings Peak in Utah. She set the world record as the youngest female to climb the lower 48 state highpoints (highest mountain in every state, except Hawaii and Alaska). She and her father set the record as the youngest father-daughter team to do so.
(Naperville, Illinois: 2016)
Visit Lucy’s website.
Learn about Lucy as:
– an athlete: mountain climber: age 7, age 8, age 13, age 15, age 17, age 18
ATHLETE: SKATEBOARDER
OLYMPIC MEDALIST
Kokona Hiraki became Japan’s youngest athlete to ever represent the country in the Summer Olympic Games. She won a silver medal in the women’s park event. After practicing a nosegrind trick over and over again, Kokona explained, “You can feel all the things I love about skateboarding through this trick. The unstableness from being just on the front truck of the coping, the sound of grinding, and the satisfaction when you make it.”
(Tokyo, Japan: 2021)
ATHLETE: SWIMMER
Samantha Druce swam across the English Channel in 15 hours and 27 minutes. Now a minimum age of 16 is required to swim the channel.
(England: 1983)
Judit Kiss, from Hungary, competed in the Olympics.
(Barcelona: 1992)
ATHLETE: TABLE TENNIS OLYMPIAN
Hend Zaza was the youngest competitor in the Tokyo 2021 Summer Olympics, the youngest table tennis entrant of all time, and the youngest Olympian since 1992. Although Hend started playing table tennis at age 5, her practice time was very limited because of the ongoing war in her home country, Syria. Despite losing to her competitor, 39-year-old Liu Jia (who had competed in three Olympic Games before Hend was born), Hend explains, “Reaching the Tokyo Olympics was already an achievement. I wasn’t asked to win; I was asked to play well. I think I had a good performance and I learned from the loss.”
At the Olympic opening ceremony, Hend, with Olympian Ahmad Hamcho, carried the Syrian flag in the Parade of Nations.
(Tokyo, Japan: 2021)
ATHLETE: X GAMES
Tom Schaar became the youngest X Games gold medalist when he won the Mini Mega category.
(United States: April 2012)
Illustrated by Kathan Dorriety
ATHLETE: X GAMES
Alana Smith won the silver medal in the Women’s Skateboard Park competition at the X Games in Barcelona, Spain.
(United States: 2013)
AUTHOR: INFLUENTIAL LETTER
Kalman Gabriel began his letter writing campaign to more than 3,000 celebrities asking them, “What is your advice for life?” He compiled their words of wisdom into the book Dear Kalman: Smart, Peculiar, and Outrageous Advice from Famous People to a Kid. It was published in 1999 when he was 17 years old.
(Oyster Bay, New York: 1994)
Illustrated by Michael Dubisch
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Thomas Aycock has his 41-page book, The Truth About Bullies, published by Young Authors Publishing. Thomas likes to play video games and help people who are sad.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2020)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Ritaj Hussain Alhazmi published her second book, Portal of the Hidden World. Ritaj explained, “I realized there aren’t many novels for this age group, so I decided to create a few of my own.”
(Dhahran, Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia: 2020)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Sykhia Clark, Gilbrea Clay, Taniya Lewis and Aniya Ussery authored the 32-page book, Roxie’s Day In Vine City, published by Young Authors Publishing.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2018)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Nicholas Dozier had his 34-page book, Never Give Up, published by Young Authors Publishing. Nick plays basketball and football, but when he’s injured in game, it looks like he might not be able to play either sport ever again.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2019)
Lloyd Foster had his 34-pagebook, If I Were President, published by Young Authors Publishing. He believes that in order to be a good politician you have to be a good person and have the people’s best interest at heart.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2019)
Barbara Newhall Follet had the novel, she wrote at age 8, published.
Antonio Jackson had his 40-page book, It Was Sooo Easy, published by Young Authors Publishing.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2019)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Olivia James had her 40-page book, Fatima The Activist, published by Young Authors Publishing. The main character, Fatima, is annoyed that the girls at her school are being discriminated against by the boys. She decides to gather all the girls at her school to host a protest demanding equality. Will the girls finally be treated fairly by the boys? Through her book, Olivia James teaches children the importance of equal rights and how to take action for equality.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Jackson Jeffrey had his 40-page book, Dwayne’s Big Decision, published by Young Authors Publishing. The book’s main character, Dwayne, is an excellent basketball player and, secretly, a terrific French horn player. Dwayne has a difficult decision to make. Should he join the band or continue his reign as basketball king? It’s a rough choice because he’ll be disappointing his teammates or his newly found band friends. Can Dwayne overcome peer pressure and do what makes him the most happy?
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Malik Jones had his 42-page book, The Last Call, published by Young Authors Publishing. The author recalls the last time he spoke with his dad, before his dad passed away. Malik tries to take is dad’s advice, “Enjoy the simple things.”
