Ava and Ryan’s Story:
A Harrassment Scenario
Scenario
Ava is a 15-year-old student who had been chatting online with a classmate, Ryan, also 15. Over several weeks, the two developed a sense of trust and friendship. One night, Ryan asked Ava to send him a personal photo. After hesitating, Ava decided to send a private image, trusting that it would stay between them.
The next day, Ryan shared the photo with two friends in a group chat. Before long, word spread, and more students at school began whispering, laughing, and making comments about Ava. Within days, several people had seen the photo. Ava felt humiliated, betrayed, and afraid of how far the image might circulate.
When school staff learned about the situation, they contacted Ava’s parents and reported it to the police. After reviewing the messages and speaking with those involved, Ryan was charged with distribution of an intimate image without consent, a serious criminal offence under Canadian law.
Both youth and their families were devastated. Ava’s sense of safety and dignity had been deeply impacted, while Ryan expressed shame and disbelief at how much harm his decision caused. The community has now chosen to hold a Restorative Justice Circle to bring together those affected, speak openly about the harm, and decide on meaningful steps to repair trust and promote healing.
Characters in the Circle
Ryan (Youth who caused harm) - 15 years old; expresses remorse and embarrassment. Did not anticipate how widely the image would spread. Struggles with guilt and fear about the consequences of his actions.
Ava (Youth who was harmed) - 15 years old; feels deeply hurt, embarrassed, and anxious about returning to school. Hopes for understanding, accountability, and to regain a sense of control over her story.
M. Daniels (Principal) - Concerned about school culture, peer influence, and online safety. Wants to ensure learning and prevention come from this experience.
M. Patel (Teacher) - Works closely with both youth and understands the emotional and social impacts of online harm. Supports reflection and restoration of safety within the school.
Ava’s Mother (Caregiver/Parent) - Heartbroken by her daughter’s pain and wants accountability while avoiding
Ryan’s Uncle (Caregiver/Parent) - Struggling with disappointment and concern for his nephew. He wants Ryan to take responsibility and be supported in learning from the mistake and restoring his reputation.
Program Facilitator or Volunteer (Restorative Justice Facilitator) - Neutral circle keeper. Ensures that all voices are heard and that the conversation stays focused on healing, empathy, and meaningful reparation.
Elder Naomi (Knowledge Keeper/Elder - If Available) - Guides the circle with teachings about respect, digital responsibility, and the sacredness of trust. Emphasizes that actions online still carry spirit and consequence.
“Respect lives in our words, our actions, and how we carry one another’s stories. Once trust is broken, the path to healing begins with honesty and humility.”
— Anonymous Elder