“ As an individual whose life has been controlled  by unaddressed youth violence, I am passionate about highlighting the process of exploitation. A life lost or irreversibly destroyed by youth violence is the end of the story. If communities are more aware of youth violence, it will allow us to work together to create better community support for our young people. The route of exploitation is largely misunderstood. By raising awareness of the process in tandem with the effects of youth violence, we can reduce the lives lost and destroyed by youth violence by each playing our role in reducing the roots of perpetration. Securing the visit to Essex was only made possible by the kindness and fortitude of The British Ironworks Chairman Clive Knowles, and his team – I would encourage anyone who grasps the importance of this monument making a visit to their town or city, to contact The British Ironworks in the first instance. I have multiple complex difficulties due to my own experiences of youth violence, with commitment and focus you can make this happen for your own community. The Knife Angel is unparalleled in the opportunity it provides to facilitate conversations with every pocket of the community – from typically hard to engage young people and  community leaders alike”

– Luisa Di Marco, Founder of Keep It 100 Youth CIC