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
Gordon Korman completed his first book, the novel This Can’t Be Happening at Macdonald Halll! His mother typed it for him. The book was published two years later, by Scholastic Press, when Gordon was 14.
(Ontario, Canada: 1976)
Amana J. Kumar published her first poetry book, Echoes of Soulful Poems.
(Bengaluru, Karnataka, India: 2020)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Amari Latimore had his 32-page book, Realistic Dreams, published by Young Authors Publishing.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
Jake Marcionette had his first book, Just Jake, a 160-page diary style book, published by Grosset & Dunlap. It is a semi-autobiographical tale of a 6th grader learning to survive middle school. Just Jake debuted on the New York Times bestseller list in the middle grade category in 7th place.
(Maryland: 2014)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Noah McCullough had his second book published, entitled First Kids: The True Stories of All the Presidents’ Children.
At age 13, Noah had his updated version, which includes information on Malia and Sasha Obama, published in 2009 by Scholastic.
(Colorado: 2008)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Amir Mincey had his 26-page book, The Helpful Duo, published by Young Authors Publishing. It teaches the importance of kindness and value of genuine friendship to those who are less fortunate.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2019)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Jordan Morrissette had his 40-page book, Trevon’s Globe-Trotting Adventures, published by Young Authors Publishing. Trevon’s best friend, Ray, dares him to enter a creepy antique shop. Trevon accepts the dare and learns that the shop isn’t creepy at all, but instead allows him to travel all around the world through touching the artifacts. How many cultures can Trevon experience in one afternoon?
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Salathiel Murphy had his book, Taming the Flame: A Story of Mastering Emotions, published by Young Authors Publishing. This 32-page book helps empower readers to show expressions of kindness.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Sara Rimmerman had the biography, she wrote about a female pilot, published. Sara explains. “Fay, then in her nineties, was telling us all these stories about what she’s done. She had enough stories to fill a book, but no one’s ever written a book about her. So, it all fell into place.”
(Kansas City, Missouri: 1999)
Illustrated by Elgin Bolling
Learn more…
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Panuthula Sucharita authored (during the corona pandemic lockdown period) Unforgettable Audacious Adventures of My School Life. It is a 64 page fiction book, comprising humor, action, and adventure, was published by Notion Press.
(Bangalore, Karnataka, India: 2020)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
Brenae Thomas had her 40-page book, The Swap, published by Young Authors Publishing. The books is about 8-year-old Kyrah and her friend Max, who attend school together. Their teacher, Ms. Porter, isn’t nice to the students and hurts their feelings. One day Kyrah wakes and realizes she switched roles with Ms. Porter. Now it’s Kyrah’s turn to show Ms. Porter how to treat her students.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 2022)
AUTHOR: PUBLISHED BOOK
CHAMPION / CO-CHAMPION:
SCRIPPS NATIONAL SPELLING BEE
Abhijay Kodali correctly spelled “palama”.
(Flower Mound, Texas: 2019)
CHAMPION / CO-CHAMPION:
SCRIPPS NATIONAL SPELLING BEE
Jody-Anne Maxwell was the first black contestant to win since the Bee began in 1925.
(Kingston, Jamaica: 1998)
CHAMPION / CO-CHAMPION:
SCRIPPS NATIONAL SPELLING BEE
George Thampy correctly spelled “demarche”.
(Maryland Heights, Missouri: 2000)
Ananya Vinay correctly spelled “marocain”.
(Fresno, California: 2017)
CHEF: BAKER / DESSERTS
Keaton Ashton won season nine of the Food Network’s Kids Baking Championship.
(Sugar City, Idaho: 2021)
Aidan Berry won season three of the Food Network’s Kids Baking Championship.
(Shalimar, Florida: 2017)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
CHEF: BAKER / DESSERTS
Naiel Chaudry won season eleven of the Food Network’s Kids Baking Championship.
(Los Altos, California: 2023)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
CHEF: BAKER / DESSERTS
Hollis Johnson won season one of the Food Network’s Kids Baking Championship.
(Jacksonville, Florida: 2015)
Illustrated by Kathan Dorriety
CHESS: GRANDMASTER
Gukesh Dommaraju (at 12 years, 7 months, and 17 days old)
(India: 2019)
Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus (at 12 years, 9 months, and 29 days old)
(Turkey: 2024)
Sergey Karjakin (at 12 years and 7 months old)
(Ukraine: 2012)
CHESS: GRANDMASTER
Abhimanyu “Abhi” Mishra became the world’s youngest ever chess Grandmaster, at 12 years, 4 months, and 25 days old, breaking the record that stood for 19 years. He started learning to play chess at age 2, from his father.
(Englishtown, New Jersey: 2021)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
Visit Abhi’s website.
