International best-selling young authors visit Wirral high school

In her address, Latoya Likambi encouraged Year 12 students at St John Plessington Catholic College to think boldly about their futures.

Acclaimed young authors, the Likambi siblings, recently visited St John Plessington Catholic College, Bebington, to inspire literacy, creativity and self-belief in students across all key stages.

Latoya, Caleb and Destiny Likambi, visited St John Plessington as part of the school's National Year of Reading celebrations and delivered a series of inspirational talks to over 650 students in Years 7, 10 and 12, igniting a sense of possibility in all who attended.

As the world's youngest female author to publish multiple books, 10-year-old Destiny captivated an audience of nearly 300 Year 7 students as she spoke passionately about the power of imagination, the art of storytelling and the influence moral messaging has on her work.

Year 7 student, Sophia, said: "I feel really proud of her. I think it's so impressive and inspiring because of what she has achieved at her young age. At her age, all I wanted to do was play with LOL dolls!

Another Year 7 student, Timm, added: "Destiny's talk was very interesting. She was so intelligent and creative."

Meanwhile, Year 10 students were motivated by Caleb, who has written and illustrated a range of titles, including the eight-book series 'Life Lessons', which explores of themes such as forgiveness, overcoming adversity, integrity and loyalty.

Within his 45-minute talk, Caleb reminded students that their interests and ideas matter, and how success comes from dedication and self-belief. These messages deeply resonated with all students in the year group as they journey through this crucial stage in their education.

Reflecting on Caleb's presentation, Donele, said: "It was very inspiring to have someone like Caleb come to our school. It inspired me to write my own book, which I have already started."

19-year-old Latoya, the oldest Likambi sibling, shared her experience of being a best-selling author and successful entrepreneur with sixth form students. Encouraging students to think boldly about their futures, she empowered the Year 12 cohort to pursue their passions with confidence, emphasising the importance of resilience in the face of challenges.

Sixth form student, Summer, commented: "Latoya's talk had a big impact on me as it shined a light on things we often don't think about. It inspired me to get out there, and not be scared about achieving my goals or being who I am."

After their morning of talks, the Likambi siblings, along with the publishing team joined staff and students for lunch, where they continued their inspirational discussions.

Following their visit, Dr Sylvia Forchap Likambi, senior consultant and coach at Likambi Global Publishing, said: "We were deeply impressed by the remarkable work St John Plessington is doing. It is clear the school provides such valuable opportunities and a nurturing environment that enables its students to truly thrive. It is a beautiful school with wonderfully respectful and engaged students; it was a privilege to visit."

The Likambi siblings are now 'featured authors' in St John Plessington's school library, which includes a dedicated book display that has been hugely popular with students.

School librarian and organiser of the visit, Ms Catherine Starkey, said: "Hearing Destiny, Caleb and Latoya speak was incredibly inspirational, and their messages of creativity and self-belief truly resonated with our students.

"All three siblings placed a strong emphasis on reading and writing simply for fun - something we are committed to promoting as a school in this National Year of Reading."

Mr Peadar McLoughlin, headteacher at St John Plessington Catholic College, added: "We were delighted to welcome the Likambi family to our school for an inspiring and memorable morning. All three Likambi siblings demonstrated to students that age is no barrier to achievement when you have determination, courage in your convictions, and the resilience to try again - values we hold strongly here at St John Plessington."

St John Plessington Catholic College is a proud member of the 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: "The Likambi family's visit offered students an incredible opportunity to learn from real-life experiences of creativity, with their talks serving as powerful examples of what can be accomplished when young people set their hearts and minds to the things they are passionate about. Thank you to the staff at St John Plessington for arranging such a motivating experience, and to Latoya, Caleb and Destiny for being such positive role models."

St John Plessington Catholic College is proud to be part of Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust. More details can be found here.