Who are the leaders able to capture the identity of a new London, a dynamic place of regenerative thinking and politics informed by the value of freedom? A London that is as much a philosophy or value, as a place. A London that’s a catalyst for influential new brands of the future to thrive.

Traditional leaders may no longer have the requisite skills, so, as creatives, we must act to make this happen while reinventing our institutions and what it means to be free. View More

Brexit can be seen as an assertion of political/economic/national freedom – we’re now at a “who are we?” moment.

Brand success - the UK has had plenty - points to a culture with global appeal. Getting the future identity of London/UK right is key since it informs the brands that will emerge & our influence on the world stage.

Historically London/the UK represents freedom, supported by trusted institutions. The monarchy-driven pomp & circumstance in our DNA gave the creative bandwidth to exploit the reactionary & progressive. It gave us punk, McQueen, Dr Martens, Westwood. Our Catholic/Protestant past produced the restrained approach of Margaret Howell & the maximalism of Galliano.

The red thread that connects London/the UK through all time is freedom, and London’s future must be as the world’s capital of freedom. A freedom that comes from being outside the establishment, & acting as a catalyst to nurture the most influential brands & emerging cultural movements. View Less