May 22, 2015 - For the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend, the 8th After-School Workshop with the middle-school group of young women called "Mirrors of Strength" at Red Hook Initiative, Arts & Dreams brought supplies to make bracelets and necklaces, including beautiful Mzuribeads donated by OneGoodBead.com.
The young women used lettered beads and Mzuribeads to string together loving, positive messages to themselves that inspire them to enjoy their lives and dream big. The multi-colored Mzuribeads gifted for this workshop were created by women in Uganda on recycled paper, and support women's education in Africa.
Many lovely jewelry pieces were created, and then wrapped in decorative bags donated by Helen Baran. The young women shared with each other the meaning behind their creations. And then every participant looked into the mirror and said, "I love you, (their name). I really love you." This practice is inspired by Louise Hay and gives a powerful self-love boost.
Thank you RHI and all of Arts & Dreams' donors and supporters, for making these workshops possible! Photos by Patricia Geremia.
