City of London leader named Top Black briton in annual Powerlist
Ian Thomas, the chief executive of the City of London Corporation, has been recognized as the most influential Black person in the United Kingdom, according to the 2027 Powerlist. Published by Powerful Media, the annual list highlights the UK’s most prominent individuals of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage.
The announcement followed the Celebration of Black Excellence Awards ceremony held Friday evening at Grosvenor House in London, hosted by television personality Tim Campbell.
Thomas, 57, holds the position of 51st Town Clerk of London and marks the first individual of Black heritage to lead the City of London’s governing body in its over 900-year history.
The Powerlist also celebrated actor Ashley Walters, known for roles in “Top Boy” and the Netflix series, with a Paramount Entertainer Award. Sir Lenny Henry received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to British culture, including co-founding Comic Relief, which has raised over £1 billion for charitable causes. He has also established the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity and Esmerelda Productions.
Rounding out the top ten are notable figures such as entrepreneur Steven Bartlett and actor Sir Idris Elba.
“The Powerlist’s purpose remains to inspire young people of African and African-Caribbean descent, demonstrating the possibilities available to them across various fields,” stated Michael Eboda, chief executive of Powerful Media. He added that the list showcases talent within Britain’s Black community.
Previous recipients of the top honor include former British Vogue editor-in-chief Edward Enninful and Formula One champion Sir Lewis Hamilton.
The full Powerlist 2027 Top 10 includes Comfort Ero, Professor Grace Ononiwu CBE, Emma Grede, Pamela Maynard, Josh Siaw MBE, Ije Nwokorie, and Air Vice-Marshal Ola Fashade.
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“City of London chief Ian Thomas named UK’s most influential black Briton”
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