Sponsored in part by Dove
We have all been there. We open up our favorite social media platform, see pictures of a famous celebrity, model or reality TV star and begin to instantly critique our own appearance as a result. Next thing you know what started off as a way to kill time before class turned into a self-loathing session.
But what if we used the power of social media for good? What if instead of bombarding generations of girls with unrealistic expectations of what they “should” look like—we acted as positive, confident role models?
That is the latest mission behind the Dove Self Esteem Project— which empowers parents, teachers and mentors to make a difference in a girl’s self-esteem. CollegeFashionista is excited to be aligning ourselves with this movement—both on and offline.
Dove is utilizing social media as a tool of positivity. Their recently launched Pinterest page provides tons of free resources that address today’s biggest barriers to a girl’s self-esteem. From celebrity culture to bullying to respecting yourself, the Dove Self-Esteem Project Pinterest page demonstrates the power and ease of mentorship and invites you to be a part of the change.
Throughout the next few weeks, Dove and CollegeFashionista will also be heading out to campuses across the country to engage in conversations and events about self-esteem, self-worth and individuality.
Next up, we are heading to Philadelphia to share the message of sisterly love in the City of Brotherly Love. In celebration, we caught up with one of our rockstar Temple University Style Gurus, Lucy, as she discusses what “beauty” means to her.
CollegeFashionista: Who in your life motivates you?
Lucy Van Ellis: My friends and parents motivate me. My parents are so encouraging with my school and art and my friends are always supportive and up for whatever crazy project I’ve gotten myself into.
CF: What makes you feel happiest?
LVE: When I am surrounded by my loved ones; that’s what makes me feel the happiest.
CF: What is the best part of who you are right now?
LVE: Right now, I’m a millennial, and what we say and do matter! I love being at an age where I can try as many things as I want, fail-fast and try again. Girls my age have limitless possibilities and I know I am starting to take advantage of them.
CF: Why do you think the Dove Self-Esteem Project is relevant for girls on your campus?
LVE: I believe girls anywhere can have low self-esteem, but in a city like Philadelphia, we are surrounded by so many people and media that it’s hard to stay positive all the time. I think the Dove Self-Esteem Project will bring together girls and prove to them they are not alone, even when they have their off days.
Don’t live in the Philadelphia-area? You can still be a part of the conversation! Visit Pinterest.com/SelfEsteem. Experience, share and repin free self-esteem activities and tips with the girls in your life using the hashtag #SelfEsteemProject. Be sure to watch the “Dove Change One Thing” film to be further inspired to be a confident role model for the women in your life!
