Local Singer-Songwriter ‘Roma’ visited pupils from Hillside Primary School in Ipswich, to talk about bullying and shared her personal journey of using music and fundraising for local causes to overcome her own teenage bullying experiences. This occurred during the school’s Anti-Bullying Week activities last week.

The children from Years 5 & 6 listened to Roma speak about her many years of verbal, physical and online bullying during her final years at primary school and throughout high school. Many of the children asked Roma questions about her encounters with bullying and her musical journey.

They also enjoyed hearing Roma perform her original song titled 'Stronger,' addressing the theme of bullying, as well as the Judy Garland classic, 'Somewhere over the Rainbow'.

As a parting gift, Roma gave each child a leaflet about bullying and a signed copy of her first-ever Album which she released back in 2018, when she was just 13 years old.

Headteacher of the school, Mrs Wass said, “What an inspirational visit. Thank you to Roma for sharing her stories and being part of our themed Anti-Bullying week at Hillside!”

The school visit was coordinated by Mike Grimwood, the Designated Safeguarding Lead at Hillside Primary School, which is part of The Active Learning Trust.
    
Mike first met Roma when she auditioned for 'Ipswich Has Got Talent' at the age of 9. Her remarkable performance earned her the ‘golden buzzer’, propelling her straight to the final. Since then, Mike has been an avid supporter of the young musical talent, closely following her journey from busking in town to performing on stage at Latitude Festival.

Mike said: “Roma is a caring, compassionate and strong individual and it has been a pleasure to see that her life journey has brought her success at such a young age. I have no doubt we will be hearing more about her in the future.”

Roma has raised over £22,000 for local charities through her singing, performances and Album sales During her high school years, she served as an Anti-Bullying ambassador.

Roma, now aged 18, remains dedicated to sharing her passion for music and speaking openly about her personal encounters with bullying during her younger years. She actively participates in events and visits schools whenever possible to discuss these experiences and advocate against bullying.

"Speaking to these amazing children, I hope that I have shown them there is a way to beat the bullies and that by moving forward they can stay strong, be kind and follow their dreams" said the inspirational singer after her school visit.

CEO of The Active Learning Trust, Lynsey Holzer, said: “It has been very important for us to support Anti-Bullying Week across our Trust and to ensure that all our children and young people feel empowered to follow the theme of this year’s campaign and “make a noise about bullying”. 

She continued: “Roma’s visit embodies this perfectly and shows how her determination has helped her to thrive, despite some very difficult times. This message was really inspiring for everyone to hear, thank you, Roma!”

You can find out more about Roma on all social media @romasworlduk and hear her music on Spotify as Artist Roma.