Review by Kingston College student, Alicia, who is a This Girl Can Ambassador studying Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health and Wellbeing:
The “Dance Like Nobody Is Watching” event was a vibrant and engaging activity held in the College atrium featuring an arcade dance machine, with a raffle system that randomly selects two of the participants to win a £10 voucher. The aim was to encourage students and staff to be active, relieve stress and step outside their comfort zones in a fun and inclusive environment.
Overall, the event was a success, with a high turnout throughout the day. Many participants brought friends, which helped create a lively and supportive atmosphere. There was a diverse mix of people involved, with a noticeable increase in female participation, which was particularly positive to see as a This Girl Can ambassador. Support from both students and teachers further contributed to the welcoming environment.
One of the key strengths of the event was its impact on wellbeing. Participants were able to move their bodies, have fun and de-stress, especially important during the lead-up to exams. It also encouraged people to try something new as many had never used a dance machine before.
On a personal level, I developed confidence by engaging with participants, I had to step outside my comfort zone to approach even though I faced some rejection and occasional negative comments. However, there were some challenges. The queueing system was not always effective, leading to longer waiting times. Some individuals attempted to skip the queue or take multiple turns, which limited fairness. Despite a few challenges, the event was well-organised, planned and project managed. The event achieved its goal of encouraging participation, promoting wellbeing and creating a fun, inclusive experience for the College community.
This Girl Can is a National Lottery funded campaign focused on helping all women from all backgrounds get active in ways that work for them.
