Caribbean Carnival Historian
Allyson Ingrid Williams MBE, MSc BA(Hons) RN RM
Allyson Williams, born in Trinidad and Tobago, was recruited to London to help rebuild the motherland and develop the new NHS. During her training as a nurse, she survived hostile racism, but subsequently enjoyed a rewarding career, specialising in midwifery, as she felt it was a privilege to bring life into the world.
She wrote professionally, lectured extensively and was a strong advocate for women and midwives. She was responsible for establishing many revolutionary and innovative clinical practices that enhanced the role of the midwife. In 2002, she was awarded an MBE by Queen Elizabeth for her “outstanding contribution to the development of midwifery services for women in London”.
On retirement, Allyson has worked tirelessly as a Trustee in several charities, namely the Mothers Union London Diocese, Notting Hill Carnival Limited, Antillean Creatives Limited, the Parochial Church Council at All Saints Notting Hill and Resistance Media Limited. She is also a valued contributor to the work of the Migration Museum in London.
Allyson has been involved in the Notting Hill Carnival as a joint band leader since 1980. She lectures in the media on her role as a Windrush veteran and pioneer of the carnival arts. She has recently published her autobiography, in which she shares her family values and high moral beliefs. She hopes that her multifaceted life experience will be an inspiration to others.