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Designer Foday Dumbuya dines in Stork, buys books in Soho ...and runs in Postman's Park
The London Standard
|February 20, 2025
Home is... In Old Street, on Shepherdess Walk. I have lived here for 14 years, and love immersing myself in the amazing energy of east London. It truly does feel like a creative hub, with art, culture and community at my doorstep.
What was your first job?
I was born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, and grew up in Cyprus and London - and my first job here as a kid was at Poundstretcher, stacking shelves and working as a sales assistant.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
I'd turn Trafalgar Square into a massive outdoor festival complete with art installations and food stalls representing every corner of the city! Everyone could explore London's culture and cuisine without any barriers.
What do you collect?
I collect old highlife vinyl records. I love the stories each album tells and each record transports me back to the joyful sounds of West Africa. I get them at Psyche, in St John's Wood, which sells rare vinyl records, CDs, and music memorabilia, and also look at Vinyl Factory, Rough Trade and Vintage Vinyl. I also collect vibrant African textile print stickers, which bring a splash of colour into my life. They often feature intricate designs and motifs that celebrate the diverse cultures across the continent.
Which shops and outlets do you rely on?
This story is from the February 20, 2025 edition of The London Standard.
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