Words Hannah Pool Pictured Precious Awards 2011 winners
Ever since Madam C J Walker made her fortune selling hair products to African-American women in the early 1900s, black women have earned a reputation as great entrepreneurs. Looking around the room at this year’s Precious Awards it’s clear that despite the recession and general economic gloom black women are still blazing a trail when it comes to business.
With an inspiring and very funny opening address from JP Morgan MD India Gary-Knight, this year’s Precious Awards were the biggest and most prestigious yet. “We’re still enduring tough economic times but I feel it’s even more important we shine a spotlight on success,” said Folouke Akinlose MBE, founder of Precious online, the networking magazine for women of colour and the awards.
Even Prime Minister David Cameron sent a message of support, saying: "Your awards will help to create great role models for others to follow. This is vital work and you have my full support. This event, now in its fifth year, continues to celebrate the contribution that Black and Asian female entrepreneurs make to the UK economy".
Winners on the day included Sadia Sisay and Sumana Mukhopadhyay, whose beautiful lingerie range for women of colour, BeingU, won start-up business of the year; Lotwina Farodoye at Be Fruity won best business; and Lauren Craig won Young Entrepreneur of the Year for her ethical flower company Thinking Flowers.
ARISE was delighted to present Mizani with its much deserved Hair Brand of the Year award (we’re currently obsessed with Mizani’s True Textures Curl Replenish Intense Moisture Mask, perfect for giving winter curls a little TLC), and Ronke Adeyemi with Blogger of the Year for her fabulous blog The Musings of Ondo Lady.
And in a new category, MP and Shadow Minister for Business, Innovation and Skills Chuka Umunna saw off Idris Elba and Tinie Tempah to win Man of the Year. Umunna proved what a consummate politician he is by thanking his constituents and, more importantly, his mum. Now there’s a well brought up man.