Meet the Dockers: Natasha Cox

Tell us a little about yourself and your connection to the Royal Docks

Over the years, I have seen the Royal Docks change from a place of neglect, with not much happening to a buzzing centrepiece for the south of the A13.

I have many childhood memories growing up around here, especially my early days living in the infamous Ronan Point, which, a few years before my family and I moved in, experienced a gas explosion. As the block was going to be knocked down, we had to move. However, because I didn’t want to leave St Joachim's Primary School at the time, I convinced my mum to stay in the area, so we moved a stone’s throw away.

Now, years down the line, I get to live and work in a fun and creative area that continues to evolve.

What inspired you to start Actively SeeK.I.N.G CIC?

Actively SeeK.I.N.G. was originally inspired by the fact that we freelance creative artists are always “actively seeking” the next opportunity. However, it wasn’t until I delivered an event for World Suicide Prevention Day in September 2019, called On the Brink of Stardom in the West End, that I decided to home in on supporting men.

Research shows alarmingly high rates of mental health issues among men, with stigma and perceptions of masculinity adding to the silence, shame and reluctance to speak about their struggles or seek help.

After completing my masters at Bayes Business School in 2021, I decided to focus on young people, specifically black boys, as research showed clear links between school exclusions, prison and mental health challenges. With a background in performing arts and having seen the positive impact it can have, I decided to centre the company’s work there.

I also introduced the acronym K.I.N.G., which stands for Knowledge, Identity, Nurturer and Gifts. These are our foundational pillars when working with our boys.

Since launching our youth projects in 2024, supported by the National Lottery and Arts Council England, we have co-created a play with our young people called Don’t Write Me Off, which will be touring schools in October 2026. Thanks to the support of Aspers Good Causes Fund and Newham Council, we have also produced an accompanying EP. We’re especially proud to have provided professional work opportunities for nine of our past participants.

In April 2026, we launched The House of K.I.N.G.s, a school for performing arts, leadership training and life skills. It’s a big step for me, but I want to create a sustainable space where our boys can feel connected and nurtured in an environment designed specifically for them.

In additional to Arts Council England funding, the University of East London, provided support through their business incubator programme and The House of K.I.N.G.s will be hosted at the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability. Exciting times ahead!

How has your background as an Olivier Award-winning performer shaped your work?

It’s only recently that I’ve started talking more openly about being an Olivier Award winner. I think it’s quite a British trait to be acutely humble. However, in the competitive world we live in, we do have to shout about our accolades, especially if it can open doors for the greater good.

I embrace it and feel very fortunate to have a copy of the award in my trophy cabinet. More importantly, I get to celebrate that Actively SeeK.I.N.G. is now an award-winning company. We are winners of the Rotary Stratford East London Community Awards 2024 for Outstanding Initiative in Arts & Culture.

The Royal Docks Creative Network connects local creatives working in the area. What made you join, and how has it helped your work?

I’m part of several creative networks now, and it’s great to see so many familiar faces across them. As I now have a business and with a clear purpose, and I really enjoy being part of these networks. They create a strong sense of community.

As a local artist, I used to feel frustrated seeing events happening on my doorstep that I didn’t know about. Instead of complaining, I made a conscious decision to put myself out there, even when it felt uncomfortable.

Since then, I’ve taken part in various events, talks, performances and presentations through the Royal Docks Creative Network and beyond. I’ve also employed one of the young producers I met through the Royal Docks team, which for me is a real testament to how valuable these networks have been.

Outside of your work, what do you enjoy most about living in the area?

During lockdown, walking around the Royal Victoria Dock was, and still is, one of my greatest pleasures.

Where I live can feel quite run down and neglected, but as soon as I reach the docks, see the water and feel either the buzz or the peacefulness, it completely changes the atmosphere. It’s the perfect setting and feels like you could be anywhere in the world.

Looking ahead, what are your hopes for Actively SeeK.I.N.G. and the Royal Docks creative scene?

My hope for Actively SeeK.I.N.G. is that it becomes a hub where boys feel accepted, at home and nurtured to be the K.I.N.G.s that they are. I also want the wider community to experience the impact and outcomes of our work.

There are amazing plans for the area, and my hope is that not just our boys, but the whole community, can be part of shaping the future of the Royal Docks.

What advice would you give young people in the Royal Docks who want to pursue creativity?

I would, of course, say sign up to The House of K.I.N.G.s Saturday School. I’m really excited about the facilitators we have; two are from Newham and both are known for their incredible acting on the BBC and in our local theatres.

Being based at UEL’s Royal Docks campus also gives young people a chance to experience what university life feels like first-hand.

I’d also encourage young people to get involved in the many activities on offer, especially as many are free. Focus on yourself, not what your friends are doing. You might be surprised, some of them are quietly investing in their future too. As I always say, “Do you, boo!” 

Find out more

Learn more about Actively SeeK.I.N.G and get involved in The House of K.I.N.G.s Saturday School, running from 18 April to 4 July 2026. Find full details and book via the House of K.I.N.G.s Saturday School Eventbrite page.