People like us

The 15-year-old daughter of a postman, who has achieved publishing success with a story about teen mental health issues, will now be able to publicise her book thanks to a grant from the Post Office Orphans Benevolent Institution (POOBI).

Esther Showemimo, daughter of Adunola Showemimo, who has worked at the Stansted Airport cargo section for years, wrote the book with a 16-year-old friend, Daisy Robins, who shares her passion for helping young people with their mental health.

The book, People Like Us, took five months to plan, write and edit, and explores the reality of teens trying to navigate their way through a technology-dictated world and the issues they face.

It discusses how difficult it can be to remain optimistic and deal with issues that may arise, and demonstrates that no matter how alone we feel, we are surrounded with countless others who are just like us.

‘The book is meant to be a tool to provide comfort and advice for teens across the world, who feel they have no one to care or provide support for them,’ said Esther. ‘I believe young people do not receive enough support on mental health issues.

‘I am extremely grateful to POOBI for providing me with a grant that will allow me to travel and to buy tickets to events, where I can publicise the book.’

The launch event for People Like Us took place at Esther’s school, Harris Academy, in Rainham, Essex, where she is head girl.

It is currently available to buy from Amazon as a paperback - just search ‘People Like Us.’