The statements below are provided by some of the many educators, parents and experts in adolescent mental health who support our work. To read samples of the amazing testimonials we receive from the girls we have worked with, please see the student feedback provided under each program description.

"Our teenagers need to know how to be self-reliant and resilient. The Enlighten programs are fostering these skills and having a profoundly positive effect on young women. They are meeting a real need in schools by creating unique, transformative experiences for students. The programs are based on transformational psychology and highlight the value of uniqueness, relatedness and transcendence. Students are introduced to a variety of self-regulation procedures such as visualisation and short relaxation techniques, factors enhancing mental and emotional characteristics are described, and strategies for enhancing personal wellbeing are employed. Programs, like this one, that focus not only on transformation of the individual but also provide an affirming collective experience, have the capacity to really change culture. There is good evidence that we need to be warmer, more nurturing but firmer with our teenagers. I like the fact that Enlighten manages to connect in such creative ways with young women and make them feel safe, valued and loved."
Associate Professor David Bennett AO
Head, NSW Centre for the Advancement of Adolescent Health
The Children's Hospital at Westmead
Author (with Dr Leanne Rowe) of "What to do when your children turn into teenagers"

"It was a great day; the girls and staff have not stopped talking about how well Dannielle and Mel presented Enlighten Education. It was great to see the girls get so involved and emotional during some of the sessions. It really did have an impact on my year group of girls. It was a fantastic day and I am glad I have given my girls this positive experience which they can now take with them in their journey of life and realise that no matter what they look like or feel about themselves, everyone does have an Amazon inside of them."
Chalon Robinson, Year 9 Coordinator, Gilroy College

“Thank you so much Sonia for an absolutely fantastic workshop and day with the girls. I was very apprehensive about the day and how it would go; there was a lot to organise and some schools were less receptive than others about the whole girls' thing'. Had they been there on Thursday they would have changed their opinions. To see the girls so receptive and willing to listen and share their thoughts was so brilliant. The quiet girls bonded with the more confident girls. The girls who are less accepted by the so called ‘more popular’ girls shone out as they shared their feelings. Girls who are often pushed aside by the ‘popular’ girls felt confident enough to express their feelings in front of others and the other girls saw this as very brave.

"For me personally, it helped reinforce the need for such programs for girls. Girls are special and do need to be nurtured along life’s journey. All the work Mary and I have done with the girls was further reinforced by your workshops, Sonia. Thank you. You were/are a breath of fresh air. The girls loved that about you. Your honesty, your enthusiasm and your love for your job was refreshing and it made the girls more willing to listen and respond. The evaluation comments from the girls are really important and worthwhile to read. I read them and it made my heart flutter. You should have been on the bus on the way home, which was awesome too.

"Best wishes to you Sonia and the Enlighten Education group. The work you are doing is worthwhile and motivating. It would be a pleasure to pass the good word around.”
Fiona Isles, Wellbeing Officer, Portland Education Network Office

"The programs the Enlighten team run in schools offer a powerful alternative to the mixed messages about self that impressionable young women are currently being bombarded with. We live in a world where there is an unhealthy focus on perfection and where unrealistic images of beauty are presented as the norm; workshops like these inform, inspire and develop resilience. I especially like the introduction of practical tools like positive visualisation and the use of powerful affirmations. I would encourage schools to be proactive and make programs like these a priority."
Dr Michele Beale,MB BS (NSW), stress management specialist

“It was great to see the workshops so obviously touched a lot of the girls.
The messages on offer were powerful and relevant.”
Alison Taylor, Director of Boarding, Ravenswood School for Girls

“You both helped us to shape a unique program for our girls and we appreciated the extra steps you took to tailor the program to our needs . . . We appreciated the opportunity to work with a team who understood the nature of schools. Your program was filled with positive energy and a sense of friendship towards the girls . . . I look forward to working with you again soon."
Sarah Loch, Dean of Middle School, Abbotsleigh

"We were thrilled with the way our girls reacted to the Enlighten seminar. They were raving about it for days afterwards. They felt very positive and empowered after the seminar. Thank you very much."
Rebecca Herbert, Stage 5 Convener, St Catherine's School, Waverley

"The Enlighten programs are like a vitamin pill for the mind, body and spirit - countering any negative influences and promoting wellbeing and self-confidence. If every girl in Australia could do the program we'd effect generational change."
Nikki Goldstein, journalist and author of the "GirlForce" series of books for teenage girls

