Dr Gee Walker MBE, the mother of Anthony Walker, who was murdered in a racially motivated attack in 2005, visited St Mary’s Catholic College in Wallasey, Wirral, to deliver a powerful talk to the school’s Year 9 students. 

 

Alongside Anthony Walker Foundation’s education lead, Catherina Quinn, Dr Walker shared the history, importance and ongoing work of the foundation that she established a year after the death of her son. 

 

Speaking to 200 students, the presentation began with Anthony’s story, as Dr Walker spoke movingly about her son’s childhood and the dreams he had for his future before he was tragically killed aged 18. 

 

Dr Walker then went on to share her own personal journey and how she navigated coming to terms with the loss of her son by drawing on the message of Philippians 4:13 ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me’. 

 

Dr Walker spoke about finding strength, hope and purpose in the face of adversity, and her firm belief in forgiveness. This, she explained, has shaped the work she now does. 

 

St Mary’s students were deeply moved by Dr Gee Walker’s visit, with many staying behind after the talk to meet her personally, ask thoughtful questions and express their gratitude for sharing such important messages. 

 

Year 9 student, Lennon, said: “The talk was very heartfelt. We could feel the true emotion in what Gee Walker was saying. It was a pleasure to meet such an inspirational person.” 

 

Another student, Orla, added: “It was emotional and moving to hear someone’s story and powerful message in a way that us young people understand.” 

 

Through her work with the Anthony Walker Foundation, Dr Walker encourages communities to come together to create positive change by challenging racism, promoting equality and educating young people about the impact of hate crime. 

 

Assistant headteacher at St Mary’s Catholic College, Mrs Michelle Wilson, said: “It was a privilege to welcome Dr Walker and Catherina from the Anthony Walker Foundation to St Mary’s. Their presentation was truly inspirational, and we know their messages of forgiveness, resilience, and hope will stay with our pupils for years to come.” 

 

St Mary’s Catholic College is a proud member of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT), which comprises nine schools, including two secondary and seven primary, across Wirral and Cheshire. 

 

CEO of HFCMAT, Mr Andy Moor, commented: “It was an honour to have such an inspirational figure like Dr Gee Walker meet with our students and hear the genuine responses they had to the important messages she shared. The work of the Anthony Walker Foundation is incredibly important, and its local roots made this visit especially meaningful. Thank you to the staff at St Mary’s for organising such a valuable event for students.”