This video is based on a real event, but the individual portrayed is an actor.

Can you tell us why you took a seat on the Youth Commission?

I took a seat for my younger self, for the me who couldn’t understand why this was happening and felt powerless. I want to be a voice for people who feel like they don’t have one. No one should grow up thinking harassment is something they just have to deal with.

Are you able to share your story with us?

So I was walking through the town centre in a summer dress. My hair was red at the time. A group of men started shouting things like, “You shouldn’t be showing your legs,” and, “With that hair, you’re begging for attention.” Then they started following me. I panicked and ran into a charity shop. The woman working there asked if I was okay and offered to call the police, but I said no. They hadn’t physically hurt me, so I didn’t see the point. Afterwards, I felt like I’d overreacted. We’re told to brush it off, but it’s not normal. The scariest part wasn’t what happened - it was feeling so helpless.

At first, I tried to shrug this experience off, but more catcalling happened at random, and it made me angry. I’ve tried ignoring it, snapping back, and even lashing out, but none of it helped. It’s left me with a constant sense of vulnerability and made it hard to trust men. I know it’s not all of them, but when you’ve had so many bad experiences, it’s hard not to feel like I could be targeted at any moment.

I want to be a voice for people who feel like they don’t have one. No one should grow up thinking harassment is something they just have to deal with.
Alyssa, Youth Commission Member

What did you learn from this?

The biggest thing I’ve learnt is harassment is never your fault. It’s about them, not you.

Now, I trust my gut a lot more. If something feels off, I listen to that feeling, taking control of the situation by asking for help or reporting it.

What would be your advice to people reading this who may be going through a
similar situation?

If you’ve been harassed, trust your gut. If something feels wrong, get out or ask for help. I didn’t know that sexual harassment is a crime and can lead to a prison sentence, a fine, or both so it’s important to let the police know it’s happened. And remember, it’s not your fault.

For those who haven’t been through it, look out for others. Small actions, like checking in and confronting behaviours, can make a big difference.

I wish people understood how lonely it feels to be harassed, especially when you’re young. Instead of saying, “That’s just growing up,” we need to teach respect and stop normalising it.

If you have been affected by any of the issues, raised by Alyssa, help and support is available.