The Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club and South Jersey Millennials joined forces on June 11 to present a sold-out community workshop focused on one theme: empowerment.
With the theme “How to Empower Yourself in the Workplace,” the free event was held at the township’s M. Allan Vogelson Regional Branch Library and featured nationally recognized empowerment trainer Maria Grande as the keynote speaker.
With a room full of professionals, students and local leaders in attendance, the event blended personal development with professional networking, while highlighting the power of communication and self-awareness in career growth.
Grande, whose journey from burnout to self-discovery inspired her current mission, offered actionable strategies to boost confidence and build leadership skills.
“I was a timid people pleaser, just surviving in someone else’s version of my life,” she recalled. “When I discovered empowerment training, everything changed. It gave me the tools to reclaim my voice, set boundaries and communicate effectively. That skill alone transformed how I show up in the world.”
During the two-hour interactive session, Grande broke down the value of understanding behavioral styles in the workplace, explaining how self-awareness can create stronger teams, reduce conflict and help individuals lead with empathy and intention.
“Communication is more than a skill,” she explained. “It’s a strategic asset. When people understand their own behavior and the styles of those around them, they shift from misunderstanding to collaboration. That’s where teams really thrive.”
The event drew guests from across Camden County and beyond who networked and shared reflections on the importance of empowerment in both professional and personal spaces.
“It was an incredible evening of empowerment, community and connection,” said Quandell Iglesias, founder of the South Jersey Millennials.
“It was great connecting with other like-minded people who enjoyed learning, growing and networking,” observed Mimi Hadi, secretary of the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club. “We’re looking forward to hosting more events like this in the future.”
Grande’s workshop resonated with people across all career levels, from new graduates to seasoned professionals. Her universal message emphasized internal growth as the foundation for external success.
“Self-awareness is key,” she pointed out. “If you want real change – in your work, relationships or leadership – it starts with recognizing your own patterns and reclaiming the energy we waste trying to control things we can’t.”
For future events and workshops hosted by the South Jersey Millennials or the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club, follow the groups’ social media platforms or check the Voorhees event calendar.
