Crossroads: from hardship to hope
January 14, 2026
Content creation support and artwork by Finn Souter
Liam Genus shares his struggles, growth and hope, reflecting on the past, present and future
Looking back, I’ve been thinking about how much has shaped me. At 18, my work with Exposure was transformative. It brought me out of my shell and immersed me in discussions about gender, identity, and toxic masculinity with peers from all walks of life. A memorable part of this was recording at Mill Hill Studios alongside students from other schools. That experience opened my eyes to new ideas and gave me confidence in my voice.
Years later, I’m soon to be back at my old college, Barnet and Southgate’s Media department, leading discussions on ‘Change’ with Exposure to inspire young people to express themselves on this important topic.
Reflecting on my life, I see how change has brought me difficult and despairing times, as well as moments of great joy. Having navigated these experiences and drawn on my inner resources, I’ve grown more confident and resilient.
I spent the first five years of my life in Jamaica, surrounded by the warmth and support of my siblings, parents and grandad. I went to kindergarten there and I had to wear a smart uniform. Although I enjoyed it, I often found myself worried about school work and I was always missing my mum. Looking back, I realised just how strict my schooling was, especially compared to my time in England. Those two experiences were so different and, as I got older, I learned to appreciate both approaches for what they offered.
It wasn’t until I left behind familiar faces and places that the full weight of the grief struck me
Liam (me) with my grandad in Jamaica
The move to London was a huge change. I only have distant memories of it now but I clearly remember the shock of the cold weather! My family had to start from scratch, finding work, a place to live and essentially beginning our lives all over again. It was so tough, we had very little money. My parents worked around the clock to keep us fed and clothed. But after a few years, we started to settle in and for a while things felt good and steady.
By the time I was 14 a tragedy hit us. My lovely mum started getting sick and a year or so later she passed away. Losing her, as you can imagine, was a massive blow. At first, I missed her deeply. I missed her bubbly energy, her beautiful smile and the spark that always pushed me to do my best. But I was too young or too shocked to fully grasp the depths of my pain. It wasn’t until I left behind familiar faces and places, and went away to university that the full weight of the grief struck me, suddenly and completely. I was totally overwhelmed by the loss (of my mum) in a way I couldn’t register or process at 16. Maybe I had been too young or simply in shock.
I’ve learned that change, no matter how painful, can lead to growth if we allow ourselves to truly feel it
Embracing that pain every day was one of the hardest years of my life but through it I found a strength and resilience within myself that I never knew I had. This journey also brought me closer to my older sister. She’s amazing and the bond we have is incredibly strong. We’re each other’s pillar of support, sharing the frustrations and fun in our lives.
I’ve learned that change, no matter how painful, can lead to growth if we allow ourselves to truly feel it. Of course, it’s not easy but allowing the difficult feelings that come with change is the only way to move through them. By moving forward, I discovered we all have the ability to shape our lives, no matter where we started or what we’ve been through.
Lately, I’ve been at another crossroads wondering which path to take in terms of my life and career. I’m passionate about creating content in film, words and audio. I spent a couple of years thriving in a film and TV production role in Warwick, where I honed my skills and built my confidence.
However, due to family circumstances, I needed move back to north London early last year. The film and TV industry was slowing down, so to keep money coming in and to stay busy, I’ve worked at Morrisons and with Exposure. I’m also exploring different opportunities in communications and other industries altogether with Exposure’s support.
A few months ago, I discovered cybersecurity, a field that aligns with my core strengths: problem-solving, attention to detail, adaptability, and curiosity. I’ve started a training course, and while it is challenging, I’m building a portfolio and embracing this new direction with determination.
As 2026 begins, I am reminded that the unexpected can open doors we never imagined. I am choosing to move forward with optimism, embrace challenges as opportunities and trust that growth often comes from the paths we least expect.
