Chris Williamson + Architects Benevolent Society

Champions for Change paired architect Chris Williamson with the UK charity Architects Benevolent Society (ABS). Chris became an ambassador for the charity - attending events, advertising and promoting the ABS and advising them on activities and opportunities. Chris has seen his profile in the architectural community increase due to his exposure with the ABS. He has seen his social media following increase on Instagram @chriswilliamsonarchitect and @ilkestoncontemporaryarts, and his youtube video ‘A Life in Architecture’ has had over 50,000 views.

Champions for Change evaluates each clients’ profile and makes suggestions for the benefit of both client and charity. Chris likes to run so Champions for Change registered for a series of events which led to him being sponsored for over £15,000 to donate to ABS. Chris won a commemorative plate in recognition of this fantastic achievement. This served Chris’s profile liking to run, wanting to present himself as fit and dynamic whilst being realistic about his skill set. Champions for Change helped ensure the needs of the charity were matched by Chris’s willingness to help

“ I think that my association with the ABS has helped me raise money for the charity but has also helped my profile. Clients and colleagues look at you differently if you have interests outside of just working. People like to see that you are passionate about something other than what you get paid to do”

More recently we advised and assisted Chris in establishing his own not-for-profit community arts centre following the sale of his Architectural business in 2022. Chris bought and refurbished a redundant and derelict 1936 Methodist Church in his home town of Ilkeston, Derbyshire and has converted it to a community arts centre. ilkonarts.com