Williamson County is blessed with an array of diverse business owners and dedicated community members. Among them are our exceptional teenagers, who have shown remarkable dedication in pursuing their dreams. We are proud to highlight four of these teens who exemplify hard work, self-motivation and adaptability: Sydney Sternagel, Ethan Hill, Finn McConnell and Elijah Browning.
Sydney Sternagel
Inspiring Teen Creates Nonprofit Organization to Support Siblings of Sick Children
Sydney Sternagel, a rising Independence High School senior, founded the nonprofit organization, Make Y’All Smile, last year. The organization focuses on supporting siblings of sick children and providing them with a nurturing environment. It is an endeavor close to Sydney’s heart because she wishes she had similar support when her brother was diagnosed with an illness. “Most kids don’t like the idea of traditional therapy,” says Sydney. So she organizes fun activities, such as attending concerts or sporting events, based on the needs and interests of the kids whose ages range from three to 18. They, along with their parents, can attend as many events as they want, at no cost.
Sydney executed all the required paperwork to establish the organization. She manages the entire operation, including fundraising. Despite her busy schedule with classes, school clubs and college preparation, Sydney juggles it all with a positive attitude and efficient time management. “If you have a cause you are passionate about, you don’t mind putting in the work,” she says. Her plans include pursuing college degrees in political science and international relations and continuing to run her nonprofit and making a difference in the lives of others. MakeYallSmile.org
Ethan Hill
Music Skill Showcased at Carnegie Hall
Ethan Hill, a senior at Franklin High School, was accepted to play cello for the High School Honors Performance Series at the renowned Carnegie Hall in New York City. The event, limited to only the best performers, occurred last February and included students from across the United States and from countries such as Taiwan, South Korea and the U.S. Territory of Guam. “My orchestra teacher, Susan Abell, encouraged me to try out,” says Ethan.
Ethan has been recognized locally as well for his musical talents. Every year since eighth grade, he has been selected for the MidState music ensemble honor. MidState provides a platform for exceptional young musicians to perform under a master conductor.
Having grown up around music his entire life, he has also learned to play drums, piano and guitar. “There is always music in the house,” says Ethan, whose father is a bass player. So what’s next for this musical virtuoso? Ethan auditioned for, and hopes to be selected, to perform in the orchestra at the Sydney Opera House next year. His advice to aspiring musicians is to always try. One never knows what opportunities could arise.
Finn McConnell
Teen Entrepreneur Starts Own Clothing Line
Finn McConnell, a junior at Battle Ground Academy, has known since middle school that he wanted to own a business. In 2023, he made that dream a reality by starting his own clothing line, Gulf Southern Clothing. “I chose the name because it reflects my connection to where I live, Tennessee, and where I often travel to, Florida, and everything in between,” says Finn. The Southern region, from its values to its wildlife and landscape, inspires him. There is a range of clothing options to choose from, including sweatshirts and t-shirts and seasonal attire such as bathing suits. In line with his brand, Finn regularly supports nonprofits like the Nature Conservancy, each month. The apparel is currently available for purchase online, but Finn hopes to have a retail store sell his brand one day. ”I’ve learned a lot along the way,” says Finn. “You need to put in the time and then you will see results.” He has watched his business slowly flourish over the year and looks forward to continued success. With plans to attend college to study business, he's clearly off to a good start. GulfSouthernClothing.com
Elijah Brewing
Teen Shows His Prowess On American Ninja Warrior
Elijah Browning of Thompson’s Station, first saw American Ninja Warrior on television when he was six years old and instantly fell in love with it. The popular game show has competitors go through stages of increasingly difficult obstacles to win. Elijah and his grandfather started building obstacles in his backyard so he could train and at age 10, Elijah started competing in the National Ninja League (now World Ninja League). At age 14, he won both the Ultimate Ninja Athlete Association and the State Games of America. In 2020, Elijah was invited to compete on American Ninja Warrior at age 15. The pandemic then hit and all the invited teens were cut from the show. Luckily, he was called back again in 2021 and went to the finals in Las Vegas, placing ninth out of 400 contestants. Now at age 19, Elijah just finished competing in Episode 16, which is on air now through September. Elijah’s advice to others is to “dream big and put in the work.” You have to watch Episode 16 to see if Elijah achieves his dream. And if not, then keep watching-this guy is not giving up any time soon.