Black Excellence Portraits

Benjamin Zephaniah

is a British writer, poet, musician, and activist. Born in Birmingham (1958-2023), Zephaniah rose to prominence in the 1980s as a performance poet, using his powerful verse to address racism, social justice, and politics. His notable works include "Pen Rhythm" (1980) and "Propa Propaganda" (1996). A vocal advocate for animal rights and anti-racism, Zephaniah has written novels, plays, and children's books, including "Face" (1999) and "Refugee Boy" (2001). He has received numerous awards, including a BBC Radio 4 commission and honorary doctorates. Zephaniah's influential work has made him a respected voice in British literature and activism.

Stormzy

(Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr.) is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter. Born in London (1993), Stormzy rose to fame with his grime style, releasing debut album "Gang Signs & Prayer" (2017) to critical acclaim. His sophomore album "Heavy is the Head" (2019) solidified his position as a leading figure in UK grime, featuring hits like "Vossi Bop" and "Crown." Stormzy's politically charged lyrics address racism, classism, and British identity. He has won numerous awards, including Brit Awards and MOBO Awards, and made history as the first Black British solo artist to headline Glastonbury Festival (2019). Known for his energetic live performances and unapologetic lyrics, Stormzy has become a powerful voice for UK's Black community and youth.

Oprah Gail Winfrey

(born January 29, 1954) is an American media executive, actress, talk show host, and philanthropist. Born in Kosciusko, Mississippi, Winfrey overcame a difficult childhood to become one of the most influential women in the world. She hosted "The Oprah Winfrey Show" (1986-2011), the highest-rated television program of its kind, and founded the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). Winfrey is a renowned book club founder, actress ("The Color Purple"), and producer ("Selma"), earning numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2011) and multiple Emmy Awards.

Mary Seacole

(1805-1881) was a Jamaican-Scottish nurse, entrepreneur, and adventurer who played a pivotal role in the Crimean War. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, to a Creole mother and Scottish father, Seacole defied racial and gender conventions to establish a "British Hotel" near the war's front lines, providing care and comfort to wounded soldiers from all nations. Her bravery, compassion, and organizational skills earned her recognition from Florence Nightingale and other contemporaries, cementing her legacy as a pioneering figure in the history of nursing and a testament to determination and humanitarian spirit.

Jesse Owens

(1913-1980) was an American track and field athlete and Olympic legend. At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Owens shattered Adolf Hitler's Aryan supremacy myth, winning four gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay, and long jump. His historic performance, including a world record in the long jump, debunked Nazi ideology and made him an international hero. Owens's achievements extended beyond athletics, advocating for civil rights and breaking racial barriers in sports, education, and business.

Bethel Omeife

Born 1978, is a renowned Nigerian-British Registered Nurse, entrepreneur, mentor, and personal development coach. With over two decades of experience, her illustrious career spans medical education, acute care, and public speaking. As the visionary partner of the Black Excellence Project, Bethel has made significant contributions to promoting excellence within the Black community.

Samuel Coleridge-Taylor

(1875-1912) was a British composer and conductor of African descent. Born in London to a Sierra Leonean father and English mother, he was nicknamed the "African Mahler" for his vibrant, eclectic compositions. Coleridge-Taylor's most famous work, "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast" (1898), was a massive success, showcasing his unique blend of European classical and African musical influences. A pioneer for Black composers, he advocated for greater diversity in classical music, leaving a lasting legacy through his beautiful, expressive works.

Tony Elumelu

(born March 22, 1963) is a Nigerian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and businessman. Chairman of Heirs Holdings, United Bank for Africa, and Transcorp, Elumelu has built a vast empire spanning finance, energy, hospitality, and agriculture. Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, he champions African entrepreneurship, committing $100 million to mentor and fund 10,000 startups across the continent. Elumelu's philosophy, "Africapitalism," emphasizes private sector-led development and empowerment, driving economic growth and prosperity in Africa.

Muhammad Ali

(January 17, 1942 - June 3, 2016) was an American professional boxer, activist, and philanthropist. Born Cassius Clay in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali became a legendary boxer, winning the heavyweight title three times (1964, 1974, 1978). Known for his quick wit, powerful punches, and iconic phrases ("Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee"), Ali was also a vocal civil rights advocate, opposing the Vietnam War and racism. Ali's impact extended beyond sports, earning him the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2005) and recognition as Sports Illustrated's "Sportsman of the Century."

Diane Abbott

is a British politician and former Shadow Home Secretary. Born in London (1953), Abbott became the first Black woman elected to Parliament (1987) representing Hackney North and Stoke Newington. A Labour Party member, she served in various roles, including Shadow Health Secretary and Shadow Minister for Public Health. Abbott has advocated for social justice, racial equality, and women's rights throughout her career. Notably, she opposed the Iraq War and supported Jeremy Corbyn's Labour leadership.

John Sentamu

(born June 10, 1949) is a Ugandan-British clergyman and former Archbishop of York (2005-2020). Born in Kampala, Uganda, Sentamu fled Idi Amin's regime and settled in the UK. A champion of social justice and human rights, he was the first Black British Archbishop. Sentamu is known for his strong stance on poverty, inequality, and immigration reform. He was appointed Baron Sentamu of Lindisfarne and Masham in 2020, becoming a member of the House of Lords.

Mae Jemison

is a trailblazing American astronaut, physician, and engineer. Born on October 17, 1956, in Decatur, Alabama, she became the first African American woman to travel in space on September 12, 1992, aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. A Stanford University graduate and Peace Corps veteran, Jemison served in the NASA Astronaut Corps from 1987 to 1993. After her spaceflight, she founded the Jemison Group, focusing on healthcare, education, and technology. Jemison continues to inspire generations as a advocate for STEM education, women's empowerment, and representation in space exploration.

Malcolm X

(1925-1965) was an American civil rights leader and activist. Born Malcolm Little, he transformed from a convicted felon to a prominent figure in the Nation of Islam, advocating for Black nationalism and self-defense. After breaking with the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X embraced Sunni Islam and expanded his message to include human rights and international cooperation. Through his powerful oratory and unwavering commitment, he challenged racism, inequality, and systemic oppression, inspiring generations of activists and intellectuals. Assassinated at 39, Malcolm X's legacy continues to shape American social justice movements.

Nelson Mandela

(1918-2013) was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and iconic leader. Imprisoned for 27 years, he emerged to become the country's first Black president (1994-1999). Mandela's tireless advocacy for equality and reconciliation earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. A symbol of hope and freedom, he inspired generations worldwide, leaving a legacy of justice, compassion, and unity.

Dame Shirley Bassey

(born January 8, 1937) is a Welsh singer and actress. Born in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, to a Nigerian father and Welsh mother, Bassey rose to fame in the 1950s with powerful, soulful vocals. She is renowned for singing the title songs to three James Bond films: "Goldfinger" (1964), "Diamonds Are Forever" (1971), and "Moonraker" (1979). Knighted in 2000 for services to music, Bassey has released over 40 albums, earning multiple awards and a legendary status as one of the UK's most iconic vocalists.

Dr. Mark Dean

is a renowned American computer engineer and inventor. Born on March 2, 1957, in Jefferson City, Tennessee, he played a pivotal role in developing the IBM PC, helping design the color PC and the PC/AT. Holding more than 20 patents, Dean's innovations revolutionized personal computing. A member of the National Inventors Hall of Fame and the National Academy of Engineering, Dean served as IBM's Vice President of Technical Strategy. He advocates for STEM education and diversity, inspiring future generations. Today, Dean is a celebrated figure in the tech industry, leaving an indelible mark on modern computing.