Kanya King CBE, the visionary founder and chief executive of the MOBO Awards, has passed away at the age of 57 following a battle with stage four bowel cancer. King, widely recognised for transforming the landscape of Black music in the UK, died on 3 June surrounded by loved ones, including family members and close friends.

In a statement released on Friday, the MOBO Organisation described her as one of the music industry's most influential figures.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our Founder and CEO, Kanya King CBE," the statement read. "The music industry has lost one of its most passionate advocates and trailblazing leaders."

King publicly revealed her cancer diagnosis during an emotional appearance at the MOBO Awards in Newcastle earlier this year. Addressing the audience, she spoke openly about her determination to face the illness with the same resilience that defined her career.

"I have never allowed others to dictate my limitations," she said. "Not in life, not in business, and certainly not now."

Her journey to creating one of Britain's most important music institutions began in 1996 when, as a single mother, she remortgaged her home to launch the MOBO Awards without backing from major investors or the music industry. What started as a bold personal gamble evolved into a cultural movement that helped elevate Black music into the mainstream.

The organisation paid tribute to her groundbreaking work, describing the awards as far more than a music ceremony.

"What Kanya built was an act of cultural change and recognition," the statement said. "MOBO did not simply celebrate Black music — it validated it, amplified it and showcased its creative and commercial significance to audiences that had too often overlooked it."

Over nearly three decades, the MOBO Awards became a launchpad and platform for countless artists, including Olivia Dean, Stormzy, Little Simz, RAYE, Craig David, Soul II Soul, Ms Dynamite, So Solid Crew, Krept & Konan, Kano, Amy Winehouse, Sade and Central Cee.

The organisation noted that every artist who stepped onto the MOBO stage benefited in some way from King's vision and determination to create opportunities where few previously existed.

Her contributions were formally recognised in 2018 when she was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). In 2025, she was further honoured with an Ivors Academy Honour for her impact on music and culture.

King's family released a heartfelt statement describing their devastation at her loss.

"She approached her illness in the same way she approached life — with strength, faith, humour and unwavering determination," they said.

They also highlighted her role in helping a generation of Black British artists gain recognition on their own terms.

"Through MOBO, she gave countless artists the opportunity to be seen, heard and celebrated. Her legacy is one of joy, resilience and proof that one person's vision can change an entire culture."

The family added: "We are heartbroken, but endlessly proud to have called her our own. Kanya King CBE was taken far too soon, but she will never be forgotten." Kanya raised her only son Jem as a young single mother.

Even in the final chapter of her life, King remained focused on expanding MOBO's influence beyond music. One of her most ambitious projects was the creation of the House of MOBO, a new community and cultural venue in South London developed in partnership with Greene King.

Scheduled to open on 27 November 2025 at the former Paxton pub in Gipsy Hill, the venue is designed to celebrate Black culture through live performances, creative showcases, community events and a globally inspired dining experience.

The project forms part of wider plans to mark MOBO's 30th anniversary in 2026, with year-long celebrations recognising three decades of championing diverse talent, creativity and social impact.

The House of MOBO will also build on the success of MOBO's partnership with MOBOLISE, a career development initiative that connects emerging talent with mentoring, professional opportunities and career support.

Earlier this month, MOBO continued its mission of recognising cultural pioneers by honouring actor, musician and activist Idris Elba. On 13 June 2025, a commemorative paving stone was unveiled at Barking & Dagenham College, where Elba first studied and began his creative journey.

The tribute was part of MOBO's "Paving The Way" award programme, which celebrates individuals who have made a lasting contribution to culture while continuing to support and inspire their communities.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the music and entertainment industries, Kanya King's influence remains unmistakable. Her work reshaped British music, opened doors for generations of artists and created a platform that continues to champion excellence, diversity and representation.

Her legacy will endure through every artist she supported, every barrier she helped break and every opportunity she created for those who followed.