Freehold High School Seniors Host Healthy Self-Image Workshop

Love Yourself: This was the message given at a workshop hosted by two seniors.

Melanie Kirsh and Jennifer Cheng created the workshop for female students to encourage a healthy self-image. The program was entirely crafted by these young women and included workstations on body image, self-confidence, leadership and values. 

Monmouth County Assemblywoman Caroline Casagrande and former Freeholder Amy Mallet both were part of the workshop. “If we can truly understand how negative images of ourselves can hinder our success we can then focus on our positive attributes, giving us confidence to be leaders and to treat others with respect,” said Casagrande.

Melanie Kirsh and Jennifer Cheng are part of The Young Women’s Leadership Institute, an annual program led by Assemblywoman Casagrande to encourage outstanding young women to take pride in who they are and stand up for what they believe in.  Ten girls are selected during their junior year from one of the high schools in the District.  Amy Mallet served as one of the mentors to the young women in the program.

“It was such an honor to carry out this program with Assemblywoman's sponsorship; her personal dedication to female youth is inspiring” said Kirsh.  

While girls worked on individual collages at Freehold High School's Love Yourself Workshop, the Assemblywoman inquired about the girls' opinions on society, government, and future aspirations. “My peers enjoyed her thought-provoking conversation and energy,” added Kirsh.

Casagrande also praised the young ladies. “I was so impressed with the insight of these young women,” she said.