VIDEO - NORTH KENT: Students star in anti-bullying film

7:30am Thursday 22nd January 2009

By Michael Purton

STUDENTS from north Kent recently starred in an anti-bullying film now being seen by youngsters nationwide. Reporter Michael Purton spoke to them about the experience.

Beatbullying is the UK’s biggest anti-bullying charity, working with the Government, local authorities and schools to prevent children being the victim of verbal and physical abuse.

As well as providing guidance to youngsters and the adults working with them, the charity also makes films about bullying, which aim to support the victims and change the attitude of their tormentors.

Ahmed’s Story is Beatbullying’s most recent film, a five-minute drama about a teenage boy who is bullied by fellow students for being a Muslim.

Gravesend Grammar School pupil Roop Pardesi, 15, played Ahmed and said: “Taking part in the film was great but difficult, because I experienced what it’s like to be bullied.

“I hope any victims of bullying who see this film are inspired to speak to someone about their problem, and I hope any bullies who see it will realise how much pain they are causing their victims.”

Ahmed’s Story has been on Beatbullying’s website and YouTube since the end of last year, with more than 10,000 people watching it so far.

A Beatbullying spokesman said: “Ahmed’s Story is a good way to illustrate the seriousness of the bullying taking place in society, as it is based on young people’s real experiences.

“The story has resonated very deeply with many young people who identify with the lead character, and has provided support by showing them they are not alone and can act to improve their situation.”

Filming for Ahmed’s Story took place in Lewisham, Brixton, Deptford and Croydon at the end of October last year.

Roop secured the lead role through an audition set up by Northfleet-based youth charity Walk Tall, where he takes part in drama classes and performs in shows.

Gravesend Grammar School pupil Stephen Duke also landed his role through the charity, where he too is a drama student.

The 16-year-old played the lead bully, which called for him to aim racist insults as well as kicks and punches at Roop during filming.

He said: “The film is a very raw portrayal of bullying, making it uncomfortable to watch.

“If anyone recognises themself in my character, I hope it makes them see how wrong they are to bully others.”

Walk Tall students Rosie Benn, 20, and Danielle Swaffield, 18, worked behind the scenes on the film as runners, and along with Roop and Stephen, they hope it will lead to a career in the film industry, either as actors or directors.

Rosie was a victim of bullying at school, and said she and her fellow students felt so strongly about being involved in the film because it “can help so many people in need”.

Beatbullying was established in 1999 and has worked with 1.5 million young people over the last five years.