Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1538147
Jaiden Geolingo H O W A R D H I G H S C H O O L I'm going into 11th grade at Howard High. I'm most proud of publishing a poetry chapbook that's coming out soon, and being a 2025 National YoungArts winner. Two years ago, that dream felt farfetched. Poetry taught me empathy—understanding what makes people tick. It's helped me grow as a writer and a person. I want to continue pursuing poetry, maybe alongside a career in medicine or the humanities. I'm still exploring paths that combine those passions. I moved from the Philippines two years ago. My mom got a job at Atrium. That move gave me a new outlook. The people I've met here inspire me. The city is shaped by its people. They fuel my creativity and passion. My advice? Never give up. Be consistent. I wrote a poem every day when I started out. Rejections happen, but the best part of writing is the impact it has on others. Be mindful of how you can affect those around you. Tacoyia Braswell C E N T R A L H I G H S C H O O L I'm a rising junior, class of 2027. I'm proud of making the All-Star team for both soccer and flag football. I was the first student from Central to do that in the three years of the program. My values are discipline and time management. Balancing sports and school requires staying focused. I'm a three-sport athlete, and I still keep my grades up. My advice to others is that you can do anything if you manage your time and believe in yourself. My journey has had ups and downs, but I stay motivated because I know what I want in life. August/September 2025 | maconmagazine.com 53 PHOTOS OF JAIDEN GEOLINGO AND TACOYIA BRASWELL BY MIKE YOUNG