A powerful and thought-provoking anti-bullying display – I Am Still Here – has been installed at the Living Well Hub on Horsemarket Street.
The display was made by school pupil Zhanna, who fled Ukraine with her mum. The display shares Zhanna’s story and experiences, while also promoting an important anti-bullying message.
I Am Still Here is a reflection of how Zhanna felt leaving Ukraine and trying to settle into her new home in Warrington. The display focuses on the difficulties Zhanna faced leaving behind her previous life and friendships, and trying to adjust to a new language and new school, as she worked to “find her place”.
Zhanna said: “I created I Am Still Here because I wanted to show feelings that are often difficult to talk about. When I came to the UK, I had to learn a new language and start again in a new school, and sometimes I felt invisible and afraid to speak.
“I hope my project encourages people to look a little more carefully at the person standing beside them, because sometimes someone may need kindness and understanding more than we realise.”
Cabinet member for children, families and education, Cllr Matt Smith, said: “Zhanna’s display shares a vitally important message, and serves as a reminder that we need to look out for each other, and that nobody should be made to feel invisible.
“Zhanna’s display is thought-provoking, challenging and humbling. I would encourage residents to visit the Living Well Hub to look at it for themselves.
“I would also like to thank the staff at the Living Well Hub for being so accommodating, and to Cllr Paul Warburton for helping to support the project.”
I Am Still Here is currently installed at the Living Well Hub, and residents can visit to look at the display during the Hub’s normal opening hours, until Friday 9 October.
