About Us
DasDas Box London: A Sustainable Arts & Culture Community Hub Located in the heart of London’s Shoelane, DasDasBox was founded as a sustainable arts and culture hub, designed to host a wide range of events and serve as a center for sustainable development. This unique community space brings together the United Kingdom offices of Needs Map Global and IDEMA Global, alongside London’s Community Kitchen (LCK), to foster social and economic development, environmental sustainability, and cultural growth through best practices established by IDEMA, Needs Map, DasDas, and LCK. DasDasBox is built using recycled materials and operates with a strong commitment to eco-friendly practices. Our mission centers on supporting local artists, musicians, actors, and painters, providing art students with spaces to perform, create, and showcase their work. By promoting mental well-being and breaking barriers through the power of art, DasDasBox creates a welcoming platform for community building, impactful discussions, and cultural events that drive positive social change. Our vibrant venue hosts film screenings, as well as international film, theatre, and music festivals, all under one roof—creating a thriving space where art and community intersect. Through the collaborative spirit and energy of our ecosystem, DasDasBox invites individuals and organizations to join in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable world.
Our Team
Utku Akkurt
Director
Utku Akkurt serves as the Director of IDEMA’s UK Office, specializing in sustainability, social impact, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). With extensive experience at Akbank, he has led transformative initiatives in community engagement, entrepreneurship, education, and environmental sustainability, enhancing brand reputation and advancing CSR rankings. His impactful projects include the establishment of the Center of Excellence in Finance at Sabancı University, entrepreneurship programs supporting hundreds of young innovators, and the award-winning “One Smile is Enough” campaign, developed in collaboration with the Needs Map platform to deliver educational resources to underprivileged schools across Turkey. Holding an MBA and numerous national and international awards, Akkurt continues to drive social transformation through strategic collaboration and innovative solutions.
Ümit Baysal
Business Partner
Ümit Baysal is a dynamic and accomplished professional with over 15 years of experience spanning the film production, casting, and business development industries. With a decade of expertise in film production and over 15 years as an award winning casting director, Ümit has carved a niche for himself as a creative visionary and a strategic leader. His journey in the entertainment industry has seen him produce and contribute to more than 10 international film, music, and theatre festivals, showcasing his passion for bringing stories to life and connecting audiences through art and culture. Ümit’s deep understanding of storytelling, coupled with his dedication to fostering collaboration, has positioned him as a trusted figure in the global creative community. In recent years, Ümit has channeled his extensive experience into business development for sustainable projects and events. His commitment to sustainability reflects his forward-thinking approach and desire to make a positive impact beyond the entertainment sector. By merging his artistic sensibilities with strategic acumen, Ümit continues to drive innovative initiatives that inspire and empower communities. A natural networker and a dedicated professional, Ümit Baysal is not only a leader in his field but also a passionate advocate for creating meaningful connections through the power of storytelling and sustainability.