Tribute to Kelyan Bokassa

At OMG Education Independent School, we deeply value the resilience, strength, and aspirations of the young people we have the privilege to work with. Today, we honour the life and journey of Kelyan Bokassa, a remarkable young person whose time with us left an indelible impact.

Kelyan joined OMG Education in December 2023 at the age of 13. At that time, he faced numerous challenges, but with the support of his devoted Mother and our team, he began a transformative journey to re-engage with education. Working alongside Greenwich Youth Offending Service and Greenwich Children in Care Service, we were able to secure safe and reliable transportation for Kelyan to and from school each day, ensuring his safety and providing the stability he needed to thrive.

At OMG Education, Kelyan was assigned a youth support worker who mentored him throughout his time with us. This mentorship played a crucial role in helping Kelyan work towards his personal and social development goals. Through regular guidance, encouragement, and support, Kelyan grew in confidence, resilience, and self-awareness, showing us the incredible potential he had within him.

OMG Education, often referred to as the "Safe Haven," strives to create an environment where students feel secure, valued, and supported. It was within this nurturing space that Kelyan was able to begin believing in himself and thinking about a brighter future. Despite the vulnerabilities he carried and the challenges he faced, Kelyan engaged with us wholeheartedly, demonstrating his strength, ambition, and heartfelt desire to better his life.

Kelyan’s journey was a testament to his determination. Through his time with us, he not only reconnected with education but also began to focus on his aspirations and goals. His passion for football, art, and music was evident, and we admired his dreams of succeeding both in school and in life.

In June 2024, Kelyan transitioned to an education provision closer to his home in Greenwich. While we were sad to see him leave our Safe Haven, we were proud of the progress he had made and the path he was on.

It is with immense sadness and a heavy heart that we acknowledge the tragic loss of Kelyan, who was fatally stabbed on his way home from his new school. This senseless act has stolen a bright and promising future, leaving a void in the hearts of all who knew and cared for him.

Kelyan’s time with us will always be remembered. His story reminds us of the importance of creating safe spaces for young people, listening to their needs, and providing unwavering support. Kelyan’s resilience, courage, and aspirations will continue to inspire us as we strive to make a difference in the lives of other young people.

To Kelyan’s family, especially his devoted Mother, we extend our deepest condolences and unwavering support. Kelyan will forever be a part of the OMG Education family, and his memory will live on in our hearts and in the work, we continue to do to create brighter futures for young people.

Rest in peace, Kelyan. You will never be forgotten.