‘Our children deserve better’: Elianne Andam mural unveiled one year on from stabbing
Croydon’s community came together on Friday to remember 15-year-old Elianne Andam who was fatally stabbed at a bus stop last September.
A mural was unveiled during the event, featuring a portrait of Elianne alongside ceramic tiles engraved with messages from her family and friends.
The mural was produced by Alec Saunders, a Croydon artist, and is located outside the Whitgift Shopping Centre, in Wellesley Road.
In a statement, Elianne’s family said: “Twelve months on we are still grieving and confused as to why this happened to our angel.
“This memorial has been made with so much love, which reflects the type of person Elianne was.”
The mural space also includes a bench that was once used by Elianne and her friends, provided by Old Palace of John Whitgift School, Elianne’s school, complete with a stone plaque.
Denzil Larbi, Elianne’s cousin and Minister of West Croydon Baptist Church, read out a personal statement at the event.
He said: “Elianne’s brutal murder has shattered our family, leaving us struggling to navigate a world without her. Tragically, we are not alone.
“Over the past year, countless other families have been forced to endure the same unbearable loss as knife crime continues to devastate communities. Our children — whether they’re walking to school, heading home, going to a dance class, or simply playing in the park — deserve better.
“Despite our anguish, one truth remains clear: Elianne’s memory will endure, living on in all of us. Her spirit, her joy, and her compassion are woven into the fabric of our lives, every single day.
“Today, we’re not just here to mourn her absence—we’re here to celebrate her life. A life that touched us deeply and in ways that will stay with us forever.”
Hassan Sentamu, 18, is alleged to have stabbed Elianne to death in Wellesley Road, Croydon, as she made her way to school on September 27, 2023.
He was granted anonymity during legal proceedings due to his age, but can now be named after he turned 18 earlier this month.
Sentamu pleaded guilty to manslaughter but denied a murder charge. He also denied possessing a blade in a public place.
The plea was not accepted by prosecutors and a trial is set to take place in November.
Pictured top: The mural in Wellesley Road features a portrait of Elianne smiling (Picture: Image by Priscilla Agyemang, Creates UK)