“Thank you so much for yesterday. It was a HUGE success . . . Danni and Mel provided Tara and our girls with an empowering day and your professionalism and warmth was awesome! I personally sincerely thank you and thoroughly enjoyed working with you. I would love to do it all over again.”
Chris Lang, PDHPE Department, Tara Anglican School for Girls

"The program was extremely successful. While the girls enjoyed the day immensely and emerged from the final session feeling joyful, there could be no doubt that the serious underlying messages were also absorbed and their perspective was altered. They were clearly empowered by what they had learned and were committed to ‘hold on’ to the experience of the day. Danielle and her staff were exceptional facilitators – genuinely inspiring. This year was a ‘dipping the toes in the water’ event for us and I look forward to working with Enlighten again next year. I also intend to plan for the event in such a way that we are able to do more follow-up with the girls in order to sustain them and what they have learned. The armbands, postcards and diaries have been very helpful in this regard. I would appreciate assistance in helping us to achieve more of this next year.

"I felt exhausted just watching you but boy oh boy you were wonderful!"
Jacinda Euler, Head of Middle School, Pymble Ladies' College

“Enlighten Education as always entertained, informed and captivated not only our girls but also the teaching staff. It is refreshing to have such dynamic and professional people come into our school and reinvigorate our interest in the development of our students as people and not just academic candidates.”
Ann Kalitis, Stage 4 Coordinator, Hills Grammar School

“I think the girls really enjoyed the passion and sincerity they could see in the presenters. Many were inspired. The presentations were creatively presented and pitched at the right level . . .”
Edwina O’Brien, Head of Lang Boarding House, Pymble Ladies' College 

"Sonia was bright, bubbly and energetic; it was hard for the girls not to love her! You could tell she was so passionate about sharing the information with the students. Great workshops with some practical activities to mix things up a bit. Well worth incorporating into our program - we look forward to it again next year. Thanks so much!"
Karen Bryce, Health and Human Development Teacher, Kilvington Girls' Grammar

"We would love to make this a yearly part of our school's experience. A wonderful staff and excellent opportunity for our girls. Thank you so much!"
Andrew Abercrombie, Year 8 Advisor, Galston High School

"The day was not only informative but a lot of fun as well.
The feedback from the girls was extremely positive and I am sure the day will have a lasting impact on them."
Denise Charlier, Careers Advisor, Nepean High School

"An outstanding session. Great response from our students, some of whom are hard to get through to. Thank you so much."
Carole Burrell, Head Teacher Vocational Education, Doonside Technology High School

"The response from our Year 9 and 10 girls was amazing - the best I have witnessed to any program in recent years. We look forward to you being involved with the College again in 2008."
Jim Miller, Head of Secondary School, St Brigid's College, Perth

"I have had lots of girls look up Enlighten on the internet as they can't wait to find out what other programs they might do next year!
The girls simply can't wait for more!" 
Stephanie O'Meara, Junior School Coordinator, Merici College, ACT

"Dannielle performs magic! She is a fairy godmother to all those sleeping beauties sitting in classrooms and in playgrounds. She takes the girls on an inner journey of self-discovery in a very short time. One very magical day filled with sparkle and glitter. Dannielle’s gentle and loving touch coupled with her insights and expertise allowed each girl to soar to new heights. I love what Enlighten Education did for the girls. It’s amazing. It fits all girls' needs perfectly. Enlighten Education is the most valuable educational workshop I have EVER used." 
Fran Simpson, Religious Education Coordinator, St John Vianney's, Fairymeadow              

"(The Journey program) was a perfect way to begin the first day of Year 7, providing a wonderfully warm and friendly, non-threatening transition to the Senior School. The whole year participating in the same program, sharing the same experiences, being provoked to think about this stage in their lives and education, to hear from one another for the first time, realise their fears are shared by their peers, and importantly to create a sense of year group cohesion as they learn to value one another,
has created a great launching pad for their journey through Year 7!"
Beth Oakley, Roseville College

“These days girls are constantly bombarded with highly sexualised and perfectly photo-shopped imagery. As a result, they are suffering from more anxiety, depression, body image problems, eating disorders and STIs than any previous generation. It’s a very tough time to be a teenager. Thankfully Enlighten Education provides a pathway for young girls to deconstruct the popular culture that often robs them of their full self-expression. I wish every young girl could experience the program!”
Julie Gale, Founder, Kids Free 2b Kids

