Kanya King, founder of the Mobo Awards, has announced her diagnosis with stage four bowel cancer.
The 55-year-old, who launched the awards in 1996 to celebrate Black talent in film, music, and TV, described the news as unexpected but vowed to face it with resilience.
She emphasized the importance of early detection and hopes her story will raise awareness and inspire others to take control of their health.
Sharing the news on Instagram, the Mobo Awards pledged continued support for Kanya while she focuses on her health, noting that the organization remains in capable hands under her guidance.
Messages of support have poured in from industry figures such as DJ Target, Remel London, Marvin Humes, and Alexandra Burke.
Despite her diagnosis, Kanya recently received the LIVEtime Achievement Award at the LIVE Awards in London, recognizing her transformative impact on Black artists and the global music scene.
She was previously appointed CBE in 2018 for her services to music and featured in the BBC’s 100 Women list in 2013.
The Mobo Awards, now a major cultural event, will be held in Newcastle in February.
Nominees include Central Cee, up for Best Male Artist, and Raye, competing for Best Female Artist for the second year running.
The awards have previously welcomed global icons such as Beyoncé, Usher, Rihanna, and Janet Jackson.
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