Survivors of Grenfell Fire: Stories of Resilient Children
The Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017 left a lasting impact on the lives of many, especially the children who were caught in the midst of the tragedy. Sixty-seven children resided in Grenfell Tower at the time of the fire, and sadly, eighteen of them lost their lives. The survivors have had to grapple with the trauma, anxiety, and PTSD that followed the disaster, shaping their childhoods and young adult lives in profound ways. The loss of friends, family, and belongings, along with months or even years spent in temporary accommodations, has taken a toll on these young individuals, impacting their mental health and overall well-being.
As the Grenfell Inquiry releases its final report, Sky News has had the opportunity to speak with some of the children who survived the tragedy. These are their stories of resilience and courage in the face of unimaginable loss and hardship.
Luana, 19: Finding Solace in Dance
Luana Gomes, who was just 12 at the time of the fire, managed to escape with her sister and pregnant mother, but tragically lost her baby brother, Logan, who was stillborn – the youngest victim of the disaster. Standing at the base of the tower, Luana reflects on the memories of her friends and family who perished in the fire. Despite the guilt she feels for surviving while others did not, Luana has found solace in dance. She is set to pursue a degree in dance at university, using movement as a way to express emotions that words cannot capture.
Abem, 12: Remembering a Lost Best Friend
Abem Abraham, now 12 years old, recalls the harrowing experience of watching the tower burn as a young child. He vividly remembers the loss of his best friend, five-year-old Isaac Paulos, who perished in the blaze. Abem, a bright and energetic young boy, advocates for the removal of dangerous cladding from buildings to prevent future tragedies like Grenfell. He honors the dreams of the children who lost their lives in the fire, emphasizing that it could have easily been him in their place.
Ines, 23: Moving Forward from Trauma
Ines Alves was 16 when the fire destroyed her home in Grenfell Tower. Despite the trauma of the disaster, she managed to sit for her chemistry GCSE exam the next morning. In the years since, Ines has worked to overcome the label of “Grenfell girl” and define her own path. Struggling with mental health issues triggered by the tragedy, Ines eventually found solace in pursuing a degree in maths and traveling the world. She refuses to let Grenfell define her future, choosing instead to live life as a normal young adult.
Yousra, 19: Advocating for Change
Yousra Cherbika, who watched the tower burn from her home at the base of Grenfell Tower, is vocal about the need for justice and accountability after the fire. She lost friends and neighbors in the tragedy and has been a vocal advocate for the removal of dangerous cladding from buildings across the country. Yousra’s experiences have inspired her to pursue a career as a primary school teacher, motivated by the support she received from a form tutor during her darkest moments. She remains committed to ensuring that the voices of Grenfell survivors are heard and that meaningful change is implemented to prevent future disasters.
The stories of these resilient children offer a glimpse into the lasting impact of the Grenfell Tower fire and the ongoing struggles faced by survivors. Their courage, strength, and determination to move forward despite unimaginable loss serve as a testament to the human spirit in the face of adversity. As we reflect on the seventh anniversary of the tragedy, let us remember the lives lost and the resilience of those who continue to rebuild and advocate for change.