TEDx Speaker Milana Schaal is inspiring kids to follow their dreams and make a positive change in the world

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Most American middle school children spend their time studying, playing sports, and hanging out with friends.  It is a time when children dream about their future.  Yet, it is also a time kids find difficult, as they struggle to locate their voice.  Some are unable to find courage in the face of fear, and growing up can be hard.

Milana Schaal, a Courage Ambassador, aims to change the lives of other kids and help them find the skills needed to succeed in life.  Schaal may only be 12-years old, but she is already a three-time TEDx speaker and best-selling author.

She works with kids to help them discover their unique courage to follow their dreams and make a difference in the world.  Schaal’s book, Courage is for Real: Essential Elements for Kids to Develop Courage, details how people just like her can achieve their dreams.

“Kids are always told to follow and achieve their dreams,” Schaal said.  “But no one ever explains how to do these things.  Pursuing your passions and never giving up is the best way to pursue a dream.  Kids can then feel valued. I want to help others follow their dreams, just like I am doing.”

Schaal may be a sixth-grade student, but she has already experienced more than most kids her age.  Growing up in a multicultural family, Schaal was inspired to follow her dreams from a young age.  It led her to write two books, Delicious Smoothie Recipes and Courage is for Real: Essential Elements for Kids to Develop Courage.  Schaal applies the knowledge she has gained inlife to empower children to develop their own skill sets.

Through her work encouraging and coaching others, Schaal helps children develop confidence and belief by practicing self-compassion.  There is a focus on showing each individual matters. Schaal’s work coaching led to her appearing as a TEDx speaker on three occasions within a four-month period.  Few speakers are asked back more than once, yet Schaal appeared three times, showcasing her ability to connect with an audience.  It also reinforced Schaal’s message of self-belief.