Community & Collaboration

What makes a thriving, resilient community? How can collaboration spark real change? This creative conversation, sponsored by Design District, explores the power of collective action, bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and community voices to discuss how working together can overcome challenges, drive innovation, and create lasting impact.

As Greenwich Peninsula and Design District continue to grow, we reflect on 10 years of Urban Village Fete and the importance of legacy in shaping inclusive, connected spaces.

Meet the Panellists

Host: Robert Elms

Broadcaster, writer and proud Londoner, Robert Elms has spent decades capturing the spirit of the capital. His long-running BBC Radio London show is a love letter to the city—celebrating its music, culture, history and ever-evolving style.

From documenting the ‘80s creative scene for The Face to penning four books including The Way We Wore, Elms continues to shape and reflect London’s cultural landscape.

This year, he returns to Urban Village Fete as host of Creative Conversations in Design District—leading a day of thought-provoking talks with some of the city’s most exciting creative voices.

Mark Freeman

Creative director, entrepreneur and community builder, Mark Freeman is the founder of LOOSE.FM—London’s independent radio platform, soon to launch a new live studio in Design District.

With a background working with global brands like Coca-Cola, Disney and VW, Mark’s focus has always been culture and connection. His work sits at the intersection of creativity, community and digital innovation—building spaces, both physical and virtual, where people come together and feel heard.

At Creative Conversations, he’ll bring his insights into how grassroots platforms and creative collaboration can drive real, lasting change.

Tamzyn French

Tamzyn French is CEO of Kinetika Bloco, a youth-led charity blending music, dance and carnival to empower the next generation. Since joining in 2004, she’s helped shape the organisation’s values, led its transition to charitable status, and secured its place in Arts Council England’s National Portfolio.

With a background in music and early experience at the National Youth Music Theatre, Tamzyn now oversees Kinetika Bloco’s strategic direction, international tours and flagship programmes—driven by her passion for giving young people the tools to thrive.

Ore Abiona

Ore Abiona is London Marketing Lead at On—the high-performance sportswear brand known for its innovation and sustainability. With over eight years’ experience across luxury retail and sport, Ore leads the brand’s city strategy, shaping how On connects with Londoners through bold, meaningful experiences.

Blending creativity with strategic thinking, she brings a deep understanding of how to build brand presence and spark genuine connection in a fast-moving city.

Topics include:

• The Strength in Solidarity – How shared goals create stronger communities.
• Collaborative Innovation – The power of creative partnerships.
• Resilient Communities – What it takes to adapt and thrive.
• Barriers to Collaboration – What holds us back and how to move forward.
• The Legacy of Greenwich Peninsula & Design District – Building community through place, creativity, and culture.

From grassroots initiatives to large-scale regeneration, this session will explore how communities come together, grow, and create meaningful change—now and for the future.

Your ticket comes with 1 x non-alcoholic drink from Bureau Restaurant. Make sure you check into the talk early, retrieve your drink token, then grab your drink before finding a seat.

Go back to the full Urban Village Fete programme.