TALK 003: Laura Pannack & Nwaka Okparaeke - Inspirations, passion projects, and creative journeys.

A series of talks with leading London based photographers in partnership with the World Press Photo Exhibition London, MPB and Take More Photos.

All talks will take place at the MPB Gallery, 25 East Bay Lane, Canal Side, Here East, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E15 2GW. Full travel information below.

TALK 003: Wed 13th Aug: Laura Pannack & Nwaka Okparaeke

Only £5 per ticket. Very limited numbers. 

This talk will be two talks back-to-back.

Laura Pannack: Portraits, Projects and the Power of Connection

This inspiring and honest talk offers a rare behind-the-scenes look into the world of photography as a career. Award-winning photographer Laura Pannack shares her journey - from winning 1st Prize in Portraits Singles at the 2010 World Press Photo Awards to returning as a judge just five years later. With humour and openness, she lifts the lid on what it really means to work as a photographer today: the highs and lows, the creative blocks, the surprising moments of connection, and the constant search for meaning through images. This is not a step-by-step how-to, but a raw and relatable insight into the messy, beautiful reality of making work that matters.

Nwaka Okparaeke: Culture, Creativity and Confidence

She is known for her powerful combination of bold visual storytelling and emotional depth.

Guided by the mantra “truth over everything,” Nwaka’s work explores themes of love, peace, freedom, and vulnerability, all expressed through a surreal, dreamlike lens. 

Her signature use of vibrant colour, unexpected compositions, and layered concepts creates imagery that feels like a visual poem, both elevated and deeply human.

From directing for Little Simz to shooting campaigns for Nike and Netflix, Nwaka continues to shape visual culture with intention, honesty, and purpose.

This talk will explore:

- Tapping into personal truth as creative fuel
- Blending surrealism with real-life emotion
- The balance between artistry and commercial success
- Finding freedom through photography

TRAVEL INFORMATION.

The World Press Photo Exhibition is located inside the Here East building.
The entrance is on East Bay Lane which is canal side and a few doors down from Breakfast Club.
Find the entrance on Google Maps or what3words.

Hackney Wick Overground is 0.3 miles away (8-minute walk)
Stratford station is 0.9 miles away (20-minute walk)
Stratford International is 0.8 miles away (17-minute walk)
All stations have step free access.

388 bus route stops outside Here East.
Here East bus shuttles run from Stratford stations Monday-Friday, every 10 minutes 6:30am to 9pm

For further information see the Transport for London website or visiting information from Here East.

There are bike lanes throughout the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
There are cycle racks and Santander Cycle docks on Parkes Street.
There is no designated parking but plenty of on street and multi-storey parking in the area.