"Don't follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." — Ralph Waldo Emerson
Change dominates today’s world. Between constant smartphone upgrades, to groundbreaking AI discoveries to global events, each week puts a new headline in the spotlight. These shifts are also making waves at the regional level, from the housing market to the newest trending spots. Amidst these changes, residents don't just need something to inform them- they need something to connect them. And what better thing to foster connection than a one-of-a-kind magazine engaging any and every reader? As a Gen-Z teenager and the newest member of the Chevy Chase Lifestyle team, I am honored to be a part of this mission and help take this publication to new heights.
ABOUT ME
I am a rising sophomore at Richard Montgomery high school, one of the Top Three most diverse public high schools in the county and home to the prestigious IB program. I am a student-athlete, travel fanatic, music and guitar lover, and aspiring leader. My dad is already a National Geographic lover, and often sends me daily articles to read, spanning politics to funny travel memoirs.
I was first introduced into the magazine world as a seventh grader, after my artwork was the cover of Potomac Lifestyle Magazine's November 2023 Issue. After attending the awards gala and being introduced to various unique non-profits and leaders right down the street, I was inspired to continue getting involved and networking with others. Two of my largest passions are writing and advocacy, and in high school, I discovered one of the most powerful ways to blend them. Journalism.
As the only freshman in journalism class, I was an avid contributor to my school’s newspaper. I didn’t truly understand the magnitude of words until I was receiving recognition from others, and realized just how many people were in fact paying attention. Recently, I was accepted onto a countywide student newspaper, where I will continue informing, persuading, and advocating.
Arguably one of the most special branches of journalism, a magazine holds even more of that power. It is an encyclopedia unconstrained to just reporting. Especially in a local setting, a magazine is a tour guide to the best neighborhood bites, fitness tips, and "hidden gems” in business. Chevy Chase aims to not only be a helpful magazine, but a family with tangible events and connections across the community.
STANDING OUT, BRANCHING OUT
Need a good photographer during Cherry Blossom season or a nearby beauty spa? We have you covered. A luxurious vacation spot? Recommendations are ready. However, unlike a typical magazine, I am ecstatic to be part of a team that makes a difference beyond the page. After making waves in our first year, we are already planning everything from fun neighborhood block promotion events to innovative charity projects.
Creativity is even shown in the covers, with Chevy Chase continuing the tradition that Potomac Lifestyle started - artwork covers from young people.
And of course, one of the most special parts about the magazine is its diverse perspectives. Chevy Chase Lifestyle will incorporate everything from a relaxing wellness read to important youth-led initiatives that cannot be ignored by the community, ensuring every voice is represented.
Now more than ever, it is crucial to bridge any division, whether between the older and younger generations, or different zip codes of a county. I’ve enjoyed tea experiences where I’ve been the youngest in the room by far. I made new friends at events in entirely different neighborhoods. A community is not formed by fancy buildings or galas, it is formed by the people inside of it. Now, I am excited to bring this community spirit into something bigger and long-term, where residents of all ages and backgrounds are united.
Feel free to reach out with any questions/ideas and stay tuned for what’s to come!