“The Enlighten Education programs encourage girls to think for themselves, to be creative and imaginative, and to find meaning in life and make a mark in the world.”
Melinda Tankard Reist, Director of Women’s Forum Australia

"Dannielle connected immediately with the girls. She was quick to establish a positive, assertive relationship which gave the girls permission to speak their minds but also know the boundaries. The safety tips were most appropriate for this age group and handled well in a very age-appropriate, sensitive manner. We all enjoyed the powerful messages that Dannielle so passionately expresses. Many thanks!" 
Dianne Spencer, Assistant Principal, Coreen School  

"I had a read of the feedback, and it made my day. I have to say I've never seen our students react so positively to ANYTHING before. You and Nikki made a huge impact on all of the girls. I thank you so much for making a big difference in the girls' lives.
Take care and I hope to see you back here again next year."
Richard Dark, Careers Advisor, Arthur Phillip High School

"Since attending Dannielle's Enlighten Education Parent Information Session in March 2008, the lines of communication between myself and my 11-year old daughter have widened. Together, we are critically analysing everything aimed at young girls her age today via the media: clothes, music, videos, toys, IT, TV and movies and examining what is appropriate for her age in a whole new light. Our most important guideline is that whatever we are looking at, it must celebrate, cherish and support this precious time of her life.

"As a relatively intelligent working mum, I thought I was up to date with marketing tactics aimed at 11-year-old girls . . . HOW WRONG I WAS!!! Thanks to Dannielle's Parent Information Session, I am now truly 'switched on' to the marketing ploys and media brainwashing which try and change her into something she is not, and make her older before her time. Attending this course empowered me to stand up as a near lone voice to my daughter's dance studio and refuse their demand that she wear false eyelashes when at eisteddfod's.
 
"It was an absolute privilege to attend the Parent Information Session and meet Dannielle. I cannot recommend this course enough and would urge any parent to attend the Enlighten Education Parent Information Session if the opportunity arises."
Larissa Hofman (parent), St John Vianney's School, Wollongong 

"Now! This was a hugely successful event. The girls were tentative to their approach as they walked in but Sonia had them eating out of her hands the minute she greeted them. A lovely, soft, gentle yet powerful facilitator - a role model for girls. Our group of girls are still absolutely buzzing. They really do feel empowered and loved Sonia's enthusiasm and positive approach. We (the staff) appreciated being able to participate without having to worry about doing anything. Everything was taken care of."
Bronwyn Heath, Year 8 Coordinator, Ballarat Grammar

"The girls felt they were being listened to and that they related to the presenter. 
The girls opened up and felt that they could express how they were feeling."
Sue Waddell, Chifley College Dunheved Campus

"Nikki was great. The students loved her enthusiasm and the way she presented her own story. She is an excellent ambassador for girls' education and the Enlighten Education message. Thank you."
Tina Fisher, Careers Advisor, Crestwood High School 

  "I was very pleased with how everything went. The girls participated very well and enjoyed the day immensely."
Lynette Tuckwell, Supervisor of Girls, Hawkesbury High School

"The Enlighten team were so professional in every way. The girls are still talking about it being the best day ever . . . We will definitely be holding another day with them in the near future. Enlighten Education were so flexible and willing to help and adjust things to suit our school's needs. We can't thank them enough."
 Jackie Murphy, PE Staff, Tara Anglican School for Girls

"An outstanding program - professional and engaging! The day was underpinned by quality learning theory - engaging multiple intelligences, VAK types of learners and the sharing of stories."
Carol Ryan, Adult Learning Liaison Officer, Dorrigo High School 

"Thank you so much for your amazing workshops on Thursday. I've read the feedback, and it just supports what the girls had already told me on Friday. They absolutely loved it, and so did I. I think there are so many powerful messages that they get out of it and you present it in just the right way which really gets through to them. I hope to see you back here again soon!"
Karen Lawrie, Dean of Students, Middle School, Trinity College Gawler River

"It was great! The feedback comments from the girls are beautiful - I have photocopied them and passed them on to the DP and the Principal.
I'll be in touch next year and possibly lock in another year level too."
Sue Dooley, Year 8 Coordinator, Loreto College, South Australia

"I read the girls’ responses from the day with great delight Sonia. You have done well, I don’t think I can remember such an overwhelmingly positive response to a workshop before! Congratulations."  
Renata Rowe, Head of Secondary (Plenty Campus), Ivanhoe Grammar School

