Interview with a Community Storyteller

1. What are you most proud of during your time as a Community Storyteller?

I am most proud of the fact that I have a little contribution of mine in the Camley Street underpass. As an international student, I never knew getting into the community story tellers programme would give me such a big opportunity, a piece of my own creativity made in a short span of time, beautifully installed in this public space. I couldn't be prouder. 

2. What was the most important thing you learned during the project? Was it a skill, a particular lesson, or something you learned about yourself?

One important thing I learned is - never underestimate yourself. I never realised I could write poetry. I always looked down upon things like creative writing, thinking I am not good enough or that it isn't my cup of tea. But the poetry session was a complete plot twist and of course the poetry installation was a bigger plot twist, which gives me immense confidence to keep learning and expanding my creative skills. It makes me realise I am capable of more than I thought - I might not be aware, but the right community can bring it out of me so I should just show up!

3. Is there anything you would have done differently? Or anything about the process you would change?

I am not sure, I am happy with the things I could do and learn and relearn with the best mentors. 

4. Do you feel more connected to your local area now?

Certainly yes, I love Camden, I’m just liking it more and now my walking routes include the Camley Street area as well.

5. Has it changed how you feel heard / listened to when it comes to changes in your local area?

Yes, absolutely. Being part of the Community Storytellers programme made me feel genuinely heard. It showed me that local voices, especially those of young people, do matter, and that councils are willing to listen when opportunities are created for meaningful participation.

6. While acknowledging some things that could be better, your ‘Hey Camley!’ poem seems quite optimistic about the future of Camley Street - is that how you feel?

Yes, I am quite optimistic after seeing the plan and efforts for the Camley Street project. Can't wait to see the project outcome! It’s already in the best hands and I love how initiatives are taken to address the suggestions of locals from all age groups in different ways, e.g. the Camley Street Festival, Community Story Tellers program etc.

7. What would you say to other young people that want to find a way to help bring about local change?

Sign up to your council events now!!! It’s the best way to contribute meaningfully, meet your council members and other local people and make friends. Just like the community storytellers programme - your voice is addressed, and you have a lot of fun and learn in workshops. I really really miss the workshops, but the connections were so genuine that I can still reach out to my mentors and others for any concerns comfortably. I am incredibly grateful to have been part of this programme and to have contributed, even in a small way, to local change. To all other young people - all you have to do is show up, stay enthusiastic and be willing to learn, everything else will follow, all the best.

Read Ashwathy's poem below:

Hey Camley!

Through the peaceful Greenery,

I walked into the chaotic graffiti 

as loud as the tracks 

unclean, colourful and the connecting roads 

Where is the school? 

Where is the station? 

No signs? Screeches the car 

Trink trink cycle bells 

And ah! panic of pedestrians 

Here and there 

Bricks and blocks 

Brighter days and starry nights

clearing and building necessities. 

A small rectangle of Hope 

Soon, accessible and affordable, 

giggles and cries of a hoping community

Camley navigates tranquillity