The Creative Side of London
Who we are
Naila Ahmad is the founder of The Creative Side of London, a thriving makers market established in 2019 to champion independent businesses in East London. A mother of four and the founder of her own handmade brand, Naila Ahmad LONDON, founded in 2016, Naila understands first hand the courage, creativity and resilience it takes to build a small business from the ground up. After trading at markets across London, she recognised a gap locally for a high quality, community driven makers market in Waltham Forest and decided to create one. The Creative Side of London was built by a small business owner for small business owners. It was created to be supportive, welcoming and professionally run, offering a genuine stepping stone for start ups, artisans and creative entrepreneurs. Today the market has become a vibrant platform for local makers, artists and independent brands, connecting them with their community and providing opportunities to grow with confidence. It is a true family run venture. Naila’s husband and children are hands on at every event, from setting up tables in the early morning to supporting vendors throughout the day. At its heart, The Creative Side of London is rooted in family values, community spirit and a deep belief in the power of small businesses. Alongside running the market, Naila proudly serves as a Small Business Ambassador for the London Borough of Waltham Forest at the Business and IP Centre, supporting fellow entrepreneurs across the borough. Her mission is simple. To create spaces where creativity thrives, local businesses are celebrated and community comes together.
