Soar: With a foreword by the Reverend Jesse L. Jackson Sr

Simon Woolley is a British politician who was raised by white foster parents on the impoverished St Matthew's Estate in Leicester. He co-founded Operation Black Vote in 1996, which has encouraged thousands of Black men and women to exercise their right to vote over the past 25 years. Soar is a story of courage and commitment, perseverance and remaining positive despite the challenges of institutional racism. It is also about becoming a father and honouring one's heritage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

Simon Woolley, a remarkable figure in British politics, has made a significant impact through his revolutionary approach. Hailing from humble beginnings on the impoverished St Matthew's Estate in Leicester, Woolley's journey was marked by a keen awareness of politics and racism from a young age. His encounter with revolutionary politics during a trip to South America sparked a deep desire to make a positive difference in the world. Motivated by this passion, he co-founded Operation Black Vote in 1996, a pioneering initiative that has played a pivotal role in encouraging thousands of Black men and women to exercise their right to vote over the past 25 years.

Soar, the autobiography of Simon Woolley, is a captivating tale of courage, commitment, and perseverance in the face of institutional racism. It explores the themes of becoming a father, honoring one's heritage, and being a role model when no others have been available. Through his unwavering determination and unwavering positivity, Woolley has demonstrated that an outsider can indeed become a member of the establishment.

Woolley's ascent to the House of Lords is a testament to his remarkable achievements. As the first Black man to head an Oxbridge college, he has shattered barriers and broken down systemic inequalities. His policy changemaking skills have earned him the ear of prime ministers and the future King, making him a powerful voice in British politics. However, Woolley's vision goes beyond mere influence; he is committed to shaking up the establishment and bringing underrepresented voices to the table.

Growing up on the St Matthew's Estate, Woolley faced numerous challenges as one of the few Black children in the neighborhood. However, his loving white foster parents provided him with a nurturing environment that fostered his curiosity and passion for learning. It was during his time at the University of Oxford that Woolley's political consciousness truly blossomed. He was actively involved in student politics, advocating for social justice and equality.

Woolley's journey to the House of Lords was not without its obstacles. Despite his academic brilliance and achievements, he faced systemic racism and discrimination throughout his career. However, he refused to be deterred and used his experiences as fuel for his activism. His co-founding of Operation Black Vote was a direct response to the lack of representation and engagement of Black communities in British politics.

Through his work with Operation Black Vote, Woolley has tirelessly campaigned to increase voter turnout among Black communities, address systemic racism, and promote social justice. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, and he has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to British society.

In conclusion, Simon Woolley's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and the ability to overcome adversity. His journey from humble beginnings to the House of Lords showcases his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the world. As an outsider who has become a member of the establishment, Woolley has demonstrated that it is possible to bring underrepresented voices to the table and shake up the status quo. His autobiography, Soar, is a must-read for anyone who seeks inspiration and motivation to pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact on society.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 161 x 243 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786581174