A participant shows off a freshly created henna design during the Voorhees Gibbsboro Lions Club’s upcoming Henna Workshop, which will take place Thursday, August 28, at the Voorhees Allan Vogelson Library.
The Voorhees Gibbsboro Lions Club is inviting the community to discover the beauty and tradition of henna through a Henna Workshop on Thursday, August 28, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Voorhees Allan Vogelson Library.
The event is open to all ages and skill levels.
The workshop will be led by Sapana Raval, vice president of the Voorhees Gibbsboro Lions Club, who has been practicing henna art for years. Raval’s journey began in India, where she first experimented with traditional patterns during family celebrations. Her passion grew into a lifelong pursuit of creativity and cultural expression.
“Henna is not just art—it’s a celebration of creativity and culture,” Raval said. “This ancient practice has been part of celebrations and rites of passage for centuries, and I want participants to walk away not only understanding its history but also feeling empowered to create their own designs.”
Raval, whose favorite designs are intricate mandalas, says the workshop will blend cultural education with hands-on practice.
“Mandalas represent unity and harmony,” she explained. “Each one I create is unique, and I enjoy helping others personalize their designs to reflect their own stories.”
Henna artist and Lions Club Vice President Sapana Raval demonstrates her craft, sharing the history and beauty of henna art with the community.
For the Lions Club, the workshop is about more than art—it’s also about connection and giving back.
“We are always looking for ways to balance our fundraising efforts with community engagement,” said Mimi Hadi, secretary and founder of the Voorhees Gibbsboro Lions Club. “The Henna Workshop seemed like a fun way to do that. The funds raised will support various charitable causes in the South Jersey area.”
Hadi noted that the event also aligns with the club’s mission of cultural enrichment.
“Henna has long been a tradition in Indian culture, especially during weddings, but in recent years, it has gained popularity in mainstream American culture,” she said. “This event is a wonderful way to share that cultural tradition with our community.”
The community has already shown great enthusiasm for the event, Hadi said.
“… It’s the first time I’ve seen something like this hosted locally, and people from both Indian and non-Indian backgrounds are excited to participate,” she enthused.
The decision Raval lead the workshop was also intentional, Hadi added.
“Sapana is not only a talented henna artist but also someone who is deeply engaged in our community,” she explained. “She serves on the Voorhees Cultural Diversity Committee and is well known for connecting with people from all walks of life. Attendees will truly enjoy learning from her.”
Participants can look forward to live demonstrations, cultural storytelling, and the opportunity to try their hand at henna art. Everyone will also receive a free design from Raval, making the evening both educational and interactive.
“This workshop is perfect for families, individuals, and groups who want to explore creativity while connecting with global traditions,” Raval said. “I encourage people to come with curiosity, patience, and a willingness to try something new. Henna is about more than patterns—it’s about expression and connection.”
Admission includes all materials, complimentary snacks and beverages, and a free henna design. Space is limited, and participants are encouraged to reserve their spot in advance by sending payment via Zelle to voorheesgibbsborolionsclub@gmail.com.
