The Livesey Exchange Culture

Discover who we are, what we do, why we do what we do and who are supporters

About Livesey Exchange

Livesey Exchange is a local grassroots project initiated by Pempeople with the aim of transforming spaces near and on Old Kent Road into workshops, studios, multidisciplinary spaces, skill development training and cultural programmes.

Our Founder

Pempeople (People Empowering People) is a non-profit organisation by community enabler Nicholas Okwulu who works primarily with local residents and community organisations from Southwark's grassroots community.

Our Funders

It’s thanks to the generosity of over 200 supporters, Livesey Exchange can start constructing the new venue on Old Kent Road. Our supporters include local residents, businesses and organisations.

What The Local Community Has To Say

Thank you for providing me an opportunity to exhibit prints, photography and canvases from local artists who do not often get the opportunity to and to promo the launch of Artizan Radio. It was a pleasure being part of a well run and organised event which is credit to you (Nicholas), Noah and the rest of PemPeople/Livesey Exchange team. The Permanent Temporary event (as part of London Design Festival 2021) was a shining example of what Creatives need in terms of spaces for making. The attendance alone shows how much people of all ages are interested in arts and culture and local business.

Christian Shodip

Artizan Radio

I just wanted to say thank you for your proactive and selfless efforts of securing such a wonderful space for artists emerging out of lockdown. It has been a struggle as you well know and having that opportunity has helped me to be more positive about my practice and prevent doubts from creeping in. I hope something like that can happen again in the future and if it does I am very willing to help more than just set up my own stuff and would love to be a part of the production side. The Livesey Exchange is another remarkable foundation for something bigger.

Nick Landon

Artist

Fantastic to visit Livesey Exchange to see one of our unused garage spaces transformed into an amazing hub for makers & creators from every part of our community. Thanks to everyone at PemPeople for the amazing work you're doing & especially the inspirational Nicholas Okwulu.

Cllr Kieron Williams

Leader of Southwark Council, 2020 - Present

It has been thrilling to visit the Livesey Exchange and see the start of a journey that will bring local jobs and opportunities for local residents – genuinely inspired by everyone’s commitment and enthusiasm.

Cllr Peter John OBE

Leader of Southwark Council, 2010 - 2020

The Livesey Exchange 2 project is a true community-led project which emerged from a groundswell of a local initiative to support people in the Peckham area. By offering a safe place to meet and gain the skills and training necessary to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the scale of change in the regeneration of the Old Kent Road Opportunity Area.

Matt Derry

Senior Regeneration Manager, Southwark Council

Livesey Exchange will be an excellent space for our young people to hangout which will increase their confidence and well being.

Carol Ossai-Nwosu, Rest In Peace

Livesey Exchange would be a huge asset to the area – an exciting community project with so many interesting facets.

Alex Crawford

We completely support the Livesey Exchange and have been working closely with the team behind the project since the situation on the Ledbury first emerged.

Cllr Mark Williams

Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport