Olivia Shaffer is a high school student, music lover, avid baker and enjoys hiking. She is the youngest of three girls and her proud parents have lived in Johns Creek for more than 20 years. Olivia is in her final year of the Student Leadership Johns Creek program (SLJC), a program designed to teach emerging teen leaders important skills and techniques in order to improve and engage within the Johns Creek community. Meet this superstar student as she shares her holiday gameplan.
Where do you like to shop in Johns Creek for gifts?
One of my favorite places to shop for gifts is Johns Creek Books and Gifts on Medlock Bridge. I love to read and I have found many great reads in addition to some fabulous gift ideas for friends and family during the holidays. Not only do they have varying genres of new and used books but they also have unique jewelry, crafts, and collectibles from local artists. Another place I go if I’m looking for a great gift is Tuesday Morning because I always come out with a special gift for teachers, friends, and even myself. It has everything from decor to fun crafts and I can always find the perfect holiday gift!
What are your favorite holiday movies and songs?
I love listening to music and one of my favorite parts of the holiday season is listening to the old favorites and singing along with family. Although I love the classics like “This Christmas” by Donny Hathway, I also enjoy holiday songs like “Hallelujah” by the Pentatonix and “Winter Song” by Leslie Odom Jr. These songs hold a special place in my heart and whenever I hear them I know the holidays are here! When it’s time to watch a family movie, some of my all-time favorites are The Holiday and Elf and, of course, it wouldn't be the holidays without my mom insisting that I watch Frosty the Snowman and It’s a Wonderful Life.
You're having a holiday party...invite anyone!
I would invite Coco Gauff, the youngest player ranked in the top 100 by the Women's Tennis Association. At only 16-years old, she has proven that you are never too young to achieve incredible things and that is a motto that I live by as a young leader. Another person I would invite is Lin Manuel Miranda, the creator, and songwriter for Hamilton and In the Heights. Hamilton is my favorite musical of all-time because of its clever yet poignant music so I would love to talk to Lin about his songwriting process. The last person I would invite is Billie Eilish who is a young singer-songwriter that has taken Gen Z by storm. I love her music because it is unique and hard-hitting which is why she would definitely get an invite to my holiday bash!
How will you be giving back to the community this year?
During the holidays, my family and I want to participate in several service projects. This year, my goal is to show the healthcare workers in the community how much we appreciate their tireless efforts throughout this pandemic. They deserve so much and I would like to get local support to provide treats for them as a show of gratitude for their hard work. Additionally, I would like to coordinate a children’s book drive and collect books to donate to kids in the area. I am grateful that I have had access to books throughout my life and I would love to provide the opportunity for other kids to receive the gift of a good book.