Dr Lawrence inspires with his powerful messages of empowerment and inclusion
A powerful start to Sydenham High School's 'Mind, Body & Soul' drop down day courtesy of the inspiring Hon Dr Stuart Lawrence, who spoke to a packed room about the ability each person has to make a positive change in the world.
‘ÍÑ¿ã°É is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world’ - Nelson Mandela
So began the inspirational talk by the Hon. Dr Stuart Lawrence at Sydenham High School GDST for this term’s Mind, Body & Soul Day. As the younger brother of Stephen Lawrence, who was murdered in a racist attack in 1993, Dr Lawrence has a profound story of hope, resilience, and positive change. As a former teacher and motivational speaker, he spoke to an enraptured audience about inclusion and empowering students through dialogue and empathy, encouraging them to harness the good in themselves and be the change they want to see.
Head, Ms Geldeard, and Ms Matin, English Teacher, meet Dr Lawrence
Dr Lawrence is committed to ensuring that the voices of young people are not just heard but actively embraced, advocating for real, authentic inclusion and equality. Speaking candidly, Dr Lawrence reflected on his experience growing up as the middle child in his family and how Stephen’s death shaped his life journey. He described the challenges he faced returning to school after the tragedy and his long and painful wait for justice. Over time, he found strength in using his voice to educate and inspire young people, encouraging them to take positive action and be the change they wish to see in the world.
Dr Lawrence reminded pupils that “life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it”, urging everyone to focus on what they can do today to make a difference. He introduced his powerful mantra H.O.P.E — Help One Person Everyday, highlighting how even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of change.
He also spoke about the importance of continuous learning and open-mindedness in tackling racism, emphasising that education and empathy are key to building a fairer society.
The engagement of the audience was clear, and the girls asked insightful questions about Dr Lawrence’s experiences, with the whole audience enjoying repeating his rallying cry: “I am a revolutionary!” as we all look at ways we can focus on our words, actions and effort to make others feel understood and make the world a better place, after all tomorrow is not a given so we must enjoy each day!
After the talk, Dr Lawrence stayed behind to speak to pupils and staff, and sign copies of his books — Find Your Voice and Be Your Best Self and Growing Up Black in Britain — both of which encourage young people to channel positivity, self-belief and understanding into their own journeys.
Dr Lawrence closed with a reminder that, as Aristotle stated, Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all’
This was a unique opportunity for Sydenham High School to hear from a truly inspirational figure carrying on his brother's legacy. The event sparked meaningful discussion among pupils, leaving everyone empowered to reflect, take action, and continue shaping a more inclusive and compassionate community.
October 2025