Nominations

Recognising Excellence, Celebrating Influence 

The Powerlist honours individuals of African, African Caribbean and African American heritage in the UK whose influence and achievements have positively shaped perceptions, opportunities and outcomes including within Black communities over a sustained period of time.  

Nominees should meet the following criteria: 

• Influence: we make a distinction between influence and power: influence being power at work so we are looking for people who have power and are doing something positive to demonstrate that power. Some of that influence must be working to benefit people of African and African Caribbean heritage.  
• Achievement: Proven track record of excellence and success at a high level in their chosen field or industry. 
• Sustainability: Evidence of consistent contributions and impact.

We welcome nominations across various sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Business & Entrepreneurship 
• Politics & Law 
• Arts, Media, and Culture 
• Entertainment & Sport 
• Science & Technology 
• Community Activism 
• Education 

In 2023 after careful and thorough deliberation the judging panel made an important decision to exclude politicians from the Powerlist.   

This decision is not a reflection of the importance of political leadership, but rather a commitment to ensuring the Powerlist remains a space that unites and inspires. Politicians have a profound and valuable role in society, but their exclusion allows us to preserve the integrity and mission of the Powerlist as a celebration of enduring excellence and influence in its broadest and most inclusive sense.

We believe this approach strengthens our ability to fulfil the Powerlist’s purpose: showcasing individuals whose achievements and influence inspire lasting change and empower generations to come.

Also, political influence, while significant, is inherently tied to the temporary nature of elected or appointed office. Politicians’ capacity to effect change often depends on the shifting landscape of political cycles, party priorities, and public opinion. As a result, their influence, while impactful during their tenure, may not always meet the sustained, long-term contributions that form the foundation of the Powerlist criteria.

Historically, the inclusion of politicians on the Powerlist has sparked debates that overshadow the achievements of others on the list. While political discourse is a vital part of democracy, these debates often detract from the Powerlist’s purpose: celebrating excellence without distraction.

This policy, however, will be constantly reviewed and is subject to change as the political landscape continues to evolve.

To be considered for the Future Leaders list, nominees must be 25 years of age or under, currently enrolled in university education and achieving a grade average of 60 per cent or above.

Future Leaders has a longstanding focus on identifying and showcasing high-achieving students of African and African Caribbean heritage.
Alternatively, they should be doing a post-graduate degree, having already completed an undergraduate degree, in which they received at least a 2:1.

ALL nominees must also have at least 120 UCAS Points from a maximum of 3 A levels, or an IB, BTEC or agreed equivalent qualification). Extended project marks are not valid.