The MOBO founder, a pioneering force for Black music and culture in the UK, built the platform by remortgaging her home, transforming British music and legitimising Black British artists.

Tributes poured in after her passing, reflecting the impact of a career that spanned decades.

She was awarded a CBE in 2018 and an Ivors Academy Honour in 2025, and spoke at the 2025 MOBOs in Newcastle amid her illness, stressing resilience and not letting others define her limits.

Despite a cancer diagnosis two years before her 30th anniversary, she continued to work and influence, delivering a keynote at Speaker’s House and contributing to The Guardian.

Her life story is one of resilience: a teenage mother who left school, rose in television research, faced rejection, and created space for Black artists during a time of limited representation.

She was known for warmth and humility, balancing a powerful cultural impact with a self-effacing personality.

Final sentiment from colleagues and fans: may she rest in eternal peace.

She described her work as a labour of love, highlighting a long fight against inequality and industry barriers.

The author reflects on Kanya’s energy and commitment to championing artists from the Black diaspora.

Death attributed to colon cancer, with the date of passing noted as June 3.

In the final chapter, she expanded MOBO’s influence through the House of MOBO in South London and associated initiatives like MOBOLISE, aiming to broaden reach beyond the awards.

Her passing leaves a void as she was the driving force, advocate, and entrepreneur who built and sustained MOBO.