UK pavilion: Barker Langham at Expo 2020 Dubai
26.09.2025
Social impact, Projects
Transforming people, places, and the planet
At Expo 2020 Dubai, Darren Barker and Eric Langham, founders of Barker Langham, delivered a compelling talk at the UK Pavilion on the power of culture to transform people, cities, and the planet.
They explored how cultural experiences not only inspire individuals but also shape urban landscapes and cultural districts – from Qasr al Hosn in Abu Dhabi to London’s Cultural Mile. Darren and Eric highlighted the importance of cultural projects in creating places where communities connect, identities are celebrated, and futures are imagined.
They also reflected on Barker Langham’s own role at Expo 2020, where their operations team - BLR World - recruited and trained hosts and guides for national pavilions, delivering transformative encounters for millions of visitors, including school groups.
Their talk, which formed part of a wider series exploring how creativity can address the world’s most urgent challenges, was a passionate reminder that culture is not just about the past – it is a force that reshapes cities, empowers people, and opens new possibilities for the future.
Watch the full talk here.