Damilola Taylor
“I will travel far and wide to choose my destiny to remould the world. I know it is my destiny to defend the world which I hope to achieve in my lifetime”
Damilola Taylor was born on 7 December 1989 in Nigeria. He was a sensitive and exuberant boy who loved life and lit up the room with his infectious good humour and winning smile. He enjoyed sport, particularly football, and was an avid Manchester United supporter.
His sister, Gbemi suffered from a severe form of epilepsy and Damilola’s ambition was to follow a career in medical research to find a cure for her and others like her. In the summer of 2000, to gain the necessary treatment for Gbemi, Damilola, his brother and mother, Gloria moved to England, settling in Peckham. His father, Richard Taylor OBE remained in Nigeria to continue working in the Civil Service so that he could support the family.
Damilola began the new academic year at Oliver Goldsmith School. On 27 November 2000, he set off for home from his studies at Peckham Library. He was captured on CCTV as he walked away. Sadly, he never reached home alive. Instead, Damilola was tragically killed in a senseless act of violence by two boys aged 12 and 13.
After three long trials, Damilola’s killers were finally brought to justice. Damilola’s death raised many questions including what leads young people to commit such acts of violence.
Richard Taylor OBE set up the Damilola Taylor Trust in May 2001 as a memorial to his son and to bring about change in the community. Through the Damilola Taylor Trust, he seeks to create a positive legacy of hope and opportunity for disadvantaged and underprivileged young people.
Your support could help us to reach more young people and keep Damilola’s legacy of hope alive. Find out how you can get involved.