Laura Beth Lal

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO VOLUNTEER TO TEACH THE FREE TO BE PROGRAM?

When I heard about the program, I immediately wished that Free to Be had been around when I was in school. While I didn't experience bullying via social media, I struggled with self-confidence and compared myself to women in magazines or on TV. I knew that I had to get involved and speak from my experiences. 

WHAT GETS YOUR EXCITED TO JUMP OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?

The thought of a hot coffee, snuggles with my baby girl, sharing laughs with friends and family, and helping others. 

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU ARE PROUD OF? 

I'm proud of my strength and confidence to help others. I have gone through traumatic situations, and my experiences have helped me relate to others in their moment of suffering or struggle.

IN YOUR MIND WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING THAT FREE TO BE TEACHES?

Free to Be teaches kids to love the skin they're in, and I think that is so valuable. 

IF YOU COULD GO BACK AND GIVE YOUR 12-YEAR OLD SELF A PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I would tell her that everything will be okay. To be authentic. That her struggles with confidence and bullying will be a catalyst to create change in the future.