As part of the many events that took place for Holocaust Memorial Day, students at The English Martyrs Catholic School and Sixth Form College were honoured to host Smajo Beso OBE.
Smajo, a survivor of the Bosnian Genocide, spoke with Year 12 and Year 9 students about his experience as an eight year old boy living in a warzone before escaping persecution and being reunited with his immediate family in the North-East of England.
Recognising the the importance of standing up against prejudice and also the importance of forgiveness, he has gone on to be an ambassador for the Bosnian Genocide Educational Trust and the Holocaust Memorial Trust.
This work and dedication was recognised recently being awarded an OBE from His Royal Highness King Charles III.
Mrs Sophie Stanwick, Head of History said: "It is not very often that we have the opportunity to speak first hand with someone who has such a significant story to tell."
"His experiences give students something real that they can relate to rather than reading from a book."
"Smajo's message is important for young people to hear."
The event was also covered by ITV Tyne Tees who were with us for the morning, the news item can be viewed below.