Learn about Abhi as:
– an author: published book: age 13
– a chess grandmaster: age 10
– a chess player: age 2, age 5, age 7, age 9
CHESS: GRANDMASTER
Praggnanandhaa “Pragg” Rameshbabu (at 12 years, 10 months, and 13 days old)
(India: 2018)
Javokhir Sindarov (as 12 years, 10 months, and 5 days old)
(Uzbekistan: 2019)
CHESS: INTERNATIONAL MASTER
Andy Woodward became a Chess International Master (IM) at 12 years and one month old.
(Texas: 2022)
COLLEGE FRESHMAN
Erik Demaine was accepted to Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia and completed his bachelor’s degree at age 14.
(Nova Scotia, Canada: 1993)
COLLEGE FRESHMAN
Natashia Lewis became a college freshman.
(California: 1996)
Jeremy Shuler became a freshman at Cornell University.
(Texas: 2016)
COLLEGE GRADUATE
Sho Yano graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree from Loyola University in Chicago.
(Portland, Oregon: 2002)
CRITIC: FOOD
David Fishman
(New York City, New York: 2019)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
Visit David’s website.
CRITIC: FOOD
David Pines
(New York City, New York: 2012)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
CRITIC: FOOD
DISCOVERER: COMET
Rafal Biros is the youngest person to discover a new comet. It was named SOHO-4094. Rafal learned how to hunt comets from his Uncle Szymon, a comet discoverer. Rafal explained, “Due to online learning I get to spend more time at home engaging in the Sungrazer Project more actively.” Sungrazer is NASA’s citizen-science project that lets citizens be part of scientific research projects. Rafal’s message: “The most important thing when it comes to hunting for comets or other space objects is not to give up and keep going. It’s hard at first, but as time goes by, everything becomes easier…Being involved in various projects allows you to discover and develop your hobbies.”
(Swidnica, Poland: 2020)
Illustrated by Ivy Guo
DONOR: FUNDS
Alejandro Buxton, founder and CEO of Smell of Love Candles, donates, monthly, a portion of his company’s monthly profits to a different organization, many of which are education based. Alejandro’s message, “We are stronger when we take care of each other… It’s pretty nice to like, support people around the world, and help the homeless too. It feels great. It feels real nice.”
(Fairfax, Virginia: 2022)
Photo: Courtesy of the Buxton Family
Visit Alejandro’s website.
Learn about Alejandro as:
– an entreprener: age 10, age 12 (below)
– a podcaster: age 13
DONOR: HAIR
Hailey Coates, for the fourth time, donated her hair to Wigs for Kids, a non-profit organization that makes free wigs for kids who lose their hair due to medical reasons. Hailey began donating her hair every two years, beginning at age 6 and continuing through age 16.
(New Providence, New Jersey: 2014)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
ENTREPRENEUR
Isabel Bercaw, and her 11-year-old sister, Caroline, created and sold bath bombs, which are powdery, fist-size balls that, when dropped into a bathtub, release an eruption of fragrance, color and fizz. They learned how to make them by reading books and searching the Internet. The sisters placed a fun, surprise item in each bath bomb and shared the bombs with friends. Their bombs were such a hit, that Isabel and Caroline borrowed $150 from their parents to purchase supplies needed to sell their product at the kid’s division at a local art fair. The bombs sold out on the first day, and the sisters went home to make more until one o’clock the next morning.
(Minneapolis, Minnesota: 2013)
Illustrated by Alexandra Holliday
Visit Isabel’s and Caroline’s website.
Learn about Isabel as:
– an entrepreneur: age 13
– a millionaire: age 18
– a philanthropist: age 19
– a visionary: age 11
ENTREPRENEUR
Alejandro Buxton began selling his Smell of Love candles at a kiosk (a stand) located in a mall near his home in Virginia. Shortly afterwards, while still age 12, Alejandro began selling his product at a brick-and-mortar store.
Smell of Love Candles is a family affair. Alejandro’s mom, Patricia, helps him with the financial aspect of the business. His younger sister, Valentina, assists with operations.
Part of Alejandro’s motivation for starting his business/company was to buy more comic books, save money for college, and help people in need.
(Fairfax, Virginia: 2022)
Photo: Courtesy of the Buxton Family
Visit Alejandro’s website.
Learn about Alejandro as:
– an entrepreneur: age 10, age 12 (above)
– a podcaster: age 13
ENTREPRENEUR
Kaitlyn Falasco and her sister, Julianna Falasco (age 10) launched their business, Gentle Handz. It sells gentle, non-chemical, skin lotion bars, convenient to use while on the go. Their secret formula, comprised of raw organic ingredients, was inspired from wanting to make earth a better place. They explain, “Our lotion bars will make your skin buttery soft…”
(California: 2018)
Photo: Courtesy of the Falasco Family
Learn more…
ENVIRONMENTALIST
Ryan Hickman’s company, Ryan’s Recycling, after 9 years of daily recycling, reached the 1,500,000 total items recycled mark.
