A Fair Society: Winners Announced at The Black British Awards 2020

This year our strength, faith and capacity to stay in control of our lives was tested and re-tested, every day. Social distancing is a sacrifice we all have to make this year despite the fact that we are not designed to alienate, we need to connect and collaborate with others. We are created like a limitless puzzle, each and everyone of us is designed to complete each other.

It is hard to make any predictions for the next decade but as this year draws to a close, we celebrate the first woman in the USA office who famously said  “ I may be the first woman in office , but not the last”. We need to look up, dare to dream beyond what we have been told is possible, and discover the tremendous chance we have now, more than ever, to get closer together!

Rich Woman Magazine wants to amplify the message of solidarity to inspire every woman who dreams to re-imagine herself and celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Black British Awards 2020 at present and in the future.

Inspired by Kamala Harris, I can confidently say: the Black British Awards 2020 may be the best list of winners, but not the last!

Founded in 2014, the Black British Business Awards (BBBAwards) celebrates the exceptional performance and outstanding achievements of black professionals and business owners in the UK and empowers organisations with the necessary tools to attract, retain and progress their internal Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic talent.

Segun Osuntokun, Managing Partner at top 20 international law firm Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP) London Office, has been named as Business Person of the Year at the Black British Business Awards ceremony on 30 October 2020. Osuntokun impressed the judges with his strategic leadership at BCLP on complex projects for over 30 FTSE 100 companies and more than 50 Global Fortune 500 companies all with his unwavering passion for race equity in his 25+ year career in business.

In addition to naming the Black British Business Person of the Year, the event also recognised the rising stars and senior leader winners in six industries. This year’s winners are some of the most determined and innovative Black leaders in the UK across a variety of professions; from a Founder of a revolutionary equine nutrition system to a Project Manager at Transport for London and Senior Partner at BWF Solicitors. They are inspiring the next generation of Black talent to challenge convention and follow in their footsteps. 

Melanie Eusebe, Chair and Co-Founder of the Black British Business Awards said: “After a year filled with so many challenges, it was rewarding to take a step back this month to reflect not only on the history of the Black community here in the UK, but also to celebrate the incredible individuals who are making their mark now. Our Category Celebration events along with the Awards Ceremony provided us with many opportunities to reflect on how far our community has come, while recognising there is still much work to be done.” 

Sophie Chandauka, Co-Founder of the Black British Business Awards said: “Each of our finalists and award winners is a source of inspiration, highlighting the significant accomplishments and important contributions the Black community is making in every sector of the business world. They all deserve recognition and congratulations for their accomplishments and it was our pleasure to honour them at the Black British Business Awards events this October.” 

Tia Counts, Head of Advancing Black Pathways in EMEA at J.P. Morgan said: “J.P. Morgan continues to be a proud sponsor of the Black British Business Awards, which shines a light on exceptional talent in business. Year on year, the individual stories behind the awards never cease to make us proud of what our community can achieve. We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all of this year’s winners and finalists.”

Featuring exclusive performances and special guests with hosts: award-winning actor, film producer and writer Chizzy Akudolu and acclaimed radio host Pilar Nalwimba, the ceremony distinguished outstanding business talent in six industry categories, which are divided into rising star and senior leader awards.