From Global Tech Exec to Camden Library Bus Founder – My £150k Mission to Launch "Starry Skies & Stories"

This is Simon Williams' Plan: A Story of Radical Purpose, Grassroots Action, and a Universe of Opportunity Unfolding in Camden.

The Core Proposition – My Plan: After more than two decades in global commercial partnerships and C-Suite roles abroad and in the UK, currently as Global AVP at Braze, I am launching "Starry Skies & Stories" – a £150,000 initiative to transform a double-decker bus into a mobile library, learning hub, and star-gazing observatory for the Camden community and beyond.

As an Autistic individual with ADHD (AuHD), I understand intimately the need for such inclusive and inspiring spaces.

The "Why Now?" – The Personal Pivot & The Spark That Ignited Action:

The Background: For 21 years, I've built and led teams in the demanding world of global tech and media partnerships. My current role sees me leading commercial divisions across our partner ecosystem. But parallel to this, my commitment to "for cause" ventures has always been a driving force, shaped by my AuHD experience and a deep-seated belief in creating accessible opportunities.

The "Second of Clarity" – The Independent & A Life Redefined: The true catalyst was an electrifying moment. My partner, Roddy, and I read an article in The Independent at 6am one morning. The story, presumably detailing Dan Atkins' work with Buses4Homeless, didn't just resonate; it reconfigured our future. "We changed our lives' intention and aligned to our vision in a second. There was no hesitation," I’ve said it before, and it’s the core truth. By 6pm that same day, we were on one of Dan’s buses in Ladbroke Grove, our purposes joined.

This wasn't a gradual shift; it was an immediate, definitive commitment.

The Sign in Camden Market: Soon after, the universe provided a tangible focus. As a lifelong book lover, finding a 'treasure trove' of books discarded in a Camden Market bin was profoundly affecting. It was a clear sign: these stories, this potential, needed saving. The concept for the "Starry Skies & Stories" Library Night Bus was born right there.

The "Who?" – My Plan is a Collaboration: The People & Partnerships Driving This (The Grassroots Engine):

This isn't a solo flight; my plan is already taking root thanks to an incredible confluence of people and organisations:

Me, Simon Williams: Bringing my strategic, partnership, and leadership experience to this new mission.

Dan Atkins & Solutions 4 Living CIC: Dan is the founder of the award-winning Buses4Homeless, now Solutions 4 Living CIC. Our partnership is built on shared values – his work providing shelter, my own experience housing and supporting a trans woman for 18 months. His expertise in transforming buses for community good is invaluable.

Our Growing Grassroots Network – This is Already Happening: This vision is already being embraced and supported by a fantastic network right here in Camden and beyond, demonstrating its immediate appeal and viability:

We're actively working with the Kentish Town Car Boot Sale, exploring ways to source unique treasures and raise awareness.

Give me Love (Jenny and Zack) remain steadfast champions, bringing their energy and community connections.

The Set Sisters are on board, and we're excited about how their creative talents can enrich the bus experience.

Tusk Hair Camden, a beloved local business, is lending its support, showing true community spirit.

Kat Vandal, a dynamic creative, is involved, and we're exploring how her artistic vision can shape the project.

Esteemed Community Champions: The plan has been met with enthusiasm from figures like Camden Councillor Pat Callaghan and Abdul Hai OBE, both renowned for their dedication to our community and previous book rescue efforts. The Camden New Journal (Shaun, Tom Foot, Frankie) has also been pivotal in helping to share the initial vision.

The "What?" – The "Starry Skies & Stories" Library Night Bus:

The Vision: A beautifully refurbished double-decker bus featuring a vibrant library, cosy reading nooks, dedicated spaces for homework clubs and literacy workshops, and, uniquely, a rooftop observatory dome with a telescope for star-gazing.

The Mission: To boost literacy and a love of learning; foster well-being and mental health; provide a safe, inspiring, and inclusive space for children, families, and all community members; promote D&I; and build stronger community connections.

The Target: £150,000 to purchase the bus, undertake the bespoke refurbishment, stock it with diverse books and resources, and cover initial operational costs.

Key Quotes from Simon Williams:

"After two decades building global partnerships, this Library Night Bus is the most important partnership I'll ever forge – a partnership with our community, for our future."

"The 'Independent article' moment with Roddy wasn't just an emotional reaction; it was a strategic decision executed with the same conviction I’ve applied throughout my career. When the path is clear, you act."

"As an AuHD individual, I know the power of environments that embrace difference. This bus will be such a space – a sanctuary where curiosity is celebrated, and everyone belongs."

"Seeing those books in a bin in Camden Market was the universe telling me, 'Your lifetime plan to give back? It starts now, with these stories.'"

"The grassroots support from partners like the Kentish Town Car Boot Sale, The Set Sisters, Tusk Hair, Kat Vandal, and Give me Love, alongside Dan Atkins, shows this isn't just my plan; it’s already becoming Camden’s project."

Story Angles for Journalists

This initiative offers multiple rich narrative threads:

The Executive Pivot: The dramatic shift of a Global AVP from a major tech company (Braze) to a hands-on "for cause" community project.

Neurodiversity as a Superpower: How my AuHD experience provides unique insights and drive for this inclusive venture.

The "Lightning Bolt" Moment: The powerful story of the 6 am Independent article leading to a 6 pm life change with Roddy and Dan – a testament to conviction.

Grassroots Mobilisation in Action: How a diverse group of local businesses, artists, and community members are already rallying around the project in Camden.

Innovation in Social Enterprise: The unique model of combining literacy, STEM (via astronomy), and well-being in a mobile, accessible format.

Camden's Community Spirit: Highlighting how this project taps into and is supported by a borough known for its vibrant community activism and leadership.

Corporate Social Responsibility Reimagined: The opportunity for businesses to engage in meaningful D&I partnerships and custom programmes beyond traditional CSR.

Call to Action / Information for Journalists:

I am available for interviews to discuss my plan, my journey, and the incredible grassroots support for the "Starry Skies & Stories" Library Night Bus. We can provide access to existing imagery and connect you with some of our early partners. This is a story about radical change, deep purpose, and community coming together, and it’s happening now.

Contact: Simon Williams (Simon@partnerships.community) / 07311656780

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