A 15 year old who turned his life around after struggling with bullying and low self-confidence has been speaking to Copeland MP Trudy Harrison about positive mental health.
Oliver Hodgson, of Gosforth, a student, DJ and entrepreneur, has released a video of himself discussing his past issues and how he overcame them to become stronger and more confident.
DJ Ollie Hodgson, as he is also known, is joined in the film by Trudy and describes the project, entitled Confidence is Key, as one of his biggest to date.
The aim, says Oliver, is to reach out to all young people to inspire and spread awareness regarding self-confidence and positive mental health.
"I would like to inspire other young people out there who are struggling to find their path or confidence," said the Westlakes Academy pupil.
Oliver was delighted the Copeland MP took part in the video project and he was also invited to join her in London as part of a work placement.
"I loved every minute! I am so grateful to Trudy for giving me this fantastic opportunity,” he said.
Trudy said: "It was a pleasure to be a part of Oliver's project. He is a bright and intelligent young man who has got the determination to overcome anything he faces in life. His hard work and professionalism in everything he does will take him far and I wish him the very best of luck."
Over the past four years, with the help of friends and family, including parents Dale and Caroline, Oliver has grown to become more driven and started realising his goals. He has worked on professional productions, celebrity pantomimes and also credits his confidence-building to being a part of Gosforth Amateur Dramatics Society.
Juggling his GCSEs, home life and managing his businesses is still a challenge for Oliver, but something he will always work hard at managing while he works towards his dream job in the media - hopefully following in the footsteps of his idol who he met recently - Radio One DJ Greg James.
The video can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KW7Gnj0Im5M&t=75s