A Blackburn schoolgirl has reached audiences across the world with her passionate speech ‘If I could change the world’. Sara Hussain, a pupil at Wensley Fold C of E Primary Academy, Blackburn, wrote the speech for the borough’s annual Public Speaking Cluster Competition for schools. In her heartfelt address, 11 year old Sara considers what she would say to Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi, if she could travel back in time to the night of the attack in May 2017.

Shared on the academy’s social media channels, Sara’s speech went on to attract the attention of both local and national media. This week she has appeared on BBC Radio Lancashire and on BBC North West Tonight regional news. The story of Sara’s inspiration for the speech, from her friend who was at the Arianna Grande concert on the night of the Manchester Arena attack, has also featured in national news media, including The Guardian, i News and Huffington Post.

Sara Hussain said: “The reaction was a bit overwhelming at first – I didn’t expect it. I felt a bit nervous about being filmed for television but it was a good experience and I’m proud of myself.” The video of Sara delivering her message of peace and love has been shared widely on social media and attracted comments from as far afield as Australia.

Sara added:
“It’s a bit weird to know that my message has gone that far! I hope it changes people’s views and attitudes. So many people have watched the video and it’s good to know that people are listening and have heard my message. Some people might think that because it is coming from an 11 year old girl I can’t make a difference but I can. I hope I change people’s views and attitudes. Words are powerful.”

The Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, Councillor Mohammed Khan, congratulated Sara Hussain on her achievement. He said: “In her speech, Sara talks about having a good heart and a voice that deserves to be heard as she considers how she can make a difference in the world. She has clearly put her good heart to excellent use in this speech by challenging the negative view of Islam that those Muslims who commit acts of terror perpetuate.

“She’s used her talents for writing and public speaking to speak out with a message of peace and love. The world needs more people like Sara. Well done to her.” Donna Simpson, head teacher at Wensley Fold C of E Primary School, said the whole academy is “incredibly proud” of Sara. Donna added:
“Sara is an amazing citizen. How I wish that there were more people in the world like Sara – what a wonderful world it would be.”