From growing up in the Middle East where theatre was banned to leading one of London’s most innovative cultural spaces, Tarek Iskander’s journey is a masterclass in transformative leadership. In this candid conversation, he reveals how his NHS background shapes his mission driven approach at Battersea Arts Centre, championing bold, experimental work while making art accessible through initiatives like “pay-what-you-can” ticketing. His insights on nurturing youth creativity, navigating institutional challenges, and reimagining the arts sector’s future offer invaluable lessons for anyone interested in cultural leadership and social impact.