Winners of the 2024 Black Scottish Awards were announced at the awards evening on Saturday 28 September at the Raddison Blu, Glasgow.
Hosts Asabea Owusu and Tosin Ogunlesi presented the evening of speeches, performances and awards to a 500-sellout crowd.
The event was founded by Enoch Adeyemi to honour and recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals, businesses, and organisations. It also highlights and amplifies the voices and successes of the Black community across various fields in Scotland.
Enoch has lived in Scotland for over two decades and has seen the attainment levels of the black population grow over that time, starting successful businesses and building successful careers across many sectors. Enoch was keen to recognise these achievements to inspire future generations and so The Black Scottish Awards were established in 2023.
Kate McCheyne, Head of Communications, sportscotland joined the judging panel for 2024, alongside Pauline Murphy, Kieron Achara, Chizulum Ifezulike, Dr Susie Mitchell, George Tah, and Cllr Fatima Joji.
Sportsperson of the year
Kishi Aremu and Tehillah Ikechukwu-Okonkwo were both announced as deserving winners of the Sportsperson of the Year category, sponsored by sportscotland.
Kishi assists in coaching young athletes by leading warm-ups, demonstrating drills, and sharing personal experiences to build their skills and resilience. Supporting them in competitions and helping them develop life skills such as leadership and teamwork brings her great joy. Kishi takes pride in inspiring younger athletes, particularly those of African descent, and witnessing them achieve their goals and gain recognition for their efforts.
This year, Tehilla set a new 100m record at the West Districts with a time of 11.88 seconds, surpassing a long-standing mark from 1981, and also won the Most Successful Athlete award at her club. Her achievements, including a championship best performance in the 200m at the Scottish Nationals, have made her a role model, inspiring younger athletes through her sportspersonship and dedication. Despite facing pressures and injuries, Tehilla has learned to view setbacks as opportunities for growth, maintaining humility and focusing on personal development throughout her athletic journey.
The Black Scottish Awards Legacy
The Black Scottish Awards stand as a testament to the power of unity and the celebration of diversity. Each moment reflected the incredible talent and commitment within the black Scottish community - a reminder that in the face of adversity, greatness emerges, and it is this greatness that people come together to honour.
Enoch Adeyemi, Founder of The Black Scottish Awards, said:
He added: “Months of meticulous planning have gone into creating this beautiful TBSA evening. My wonderful colleagues and I have rolled up our sleeves, knocked on doors, pushed boundaries, and challenged ourselves to deliver an unforgettable evening.”
The Black Scottish Awards continue to expand Young Black Future, it’s activities and impact across the country, amplifying the voices of groups and community organisations working tirelessly for a fairer society for all.
Community Organisation of the Year
Passion4Fusion were awarded Community Organisation of the Year, adding to their recent ‘Sports for All Award’ at The Scottish Association of Minority Ethnic Educators (SAMEE) Recognition and Appreciation Awards.
Since its founding in 2014, Passion4Fusion has experienced remarkable growth, with staff numbers increasing from 2 to 14. The organisation now supports over 250 children and young people each week across four locations in Edinburgh and assists 25 low-income parents in securing employment. Its weekly men's mental health project, collaborations with various organisations, and efforts to reunite children with their families demonstrate its commitment to empowering diverse ethnic minorities and expanding community support.
2024 Black Scottish Awards Winners List
Professional Senior Leader of the Year
• Frama Aboh
Creative of the Year
• Joy Kelikume Oziomaaka
Diversity Champion of the Year
• Helene Rodger
Outstanding Contribution to the Black Community
• Heather Lydia Mudhari
Outstanding Student of the Year
• Fatima Ceesay Lopez
Sustainability Champion of the Year
• Dr Olushola Ajide
Sportsperson of the Year
• Kishi Aremu
• Tehillah Chioma Ikechukwu-Okonkwo
Community Organisation of the Year
• Passion4Fusion
Business Excellence of the Year
• Matugga Distillers
Ally of the Year
• Andrew Leaver
Professional Rising Star of the Year
• Babatunde Emmanuel Adetutu
Young Person of the Year
• Zoe Amanda
