‘I have seen so much bullying around me’ Teen fights back at bullies through music

It's not easy standing up to bullies.

Victims can often feel alone and frightened and like there is no one in their corner. One Irish teen noticed this and thought enough is enough. Ruby O Kelly from Cavan released a song this year to let anyone feeling bullied and put down that they are not alone and the bullies won't stop them. Earlier this week I spoke to Ruby about what inspired her to write You Won't Stop Me.

"I was inspired to write my song You Won’t Stop Me when I have seen so much bullying around me on a daily basis and I wanted to make a difference. I find my music helps me express my feelings because like I always say, it’s like writing in a diary! I have received the most support from all my family and friends, they are all my biggest fans and I love them so so much."

When I asked Ruby what have been some of the best things to have happened as a result of her song it proved a difficult question to answer.

"Since my song has been released, I’ve had so many great experiences. I've had tea with the Lord Mayor, done nationwide radio interviews, appeared on the Daithi and Maura show. I won the Cathaoirleach 2019 award, of which I won €1,000 and I was so happy to be able to give it to Aoibheanns Pink Tie, which is my chosen charity. There have been so many more amazing experiences which I simply cannot fit into the one question!"

While discussing the topic of bullying I asked Ruby what her advice would be to any young person currently dealing with it.

"The advice that I would give a young person is to speak and confide in somebody, no matter how big or small the situation. Feelings are feelings so share your worry with that person and trust them to help you."

Not even halfway through the year, Ruby has already achieved so much but she's nowhere near finished.

"I have a very exciting year ahead of me! I will be performing at the World Anti-Bullying Conference in City Hall on the 4th of June, I am a guest artist in Able Festival in July, I’m back in the studio in September where I will be working on my second song and many more exciting things ahead, but I will keep my lips tight until then! And I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported me on my journey so far!"

We're so excited to see what else is in store for Ruby and her music and of course her incredible message. If you would like to find out more about Ruby and her charity work you can through her social media Miss Ruby Music.