Rising Above is a very inspiring movie to see - how victims of bullying overcame their problems without resorting to violence. Seeing this is truly motivating as I know that if I am bullied in the future, all I have to do is push forward and find a way to solve the problem that shows the bully that his words don't affect me. I have not been bullied and I am not going to pretend like I know what they are talking about, however I can definitely empathize with these people and what they've gone through.
Grade 8 Student
Markham, ON
I wanted to thank you for all of your hard work in putting together the event yesterday. I could tell that inspiring youth is a passion of yours, and after having some conversations with my class upon returning to school, I can tell you that you and your group certainly made an impact.
Brett Hall
Romeo Dallaire Public School of Ajax, ON
SOAR is an innovative presentation that clearly reinforces the main messages we try to give to our Grade 9 students when they arrive: to make wise choices about how you spend your time, and who you spend it with; and to get involved and try something new. The format is clearly upbeat and inspiring -- a great motivational experience when the documentary is combined with the activities from the enthusiastic presenters!
Teacher
Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School of London, ON
You could have heard a pin drop as they all intently watched the documentary. This spoke to the relevance of the material to their lives. The discussions before, at the break and after showed how the students could so easily relate to the stories of the bullied, the bullies and the bystanders. One quiet student, who had been bullied in previous years, found the courage to speak up during the discussion and say how she realized that was the past and she could now move on. That was a truly humbling experience for the entire audience. I'm sure our students will carry this message with them throughout their remaining school years and beyond.
Julie Richardson
Castlemore Public School of Markham, ON
I just wanted to let you know that the film was very powerful! I believe that every kid in Canada should have to watch this!
Donald Cosens
Queen Elizabeth Secondary School of Surrey, BC
Rising Above is a documentary that changed the way I think about bullying. It was so touching to see how victims reacted and responded to the bullies, and how they got past the bullying. The film taught me that life is too short to hold grudges and that it's best to rise above. I learned that people aren't always bullies, but they just show bullying behaviour without realizing they're harming others. I was able to relate to both the victims and the bullies, their feelings and their actions. I've done things I regretted like the people in the documentary, and people have said things to me that I didn't appreciate, but I am able to say that I am rising above. I was very fortunate to see this movie!