Edward Enninful OBE, the editor-in-chief of British Vogue, has been named the UK’s most influential black person by the Powerlist 2024.
Compiled by Powerful Media, the annual list celebrates the achievements and contributions of individuals of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage.
Now in its 18th year, the prestigious list serves as an inspiration for young people, showcasing black role models across various sectors including business, science, technology and the arts.
Entrants are judged on their “ability to change lives and alter events, as demonstrated over a protracted period of time and in a positive manner”.
Enninful was placed ahead of Dean Forbes, a partner at the private firm Corten Capital, and Afua Kyei, Bank of England chief financial officer.
Other notable figures named include Vanessa Kingori CBE, chief business officer at Condé Britain, social media entrepreneur Patricia Bright , comedian Mo Gilligan, and Dragon’s Den star Steven Bartlett.
Commenting on the announcement, Edward said: “Ever since I moved back to take over British Vogue, the Powerlist has always been so supportive, always there in one shape or another.”
“But apart from me, it’s incredible that it shines a light on black people really breaking boundaries, who are unafraid and champion what it means to be truly diverse in their own industries.”
“So, I’m honoured, more than anything, to be a part of this family.”
Michael Eboda, chief executive of Powerful Media, said: “As we celebrate the Powerlist’s 18th edition I am so proud of its legacy of celebrating remarkable and inspirational black people in Britain.”
“We were doing it before diversity was a trend, and even now data shows that trend is sadly reversing, our commitment to recognising and celebrating the achievements of these incredible role models remains as strong as ever.”
“We send our huge congratulations to Edward Enninful OBE, who thoroughly deserves to top the list this year. His vision and passion for fashion and diversity has influenced the industry at a global level. Edward’s impact will be felt for generations to come and for that, I applaud him.”
The Powerlist 2024 Top 10:
- Edward Enninful, OBE – editor-in-chief of British Vogue, European editorial director of Vogue
- Dean Forbes – CEO, Forterro, Partner Corten Capital
- Afua Kyei – chief financial officer, Bank of England
- Marvin Rees – Mayor of Bristol
- Tunde Olanrewaju – senior partner and managing partner, McKinsey & Company
- Joshua Siaw, MBE – partner, White & Case
- Syreeta Brown – group chief people and communications officer, Virgin Money UK
- Paulette Simpson, CBE – executive, corporate affairs and public policy, Jamaica National Bank; executive director, The Voice Media Group
- Vanessa Kingori, CBE – chief business officer, Condé Britain, Vogue European business advisor
- Lord Woolley of Woodford – co-founder, Operation Black Vote, and principal, Homerton College, Cambridge University
