A singer who beat the bullies to take the music world by storm held a launch party for her first solo release.

Raphaella Mazerahi, a former pupil at North London Collegiate School, in Canons Drive, Stanmore, performed her new song Parallel Lines in front of crowds at The Roundhouse, in Camden, last Tuesday.

The 23-year-old was badly bullied by classmates before becoming a sixth former at North London Collegiate - and is now hoping her traumatic experiences will help others.

She said: “It was so heartwarming to see all the people who came to support me and my single. It was a nice way to celebrate all my hard work.

“It was an electric night. The Roundhouse is one of my favourite venues, so for me it was almost like coming home. it’s a really nerve-wracking thing to do, to put yourself up there, but I relish it.

“I think about where I was when I was bullied ten years ago, but now I can stand up and be proud of who I am.”

As well as Parallel Lines, Raphaella sang tracks from her upcoming EP Start a Fire.

Special guests at the event were Caspian, DJ Melody Kane and musician Zed Bias.

Raphaella, whose songs are a mixture of pop and Persian music, backs many charity causes - Kids Count's new I Stand campaign, to help children combat bullying.

Parraell Lines will be released on March 23.