The Five at Five: Leila Fataar

19 Aug 2021

From hidden-gems to places to people-watch, from bookshops to beauty spots – The Five at Five offers some post-lockdown inspiration that celebrates the independents.

This week’s selection has been curated by Leila Fataar, the founder of Platform13, an independent, creative marketing and communications company that prides itself on building cultural value for big brands.

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Leila Fataar started Platform13 back in August 2017 to answer the challenges faced by brands in the fast-moving creative and cultural landscape. “We are in a time of radical transformation: politically, socially, culturally and technologically,” states Leila. “Consumers want and expect brands to be more than the product or service being sold – it needs to make sense, to add value, earning their place in the culture or community they want to be part of.”

“For us, positive impact comes in many forms. But it does mean respectful collaboration with the people who represent, create and shape culture from grassroots all the way up.” We couldn’t agree more.

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FOR FOOD
“I love Tayyabs – the food is always amazing. Guaranteed. I also love the delicious Asian street food in Hong Kong and Bangkok, and the incredible JBS bar in Tokyo.”

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FOR PEOPLE-WATCHING
“I always say the only way to know a city (and its people) is on its public transport. So, definitely my favourite place to people-watch.”

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FOR BOOKS
“I am an avid science fiction/fantasy book reader, so Foyles is a go to. It's big enough to have a wide selection of the type of books I like. And, I can also find books for my son. A bit of a one-stop shop, this one.”

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FOR WELLNESS
“Any beach to be honest. I grew up in South Africa, so wild beaches have always been my favourites. I love the wildness of Sydney beaches, the calmness of the Mediterranean and the warmth of the Indian Ocean.”

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FOR SHOPPING
“There isn't one city really – Amsterdam, Tokyo, LA, New York... If I had to pick one, however, it would have to be London, for sure.”