 "Dannielle, I just wanted to say thanks for a great Parent Presentation you did at St Agatha's the other day. I'm a mum of two little girls/primary school teacher and you reminded me to open my eyes to what my kids (and those I teach at school) see around them. I came home talking 100 words per min to my husband who listened with great interest and then went to work and discussed the topics with his work colleagues (dads with girls too)! I also had a great chat to my 8-year old about the posters she has up on her wall . . . We discussed who she looked up to and why and then chose who had the right to stay up on her wall and who was put in the bin (The Veronica's went - Woo hoo!). Nice to see a company that makes a change to people's lives. Thanks again, and good luck in all that you do!" 
Jane Scott, Parent 

"From my first dealings with Enlighten I was delighted at the flexibility, professionalism and courtesy that I was shown.

"Dannielle is an excellent presenter and facilitator and it was inspiring to watch her with our girls. Personally my dealings with Enlighten have changed my perspective on life. I first saw Dannielle after she had done a workshop with my daughter. She spoke such sense and with such passion. I fully believe that every young girl needs to experience the enlighten workshops, they are so relevant in today’s society.

"Thankyou for giving us that experience."
Lynne Sheville, Year 6 Teacher, Kaleen Primary School, ACT 

"Dannielle's presentation to the parents in our Diocesan community was inspirational.
We both laughed and shuddered at the examples she depicted of an airbrushed false reality as portrayed in the print and electronic media.

"She wrapped us all in her enthusiasm and challenged us to question ourselves and the messages we portray to our girls in our daily conversation.
Dannielle provided insightful suggestions and practical strategies for parents of all ages - from (consumers of) Bratz dolls to high teens.

"We all learnt and we went home more determined to value and celebrate our girls and their beauty
(and tell them daily how proud we are of them)."
Sue Bull, Parent Liaison Officer, Catholic Education Office, Broken Bay Diocese

" Many thanks - Francesca was fantastic with the girls. They were EMPOWERED!" 
Alan Le Brocque, Principal, Marian Catholic College

"Great workshop. Jane really related to the girls and their age group. We will run this again next year."
Michael Winter, School Counsellor, Seaford Year 6-12 School

"The students really benefited from the day and the comments from the girls have been wonderful. Students who have struggled with confidence were happy and excited when leaving. One parent, whose child has struggled with bullying and self-esteem, told me that her daughter didn't stop to draw breath for 20 minutes after getting home. She was so excited to learn all that Dannielle shared with her.

"Thank you for the changes you have made in my students' view of themselves." 
Jeanette Ryan, Giralang Primary School    

"The students found the information very useful and many went home and discussed it with their parents. Several parents rang to comment on how impressed they were with the content covered on the day . . . overall a great day and very inspiring. Well done Fran!"  
Kim Grinham, Year 9 Student Liaison Officer, Terra Sancta College

"Enlighten Education was a fantastic event. I can't believe that they successfully engaged 200 girls for a whole day, even though we had many unusual disruptions. A first-class job, I was really impressed. The feedback from the other staff on the day was, 'You should feel the buzz out there, our girls are really enjoying it!' The students have asked for Gorgeous (Danni) and Spunky (Sonia) to return."  
Amanda Conley, Girls' Advisor, Mt Austin High School

"What a buzz this program has created in our school! I have had so many girls tell me how they feel they are participating more at school, spending more time talking with their parents, and generally creating the idea of a 'sisterhood' with their peers. We are now at the stage where we are changing our bands over to our right wrist (part of the '21 Day Challenge' Enlighten set) which has made the girls feel excited and proud. We look forward to continuing to change the lives of girls at Rutherford High in the future."   
Lousie Smailes, Head Teacher Welfare, Rutherford High School

“All schools should provide the opportunity for their Year-9 girls to experience this program - those that choose not to are doing their girls a disservice. This college went into the program unsure of what to expect – it took a few minutes to realise that Storm and staff could do more in one day than we 'ordinary' staff could achieve in a year. I strongly recommend Enlighten Education to all."
Geoff Pritzler, Pastoral Coordinator, Our Lady’s College, Annerley

“All the girls were excited and really enjoyed the day. Thank you for your presentation! Our girls loved it!”
Terri Hinde, Year 6 Teacher, Longreach State School 

“Storm and Lou - you’re positive and vibrant! Great role models!”
Tracey Hart, Principal, Longreach State School 

