Growing up Polish in Belfast wasn’t always easy. Between 9 and 14 I got bullied at school. “Go back to your own country!” they’d yell. I tried to fit in, but I always felt different. Then in 2010 someone smashed our windows just because we were Polish. I didn’t understand it then, but it made me stronger. I learned to stand my ground.

Everything changed when I found Youth Initiatives NI. One youth worker became like a dad to me - he gave me hope, confidence, a voice. Now I’m the youth worker. I hang out with 10- to 14-year-olds, teaching cooking, budgeting, and how to believe in themselves. I want them to know they’re worth something, that they can reach their full potential. I’m their big sister, their coach, their friend - whatever they need.

I’m Polish, but Belfast raised me. This is my home, and I love it. I love walking the Mournes or looking over the city from Cave Hill (not for the weather, mind you!). I love our diversity - sharing pierogi at Cooltura events, tasting everyone’s food, hearing everyone’s music. We’re all unique, and that’s what makes life here brighter.

I work with refugees now, kids who fled with only the clothes on their backs. Their stories humble me. My childhood was hard, but never that scary. I’m blessed.

Labels don’t tell my story. Dialogue does. When confronted with strong views, it’s important we talk. You don’t stop hate with silence or violence - you stop it with more speech, more understanding, more respect. Live and let live, that’s me.

My parents were brave. They left everything for us to have a better life. I don’t take that for granted. Every day I pay it forward, helping the next young person find their place, their voice, their hope.

This is me. Polish heart, Belfast home, open arms.