Carmen*, a 13-year-old Secondary School student, learned an important lesson about friendship during her transition from Primary to Secondary School—one that many young people can relate to.
It all started back in Primary School when Carmen thought she had found a close friend. But over time, she began to see a different side of their relationship, one that would ultimately shape her understanding of real friendship.
Carmen recalls, "I thought she was my true friend, but looking back, I realised she wasn’t someone I could really trust. She often spread gossip about others and would manipulate situations to make everything revolve around her." This toxic dynamic left Carmen feeling hurt and betrayed, especially as her friend stirred conflicts among their peers.
"Every time we made plans as a group, she would insist everything be about what she wanted. If it wasn’t, she’d throw a tantrum until we changed our plans. It was exhausting," Carmen explains. As the gossip and selfish behavior continued, Carmen made a tough decision. "I couldn’t trust them anymore, and I eventually broke ties with my old friends."
Despite feeling disillusioned, Carmen didn’t lose hope in friendship. She entered Secondary School with a fresh mindset and a desire to find true, supportive friends who would treat her with kindness and respect.
And that’s exactly what she found. "I was blessed to meet a group of friends who have been nothing but supportive since day one. We don’t fight, and we all help each other out," Carmen shares. Her new friends made sure she was included, and Carmen began to feel like she truly belonged.
Reflecting on her journey, Carmen says, "My class feels like home. We’re all kind-hearted, and even the class clowns know when to behave. It’s amazing how we can just get along without all the drama and negativity."
Carmen’s story is a reminder that, even when friendships go wrong, there’s always room for growth and new beginnings. "If I could speak to someone going through the same thing I did, I’d tell them to surround themselves with positive people—those who lift you up, not bring you down," she advises. "Real friends want the best for you, and they’ll be honest with you because they care."
Carmen’s journey is a perfect example of how, with the right support, youth can navigate difficult experiences and emerge stronger, ready to form the lasting friendships they deserve.
*Names have been changed to protect the identity of our youths
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