Keynote Speaker

Kanya King

CEO & Founder, MOBO Awards

CEO and founder of the MOBO Awards, Kanya King is recognised for the role she's played in raising the profile of black music across the UK. More than an awards ceremony, MOBO has become a powerful brand and an important annual cultural event, attracting international names including BeyoncĂ©, Jay-Z, the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend, Diana Ross and Tina Turner to name a few. With an ambition to diversify the music scene, MOBO has also become a platform for discovering new talent and fostering positive change in British culture. 

It was during her time working as a TV researcher that she saw the gap in the market for black music and began a lengthy campaign to attract sponsors and producers for MOBO. Kanya eventually re-mortgaged her house to fund the production of the first MOBO Awards and successfully orchestrated its first broadcast in six weeks. Since then the awards have risen to become one of the most prestigious events in the entertainment industry, connecting politicians and business leaders with visionaries in the arts and media. Since the beginning, MOBO has served as an early showcase for British artists including Craig David, Amy Winehouse, Dizzee Rascal, Rita Ora, Estelle and Emile SandĂ©. 

Dr Linda Papadopoulos

Psychologist

Dr Linda Papadopoulos is one of the best-known and well-respected psychologists in the UK. An author, broadcaster and academic, she combines professional research on human behaviour and trends with the ability to deliver advice and insights in accessible, relevant ways. Linda has worked in the NHS, advised government, and worked with businesses examining areas from communication and branding to body image to general mental health and wellbeing.

Tackling a wide range of psychological, behavioural and wellbeing themes, Linda looks at how we see ourselves in the modern world. From the pressures of career and family life to dealing with uncertainty, she examines how we can maintain focus as well as a healthy balance in our lives. She considers what happiness means, and what motivates us, for right and wrong, in our personal and professional lives.

Speaker line up so far...