A commemorative stone will be unveiled at Queens Park Community College in north-west London on November 18, 2026, to honor the late Kanya King, founder of the MOBO Awards. The ceremony marks exactly 30 years since the inaugural awards ceremony took place at The New Connaught Rooms in Central London.
Paving the Way stone at Queens Park Community College
Honoring the MOBO Founder
King, who was awarded a CBE in 2018 for her contributions to music and culture, died this summer at the age of 57 following a battle with colon cancer. The Paving the Way stone serves as a tribute to her role in bringing Black music and culture to the mainstream in the UK. The Paving the Way initiative specifically recognizes individuals who have challenged expectations, broken barriers, and generated new opportunities for those following them. Historically, the award has been presented to notable figures including Sir Lenny Henry, Ms Dynamite, Nicola Adams, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Sir Idris Elba, Dame Denise Lewis, Wiley, and Jamal Edwards.
The unveiling is part of a broader series of events throughout November commemorating the 30th anniversary of the organization. Beyond the tribute at her former school, the MOBO Organisation is hosting several events to reflect on the impact of the ceremony since its inception in 1996. Through her work with MOBO, King is widely credited with playing a major part in elevating Black music and culture to mainstream status within the United Kingdom.
MOBO 30: Iconic Moments on BBC One
BBC One Anniversary Broadcast
On November 11, 2026, at 10:40 PM, BBC One will air a special programme titled MOBO 30: Iconic Moments. Presented by DJ Target, the broadcast will revisit defining performances and cultural milestones from the awards’ history. The programme will also be available on iPlayer.
The MOBO Awards has brought us so many special moments over the last three decades and has been such an amazing platform for supporting and nurturing Black music. With the sad passing of Kanya King shortly after the 30th awards ceremony, it feels even more special and necessary to be celebrating MOBO’s legacy and impact on BBC One.
DJ Target, Presenter
King was previously photographed alongside Sir Idris Elba, who was the recipient of the MOBO Inspiration Award in 2014.
V&a East Storehouse temporary display
V&a East Storehouse Exhibition
Starting November 18, 2026, the V&A East Storehouse will launch a temporary display featuring memorabilia from the MOBO archive. The collection, which documents the organization’s journey and cultural influence, will remain on view until summer 2027. This display is scheduled to coincide with the conclusion of the V&A East Museum’s inaugural exhibition, The Music Is Black: A British Story.
Sustaining the Vision
As the organization marks its third decade, leadership has emphasized a commitment to the future.
As we mark 30 years, it’s also important that we continue looking ahead. Kanya always believed in creating opportunities for the next generation, and that’s something we’re more committed to than ever. Her vision remains at the heart of everything we do, and we’re excited to carry that forward for the next 30 years and beyond.
MOBO Organisation
The anniversary celebrations also include an immersive installation at Outernet London, which remains open to the public until November 18.
