Andy Drozdziak
St Bonaventure’s school in Forest Gate, London, welcomed Margaret and Barry Mizen from the Mizen foundation to share their story with students.
Deputy Headteacher Andy Lewis, who organised the Mizens’ visit, explained that it was designed to ‘challenge’ Year 11 students.
“We always get them to speak to our Year 11 students in the lead up their exams as a reminder – partly as a reminder that anger can lead to anger, and that our challenge is to live a life of forgiveness, peace, and hope,” Mr Lewis told the Universe.
Margaret and Barry Mizen were visiting to share their story of forgiveness following the loss of their son, Jimmy, who was killed in a bakery in 2008. Mr Lewis explained that the relationship goes back a long way.
“Barry and Margaret have been good friends to St Bonaventure’s for a long time, and have been speaking to our students for many years,” he said.
“Jamie Halliwell, of our school council, was awarded the Jimmy Mizen Award from Million Minutes in 2015 for his work on the City Safe Haven scheme, which is something we relaunched in Newham in 2020 and are currently working with the council on the updated scheme.”
“Their mission to bring good to the world is close to our hearts.”
During the visit, Barry Mizen shared a message of God’s love with the young people, telling them: “You are loved, you are valued, you matter-and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
The message impacted year 11 student Danylo, who said: “It was really eye-opening and meaningful to hear this powerful story and witness the courage of Margaret and Barry Mizen. After such a tragedy, their commitment to help bring forgiveness, peace and hope into today’s world is one we all heartily endorse and pray for.”
Mr Lewis vowed to continue to support the Mizen foundation, which includes the Walk For Jimmy fundraising event.
He said: “Last year, I personally did the Walk for Jimmy with my wife and two young boys, raising £650 for their work sponsored by many staff at St Bonaventure’s. We will continue to support their work as a school, as we know the value it brings.”