MARGARET & BARRY MIZEN MBEs
In 2008, sixteen-year-old Jimmy Mizen was murdered in an unprovoked attack in South East London. In response to this devastating event, his parents, Margaret and Barry Mizen, showed remarkable strength, compassion, and faith by publicly calling for forgiveness instead of anger and revenge. From this foundation of faith and resilience, Margaret and Barry are dedicated to spreading the powerful message of "Forgiveness, Peace, and Hope" across the world.
They inspire individuals to reflect on their actions, explore the consequences of anger, and understand how forgiveness can create stronger, safer communities. Their work aligns with Catholic Social Teaching (CST), particularly in promoting human dignity, solidarity, and the common good.
A pivotal moment occurred in 2010 when Barry and Margaret spoke at Pope Benedict XVI’s vigil in London’s Hyde Park, addressing an audience of 80,000, earning them a standing ovation and illustrating their unwavering commitment to creating a future free from violence.
Margaret received “Catholic Woman of the Year” in 2009 and both she and Barry were awarded an MBE for their charitable efforts. In 2014, Margaret was further honoured with an honorary degree from the University of Greenwich for her contributions to public service, and she now serves as Pro-Chancellor at St Mary’s University in Twickenham.
Speciality:
- Sharing Jimmy's legacy
- Sharing their message of forgiveness, peace & hope
UK Coverage: Nationwide
Availability: All
ENDORSEMENTS
“We have a long standing relationship with Margaret and Barry who deliver their Talks for Change each year. They always have a profound effect on the young people in our school. Within the last 5 years, we have lost two of our Year 11 students to youth violence, boys who were the same age as Jimmy. Their powerful message of peace, forgiveness and hope are vital to young people navigating the world today. The feedback from students and staff alike is one of genuine inspiration to be positive change-makers. It is a priority for us to ensure all our Year 11 students hear their message; it is one that is in many way counter cultural to the messages presented within society - young people need to hear this kind story rather than ones of anger, division and violence.”
- Andy Lewis, Deputy Headteacher at St Bonaventure’s School, East Ham
"Thank you for the talk you gave at St George's College Weybridge today. It had a profound effect on my son, George. He has been talking to me for an hour this evening about your precious son, your family and forgiveness. You are doing such valuable work - thank you."
- Olivia, Parent to a student at St George's College
"We are always so touched by your words, and I want to make sure every student hears Jimmy's story and your message of forgiveness, peace and hope before they leave our school."
- Headteacher, Ruislip High School
"Thank you so much for sharing your story with us today; it's really made me think about my life and how I deal with situations."
- Student, St Bonaventure's School, East Ham
"Thank you so much for speaking at De Lisle today. My class was struck silent (not their usual mode of being!), but they were so appreciative of your words. One or two couldn't articulate how they felt because they were so moved, and some of my "hardest" characters noted your compassion and were so moved by it."
- Rebecca, Teacher at De Lisle College
