Claudia has been based in the shopping centre for 20 years, after moving from Colombia 28 years ago. When Claudia first arrived she could not sew, but had a business idea and hired people she could learn and trade from. Her daughter learned to walk in the shopping centre.

Olajide is from Nigeria and opened his African food stall in the market in 2004. He says everyday is special in Elephant and Castle and is looking forward to moving to Castle Square.

John has lived and travelled all over the US, where he was inspired to build his horse-box style coffee shop. He has been based at the shopping centre for 4 years, and will soon be moving to Elephant Arcade. Black Cowboy Coffee specialises in all kinds of coffee, including a delicious peanut butter cappuccino.

Born in Iran, Abdulreza is from a family of entrepreneurs. He took over his friends carpet and bedding shop at the shopping centre 17 years ago, Magic Carpets will be moving to Castle Square.

Abdul from Afghanistan has sold hats at the market for 17 years, and will soon be moving to Castle Square.

Photo by Krestine Havemann/Evening Standard/Shutterstock.