Sophia was born with apraxia and struggled through her younger years in her own confidence and academic ability. Not only did she overcome the obstacles that apraxia made her face, but she's also achieved honor roll the past three years. She's come so far and has worked hard to get here. Not only did she overcome this, but has proved herself more than capable than anyone born without it. She's been recognized by her educators for academic excellence and was nominated for an incredible opportunity that has a 93% success rate for all that have attended the Junior National Young Leaders Conference. She has a great desire to go and prove herself. She's wanting to forego her "sweet 16" celebration and use all funds the would've gone to it, to go towards her attending this week long educational journey instead. This teen would greatly appreciate any and all that are able to assist her in achieving this dream.