Spearheading Success: My Journey from Javelin to Leadership

Being a Disruptor has been a central theme in my life, particularly in my professional journey. Founding BYP Network was a direct response to the systemic inequalities I observed in both the corporate world and the sports industry.

Violet Simon

by Violet Simon

December 3, 2024 ∙ 6 min read

I grew up in East London, a vibrant and diverse community that offered me a wealth of experiences and challenges. My childhood was filled with outdoor adventures like camping, canoeing, and abseiling, which nurtured my love for exploration and sports.

Academically, I was always driven to succeed, achieving top grades that led me to study Economics at the University of Nottingham. These experiences instilled in me a strong sense of determination and resilience. Despite the occasional challenges, such as balancing my studies with sports and part-time work, my upbringing provided a solid foundation that shaped my commitment to personal growth and success. It was this environment that prepared me for the various paths I would later pursue, from competing in sports to leading initiatives that empower others.

One of the most challenging experiences was losing my mother, a loss that deeply affected me both personally and professionally. Another major challenge has been starting and scaling BYP Network in an environment where Black female entrepreneurs are often underrepresented and face additional hurdles.

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