BLACK ICONS

Black icons are more important than some people realise. Black icons are essential in art, fashion, science, literature and every part of the human experience. Not only do Black icons provide immeasurable value to each of their chosen fields, they provide a much-needed representation for a younger generation that follow. “When Black bodies are on the stage, Black perspectives must be reflected. This is not simply a matter of ‘artistic interpretation’; race and sex play a pivotal role in determining who hold the power to shape representation.” – Tonya Pinkins 

BLACK ICONS IN THE LIMELIGHT 

Every October (since 1987) we uncover the unsung heroes in Black history, legends whose stories have made a great impact on Britain and have changed the course of history. As important as it is to point these people who have been hidden away, we must not forget to the talented icons in the limelight who have paved the way for others and are continuing to mentor and do great things behind the scenes, using their influence to demand change. Lupita puts it perfectly “Until I saw people who looked like me, doing the things I wanted to, I wasn’t so sure it was a possibility. Seeing Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah in The Color Purple, it dawned on me: ‘Oh – I could be an actress!’ We plant the seed of possibility.” 

John Boyega 

British Nigerian Actor and activist, still at the beginning of his career, made his mark during a Black Lives Matter protest back in June and continues to use his voice to spread awareness in the most unapologetic way.  

Anthony Joshua OBE 

A British professional boxer who is a two-time unified heavyweight champion, having held the WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO titles since December 2019. Despite recent backlash, Joshua continues to speak out against various situations affecting the Black community. 

Kingslee ‘Akala’ Daley 

This rapper, journalist, activist, author and poet is one to be reckoned with. His passion for change and undeniable intelligence has influenced and changed the views of many.  

Michaela Coel  

One of the most influential voices on TV screens today. Shifting culture with awards winning pieces like ‘Chewing Gum’, ‘I May Destroy You’ and so much more. Michael has been a pivotal voice for a generation of women.  

Lewis Hamilton  

The current king of Formula 1 racing and arguable the greatest F1 driver of all time. Hamilton’s 91 grand prix victories and the 96 pole positions have certainly earned him a place in the history books.  

Dina Asher Smith  

The fastest women in British history and the first British woman to win a major global sprint title. On top of this, Dina is the first woman since 1990 to win 3 European sprint titles at one championship and the first British female to ever win a treble at a major championship.  

Freema Agyeman 

The actress who broke barriers as the 10th Doctor’s strong, intelligent and quick-witted companion in Doctor Who, also featuring in the series spin-off Torchwood. Freema has provided representation for young Black women in a number of ways including Netflix’s sci-fi series Sense8.  

BLACK ICONS BEHIND THE SCENES  

There’s no denying that Black icons in the limelight have been the driving force behind significant change throughout history. But influence is not something that only need to be seen in a general sense. It’s amazing for Black people of all ages to see themselves represented in positions of fame and power, but those behind the scenes, representing for more niche communities are just as important. The Black architects, scientists, writers, designers (and so much more) listed below have been and continue to be extremely valuable mentors in their own powerful way.  

Zadie smith 

Known for her first novel ‘White Teeth’ release in 2000. This sensational British author’s depiction of life in Britain, started important conversations around race, religion and cultural identity.  

Bernardine Evaristo 

Making history by being the first black woman to win the Man Booker Prize for her ninth novel, Girl, Woman, Other. Evaristo is a writer and advocate who cochairs the Royal Society of Literature. Read more about how her work challenges “myths of various Afro-diasporic histories and identities.” 

Taponeswa Mavunga  

Taponeswa Mavunga, currently director of Africa at Sony Music UK (a newly created position expected to expand and strengthen the company’s scope within Africa music), is one of the most respected names in the music industry. Read more about her rise from receptionist to renowned global music executive. 

Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE 

At just 11 years, Anne-Marie was the youngest girl ever to pass A-level computing, going on to receive her master’s degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from the University of Oxford. Learn more about the inspirational role model who cofounded the STEMettes.   

Steve McQueen CBE  

British artist and filmmaker known for his film 12 Years a Slave. Not only has McQueen been awarded an Oscar, BAFTA & Golden Globe, he has also been knighted and recognised for his services to art and film.  

Ozwald Boateng  

Originally setting out to study computing, Ozwald found his calling in fashion and has had a transformational impact on menswear for almost three decades. Find out more about his ventures here.  

David Adjaye OBE 

The Ghanaian-British architect was named the 2021 recipient of the RIBA Royal Gold Medal, an award personally approved by the Queen. In all of its 173 year history, Adjaye is the first Black person to ever receive this award.  

Pat McGrath MBE 

Plausibly the most influential and sought-after make-up artist in the world. McGrath is a self-made boss and an invaluable asset to the beauty industry, with her company valued at over $1 billion.  

Dr. Margaret Aderin-Pocock 

Attending 13 different schools throughout her childhood and having dyslexia didn’t stop Maggie from becoming a space scientist, designing a host of space instruments and now presenting on BBC’s the Sky at Night. Find out more about how this space-obsessed schoolgirl became a top scientist. 

BLACK ICONS OF THE FUTURE 

While it’s important that we recognise the contributions of all-black British public figures, the younger generation of brilliant writers, actors and directors, is worth highlighting now. Let’s not wait until they can officially be deemed ‘icons’ before giving them they’re flowers. The Influencers of today are shaping the minds of tomorrow. Many are quick to roll their eyes whenever they hear the word ‘influencer’, and although not all influencers are influential about things that most people think ‘matter’, there are many who can’t be denied praise. 

Patricia Bright  

A Patricia a largely influential beauty blogger with her own beauty and clothing collaborations, is now using skills from her past life as a financial consultant to advise a young audience on her new platform ‘The Break’.  

Amaal Said  

A London-based, Danish-born Somali poet and photographer, whose work has been featured in Vogue, The Guardian and The New Yorker.  

Akinola Davies Jr.  

After reading the book ‘Blackamoores’, Akinola was inspired the people mentioned throughout the book back to life. His piece, ‘Black to Life’ was commissioned by the BBC. Learn more about Akinola’s mission to reframe academic imbalance in the UK.  

Why is Black History Month important? Adina Campbell answers this perfectly “People from African and Caribbean backgrounds have been a fundamental part of British history for centuries. However, campaigners believe their value and contribution to society is often overlooked, ignored or distorted.” Black history should not only be allotted to a single month each year, ideally, Black history should already be a part of British history. During this month we make up for lost time and make sure that the rightful icons of the past as well as the present and the future are appreciated for their contributions, not just to Britain, but to the world.