Yvonne Connolly has taken part in her first photoshoot since she sustained serious facial injuries back in 2019.
The 47-year-old and her daughter Ali have partnered with Dove to launch the Dove Self-Esteem Project in Ireland, which aims to arm the next generation with the tools they need to grow up enjoying a positive relationship with the way they look.
This is the first time Yvonne has posed for professional photos since she was kicked in the face and arm by a horse in November 2019.
The freak accident left her with a broken arm and serious injuries to her face, and Yvonne has revealed it took a year and “extensive surgery” for her to recover.
Speaking about the Dove Self-Esteem Project, the TV presenter said: “As a mother of two daughters, I can see first-hand how a lack of confidence can affect young girls in all aspects of their lives.”
“I am thrilled to be working with Dove on the Dove Self-Esteem Project – something that is purposeful and important.”
“I had an accident in 2019 that badly affected my self-esteem, so this is an issue that is close to my heart.”
According to recent in-depth research from Dove of girls aged 10-17, the majority (87%) of girls in Ireland do not have high body self-esteem.
This can have significant consequences, causing young girls to miss out on activities and opt out of major life events.
The Dove Self-Esteem Project aims to reach the lives of 1/3 of all 11–14-year-olds in Ireland by the end of 2021 through a free programme featuring evidence-based resources that are available across Ireland.
The Dove Self-Esteem Project resources include activity guides and website articles to help parents tackle tough topics like bullying and poor body image; confidence building workshops for classrooms and educational activities for mentors and youth leaders.
Yvonne added: “I was also shocked when I first read the stats and found it especially sad to see how it all started at such a young age.”
“This is why I think the Dove Self-Esteem Project is a fantastic initiative that can really help our girls grow into confident young women and make a change in how they view themselves and their peers.”
