As I approach a new chapter in this Book of Me
Unlock the potential through a new door
Let me just take a moment
To chat about what I’ve saw
I’ve saw
Children screaming out to be heard
Not being listened to
In a giant, overwhelming world
Children falling into the river of the unknown
Thinking they’re stuck
Wanting to give up
But enough is enough
It’s time to fix the gap in the bridge
So no one else falls
It’s time for society to hear your calls
Listen to your voices
So you can all inform
The future and your choices
I’ve saw
Children across Wales opening their own doors
Discovering their potential
Realising they can be so much more
I’ve saw Jaimeleigh
Who came to a workshop and took inspiration from me
This past year she’s written over 82 poems, still going
Unlocked that potential without her even knowing
She’s a miracle
As are
Afon Y Felin
Because what story would I be telling
Without you all?
Seeing and believing in the potential in me
When I myself couldn’t see
Or even believe
You’ve been my biggest fans
That’s a fact
So I have to thank you for that
I’ve saw a school close to my heart
Play a monumental part
Housed inside my hometown of Newport
St Andrew’s primary
Who would’ve thought
This little kid who walked those halls
At 10 years old
Would look up to a star
Make a wish and –
Isn’t it mad that he’s come this far?
I’ve saw
The power one person can have
To make change
In small meaningful ways
And I’d do it over and over again
Eloise dug the trenches
With courage, determination and love
I poured the concrete
So you, Alex, can build above
As I go through my door
Just know I’m not the same Connor I was before
2 years have passed
Honestly I’m gassed
To look back at the footprints of this journey
All the effects it’s had
This door will lead to journeys
And chapters brand new
But in this moment right now
I have two words to say:
THANK YOU
Connor Allen, Children’s Laureate Wales 2021-2023