“Storm - you were an inspiration to the girls that just don’t believe in themselves and life. Thank you! My girls are still talking about you!”
Meg Stuart, Year 7 Teacher, Longreach State School

“It’s great to be able to have a common language to talk to our girls about their issues. I love the 'words are powerful and magical' message and will use that as our Year-8 girls’ anthem!! I really enjoyed being able to spend this time with our girls, thank you.” 
Jasmine Bunting, Year 8 Coordinator

“The girls really enjoyed the workshop and gained accurate and valuable information from its content. The presentation was professional and ideally targeted to the girls. Materials were very well prepared and the use of music was enjoyed by the girls and enhanced their enjoyment and engagement with the workshop.”
Hazel Raymond, Head of McCulloch House, St Hilda’s School 

 "From the sessions I observed and from the follow-up discussion with the girls, I feel this was an excellent program to be involved with. The presenters were passionate, engaging and appealing, and their relevant yet down-to-earth approach enabled a fantastic impact at both year levels. The girls' feedback says it all!"
Chris Wyeth, Associate Principal, St Margaret's College, Christchurch NZ

"Lots of practical advice – really useful. It was a great day, everyone enjoyed themselves and got a lot out of it. Many thanks."
Jacky Wall, Deputy Principal, Tararua College, NZ

 "An outstanding event! The girls took a great deal of information away from the day.
It was very well structured and most relevant. Excellent resources and outstanding presenters."
Kelly Carrick, Head of Pennant House, Hills Grammar School

"Thank you again for your input with the girls. Danni - you steal the show!" 
Dominique Marturia, Assistant to the Head, Pastoral Care, Santa Sabina College

"I had the pleasure of seeing an up to date, relevant, fun, engaging and motivating program. The girls were engaged and into the whole day which is saying something. I gained a great refreshing way of interacting with my girls in the boarding house that I will be able to use immediately and every day, how great is that!

"You women rock, keep up the great work and I look forward to seeing it all again sometime!"
Tonya Low, Boarding House Manager, St Margaret's, Christchurch NZ

 Feedback for CEO Dannielle Miller's Parent Seminars - New Zealand:

"Tonight was absolutely riveting. Thank you!" Denise Abbott

"Thank you so much - you are truly enlightening and I am very excited for my daughter to spend the day with you tomorrow! What a gift you are giving to our girls - such a brilliant investment in their lives today and in the future.Thank you." Leanne Kennedy

"Great information! Fantastic to have this programme to enhance health courses at school. These topics are so important for our girls to debunk the media images portrayed and to have self-belief that they really are amazing." Lisa Paterson, Teacher

"I was blown away about some of the statistics. I wish this course was around when I was at school. I can’t wait for your book!" Andrea Tibbotts

"I had nothing but positive feedback from my girls. It is great to realise that we are teaching our girls in a positive way."
Jude Connochie, Director of Boarding

"This stuff would be great for our younger daughter, as well as all younger girls." Mary Crooks

"Several days ago, I glanced at my 14-year old daughter and though how pretty she looked - I didn’t say anything. I will go home and tell her she is beautiful and that Dannielle alerted me to how important it is to say what I think." Beth 

"I enjoyed it immensely; it reinforced a lot of my beliefs. It showed me that I am being a good mum!" Tracey Corbishley

"A wonderful, albeit terrifying presentation, highlighting the problems our daughters are confronted with.
Thank you so much for trying to make a difference!" Michelle and Andrew Stickley

"Thank you for giving my daughter such a wonderful day to guide her through her life!" Raylene

"My granddaughter came home absolutely enthused by the work you did and she really wants to put your messages into action." Robyn Dawson

"Thank you for reminding us how much we need to show our girls love! My daughter had the best day with you. You obviously made a huge impact on her thinking - thank you! Please come again!" Fiona Eaton

"This was a fantastic evening. Lots of food for thought. I would definitely attend another seminar." Anon 

"Fantastic presentation! I loved it. Wish you had given your speech to everyone in New Zealand. Thank you so much." Sue Ashton

"Excellent presentation. I think this was an eye opener for all parents.
Thank you on behalf of ourselves and our daughter - it was worthwhile for her." Kathryn Wigley

"My daughter attended your session on Tuesday and loved it. She spent all evening telling us every little detail. She was so full of enthusiasm.
It was great. Thanks!" Jacqui

