Meredith O'Connor and the anti-bullying Tour

This article is based on the incredibly talented singer/songwriter Meredith O'Conner. Her new single, 'Just The Thing', will help those who are feeling out of place realise that they aren't alone. Her success in itself is proof that you can rise up against all odds and become the person you want to be, even when seemingly impossible obstacles are set in your way.

Meredith O'Conner is a multi-talented young teen who has overcome the trials and tribulations of her past to create beautiful music. Based in Long Island, New York, Meredith began performing at the tender age of 8, and has since been going from strength to strength - even dabbling in some modelling work. Best known for being an anti-bullying advocate, O'Conner has spoken honestly about being bullied and having trouble fitting in. Most of her songs touch on the subject of bullying, such as 'The Game' which has more than 100,000 views on youtube. Her most popular song, 'Celebrity', has over 2 million views to date, and it's reception was nothing but positive.

Her fight to be a voice for those who are bullied in schools has gone further than just her music and acting career. Her hard work earned her the position of advisor and writer for the non-profit organisation Reach Out, which tours schools and offers help and advice to those being bullied.

Meredith appeals to me personally because I, like many others, can relate. As a victim of bullying myself, it's somehow comforting to know that someone else went through the same hardships as I did and managed to come out of it a better person. Meredith has said herself that she didn't fit in, and her peers made her very aware of that. She has spoken honestly about the fact that it took her a while to regain her confidence after years of verbal abuse - she even started to think that it was her fault for being harassed. Luckily she rose above it and, with the support of her parents, focused solely on the arts and eventually it paid off! By focusing on her craft she finally began forming friendships with like-minded people who nurtured and encouraged her individuality. It's so refreshing to find a young singer so passionate about change; a singer who hopes her music will reach out to those who need help.

She is currently working with Grammy nominated producer Kenny Ortiz. In 2014 she introduced to producer Heather Holley, who has also worked with Christina Aguilera. Their collaboration bought about the song 'Just the Thing', which you can listen to here.

The song is upbeat and incredibly sweet, but what I like about it is that it's relatable. It makes you question the very definition of what 'normal' is. It gives you a surge of confidence to be yourself, and not let any negativity (be it a person/peers/environment) stop you from being you.

It's a shame to realise that bullying is still a problem in school/workplace to this day. It's heart-wrenching to think that at this moment there are teens (and adults too) dealing with harassment and abuse, whether it's verbal or physical. It's people like Meredith that give these victims a voice, a glittering source of hope to keep on going, to be yourself, and to not let anyone make you feel ashamed of who you are.

Here are some more of Meredith O'Conner's music.
First video is 'Celebrity'
Second video is "The Game'

My advice: always be yourself. Take it from someone who wasted away many years trying to please people by trying to fit in and having it thrown back in her face, having people telling me how ugly and fat I was, having coke cans slung at my head and yet still trying her utmost to please these people, just be you. Things always get better I mean look at me now, I run three blogs, have my own flat, my photography has won many awards too and I have amazing friends. People will tell you that bullying will make you a stronger person and it does, but it might take some time. I only gained confidence when I entered University which encouraged individuality and creativity

Finally, here is a copy of Meredith's Anti-Bullying World Tour schedule;

Hope you enjoyed my article xx

Instagram: fashionphotoandfilm

Tumblr: fashionphotoandfilm