At just 15 years old, Leoni Cork, a sophomore at Momence High School, is already laying the groundwork for an ambitious and inspiring future. Whether it’s her goal of becoming a pediatrician, managing her budding entrepreneurial ventures, or excelling in school, Leoni’s every step is driven by a deep sense of purpose and love for her family.

Leoni’s journey begins with her family, which she describes as her greatest source of motivation. With six siblings on her father’s side and a close bond with her mother, Tamika, Leoni’s life has been filled with lessons about resilience and love. Tamika’s own health challenges, including seizures, have shaped Leoni’s determination to pursue a career in medicine.

“My mom is my role model,” Leoni says. “She’s always positive, even when she’s struggling. She’s the reason I want to be a pediatrician—I want to help people like her and make a difference.”

Leoni’s interest in pediatrics also stems from her connection with children. Whether it’s caring for her three-year-old brother with autism, babysitting for local families, or spending time with the children at her church, Leoni finds joy in nurturing and supporting young lives. “Kids are pure,” she explains. “They don’t judge you for the worldly things—they just love you for who you are.”

Her entrepreneurial spirit is equally impressive. Leoni runs two small businesses: a babysitting service and a handmade bracelet company. “I started making bracelets with clay beads two years ago,” she shares. “I sell them at vendor events, and people love the unique designs. It’s been exciting to see how much people appreciate my creativity.”

Leoni balances these endeavors with a rigorous academic schedule, including honors and advanced courses. Currently maintaining a 3.7 GPA, she’s determined to push herself even further in the coming years. “I want to take more challenging classes,” she says. “Next year, I’m planning to raise the bar with AP and dual credit courses at KCC.”

Beyond her academic and entrepreneurial achievements, Leoni is a thoughtful and reflective individual. Having experienced both friendship and betrayal, she values trust and keeps her social circle small. “I’ve learned that not everyone is your friend,” she says. “But I’ve also learned the importance of true friendship and what it means to have people who genuinely care about you.”

Leoni’s faith plays a central role in her life. Recently baptized alongside her grandmother, who is in remission from breast cancer, Leoni sees her faith as a guiding force. “Giving my life to Christ was a big moment for me,” she says. “It’s about living with purpose and giving back to others.”

Her dreams for the future are big and bold. Leoni hopes to attend Spelman College, Howard University, or UCLA, with plans to join a sorority like AKA or Delta Sigma Theta. “Spelman feels like home,” she says. “It’s an all-girls school, and I think it would give me a unique experience to focus on my goals and find a sisterhood.”

For now, Leoni is focused on cherishing the present while preparing for what’s ahead. Whether it’s supporting her mom, expanding her businesses, or excelling in school, she’s determined to make every moment count. “I don’t know what the future holds,” she reflects. “But I know I want to be happy, surrounded by people I love, and doing something meaningful.”

Leoni Cork’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and heart. For the community that supports her, she represents the incredible potential of young people to make ours a better world.