We Were There: Sarah

Home is Northern Ireland, but I have been living in London for the past 7 years.

The Northern Ireland Troubles in the late 1990s.

I can’t describe myself as someone who lived through the Northern Irish Troubles that my parents and family witnessed as I was born in 1990. But I was part of something that I shouldn't have been born into. The effects of the Troubles are ingrained in the culture. Especially in schools and all the sectarian divides. I was 8 years old when the Good Friday Agreement was signed. This was to bring peace to Northern Ireland.

Since October 2018.

I love it. It’s a surreal experience. I get to hang out with eyewitnesses from the Second World War and also share my personal story about a conflict that not many people know about as it’s so raw. This makes it really unique. I share my story and I feel understood. People love asking questions, and taking part in the We Were There programme has given me so much confidence. We Were There is like a family and we all support each other. Every session is different, and every conversation is different which makes it great.

When I share my story it’s based on my school experience which wasn't particularly great. I share with the kids that I was bullied and how reading the Harry Potter books was one of the things that distracted me and helped. There was once a girl who said that she wasn't enjoying school either and hearing my story had helped her. She told me she was going to speak to her teacher about how she was feeling and that Harry Potter is incredible. This is my favourite moment, because I was relatable and my story had an impact.

It’s going to have to be the V2 Rocket. It has so many things linked to its story, especially the Holocaust which is a big interest of mine. It’s got the wow factor when you enter IWM London.

I enjoy exploring stately homes, walks, eating Thai food and playing guitar. I’m also a full-time youth worker.

Jam ‘n’ cream – there’s no right or wrong way to eat them!