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’.
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.