"Our daughter came home buzzing - thanks!" Nigel and Wendy Mayson

"You are very inspiring women with exceptional enthusiasm. It really made me cry and so glad to have a daughter who loves me and herself. Helped me understand my older daughter more as well! Excellent in combination with the in-school program. Top lady - go girl!" Lucy

"Absolutely fantastic! Some of the comments were such an eye opener. My daughter came home positive and loved every single minute. Thank you." Jane Holmes

"My daughter loved it and didn’t stop talking about the day. A very good evening, a delight to listen to, and I would have happily listened a lot longer. Will check out website for sure!" Dawn Proud

"This was a great, entertaining, informative evening. It blows my mind what we take for granted - what our girls are bombarded with. Definitely lots to think about and act upon. Brilliant!" Julianne Farrell

"I love your work. For the sake of all of our girls, keep doing what you do best!" Janeen Luketic

"We spoke to our daughter this evening prior to this meeting and she was very inspired and excited about her experience today. Thank you Dannielle. We feel so privileged that the school she is at has chosen its girls to be a part of Enlighten Education!" Richard and Anita Todd

"What a great lady!" Paula Rapley  

"This was a fantastic experience for the girls in our school. Four weeks after the event, at a Year-10 parent evening, parents were still commenting on how pleased they were that their daughters had this opportunity. Twenty-one days after the Enlighten Team were in our school the Year-10 group had a morning session; we focused this on Girl Caught and made a Wall of Fame and Wall of Shame. We also had cakes in the shape of butterflies to remind us to celebrate the beauty within us all. Throughout the year we will continue to carry on the themes discussed during the Enlighten program. Not only has this been helpful for Year 10 as a whole it has also given us ideas for working with girls higher up in the school. The saying 'No girl gets left behind' has been something we have discussed with Year 11-13. We have also highlighted to the girls as whole the influence of the media and being vigilant about the pressure and ideas they are trying to sell. You are a consumer and therefore have power by not buying magazines, etc., that portray women in a negative light."
Jane Dickie, Guidance Counsellor, Rangi Ruru, Christchurch, NZ

Feedback from other Parent Seminars by CEO Dannielle Miller:

"I just want to thank the presenter and Pymble Ladies College for this great opening for mothers and fathers but especially to our adolescent teenagers. For me as a parent, a single parent, day and night I watched in breathless sighs the pressure our girls go through alone. The presenter highlighted main points and similar ways or tools that mothers like me would only identify. Thank you once again. Will be in touch and let our journey begin together." Tamoi Sutton

"My daughter came home full of lots of stories and almost on a high from your talk. I had to come to hear you for myself and will take away many thoughts for my future enjoyment with my daughter. You were amazing!" Wendy Caddey

"My daughter Lily found your presentation absolutely amazing. She was dreading the day and came back a different girl. I was so pleased that I was given the opportunity to experience some of your amazing information. Keep up the good work." Annie Fenwicke

"Fabulous. More please! Thank you for enlightening me and giving me the power to help my girls. Thanks Pymble too. P.S. Both my daughters LOVED it (Year 7 and Year 9)." Sally Oag

"The girls responded so positively to every aspect of the 'Enlighten' day. It provided them with a great opportunity to be able to reflect on the major issues they will confront in their journey through high school. They hear similar things from their mentor teachers and in the pastoral programs provided at school, but having the program facilitated by competent and engaging facilitators from outside their daily circle of teachers has a much more lasting effect on them! Thank you so much – they will be talking about this day for a long time to come yet!"
Julia Bevan, Year 7 Coordinator, Brigidine College, St Ives

"Danni and Fran were professional and so relevant to our students in relation to the challenges that they face. There was positive feedback from both parents and students. The last session dealing with images in media was particularly powerful. We are interested in running this program in the future - thank you."
Julia Young, Year 8 Coordinator, St Mary's Star of the Sea College, Wollongong

"The content of the program was extremely relevant and Nikki Dingle was a wonderful facilitator!! Our students enjoyed
the program very much and were interested and engaged all throughout. Student feedback was positive and we do hope
to run the program again so that more students may benefit."
Melanie El Mir, Careers Advisor, Cranebrook High School  

"All of our Year 10 students found the day to be enriching and insightful. Many girls are still talking about the day and the key messages that they learnt. They found the workshops meaningful and relevant as well as high energy and fun. There was certainly a great momentum about the day – all the activities interlinked and the summary at the end of the day was powerful. Dannielle’s personal story enabled girls to also validate their own ‘story’ – this was a great platform for great things to happen over the course of the day. Thanks again to Danni and Fran – a very powerful and meaningful day for students as well as staff."
Tracey Sullivan, Year 10 Coordinator, St Mary's Star of the Sea College

