Why We Build

Discussing and mapping the social and physical infrastructures that underpin communities, creativity & equity.

Plan your visit
+44 (0)20 7942 2000
  • Sunday, 8 November 2026

  • V&A East Storehouse

    Parkes Street, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Hackney Wick, London, E20 3AX
  • Free event

Tickets available from 00.00 on Sunday, 11 October 2026
Why We Build photo
This session asks the difference between a community and an audience, a movement or a trend, a private versus a third space? How do we build one without accidentally creating the other? 

East London is built upon a social and physical infrastructure made up of collectives, informal networks, sub-cultures, grassroots organisations, educators and institutions. They form a complex tapestry of knowledge, resources and places that make aspiration and creativity possible for those who may have experienced barriers to access these sectors. By examining examples of collaboration and cultural resonance in the built environment, deep diving into modern architecture and design that address social inequities we’ll ask who builds that infrastructure, what it takes to sustain it, and what should we build for the next generation?

This session is facilitated by Tito Mogaji. He is the founder of Nourishment, a community and cultural agency focused on connecting underrepresented communities with arts and culture through curated experiences, campaigns and partnerships.

This event is for anyone living, working or studying in east London, aged 18+, emerging to established within the creative sector.  Booking is essential with limited spaces for on the day drop-in.

As part of the Ideas Exchange programme of interactive talks, this event will be documented through film, photography and live artist interpretation.