Ryan’s message, “So many kids don’t know that they have the ability to make a difference in the world. Just follow your dreams, stay focused, and don’t be afraid to take chances.”
(San Juan Capistrano, California: 2022)
Photo: Courtesy of Ryan’s Recycling
Visit Ryan’s website.
FOUNDER
Robbie Bergquist and his sister Brittany (age 13) co-founded Cell Phones for Soldiers, after learning of a soldier returning from Iraq with an $8,000 phone bill. They were shocked that a man serving his country couldn’t call his family for free. Within five months, their newly established non-profit organization distributed $100,000 worth of calling cards to deployed troops.
(Alpharetta, Georgia: 2004)
Illustrated by Ray Russotto
Visit Robbie’s and Brittany’s website.
FOUNDER
Will Gladstone (left) and his 9-year-old brother, Matthew, started the Blue Feet Foundation. It raised money by selling blue socks with a whimsical blue-footed booby design. The money was used to help conserve the blue-footed boobies and their habitat in the Galapagos Islands.
(Arlington, Massachusetts: 2016)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
FOUNDER
Ryan Hickman made his second appearance on The Ellen Show as a featured guest where he was given a $20,000 check for his newly formed nonprofit, Project3R. Ryan started it to encourage and educate kids about recycling and taking care of our planet through sustainability.
(San Juan Capistrano, California: 2021)
Photo: Courtesy of Ryan’s Recycling
Visit Ryan’s website.
FOUNDER
Lacy Jones, an environmentalist, co-founded the Don’t be Crude Team.
(Texas: 1997)
Michael Kay founded the Share a Friend 4-H Foundation.
(2000)
Thomas Ponce founded LobbyForAnimals.org.
See Advocate: Animals, above.
(Casselberry, Florida: 2013)
FOUNDER
Haile Thomas founded the HAPPY Org.
(2012)
Cody Unser founded Cody Unser First Step Foundation, fundraiser.
(Albuquerque, New Mexico: 1999)
Holly Walker became founder and CEO of Generation Hope.
(Las Vegas, Nevada: 1998)
FUNDRAISER
Brett Byrd became a fundraising musician for breast cancer prevention.
(Vancouver, Washington: 1994)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
FUNDRAISER
Kelly Davis became a lobbyist and fundraiser for police dog vests.
(West Bath, Maine: 2002)
Illustrated by Elgin Bolling
FUNDRAISER
HUMANITARIAN
Jahkil Jackson and his non-profit organization, Project I Am, which he founded when he was 8 years old, has distributed over 40,000 Blessings Bags for homeless people in Chicago. Each Ziplock bag is filled with toiletries and a snack.
Jahkil’s extraordinary work in helping and building an awareness of the homeless, has earned him several honors. He was named one of the 4 Young Wonders of 2019 spotlighted on CNN, and he was declared a Daily Point of Light honoree. In addition, Marvel Comics created an issue in his honor, “Make way for Jahkill Jackson.” Jahkil’s message, “Don’t wait until you’re an adult to be great. Be great now.”
(Chicago, Illinois: 2019)
In 2020, Jahkil’s Project I Am provided Blessings Bags for seniors, the group most impacted by the covid-19 pandemic.
INVENTOR
Shubham Banerjee invented Braigo, a low-cost, portable, Lego Braille printer-embosser. He created a working prototype out of his Lego Mindstorms EV3 robotics kit and a few cheap electrical components. Braigo reduces the price of a Braille printer from approximately $2,000 to $350 for education, teaching, and home-use purposes. “My parents, from when I was very young, emphasized helping people and doing meaningful work and that is where the idea stemmed from.”
Shubham presented Braigo at his school science fair and then at Synopsis, a larger science fair where he won first prize.
(Santa Clara, California: 2014)
Illustrated by Kathan Dorriety
Learn about Shubham as:
– a founder: age 13
INVENTOR
Blair Breazeale invented LockerLites to brighten the inside of school lockers. These rectangle, round, oval, star, and heart-shaped magnetized pieces are framed with a border of battery-powered LED lights that slowly change colors. They also have a light sensor that turns them off when the locker closes.
Blair’s invention sold at Wal-Mart and Michael’s stores for about $5 each. Blair’s photograph was on the back of each package of LockerLites. She explains, “I just thought of myself as a kid, thinking of ideas, not really an inventor.”
(Bentonville, Arkansas: 2010)
Illustrated by Hannah Umali
Learn about Blair as:
– a visionary: age 11
INVENTOR
Peter Chilvers invented the sailboard, by putting a sail on his surfboard. It became the first sailboard and evolved into the sport of windsurfing. Peter used his invention for fun and did not reproduce it for commercial purposes.
(Hayling Island, England: 1958)
INVENTOR
Lindsey E. Clement invented the Gumball Machine. It picks up the walnut-size balls with spiny thorns that drop from sweet gum trees.
(Longview, Texas)
INVENTOR
Ariel Krasik-Geiger invented the Calibrated Angle and Dept Scissors.
(Seattle, Washington: 1998)
Anthony D. Jarecki invented the Easy Lift Trash Can.
(Lindsay, Nebraska: 2002)
INVENTOR
Margaret “Mattie” Knight invented a safety device preventing deadly accidents by weaving looms.
(New Hampshire: 1850)
Illustrated by Michael Dubisch
Adam Koosmann invented the Handy Hammer which stores nails inside the handle.
INVENTOR
Adrian Lindsey invented the All-Net Sak, a nylon over the shoulder, basketball carrier, which resembles a basketball net. It sold in Cleveland, Ohio area Wal Mart stores. Within a few years, the Cleveland Cavaliers Team Shop at the Quicken Loans Arena started selling them.
Adrian’s inspiration to create the All-Net Sak came from his being tired of having to balance a basketball while riding his bike to the neighborhood courts and riding one-handed or carrying a gym bag. He explained, “My mom told me to think of something unique,” and he did.
(Akron, Ohio: 2003)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
INVENTOR
Elon Musk, who taught himself to program at age 10, invented and wrote the code for Blastar, a video space game. Elon then sold it for approximately $500 to a PC and technology magazine.
(Pretoria, Transvaal, South Africa: 1983)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
Justin Riebeling invented the Speed Grain Cart which made the task of feeding cattle much easier.
(Millstadt, Illinois)
INVENTOR
Peyton Robertson invented a better sandbag to help prevent flooding.
(Fort Lauderdale, Florida: 2014)
Illustrated by Alexandra Holliday
INVENTOR
Jakob Sperry invented GyRings, a fidget toy that helps people stay calm and focused.
(Newton, Massachusetts: 2012)
Illustrated by Catherine Sun
Visit Jakob’s website.
LIFESAVER / RESCUER
Scarlett Hutchinson, a Scout, saved the life of another Scout who was chocking. Scarlett did so by performing a series of abdominal thrusts which dislodge the piece of food that was blocking the Scout’s airway. Scarlett attributes her efforts to what she had learned in the First Aid merit badge class she had taken. Scarlett explained, “Scouts prepared me, because I was taught what to do in an emergency situation and how to respond quickly and calmly when something serious happens.”
(Texas: 2021)
MAGICIAN
Aidan McCann performed card magic for the Make A Wish Foundation of Ireland. Aidan explained, “I enjoy performing magic because it makes other people happy and that makes me happy.”
(Ireland: 2022)
Story & Photo: Courtesy of Aidan, His Parents & Brennan Acting Agency
MOVIE REVIEWER
Kennedy Orr became a movie reviewer for Kids News & Reviews.
(Delta, Canada: 2018)
Read Kennedy’s review of Incredibles 2.
MUSICIAN: COMPOSER
Shashwat Joglekar, piano music composer, played his self-composed music on piano for one hour during a music concert.
(Gurugram, Haryana, India: 2019)
MUSICIAN: PIANO PLAYER
Emily Bear played two pianos simultaneously.
(Rockford, Illinois: 2014)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
MUSICIAN: SINGER
Charlotte Church recorded her vocal debut album, Voice of an Angel, which reached double-platinum status. She became the youngest classical vocalist to sell over a million copies of her album.
(Wales, United Kingdom: 1998)
Illustrated by Michael Dubisch
MUSICIAN: SINGER
Billy Gilman sang at the Grand Ole Opry and became the youngest artist to have a single country hit topping the Billboard charts. Billy’s message, “Finding out what you want to do the rest of your life is really important. One dream can change the world. Keep following your dream, because no dream is too extreme.”
(Richmond, Rhode Island: 2000)
Illustrated by Michael Dubisch
MUSICIAN: SINGER
Taylor Swift sang America’s National Anthem at the Detroit Pistons/Philadelphia 76ers basketball game. Taylor explains, “I’ve been singing Shakira songs in front of my bathroom mirror into my hairbrush forever. It’s like a daily routine.”
(Wyomissing, Pennsylvania: 2002)
Illustrated by Anahita Erfani
Learn about Taylor as:
– a visionary: age 11
Brenda Lee, born Brenda May Tarpley, became the youngest person to place a song on Billboard’s Country Singles Chart.
