Join us for a walking tour through East London, exploring a story of regeneration, gentrification, and community life. This part of the city has long been shaped by migration, witnessing successive waves—from early Jewish communities, to arrivals from Pakistan, and later refugees and migrants from Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
The 2012 London Olympics brought major institutional investment, transforming working‑class neighbourhoods into new business districts and middle‑class residential zones. Today, the area is considered one of the most vibrant and trend‑setting parts of London.
What does the neighbourhood look like fourteen years after the Olympics? Who has benefited from these changes—and who has been left behind? During the tour, we will visit Centre 151, a community space originally founded by Vietnamese, Cambodian, and Lao refugees, now dedicated to using arts for social change. Through this visit, we will explore the intersections between migration, regeneration, and community resilience.
As we walk, we will also observe and collect our own primary data about the places we pass, and collaboratively create a soundscape.
How to take part:
Ticket holders: The ticket includes the right to be part of the walk. There will be a bus ride during the tour - you will have to pay for your own bus ticket. We will have a chance to buy food/snacks on the way and take a break on the bus and at Centre 151.
Co-organiser token holders: Besides taking part in the walk, co‑organisers are welcome to join the post‑production team to help shape the final piece of the soundsacpe and co-own the copyright.
About the walking guide
Dr Lois Liao is a sociologist and social entrepreneur. She works at Cardiff University in social care research and guest lectures for Utrecht University, UCL and LSE on social housing and urban economics. She holds a PhD in Housing Studies from UCL and was previously a Fellow at the London School of Economics.
Organiser: Intercultural Roots
Please arrive up to 10 minutes before the start time under the Olympic Bell in the Olympic Park. By attending this event, you consent to being photographed and/or filmed. These images may be used for promotional and documentation purposes. Please wear clothing and shoes that allow you to walk comfortably. Bring water and weather proofing.
Part funded by Innovate UK and the DCMS Create Growth Programme.
Photo references: Londonist, Hackney Playbus