FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hi! My name is Isis McKinstry. I was born on February 8, 2008, in Huntsville, Alabama. I’m a big personality with an even bigger heart. I love being around people—honestly, I’m a huge social butterfly. Whether I’m laughing, talking, or just vibing with good energy, I love making others feel seen and heard.
I’ve always loved being in front of the camera, and I’m super into social media and content creation—it’s one of my biggest passions. I have over 600,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram, and I genuinely enjoy connecting with people, making them laugh, and sharing my world. I’ve even started turning that into a business.
I’ve been on Homecoming Court every year since 9th grade, played volleyball all through high school, and won awards like MVP and All-Area. I also play the piano and have a big passion for beauty, fashion, and expressing myself. I love spreading good vibes and staying true to who I am.
FOSSI: What moment or experience sparked your love for STEM?
The moment that sparked my love for STEM was when I stepped into my first honors chemistry class in 10th grade. I honestly didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did, but from the very 
beginning, I was hooked. The experiments, the problem-solving, even just learning how different elements react with one another—it all made me excited to come to class. It reminded me of a STEM-focused kid show I used to watch growing up—I think it was called E = MC² or something like that—with smart girls doing science and having fun. That class made me feel the same way: smart, capable, and curious. I realized then that I could actually see myself doing something in STEM, especially chemistry, for my future. It was one of the first times I truly felt connected to what I was learning, and I’ve loved it ever since.
FOSSI: Who inspires you—and what have they taught you about what’s possible?
Kamala Harris inspires me because she's a powerful example of what it means to rise above expectations. She thrived in predominantly white spaces, stayed true to herself, and came out on top. I admire that she went to an HBCU, came from immigrant parents, and didn't come from wealth—but still made it to one of the highest positions in our country. She's unapologetically herself, a professional Black woman who leads with confidence and strength. She shows me that no matter where you come from, success is possible. I look up to her, and she motivates me to dream big.
FOSSI: What are some surprising or unique facts about you?
- I have seven German Shepherds that my family breeds.
- I've been playing the piano for years.
- One of the most unique things about me is that I'm a Black girl with naturally blue eyes-something that's extremely rare, occurring in less than 1% of the population.
- I skipped a grade, which makes me younger than most people in my class.
- I'm a proud Christian.
- One fun (and maybe unexpected) fact is that I don't like Mexican food at all-not tacos, burritos, none of it. It's just not for me!
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FOSSI is now accepting applications for 2026. Apply by January 15, 2026.