(Atlanta, Georgia: 1955)
MUSICIAN: TABLA PLAYER
Truptraj Pandya, by age 12, gave more than 200 public performances playing the tabla. He also gave two TEDx Talks.
Truptraj received the Global Child Prodigy Award which was presented to him by Kiran Bediji (Governor of Pondicherry) and Kailas Satyavartiji (Nobel Prize winner).
Truptraj routinely, practiced the tabla at least two hours every day. He explained, “People need three ingredients to live: air, water, and food. I need one more, daily tabla riyaaz (practice). If I don’t practice, I feel incomplete.”
(Mumbai, India: 2017)
Visit Truptraj’s website.
Visit Truptraj’s YouTube channel.
MUSICIAN: TROMBONIST
Peter Moore performed with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (NOW). He was the youngest winner of BBC Young Musician of the Year, which is open to young people age 18 and under. The BBC NOW (British Broadcasting Corporation National Orchestra of Wales) is the only professional symphony orchestra organization in Wales. It is both a broadcasting orchestra and a national orchestra. Peter played the baritone trombone since he was 5 years old.
(Ireland: 2008)
Illustrated by Jake Reher
Learn about Peter as:
– a musician: age 18
MUSICIAN: VIOLINIST
Christian Li became the youngest musician ever to record for the Decca Classics label. His debut single is La Ronde des Lutins (The Dance of the Goblins) by Italian composer and violinist Antonio Bazzini. Its technical complexities are designed to show off the instrument to its full advantage.
Christian said, “I love playing the violin, and really hope you enjoy listening.”
(Melbourne, Australia: 2020)
Illustrated by Ivy Guo
PILOT
Vicki Van Meter became the youngest pilot to fly across the Atlantic Ocean.
(Augusta, Maine: 1994)
POLYGLOT
A polyglot is a person who speaks, writes, reads, or understands more than one language.
PROGRAMMER
Mark Zuckerberg learned Atari BASIC programming language at a nearby college. He used it to develop an instant-messaging system (application) that his family used to communicate around the house and his father used in his dental office.
(White Plains, New York: 1996)
Learn about Mark as:
– a founder/co-founder: age 19
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Zain Abbas explained, “I would like to connect with others in my community through hearing and telling their stories.”
(Ohio: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Zain’s articles.
Esther Appelstein explained, “I pledge my time and my loyalty to becoming the best reporter I can be!”
(Saint Louis, Missouri: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Esther’s articles.
Ava Isabella Brown explained, “I enjoy meeting people from different cultures and backgrounds because there is always something to learn from others who have different experiences.”
(Pennsylvania: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Ava’s articles.
Johnny Chen explained, “My greatest passions are sports and reporting.”
(California: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Johnny’s articles.
Max Chen
(North Carolina: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Max’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Elise Choi explained, “As a kid reporter, I want to give a voice to ordinary people doing great things and shine a light on important causes. I’m curious about a lot of things, and I want to share what I learn with other curious kids around the world.”
(California: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Elise’s articles.
Hayden Ainslee David explained, “I would love to work around people who love to write about the world just as much as I do.”
(Minnesota: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Hayden’s articles.
Lucia Dong explained, “I’d like to learn more about my community and share my writing about life on the island of Oahu.”
(Hawaii: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Lucia’s articles.
Camille Fallen explained, “I hope to learn what it’s like to be on the other side of the story—the one creating the story.”
(Virginia: School Year: 2020 – 2021)
Read Camille’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Victoria Feng explained, “I know the power of words. I know the power of media.”
(Illinois: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Victoria’s articles.
Ximena Pérez Gómez explained, “I have always loved writing, and I think it is a great way to share my voice.”
(Mexico: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Ximena’s articles.
Gavin Gracey explained, “I adore the different ways people do good things, and how those good things can really change the world. I want to tell more of those stories.”
(Maryland: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Gavin’s articles.
Logan Gracey explained, “A good sports article has challenges, grit, and perseverance.”
(Maryland: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Logan’s articles.
Sidonie Gillette explained, “I enjoy reading books that teach me about issues in the world.”
(Virginia: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Sidonie’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Truman J. Hamade explained, “I really like learning new things, meeting new people, and writing about my experiences.”
(Texas: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Truman’s articles.
Claire Olivia Handler explained, “I want to inspire kids to make changes in their communities. If enough kids are making changes, the world will be a better place.”
(Massachusetts: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Claire’s articles.
Jaxon Jones explained, “I love a good story.”
(California: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Jaxon’s articles.
Iniyah Jones explained, “As a kid reporter you can learn many skills…like talking to people you don’t know and not being afraid to ask questions.”
(Florida: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Iniyah’s articles.
Varun Kabra explained, “I want to learn about new things and share my stories with people so that they can learn too.”
(Tennessee: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Varun’s articles.
