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MY STORY

Hello

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Jola Lilian Coker is a 17 year old teenage Author and poet born to a Nigerian father and Iranian mother. She has been writing since the age of 7 and has won many accolades and awards including the ‘Jack Petchey award’, for extreme self-resilience and courage. As a result, the foundation donated £250 to a department of her choice. She was recently inspired to join the local Greenwich Young People’s Council after becoming an Equality Champion; a school article on disability awareness was released as a result. She is a prominent member of her school’s Debate Mate Club with an incredibly strong work ethic and has won three Young Writers’ Awards, with some of her work published in the Young Writers’ Showcase

then there was him

Excerpts from my UPCOMING NOVEL

“I don’t blame you anymore. I was scared. There’s nothing to be scared of now; it’s over.” I thought I was going to get my best friend back so that I could rip her away from the havoc he caused. Instead, I lost her. If I weren’t so hell-bent on figuring him out, I'd still have someone to turn to if I could just be content with drifting apart and moving on. Hey, you okay?” “Yeah. Are you? I’m sorry about all that.” Her voice was soft, quiet, and calm. “Don’t apologize for what’s not your fault. You didn’t look all that surprised by this, like youve been there through a lot of Kaya’s heartache, more than I have, maybe you have a better grip of what’s going on, I kinda get it numbs you out after a while doesn’t it?” She turned to me, and somehow, something in her face, how it creased slightly with emotion, told me a whole story that I couldn’t decipher yet. However, she said to me: “It comes from feeling more helpless as the years go on, like you can’t offer anything she hasn’t already said no to. I don’t know why she won’t let this go or be done with this. Do you think you could snap her out of it?  “I can try,” I replied firmly. “From what I can see, I’ve already caused a wave or two. I hope it doesn’t blow back on me.”

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GET TO KNOW ME

Jola Coker is a remarkable individual whose strength and determination defy the odds. Despite living with a disability, Jola has never allowed any obstacle to define her or limit her aspirations. Her journey is a testament to resilience, as she combines her passion for public service with an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the world around her. Driven by a deep sense of responsibility to her community, Jola aspires to one day become a government official, where she hopes to advocate for inclusive policies and champion the rights of marginalized groups. Her life has been shaped by her belief that true leadership means serving others with compassion, empathy, and integrity. She envisions a future where barriers—both physical and societal—are broken down, allowing everyone to reach their full potential. Jola’s vibrant personality radiates optimism, humility, and a profound understanding of justice. She is known for her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, listening with intent and speaking with purpose. Her disability, rather than a limitation, has become a source of strength and insight, fueling her passion for creating a society where no one is left behind. Through her vision, perseverance, and dedication, Jola is carving a path toward a future where she will inspire many as a leader who truly embodies resilience, inclusivity, and hope.

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MY VIEWS ON WORLD MATTERS

As a 17-year-old living in London with dreams of becoming an elected official, I see the world through a lens of hope and responsibility. I’m deeply aware that the issues we face are complex, requiring thoughtful, compassionate leadership. Here’s how I view some of today’s most pressing global challenges: ​ Middle East Conflict:The situation in the Middle East is heartbreaking and multifaceted. It’s a region where history, religion, and politics intertwine in ways that can make peace seem so distant. However, I truly believe in diplomacy as the most effective tool for resolving conflicts. People, no matter where they are from, deserve to live in safety and peace. As a future leader, I would advocate for open dialogue between all parties involved, focusing on long-term solutions that respect the rights and dignity of all individuals. It’s vital that international cooperation works towards creating environments where communities can thrive without fear or oppression. ​ Russian-Ukrainian War: The war between Russia and Ukraine is deeply troubling because it reminds us how fragile peace can be in today’s world. As someone who values the principles of sovereignty and self-determination, I stand with the Ukrainian people and believe in their right to decide their own future. At the same time, I recognize that conflict has devastating effects on ordinary citizens, both in Ukraine and Russia. Diplomacy, again, must be our priority. The international community needs to work together to broker peace, provide humanitarian aid, and ensure that this war does not escalate further. I hope for a world where dialogue can replace violence, and where leaders prioritize people over power. ​ Climate Change: Climate change is the defining issue of my generation. I feel a profound responsibility to help solve this crisis, as it impacts every corner of the world. It’s not just an environmental issue; it’s a humanitarian one, affecting people’s access to food, water, and even their homes. In London, we’re relatively sheltered from the worst effects, but I’m acutely aware that many countries, particularly those least responsible for the crisis, are suffering disproportionately. I believe in strong, immediate action to reduce carbon emissions and to invest in renewable energy. As future leaders, we must ensure that policies are not just reactive, but proactive, working to prevent future harm. We also need to listen to the voices of younger generations—after all, we’ll inherit the world that’s being shaped today. ​ Modern-Day Slavery: It’s shocking and appalling that modern-day slavery still exists in a world where human rights should be a given. This is an issue that spans across industries and borders, often hidden in plain sight, from human trafficking to forced labor in supply chains. We need strong laws, international cooperation, and a commitment to transparency to end this exploitation. Governments and businesses must work together to ensure that no one is forced into such conditions. I believe raising awareness is crucial, but equally important is holding accountable those who benefit from or ignore these injustices. As a future official, I would push for stronger legislation and international frameworks to protect the most vulnerable. Everyone deserves the right to freedom and dignity. ​ In all these issues, I understand that there are no easy answers, but I truly believe that diplomacy, empathy, and a commitment to justice are the keys to making a positive difference. I hope to one day be part of a generation of leaders that chooses cooperation over conflict and compassion over indifference. We have the power to shape the future, and I’m determined to be part of the solution.

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PRESENTATION FROM THE EX MAYOR

In the Picture (L-R): Former Mayor Leo Fletcher, Jola Coker, Labour and Co Op councillor, Antony Okereke 

Press

Excerpts from my RECENT POEMS

NO BIG DEAL

AS PUBLISHED IN 
Young Writers annual showcase

Some things in life aren't a big deal Some things won't work out no matter how we feel We get so caught up in making everything smaller That we make the details more significant than the whole picture These visions are soaked in grandeur Disrupt our own even when we're so sure The world looks so remarkable from where we stand But there's no pressure to have a hand in that After all, we live before we become all that Till then No one's a big deal The world inflates itself on what others achieve Then you can't help but start to believe You have to be big You have to lead Except that's not what it should be First of all, you should just be For yourself and yourself only Before you start inventing what remarkable person you want the world to see

my world in colour 

When I was 5, the home was a playhouse Pink and rosy with Barbie dolls Disney dresses and fairy wands Curls that bounced with glee Hands that flapped with joy my world in color When I was ten, home was a horizon rapidly expanding the world growing up around me People who would try to understand me while I found my way my world in color And then I grew older so to realize home is where the heart is I belonged to many places bore my soul to many faces pieces of my life's puzzle

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