Growing up can be a challenge. It’s even harder when you’re forced to deal with the hardships of severe poverty and neglect alone. Teaming up with The Royal Academy of Art, Camila Batmanghelidjh seeks to inspire youngsters to pursue their inner artistic ambitions and shine hope on what could have been a desperate situation. In The Just Kids Issue we found out more about how Camila and her ambitious Kids Company accomplices are making a difference.
Originally appeared in The Just Kids Issue, Pre-Fall 2012. Get your copy here.
From the urban streets of the most deprived areas in London, to the traumatic lives of inner-city children struggling to survive, Kids Company has been at the forefront in charity campaigning for over fifteen years. Founded by Iranian born Camila Batmanghelidjh, a one-time West London nanny and a devoted charity leader, Kids Company has helped reach over 17,000 children since its inception in 1996. For victims exposed to emotional and physical trauma at such a vulnerable age, Kids Company has provided a vital support network thanks to the charity’s experience in both practical and emotional therapy. Kids Company’s aim is to ensure each young person they care for achieves some sense of stability, helping them to identify talents and interests for future aspirations. With their tagline, “No child should ever feel alone,” it seems that Kids Company is doing all they can to shed light one of London’s biggest problems. Here we ask some of the Kids Co kids about their inspirations…
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“I would like to share my experience with my people back in Nigeria as they don’t have any opportunities. I would love to teach people the skills I have learnt.” Darlington, 21
“I am my own hero. I like what I do and the way I do it. Some people rush things and I like to do things perfectly and finish things I start.” Kelly, 16
“I am inspired by the concept of Yin and Yang, the idea of finding a balance between positive and negative influences in life in order to find acceptance and peace within. I strive to find this balance and be content in life.” Anael, 23
“My hero is Camila Batmanghelidjh because she is solely responsible for starting and growing Kids Company, which reaches out to and supports thousands of young Londoners every year.” Nathalie, 24
“The person that inspires and motivates me is myself. I am my own hero.” Laurel, 19
Pick up a copy of The Just Kids Issue to read our interview with Kids Co founder Camilla Batmanghelidjh.
Text: Christopher Prince
Photography: Nik Hartley
