We love celebrating followers of Jesus that are creatively impacting the world. Today we highlight three young men that have been doing just that, all before finishing high school.
These guys are compelled by their relationship with Jesus to offer their talents and gifts to the world. They are doing the hard work of creating art, growing in their craft, and starting companies. They are artists and entrepreneurs, and they aren’t waiting around for the “real world” to pursue their God-given dreams.
They inspire and challenge me, and I hope their example will inspire you too. Whether you’re 16 or 60, it’s never too late to get serious about following your God-given dream.
PRESTON ATTEBERY
My name is Preston Attebery. For me, my passion for graphic design started when I was in elementary school playing around with shapes in Microsoft Word. I eventually graduated to Adobe Illustrator while doing a summer internship in England a few years ago. Not long after that, I began using Instagram as a platform to share my designs. This led to freelance designing for several companies, where I actually started making money doing what I love.
I soon made enough money to kickstarter my new t-shirt brand, Indien Apparel. I noticed a real need in our culture for acceptance and approval, and I wanted to create a brand that everyone could be a part of. No matter who you are, your race, or your religion, Indien Apparel is something anyone can take part of.
KYLE SKLENAR
Hey, I’m Kyle Sklenar and I just graduated from high school. I have a heart for telling stories and a desire to see the film industry changed for the better. In the fall of 2011, I made a video for a friend that was highly recognized by a few major corporations. After seeing my work take off, I really understood that this is where the Lord wants me. He gave me a set of skills for a reason, so I need to pursue it, whatever the outcome.
Since then, I have started a production company, though I just do business under my own name (because it was too stressful to find a good company name). I now do everything from music videos to weddings to corporate interviews. If you would like to know more about me and what I do, you can go to my website.
MICHAEL SHAW
My name is Michael Shaw, I’m a recent high school graduate, and I’ve always loved stories. This passion fueled my desire to write a book. At first I just thought it’d be cool to write an intriguing novel. But after the general idea for the plot was in my head, my book “Jack in the Box” was no longer just a story to enjoy, but a message I wanted to be heard. It became a manifestation of what God has taught me through others: the value of life, and the necessity of virtue.
Finishing this book has given me confidence for what God can do in the future. One thing I’ve gleaned from this project is to be someone who pursues goals. I wanted to write a book, and so I just did it. I didn’t sit back and say “
I’m just a high-schooler.” I started writing it and finished what I started. Now I believe this mindset will be crucial to keep in the future.
