15 Black British Founders Pushing Culture Forward in 2026

Every October, we at PAUSE highlight something special for Black History Month UK, and this year, we’ve chosen to focus on founders. We’ve curated a list of 15 Black British founders who have made moves in 2026 and are helping shape the culture.

Founders are often the ones behind the scenes, building quietly while the spotlight goes elsewhere, and too often, their work gets overlooked. This year, we’ve taken a PAUSE to recognise them. From fashion to lifestyle, we’ve selected 15 founders who are pushing the culture forward across the UK. Some are names you’ll know, while others are quietly making moves and deserve far more recognition than they get.

Check out the list below to see who we’re celebrating this year.

Clint Ogbenna, also known as Clint419, started Corteiz in 2017 in West London and built it into one of the most recognised streetwear brands today. Through secret drops, a private Instagram and community-first stunts, he turned Corteiz into a movement as much as a brand.

Melissa Holdbrook-Akposoe, better known as Melissa’s Wardrobe, is the founder of LE LUXE, turning everyday laundry into a luxury ritual and proving that Black women can build premium brands in categories nobody expected. This year, she also co-launched a new wine brand, Aseyie.

Derrick Odafi, founder of NEW WAVE, started out in Dagenham and built New Wave Magazine into one of London’s leading independent platforms for fashion, music, art and culture. Bridging the gap between established and emerging creatives, he’s also using New Wave to mentor the next generation.

Brothers Jojo and David Sonubi, founders of RECESS, launched their “party of the people” in 2016 and built it into a cornerstone of Black British nightlife, hosting events from London to Ibiza, Toronto and Accra. David has also launched Better Listening, a project focused on intentional, communal listening experiences that change the way people hear music.

Tomi Agapé, founder of GUAPÉ, is the London designer behind some of the boldest footwear on the scene. Designing pieces she’d wear herself, she’s built GUAPÉ into a cult label for statement shoes and boots.

Jordan Mitchell, co-founder of Good Culture and Good Sport, shapes how some of the world’s biggest brands and talent show up in culture. From launching SKIMS and Pattern in the UK, she’s building agencies with inclusive, purpose-led storytelling at their core.

Krept, co-founder of Nala’s Baby, created the natural skincare brand during lockdown to help his daughter’s eczema and grew it into one of the UK’s fastest-growing companies.

Nathaniel Mortley, better known as NattyCanCook, founder of 2210, is redefining Caribbean dining with his first restaurant in Herne Hill. Named in honour of his grandmother, 2210 has landed in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide, proof that Caribbean food belongs at the top table.

Kelly Acheampong, founder of UNDISCOVERED, is building a platform showcasing the next generation of creative talent. From covering campaigns for major brands to spotlighting young creatives on the come up, UNDISCOVERED is proving that talent is everywhere.

Fisayo Longe, founder of KAI COLLECTIVE, has built one of the most recognisable womenswear labels in the UK, known for bold prints, figure-celebrating silhouettes and the iconic Kai printed logos. Designing for women of every shape and size, she’s proven that representation and luxury can go hand in hand.

Kimberly Gayle, founder of GAYLE, launched her London label in winter 2024 after working at Burberry and has quickly built a loyal “Gayle Girl” following with her signature dark glamour, sensual silhouettes, bold statement pieces and black leather. Already worn by the likes of Megan Thee Stallion and Anok Yai, GAYLE landed in British Vogue in 2026.

Chuckie Online and Tazer Black, founders of RnB & Slow Jams, launched their event among friends during the 2021 lockdown and turned it into Europe’s biggest RnB sing-along. In 2026, they’ve taken it from The O2 to Marbella and Malta.

Dean George, founder of GAUCHOWORLD, started his magazine in 2018 from Hackney and built it into a cultural platform where music, fashion and sport meet. Now spanning print, events, a football club and its own Hackney home, GAUCHOWORLD SPACE, it’s proof that community-first can go a long way.

Ebi Sampson, co-founder of AUGUST Agency, started out in fashion PR and handled campaigns at Atlantic Records before launching her own music PR firm. Now one of Black British music’s most respected agencies, AUGUST is a home for talent, building campaigns that help artists push culture forward.

Edward Enninful, co-founder of EE72, made history as British Vogue’s first Black editor-in-chief before launching his own global media and entertainment company with his sister, Akua. Through 72 Magazine and EE72’s content, experiences and brand partnerships, he’s building a platform that champions voices which disrupt traditional narratives.