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POWER DUO: Annika Allen and Kojo Anim, founders of the Black Magic Awards

FOLLOWING LAST year’s star-studded inaugural awards ceremony, The Black Magic Awards returns on October 1 at the Criterion Theatre in the heart of London’s West End.

Hosted by Capital Xtra’s award- winning presenter Remel London, the evening will honour and celebrate the remarkable achievements of 16 black women from across TV, film, music, sport, fashion, business and the community.

The Black Magic Awards were founded in 2017 by comedian, actor and film producer Kojo Anim and editor and entrepreneur Annika Allen. Organisers claim the event is dedicated to recognising the epitome of black excellence and is the ultimate night of #blackgirlmagic.

The year’s honourees were announced this month and include TV presenter Angellica Bell, Magic FM’s Angie Greaves, stand-up comedian Gina Yashere, saxophonist and composer YolanDa Brown and model and activist Munroe Bergdorf.

The full list of honourees can be found across The Black Magic Network’s platforms, culminating in a glittering ceremony that will shine a light on the brilliance and talents of black British women past and present.

NOMINATED: Gina Yashere

This year’s event will include more amazing musical performances, from the likes of Just Kemi and Tanika Bailey, comedy from online sensation Judi Love, and surprise guest presenters as well as inspiring and powerful speeches from honourees.

Last year’s show – hosted by comedy entertainer Eddie Kadi and America’s Next Top Model contestant turned Heart FM DJ Annaliese Dayes – featured appearances from actor and upcoming Strictly Come Dancing star Charles Venn, while Coronation Street and Waterloo Road actress Angela Griffen, GQ publisher Vanessa Kingori MBE, rapper Eve and entertainer Angie Le Mar honoured on the night.

“This year’s awards are taking place because the black British female experience, influence and journey tends to go under the radar – well not anymore,” says Kojo Anim, founder of The Black Magic Network.

“It’s nice to get honoured with an MBE but it’s even nicer to get a thank you from your own community.” After the event, The Black Magic Network will release a monthly podcast hosted by Annika, featuring special guests and will continue to spotlight the strengths and triumphs of phenomenal black women.

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