"This was the most successful program I have ever run at the school as Girls Advisor! I have had fantastic feedback from all the girls and many lovely emails from parents thanking me
and the school for running such an empowering program!"
Kim Morrison, Girls Advisor, Killarney Heights High School

"The Team at Enlighten Education WA did a fantastic job in presenting the issues that young girls face today. The students enjoyed the event so much because when the bell went for lunch instead of racing out of there half of them stayed around chatting, signing journals and generally just having a laugh.
It was so awesome to see the impact the day had. Thanks so much Diane!"
Kylie Grahame, Chaplain, Rossmoyne Senior High School

"I just want you to pass on my thanks to Dannielle for an outstanding day today at Arden. I felt blessed to have been a part of such an empowering day for our girls. Dannielle engaged the girls from the start to the end of the day. The girls learned so much during the day that they can use throughout their lives. I wish that my own daughters could have had an opportunity to have been involved in a powerful day like this when they had been teenagers.

"Many of the students have given me such positive feedback about all of the sessions. Dannielle is an intelligent, warm, enthusiastic person who has great energy and passion for the education of girls. I am determined to have these sessions regularly at Arden in the future.Thank you."
Jo Graham, Learning Support Coordinator K – 12, Arden Anglican School

"Thank-you Kelly. Our students thoroughly enjoyed the sessions. After reading the evaluations and speaking to the students they obviously gained so much from them. Kelly was an excellent facilitator and the students responded well to her bubbly personality.
Kelly was thoroughly professional in her dealings with the school and the students.

"We would warmly welcome her back in the school in the future to take more sessions.
This was definitely a highlight of the term for the Year 10 girls."
Bev McLean, Spotswood College, New Zealand  

"I would like to thank the Enlighten Team and especially Nikki.
The day was absolutely wonderful and the girls had a great time.
Nikki was able to share so much information and personal experience.
The girls were engaged from 9am-3pm which was amazing.
I was impressed that Enlighten did their own evaluation and I received the information back the very next day.
The girls thought that it was wonderful that they got to take resources home with them.
I would like to run the program again but think that it would be great in term 1 to start the school year.
I would highly recommend this program to all schools."
Kylie Fabri, Head Teacher Student Welfare, Miller Technology School
 

 "The girls in our Yr's 5 and 6 classes were really engaged and connected. The personal style of the presentation really resonated with them. They still refer to the things they learnt on the day so they are applying them in their everyday lives. I'm glad we had the opportunity to have the Enlighten team talk to our girls before they go on to face the particular girl pressures of High School. Hopefully this day will better equip them for that journey."
Patricia Campbell, Yenda Primary School

 "From the sessions I was present for I really feel that the girls took away so much beneficial information and positive feelings from the day. They were always engaged and responded so well to the ideas and information being presented to them. I could see that they felt so comfortable with Fran and could relate to the issues being raised. It was amazing to see so many little light bulbs go on in the girls' heads when different things were being spoken about. They were able to see how amazing they each are and hopefully remember to respect themselves and each other! The day was inspiring! I feel I took so much from the day as well!"
Kelly Maitland, Student Futures Co-ordinator, John Therry Catholic High School

"Congratulations on the positive interaction with students - many with intellectual disabilities. Was impressed to see the interaction from normally passive students."

"A positive and very interactive day for the girls who are considered to be very "at risk" due to cognitive and social restrictions. Good work in particular on handling personal presentation and body image. I was delighted with the involvement and the responses Jane was able to elicit from the students."

"Jane was fabulous with our group. I think the girls took away many valuable lessons."

"I was pleased that students who would not normally participate in a group setting felt comfortable by the middle of the session to be involved. I enjoyed all the sessions."
Teaching Team at Prospect Transition Centre 
 

"I think the day was fantastic! It was very valuable to the girls who gained so much from the day.
Sonia’s energy and enthusiasm really hit a cord with the group. They leant some vital skills and information about
body image, self confidence and valuing who you are.Excellent!! Even the following week, some of the students were saying that they were still on a high and others were saying that they do the affirmations and positive self talk."
Donna Taylor, B UR Best Coordinator, St Joseph’s College Echuca

