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About
Livesey Exchange is more than just a physical space; it is a beacon of hope, a hub of opportunity, and a catalyst for transformation. Our brand identity is rooted in our vision, mission, and purpose – a commitment to empowering, connecting, and nurturing growth within our community.
Nicholas Okwulu - Founder
OUR STORY LEX 1 to LEX 2
Livesey Exchange, conceived as LEX 1 by community enabler Nicholas Okwulu, Repurposed 65 garages on the Ledbury Estate into vibrant workshops and cultural hubs. The evolution continues with the newly opened Livesey Exchange (LEX 2) in 2023, a vital addition to our community's social infrastructure. LEX 2, a Community Business seed funded by Southwark Council, The Greater London Authority, and the Department of Levelling Up Housing and Communities DHLUP, stands as a sustainable space, paying homage to Victorian industrialist George Livesey. More than a cultural destination, it's a creation by and for the residents, a testament to our community's strength and pride.
2023
LIVESEY EXCHANGE LEX 2 OPENS
2021
lex2 planning permission granted
2006
pem people repurpose LEX1 garages
Our PURPOSE
Livesey Exchange's vision, mission, and purpose centre around an unwavering commitment to enabling the people of Old Kent Road to thrive. We're forging a stronger, more self-sustaining community by empowering individuals to lead their unique journeys.
Old Kent Road, like any urban area, faces challenges and uncertainties. Livesey Exchange plays a pivotal role in building community resilience. Offering the space for skill development and diverse programs, it equips residents to adapt, grow, and weather adversity. A resilient community can better handle the ups and downs of urban life, ensuring a fairer and more promising future.
Livesey Exchange encourages entrepreneurship and provides the means for local businesses to flourish. This economic development is a crucial ingredient in building a fairer future by providing access to sustainable livelihoods.
Our Method
Empowerment, Connection, and Growth are the mantras of Livesey Exchange, an epicentre for community empowerment.
It provides the residents of Old Kent Road with the tools, resources, and knowledge they need to take control of their lives. By fostering an environment of skill development and personal growth, Livesey Exchange empowers individuals to break free from the constraints that might hold them back.
In an area as diverse as Old Kent Road, inclusivity is vital. Livesey Exchange celebrates diversity and promotes an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their background, can come together, share experiences, and benefit from each other's perspectives. This inclusivity is not just a feel-good principle; it's a pathway to a fairer future where all residents can thrive.
Our Mission
Livesey Exchange exists to empower our community members. We equip them with resources and opportunities to take control of their lives and unlock their potential, fostering personal, communal, and societal growth.
We are the bridge that connects people, communities, and institutions. By sponsoring Livesey Exchange, you're part of a network fostering meaningful connections and positive change, embracing diversity and unity.
EMPOWERMENT
We exist to empower our community members by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to take control of their lives and shape their futures. Every person possesses untapped potential, and we are dedicated to helping them unlock it through harnessing the foundations that people can empower people.
CONNECTION
Livesey Exchange is a bridge that connects people, communities, and institutions. We understand that meaningful change is born from collaboration, and we seek to build partnerships that will strengthen our community and create a network of support that is second to none.
GROWTH
Our purpose is to foster growth on every level – personal, communal, and societal. We enable and encourage residents to explore new horizons, learn, and adapt. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and a supportive environment, we facilitate the cultivation of skills and talents, driving positive change within our community.
WORD ON THE STREET
l 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
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
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
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 everyones commitment and enthusiasm.
Clir Peter John OBE
Leader of Southwark Council, 2010 - 2020
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.
Clir Kieron Williams
Leader of Southwark Council, 2020 - 2025
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