Quade Kelley explained, “I am excited for the opportunity to talk with people and write their stories while learning about the world.”
(California: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Quade’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Luke Lamour explained, “I don’t think anyone is ever too young to ask important questions that matter to people.”
(Connecticut: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Luke’s articles.
Martin Lloyd explained, “I know that if I keep on working and learning new things, I can improve my reporting.”
(Waterlooville, United Kingdom: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Martin’s articles.
Brian Kan King Lun explained, “I hope that what I write will help others understand what was happening in the world during my childhood.”
(Hong Kong: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Brian’s articles.
Lillian Martosko explained, “I want to make a difference by reporting about events that other people aren’t able to witness.”
(Burke, Virginia: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Lillian’s articles.
Jacob McNab explained, “I want to become a better reader and writer and become more creative.”
(Westminster, Colorado: School 2016 – 2017)
Read Jacob’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Lincoln Miller explained, “I would love to be able to explore ways to bring people closer together, understand and appreciate our uniqueness, and celebrate differences and similarities.”
(Florida: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Lincoln’s articles.
Nikita A. Mohile explained, “I want to inspire kids to make changes in their communities. If enough kids are making changes, the world will be a better place.”
(Canada: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Nikita’s articles.
Sunaya DasGupta Mueller explained, “I want to tell stories for multicultural kids like me about immigration, social justice, and diversity.”
(Palisades, New York: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Sunaya’s articles.
Shane Mukasa explained, “I want to write the news so that kids can see the world at its best.”
(Massachusetts: 2020 – 2021)
Read Shane’s articles.
Garsen Naar explained, “I think being a kid reporter will be a great learning and development growth opportunity for me.”
(New Jersey: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Garsen’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Gavin Naar
(New Jersey: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Gavin’s articles.
Leo Nguyen explained, “I want to help people know more about what is good, what is bad, and about charity organizations.”
(Vietnam: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Leo’s articles.
Skye Oduaran
(Georgia: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Skye’s articles.
Nora Onovo
(New York State: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Nora’s articles.
Jay Sivanesan Paranam
(Malaysia: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Jay’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Siroos Pasdar explained, “Listen, learn, change, and grow.”
(New York State: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Siroos’ articles.
Erik Pawczynski explained, “I hope to learn the different perspectives and views of other people.”
(Canada: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Erik’s articles.
Annika Petras explained, “I think it would be pretty cool to interview people who have made a difference helping people.”
(California: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Annika’s articles.
Courtney Pine explained, “Writing is my passion because I get to express my creativity.”
(Washington, D.C.: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Courtney’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Ella Porter explained, “Knowing that my thoughts are being shared with others around the world fills my heart with love and joy!”
(California: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Ella’s articles.
Sasha Powell explained, “My motivation to write is curiosity.”
(New Jersey: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Sasha’s articles.
Olivia RL Rodgers explained, “I hope to learn about empowering people around my community and beyond.”
(Minnesota: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Olivia’s articles.
Colin Adrien Co Roxas-Chua explained, “Now that I’m a reporter, people from all over the world will be able to read about my ideas and experiences.”
(The Philippines: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Colin’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Dylan Koji Co Roxas-Chua explained, “I would love to have the opportunity to gain new perspectives on the world.”
(The Philippines: 2022 – 2023)
Read Dylan’s articles.
Naomy Marie Ruiz explained, “I want to become a reporter to see what it would be like and to see where it takes me.”
(New Mexico: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Naomy’s articles.
Clara Lopes Salim explained, “I love researching, interviewing, writing, and encouraging others to make a change.”
(Brazil: School Year 2021 – 2022)
Read Clara’s articles.
Stone Shen explained, “I want to learn to be able to accept failure and build on my successes.”
(Massachusetts: School Year: 2016 – 2017)
Read Stone’s articles.
Zoya Siddiqui
(Arizona: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Zoya’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Amy Lee Si Jin
(South Korea: School Year 2022 – 2023)
Read Amy’s articles.
Munveer Singh explained, “As a reporter, I’ll be able to spread my love of learning about events, people, and topics impacting young people.”
(California: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Munveer’s articles.
Tony J. Smith II explained, “I like to ask questions and interview, and I am always ready to go after the truth.”
(North Carolina: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Tony’s articles.
Ryan Stoltz explained, “I understand how important it is to consider the background and culture of the person you are interviewing in order to connect with them and ask appropriate questions.”
(Eden Prairie, Minnesota: School Year 2016 – 2017)
Read Ryan’s articles.
Nanaka Takahashi explained, “I think introducing cutting-edge science and topics to the world would be genuinely exciting.”
(Japan: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Nanaka’s articles.
REPORTER:
"SCHOLASTIC KIDS PRESS"
Zhoriél Tapo explained, “No matter your age, you can make a difference.”
