006 - Wandsworth's journey as London Borough of Culture 2025 - with Cllr Kemi Akinola

In this episode of Talking Place, host Tanisha Raffiuddin sits down with Cllr Kemi Akinola, the Deputy Leader of Wandsworth Council, to explore how culture, placemaking, and community-led leadership are shaping the future of one of London’s most dynamic boroughs.

From tackling food insecurity to investing in youth, the Deputy Leader shares her unique journey from grassroots activism to political leadership, offering insight into how local government can serve as a catalyst for genuine community transformation. As Wandsworth begins its tenure as London Borough of Culture 2025, Cllr Akinola reflects on how cultural investment can foster inclusion, creativity, and pride, making places that truly belong to everyone.

The conversation touches on community ownership of the built environment, fair access to housing, good landlord certifications and licences and why culture must go beyond performances and events to embed itself meaningfully in the life of a borough. Cllr Akinola's vision for Wandsworth is one where fairness, access, and community voices are placed at the heart of regeneration and growth.

Whether you're working in local government, development, placemaking, or cultural programming, or simply interested in how culture and politics intersect to shape better places, this episode offers real-world insights into building fairer, more vibrant communities from the ground up.

Join us as we ‘talk place’.