Natalie Queiroz: A Story of Survival, Resilience, and Advocacy Against Knife Crime
Natalie Queiroz’s story is one of remarkable courage and resilience. Surviving a brutal attack while eight months pregnant, Natalie’s life took a harrowing turn, transforming her into a fierce advocate against knife crime. With her story, she empowers young people, educates communities, and raises awareness on trauma and recovery. Recognized with an MBE for her service to youth and knife crime prevention, Natalie’s journey inspires hope and resilience.
Natalie Queiroz’s Life-Altering Story
In March 2016, Natalie Queiroz’s life was shattered by an unimaginable act of violence. On what seemed like an ordinary day, Natalie, eight months pregnant, was ambushed and stabbed 24 times with a 12-inch carving knife in the middle of the street. The attack, lasting nine minutes, was not the act of a stranger but her then-partner, a man she had trusted and known most of her life. This violent assault would not only end her relationship but forever change her life’s path.
The attack left her with severe physical and emotional scars. Despite the odds, Natalie survived, as did her unborn daughter, though both faced an arduous journey to recovery. Her partner, who had never exhibited violent behavior before, turned into her worst nightmare that day, inflicting wounds that required immediate medical intervention to save both her life and her baby’s.
Natalie Queiroz’s Recovery and Resilience
Surviving the attack was just the beginning. Natalie Queiroz’s injuries were extensive, with life-threatening wounds across her body. The brutal stabbing left her with long-lasting physical scars and required multiple surgeries. Her mental recovery was equally challenging, as she processed the trauma and betrayal she had experienced. Her newborn daughter, also affected by the incident, had to fight her own battle for life due to complications from the trauma.
The scars that Natalie bears are a testament to her strength. Instead of allowing them to be reminders of pain, she turned them into symbols of survival. Natalie’s story has since become a beacon of hope, showing others that recovery—both physically and mentally—is possible even after severe trauma.
Natalie’s Mission: Anti-Knife Crime and Youth Empowerment
Natalie Queiroz’s attack transformed her into an outspoken advocate against knife crime. Realizing the importance of prevention and education, she became a keynote speaker on resilience, trauma, and the harsh reality of knife crime. She founded Inspire 2 Quit Blades (i2QB), a Community Interest Company dedicated to educating young people about the consequences of knife crime and the significance of overcoming trauma.
Through i2QB, Natalie reaches thousands of students, teachers, and young offenders. She speaks at schools, youth programs, and even prisons, aiming to create awareness about the devastating effects of knife violence. Her talks are grounded in personal experience, making her message impactful and relatable. Natalie’s efforts are not only aimed at preventing knife crime but also at fostering resilience and providing coping mechanisms for those affected by trauma.
Natalie Queiroz’s Daughter and Their Bond
Natalie’s daughter, born shortly after the attack, serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience both mother and child possess. The newborn faced significant health complications due to the traumatic experience, including brain damage. Natalie has been open about her daughter’s journey, her medical struggles, and her recovery. Despite these challenges, Natalie’s daughter has grown into a symbol of survival, much like her mother. Together, they embody strength, showing the world that healing is possible.
Natalie Queiroz’s Recognition: Awarded an MBE
In 2022, Natalie Queiroz was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List for her outstanding contributions to young people and her work in preventing knife crime. This honor recognizes her dedication, resilience, and impact in communities across the UK. Her advocacy work, which began as a personal mission, has now gained national recognition, underscoring the importance of her message and her ability to inspire change.
Natalie Queiroz’s Work as a Speaker and Author
A powerful speaker and writer, Natalie shares her journey through various platforms, including her book, Still Standing. Her memoir, published in 2019, became a bestseller and has resonated with readers worldwide. Available in countries like the UK, Australia, South Africa, and translated into other languages, Still Standing chronicles her survival, recovery, and mission to inspire others. Natalie’s book serves as both a gripping narrative and a motivational guide, encouraging readers to confront their own adversities with courage and hope.
As a speaker, Natalie’s impact extends beyond her written words. Her TEDx talk, Still Standing: Make it Count, highlights her philosophy on resilience, urging audiences to make each day meaningful despite challenges. She also speaks on trauma recovery, resilience, and youth empowerment at various events, conferences, and educational settings.
Inspire 2 Quit Blades: Natalie’s Mission in Action
Natalie Queiroz founded Inspire 2 Quit Blades (i2QB) in 2019 to combat knife crime by educating young people about its consequences and the value of positive life choices. i2QB works across mainstream schools, alternative provisions, and young offender institutions. By sharing her own experiences, Natalie creates a personal connection with her audience, making her anti-knife message more impactful.
Natalie is also a certified youth violence specialist with qualifications in trauma-informed awareness and youth mentoring. This expertise allows her to engage effectively with students, young offenders, and educators, providing guidance on how to handle trauma and make positive choices. Her work with professionals like teachers, social workers, and nurses also ensures that her message reaches those who can support and influence young people.
Natalie Queiroz’s Age and Continued Advocacy
Now in her mid-40s, Natalie Queiroz continues to work tirelessly, balancing her roles as a mother, survivor, speaker, and advocate. Her age and experience give her a unique perspective that resonates with both young people and adults alike. She speaks candidly about the struggles she has faced, providing a raw and genuine insight into trauma and recovery. Natalie’s continued advocacy highlights her commitment to creating a safer and more aware society, where young people can envision a future free from violence.
Natalie Queiroz’s Partner and the Impact of Betrayal
The attack was all the more shocking because it was perpetrated by Natalie’s partner, a man she had trusted and believed would protect her and their family. The betrayal she experienced added a layer of emotional pain that compounded her physical injuries. Natalie’s story underscores the complexities of domestic abuse and the dangers that can arise even in seemingly safe relationships. Her openness about this betrayal serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing the signs of abusive behavior and fostering safe environments for everyone.
Natalie Queiroz’s Scars: Symbols of Survival
Natalie Queiroz’s scars, both visible and invisible, are a testament to her journey of survival. Rather than hiding them, she views them as badges of honor, representing her resilience and determination to overcome the worst. Natalie’s approach to her scars is empowering, reminding others that scars—whether physical or emotional—do not define a person’s worth. Instead, they tell a story of strength and the ability to rise above life’s most challenging moments.
Natalie Queiroz’s Legacy: An Inspiration to All
Natalie Queiroz’s life story has transformed from one of tragedy to one of triumph. She has become a figure of hope, particularly for those affected by violence and trauma. Through her work, Natalie continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Her unwavering dedication to raising awareness on knife crime, supporting trauma survivors, and inspiring young people to pursue positive futures has created a legacy that will undoubtedly impact generations to come.
Her message is clear: resilience, strength, and hope can overcome even the darkest of times. Natalie Queiroz stands as a symbol of survival, reminding us that it is possible to find purpose and healing after tragedy. Her scars are not just reminders of her past but also of her courage to keep moving forward, inspiring others along the way.
