Emeli Sandé, Angellica Bell, Munroe Berdorf, and Lisa Maffia lead the list of incredible honourees who turned out for the second annual Black Magic Awards
Monday night saw the return of The Black Magic Awards which took place at The Criterion Theatre, in London’s west End. Hosted by Capital Xtra’s award-winning presenter Remel London, the ceremony honoured 16 inspirational women of colour and celebrated their remarkable contributions to entertainment, business, sport, fashion, community, music and more.
A truly star-studded evening that saw a host of famous faces turn out to enjoy a night of ultimate night of #blackgirlmagic! Guests enjoyed performances by the likes of violinist Just Kemi, singer Tanika Bailey as well as stand-up comedy from Youtube sensation Judi Love.
Kicking off the night of honourees, broadcaster and journalist Brenda Emmanus and Eastenders actor Ricky Norwood awarded presenter and 2017 Celebrity Masterchef winner Angellica Bell with the TV Personality Honour. In an emotional acceptance speech, Bell thanked all those who had supported her throughout her career in TV and acknowledged she was a role model for young women trying to establish a career in media.
Presented by musican Shakka and 2018 Love Island finalist Kaz Crossely, Emeli Sandé received the Icon Honour which recognised her singing and song writing accomplishments as well as her global success as an award-winning artist. Sandé gave a powerful speech about her struggles finding her identity growing up in Scotland and how music had brought her closer to her roots – she also said of the awards“ ..It was glorious evening, a room full of love, empowerment and unity. From the bottom of my heart thank you so much for this honour. Can’t wait for next year”
Rapper and long-time So Solid Crew member Lisa Maffia was presented with the Music Honour by former Blue lead singer, Simon Webb and reality TV star Jack Fowler, whilst comedian and founder of the awards Kojo Amin, presented the Comedy Honour to Gina Yashere. After finding success in the UK as one of the top female comedians, Yashere moved to the US 8 years ago and has since fronted her own Netflix Comedy Special -she also said: “A night of fantastic performances, love, power and heartful speeches – I don’t regret flying to London early for this event”
Multi award-winning Saxophonist Yolanda Brown, Former Eastenders and Teachers Actress Ellen Thomas, Media Mogul Vannessa Amadi, Magic FM Radio Presenter Angie Greaves and Activist Munroe Bergdorf were also all in attendance to accept their awards.
Others gracing the black carpet on the night included; Professional Boxer Anthony Yarde, Rapper and Writer Akala, Model and Presenter Annaliese Dayes, former X Factor contestant Jahmene Douglas, A Place in The Sun presenter Scarlette Douglas plus many more.
The Black Magic Awards which was founded in 2017 by Comedian, Actor and Producer Kojo Amin and Editor and Entrepreneur Annika Allen and is dedicated to recognising the epitome of black excellence!
AWARD WINNERS:
1. Icon Honour – Emeli Sandé ( Singer / Songwriter)
2. Inspiration Honour – Yolanda Brown ( Saxophonist)
3. Comedy Honour – Gina Yashere ( Comedian )
4. Media Mogul Honour – Vannessa Amadi ( PR)
5. Sporting Honour – Eni Eluko ( England / Juventus Footballer)
6. Acting Honour – Ellen Thomas ( Actress)
7. TV Personality Honour – Angellica Bella ( Presenter)
8. Brand Honour – Carla-Marie Williams ( Beyonce Singer/Songwriter & owner of Girls I Rate)
9. Music Honour – Lisa Maffia ( Rapper / Song writer)
10. Radio Honour – Angie Greaves (Radio presenter)
11. Community Champions – Joanna Abeyie ( Diversity & Inclusion) Vanessa La Rose (Bookshop Owner) Patricia Ann Hewitt ( young women’s charity owner)
12. Beauty & Fashion Honour – Jourdan Dunn ( Model)
13. Influence honour – Taponeswa Maguva (PR)
14. The Impact Honour – Munroe Bergdorf (Activist)
15. International Honour – Tiffany Haddish ( Actress / Comedian)
