Kenyan Named 9th Most Powerful Black Person in the UK

Kenyan-born Vogue European business advisor, Vanessa Kingori, has been named as the ninth most powerful black individual in the United Kingdom.

Vanessa, who is also the Chief business officer at Condé Nast, was named in Powerful Media‘s release of the Powerlist 2024 on Thursday, October 26.

The Powerlist, a prestigious annual compilation comprising of the 100 most influential people of African or African Caribbean heritage in the UK, seeks to recognize and celebrate their contributions.

Moreover, the list is a beacon of inspiration, particularly for the younger generation, as it highlights black role models across various fields.

Kingori’s journey to this prominent position is nothing short of remarkable.

Vanessa Kingori, a Kenyan with inspiring story

Born in Kenya and later educated on the Caribbean Island of Saint Kitts, Kingori eventually settled in London to complete her education.

Her career trajectory commenced at the London Evening Standard and Esquire, with her ascent at Condé Nast UK lasting for over a decade.

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One significant milestone in her career was in September 2017 when she was appointed Publishing Director of all British Vogue platforms.

This achievement made her the first female Publishing Director in the publication’s over 100-year history.

Notably, she was also the first person of color to hold this role, marking a significant milestone for Condé Nast UK.

In addition, this recognition aligns with her previous honors, such as her appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2016 Birthday Honors.

Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Furthermore, Vanessa elevated to Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by King Charles III in the 2023 New Year Honors for her dedicated service to the media industry.

Kingori’s achievements also encompass being named the “Media Mogul of the Year” at the 2017 Black Magic Awards.

In addition to the enviable achievements, her placement as the second on the Financial Times “EMpower 100 Ethnic Minority Leaders” list and receiving a Best of Africa Special Award.

Kingori promoted at Condé Nast

In September 2021, Kingori’s contributions were further acknowledged when she was promoted to the role of Chief Business Officer at Condé Nast Uk.

Vanessa’s role was overseeing the entirety of the British company’s brands, including Vogue, GQ, Wired, Vanity Fair, Glamour, and The World of Interiors.

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Her responsibilities extended to directly leading British Vogue, and she was additionally appointed as Vogue European Business Advisor.

Moreover, her accomplishments extend to her being awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the Arts London in July 2018 and her inclusion on The Female FTSE Board Report 2018 “100 Women to Watch” list by Cranfield University.

Notably, Kingori has been regularly listed as one of the UK’s 100 most influential Black Britons by the Powerlist from 2013 to 2021, this year being her highest ranking.