Kanya King

Founder of the MOBO Awards, one of London's Most Influential People and in the Powerlist of Britain's Most Influential Black People

Kanya King is an entrepreneur best known as the Founder of the MOBO (Music of Black Origin) Awards, one of the most prestigious and long-standing music award ceremonies in the UK. Kanya established the MOBO Awards in 1996, in response to a lack of recognition for the music of black origin in the UK. She wanted to create an event that would celebrate the achievements of black artists, and highlight the contribution they had made to the music scene. The awards ceremony was an immediate success, taking place annually since.

Kanya’s dedication to the music scene in the UK has also been recognised through many awards. She has been the recipient of the Ambassador Award from the NatWest Everywoman Awards and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Institute of Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. She has also been recognised as one of London’s Most Influential People by the London Evening Standard, one of Britain’s Most Entrepreneurial Women, in the Powerlist of Britain’s Most Influential Black People on numerous occasions and as one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in the UK by Woman’s Hour. In 1999 Kanya was appointed MBE, honouring her achievements in the music industry, and was later elevated to CBE in the 2018 Birthday Honours List.

Having also been named on BBC’s 100 Women list, Kanya is a revolutionary pioneer in the music industry whose influence has inspired many Black people to follow their dreams as musicians. Honoured with the Media Pioneer Award at the Music Week Women in Music Awards, Kanya’s vision continues to empower people from all walks of life today. King’s work has been praised for its significant contribution to the visibility of music of black origin in the UK, and for providing a platform for black artists to showcase their talent. Her tireless commitment to the industry has helped to promote diversity in the music industry, and has highlighted the importance of recognising and celebrating the achievements of black artists. If you are looking for a passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion this International Women’s Day, hire Kanya King today.

Kanya King is available to hire via The Female Motivational Speakers Agency: https://www.female-motivational-speakers.com/speaker/kanya-king

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