Lhamea's Story

The bullying I received could have crushed my talents

In my first secondary school I was bullied for 3 years because of my talents as a singer. For the first year I was in the school choir and all school productions. But eventually I quit as the bullying became physical. I told the teachers and they even witnessed events but no action was ever taken. I kept a diary of all the incidents that happed to me within the time I attend the school e.g.: comments, physical abuse, the damage to my property and the names of all those involved. Throughout the 3-year ordeal I had managed to maintain a 100% attendance, I knew I had to stay strong and focused. Luckily I had my parents to turn to I told them what was happening at school and why. My parents would consistently visit the school but of course, were told it would be dealt with. Eventually the final straw came when a girl with a clenched fist punched me in the face. My parents then took me out of the school never to return there again.

While I was still in school, at the age of 12, I decided to put pen to paper and write positive lyrics to help inspire me to overcome what I had experienced and eventually I grew to know that as well as helping me voice my thoughts through song it was heard by many other young people which helped inspire and educate (those who felt hurt and had suffered the same as I.)

My parents decided to teach me at home until another school could be found. A few months later I was to attend my new secondary school. The teachers were so supportive and my music teacher was the best of all. My grades went up and I received an A* result for my GCSE Music Exam and for once I felt quite safe in school.

Now at the age of 18, I am an Ambassador for the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Awards For Young People. I give speeches and performances at high profile Conferences, Educational Events and Showcases to highlight my experiences and to help empower others to be as strong as I am (no matter what they may go through.)

One of my Anthems, “The Hardest of All” is an inspiring and empowering song that relates to many going or gone through the suffering has myself. Motto: Stay Strong, Stay Focused and dont let the bullies win.