 "I thought the day was a wonderful experience for our year 9 girls.
They were interested in each workshop and Sonia’s positive demeanor had a huge impact on the girls. They learnt
important information about staying safe, standing up for themselves and how to further appreciate / value who they are. Even now, the girls are still talking about their experience from the day, showing that they really valued those workshops. Sonia was able to very quickly gain the trust of the girls and they just loved her!!
They also provided ample detail on their self reflections which were all very positive. I can not speak highly enough about the program. Thank you so much."
Kristen Watson, Year 9 Focus Day Coordinator, St Joseph’s College Echuca 

"We were delighted with the Butterfly Effect workshop. Nikki Davis connected with the girls really well and enabled them to relate to her through personal photos and stories.
We would definitely look at running another event with Enlighten in the future." 
Kylie Taylor, Henderson College, Mildura 

"Dannielle recently attended our CanTeen weekend, Girl Aloud, which is a program designed to meet the needs of young women living with cancer in NSW. Dannielle ran two of her workshops for the girls free of charge and the feedback has been startling. Not only were the sessions full of energy and enthusiasm, they were also delivering a vital message to the girls. The feedback that we received told us that the sessions really created a sense of camaraderie amongst the girls and they saw this as a huge opportunity to recognise their values as a group but also as individuals.

"The weekend wouldn't have been such a success without these workshops. They were the perfect springboard to take the program to another level and for us to talk honestly about the challenges of being women in 2009. The young people were engaged throughout the sessions and the gifts that Dannielle presented to the girls were fantastic. However, the greatest gift they received was time spent with Dannielle; she took the time to talk with everyone individually and enabled the girls to truly empower themselves.

"Having worked with so many facilitators in 11 years in youth work, I feel that I have seen some great presenters and great workshops. But, being honest, I haven't ever seen a group of young people so engaged over a three-hour period. Many thanks again to Enlighten Education for all they have done with these young women. The opportunity to have the time with you was the best decision we could have made for the wellbeing of our fantastic young people."

Ben Jones, Member Liaison Officer, CanTeen

"The workshops provided where delivered with professionalism and passion. Sonia demonstrated the traits she was encouraging within her own story and in her dealings with the girls at all times.
Sonia’s group management was a credit to her experience but also to her genuine appreciation for young girls and their value and uniqueness. This group of girls arrived very skeptical and somewhat reluctantly and left buzzing, enthusiastic and pleasantly surprised and encouraged, as was very evident in the feedback forms.
The content of the workshops was up-to-date, relevant and fun as well as informative."
Analy Alfonso, Welfare Officer, Heritage College – Narre Warren Campus  
 

"Thanks for an excellent day. This was a highly valuable experience for the girls and it helped allay fears about the move to secondary school."
Robyn Hetherington, Yr 6 Class Teacher, Canberra Girls Grammar

"Despite the weather, the day was such a positive experience for our students. It was a delight seeing the girls enjoying the day so much.
They especially responded well to the last activity of the day involving positive affirmation of their peers, which I think was a most valuable bonding experience for them. I certainly hope to be able to offer this program next year. Thankyou for a wonderful day." 
Vicki Smith, Careers Advisor, Springwood High School 

"The Butterfly Effect was a fantastic event to hold for teenage girls. The methods by which the messages were delivered were directly relevant to the girls, making them extremely effective. The issues raised were all pertinent issues that had been identified throughout the year by the welfare team at the school, so it was great to see them addressed.
The girls related well to Dannielle and really appreciated her honesty and ability to reveal herself. A fantastic program. Well done and thankyou."
Jenny Cooper, Jindabyne Central School

"The girls were so engaged by Nicky’s brilliant facilitation. The teachers were all amazed at one person managing 90 children and keeping them enthralled all day. Both schools were thrilled with the content and really pleased to see the girls exposed to ideas of self esteem and critical thinking as well as ways to manage friendships. The teachers are planning to follow up the Enlighten Challenge and stay connected to the themes that resonated with the girls."
Robyn Laughton-Smith – Schools as Communities, Wanniassa, ACT

"Thank you for an awesome day! It is great to celebrate being a girl! (Even if I am grown up!) My student’s left the day feeling positive about themselves and with a greater appreciation of their girlfriends. I have had the opportunity to follow up and spend an extra day with my girls where we discussed the things we learnt and were able to build on the activities using scenarios, role plays and artworks. Most of the students were able to articulate the main aspects of what Nikki had spoken to us about. Well Done!!!"
Allyson Gunning, Year 5/6 Teacher, Wanniassa School Junior Campus