Feminenza Program Helps PHS Students Tackle Fears

Fear is a part of life and something we all experience. Some fears are natural and some we learn to live with, but some fears can stop us from doing what we want to do. Now, thanks to Feminenza’s Young Women’s Leadership Program at Peekskill High School, a group of young ladies have learned to better manage their fears and approach their lives with an increased amount of self-confidence.

Earlier this month, nine PHS students went through several workshops on fear, including one seven hour outdoor session in the “Field of Fears,” which was organized to help students identify and develop strategies for facing the things that worry them most. Girls spent the day examining their strengths by listing their qualities and achievements and chose specific fears to address. During the workshops, Feminenza leaders also spoke to the students about how fear works in the brain so students would be able to better manage it.

“Fear is the one thing that can prevent us from pursuing our passions or dreams,” said Feminenza advisor Eileen McGowan.

Feedback from students after completing the tasks was overwhelmingly positive, with all who attended feeling a sense of accomplishment after the workshop completed.

“Before this training, the fear had more power, but now I have more power,” said one student who attended the workshop.

“During the part about our achievements, it was hard at first,” added another student. “I couldn’t think of hardly anything to do with my qualities, successes or skills. Then, Ms. McGowan came and helped me. When I saw my skills, I was happy. I also didn’t realize before that I had so many qualities.”

The PHS Feminenza Program still has space for a few more young ladies who would be interested in joining. For more information about how to get involved with the group, please contact Jennifer Archilla at (914)406-2014 or alejandra9767@hotmail.com.

Photo: The “Field of Fears” workshop helps students identify and manage their worries about life.