(Louisiana: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Zhoriél’s articles.
Sophia Emma Wolff explained, “Reporting and writing have always been among my many passions.”
(Delaware: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Sophia’s articles.
John Woo explained, “Reporters risk a lot to let us know what is happening.”
(South Korea: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read John’s articles.
Lai Qi Xuan explained, “I hope to raise awareness about important issues among my teachers, fellow classmates, and even their parents.”
(Singapore: School Year 2020 – 2021)
Read Lai’s articles.
Liset Zacker explained, “I love the idea of making stories in which people can lose themselves.”
(New Jersey: School Year 2019 – 2020)
Read Liset’s articles.
REPORTER:
"TIME FOR KIDS" MAGAZINE
Ishaan Bhattacharya
(San Francisco, California: 2018 – 2019)
Sarayu Bhumula
(Edison, New Jersey: 2022 – 2023)
Alexis Bumah
(Huber Heights, Ohio: 2019 – 2020)
Afton Campbell
(Surprise, Arizona: 2020 – 2021)
Benjamin Choucroun
(Corte Madera, California: 2017 – 2018)
Jack Doane
(Rex, Georgia: 2019 – 2020)
REPORTER:
"TIME FOR KIDS" MAGAZINE
Shaan Glazer
(New York City, New York: 2022 – 2023)
Belle Irby
(Conway, Arkansas: 2018 – 2019)
Minoo Jang
(Redmond, Washington: 2018 – 2019)
Simar Khanuja
(Issaquah, Washington: 2017 – 2018)
Audrey Kim
(Irvine, California: 2022 – 2023)
Mason Langer
(Morristown, New Jersey: 2022 – 2023)
REPORTER:
"TIME FOR KIDS" MAGAZINE
Josh Lee
(Chicago, Illinois: 2018 – 2019)
Jeremy Liew
(Riverdale, Connecticut: 2020 – 2021)
Shaivi Moparthi
(Sugar Land, Texas: 2022 – 2023)
Celsey O’Hare
(Burr Ridge, Illinois: 2022 – 2023)
Creedence Peterson
(New York City, New York: 2021 – 2022)
Orlie Weitzman
(Chicago, Illinois: 2021 – 2022)
SPEAKER
Hilde Kate Lysiak delivered a commencement speech for the graduating class at West Virginia University’s Reed College of Media. During her 13-minute, inspirational speech, which was covered nationally, Hilde directed some of her comments to the current generation of journalists and outlined her vision for the future of journalism.
(Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania: 2019)
Learn about Hilde as:
– a founder: age 9
– a fundraiser: age 9
– a publisher: age 9
– a reporter: age 9
Amy O’Toole gave a TEDGlobal presentation entitled “Science is for everyone, kids included.”
(Blackawton, Devon, United Kingdom: 2012)
SPEAKER
Zoe Rosenberg gave a keynote address at National Animal Rights Day (NARD) in San Francisco.
Prior to that, Zoe and her mother (a veterinarian) opened a chicken sanctuary – Happy Hen Chicken Rescue, which they renames Happy Hen Animal Sanctuary.
(California: 2014)
Visit Zoe’s website.
SPEAKER
Thomas Suarez gave a TEDx talk in which he shared his knowledge of creating iPhone apps and taught other kids how to develop apps too.
(Los Angeles, California: 2011)
SPEAKER
Adora Svitak delivered her speech, What Adults Can Learn From Kids, at the TED Conference. By 2022, the video of her speech has been viewed over 6 million times and has been translated into over 40 different languages.
Before age 13, Adora gave 100 speeches, mostly at education conferences and during classroom visitations.
(Redmond, Washington: 2010)
Visit Adora’s website.
Learn about Adora as:
– an author: published book: age 7
SPOKESPERSON
Sondra Clark became a spokesperson for Childcare.
(Bellingham, Washington: 2002)
Iqbal Masih served as an international spokesperson and activist to end child labor worldwide (1992-1995)
(Pakistan: 1994)
SYMBOL OF HOPE & PEACE
Sadako Sasaki was 2 years old when the United States dropped an atom bomb on her home city of Hiroshima, Japan in an attempt to end World War II. Sadako survived the explosion without any injuries. But at age 11, Sadako learned that she had leukemia, a form of cancer caused by radiation…She began folding paper into cranes, for a specific reason…
(Hiroshima, Japan: 1955)
Illustrated by Elgin Bolling
Learn more…
VENTRILOQUIST
Darci Lynne Farmer, a singing ventriloquist, performed on the TV show, America’s Got Talent, and got the Golden Buzzer.
(Oklahoma City, Oklahoma: 2015)
VISIONARY
Mari Copeny envisions herself as becoming President of the United States in 2044.
Illustrated by Jake Reher